JP5546610B2 - Communication apparatus and control method - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a communication apparatus that transmits the data to an external device.

  The conventional communication system includes a communication system in which a communication device and an external display device are connected via a digital interface, and a power source of the communication device is turned on or off using a remote control of the external display device. Yes (see Patent Document 1).

JP 2003-78779 A

  However, in the conventional communication device, when a control command instructing to turn off the power of the communication device is transmitted from the external display device to the communication device due to a user's erroneous operation, the user no longer cancels the control command. I couldn't. In this case, the user needs to turn on the power of the communication device and reconnect the communication device and the external display device, which is inconvenient.

  The present invention has been made in view of such problems, and an object of the present invention is to improve operability by making it possible to cancel an instruction caused by a user's erroneous operation.

Communication device according to the present invention includes at least one feeding the you sent to the external device signal means of the video data and audio data, a receiving unit that will receive the command from the external device, control commands the receiving unit and control means for performing processing to restrict the operation of the reception means after the received case, the predetermined time has elapsed by the control means, prior Symbol control command received by said receiving means It has been if, and performs a process for limiting the operation of the transmitting unit before the predetermined time elapses.

The communication apparatus according to the present invention is a communication apparatus, and includes a transmission unit that transmits at least one of video data and audio data to an external device, a reception unit that receives a command from the external device, and a control command. When received by the receiving means, a control means for performing processing for restricting the operation of the receiving means after a predetermined time has elapsed, and a second for restricting power supply to a part of the communication device Second operating means for instructing the operation of the control means, and the control means performs processing for restricting the operation of the transmission means when the control command is received by the reception means, wherein, when said second operation until the predetermined time has elapsed has been instructed, this performing processing for restricting the operation of the reception means before the predetermined time has elapsed The features.
The communication apparatus according to the present invention is a communication apparatus, and includes a transmission unit that transmits at least one of video data and audio data to an external device, a reception unit that receives a command from the external device, and a control command. Control means for performing processing for limiting the operation of the receiving means after a predetermined time has elapsed when received by the receiving means, wherein the control means receives the control command by the receiving means. In the case where the connection is made between the communication device and the external device before the predetermined time elapses, the control unit performs processing for limiting the operation of the transmission unit. A process for limiting the operation of the receiving means is performed before the predetermined time elapses.
The communication apparatus according to the present invention includes a transmission unit that transmits at least one of video data and audio data to an external device, a reception unit that receives a command from the external device, and a control command received by the reception unit. And a control means for restricting the power supply to the transmission means before the power supply to the receiving means is restricted.

  According to the present invention, an instruction due to a user's erroneous operation can be canceled, which leads to improvement in operability.

It is a figure which shows an example of the communication system which concerns on Embodiment 1-8 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows an example of schematic structure of the communication system which concerns on Embodiment 1-8 of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows an example of the process performed with the communication apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows an example of the process performed with the communication apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows an example of the process performed with the communication apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 3 of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows an example of the process performed with the communication apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 4 of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows an example of the process performed with the communication apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 5 of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows an example of the process performed with the communication apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 6 of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows an example of the process performed with the communication apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 7 of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows an example of the process performed with the communication apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 8 of this invention.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In addition, embodiment shown below is an example to the last, Comprising: It is not necessarily limited to embodiment shown below.

[Embodiment 1]
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a communication system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the communication system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

  As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the communication system according to the first embodiment includes a communication device 100, a connection cable 300, an external device 200, and a remote control 209. The communication device 100 and the external device 200 are connected via a connection cable 300. The external device 200 and the remote controller 209 are connected wirelessly.

  The communication device 100 is a video source that can transmit video data, audio data, and auxiliary data to the external device 200 via the connection cable 300. The external device 200 is an external display device that displays video data transmitted from the communication device 100 on a display and outputs audio data transmitted from the communication device 100 from a speaker. The communication device 100 and the external device 200 can bidirectionally transmit various control commands via the connection cable 300.

  The remote controller 209 is a user interface for operating the communication device 100 and the external device 200. The remote controller 209 is configured to be able to communicate with the external device 200 wirelessly but not to communicate with the communication device 100 wirelessly. The external device 200 receives the remote control signal transmitted from the remote controller 209 and analyzes the received remote control signal. When the received remote control signal is a remote control signal for controlling communication device 100, external device 200 controls communication device 100 according to the received remote control signal. When the received remote control signal is a remote control signal for controlling the communication device 100, the external device 200 generates a control command corresponding to the received remote control signal, and transmits the generated control command to the communication device via the connection cable 300. To 100. Thereby, the user can directly remotely control the external apparatus 200 using the remote controller 209. Further, the user can remotely control the communication apparatus 100 indirectly using the remote controller 209.

  In the first embodiment, a video camera is used as an example of the communication device 100, and a television receiver (hereinafter referred to as “TV”) is used as an example of the external device 200. In the first embodiment, a connection cable that conforms to the High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) (registered trademark) standard is used as an example of the connection cable 300. Hereinafter, a connection cable compliant with the HDMI standard is referred to as an “HDMI cable”.

  Next, the HDMI cable 300 will be described.

  The HDMI cable 300 includes a TMDS (Transition Minimized Differential Signaling) (registered trademark) line 301 and a CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) line 302. The HDMI cable 300 includes an HPD (Hot Plug Detect) line 303, a DDC (Display Data Channel) line, a power supply line, and the like.

  The TMDS line 301 (first transmission line) is a transmission line for transmitting video data, audio data, and auxiliary data from the video camera 100 to the television 200. The TMDS line 301 includes a TMDS channel 0, a TMDS channel 1, a TMDS channel 2, and a TMDS clock channel. The CEC line 302 (second transmission line) is a transmission line that bidirectionally transmits various control commands between the video camera 100 and the television 200. The HPD line 303 is a transmission line that transmits an HPD signal from the television 200 to the video camera 100. The DDC line is a transmission line for transmitting EDID (Extended Display Identification Data) of the television 200 from the television 200 to the video camera 100. The EDID includes capability information indicating the display capability of the television 200 and the like. The power supply line is a line for supplying power from the television 200 to the video camera 100.

The video camera 100 operates as an HDMI source defined by the HDMI standard, and the television 200 operates as an HDMI sink defined by the HDMI standard. The video camera 100 and the television 200 are also HDMI devices that comply with CEC. CEC is a control protocol defined by the HDMI standard. Hereinafter, a control command transmitted between the video camera 100 and the television 200 via the CEC line 302 is referred to as a “CEC command”. The television 200 can control the video camera 100 by transmitting a CEC command for controlling the video camera 100 to the video camera 100 via the CEC line 302. The video camera 100 can also control the television 200 by transmitting a CEC command for controlling the television 200 to the television 200 via the CEC line 302. The CEC command for controlling the video camera 100 includes a power ON command, a power OFF command, etc. as commands relating to the power of the video camera 100. As commands for operating the operation of the video camera 100, there are a playback command, a stop command, a pause command, a fast-forward command, a rewind command, a recording command, a recording pause command, a menu ON command, a menu OFF command, and the like.

  The connection cable 300 is not limited to the HDMI cable. Any cable other than an HDMI cable, as long as it is a connection cable having separate lines for transmitting video data, audio data, and auxiliary data, and lines for transmitting various control commands bidirectionally between the communication device 100 and the external device 200 The connection cable may be used.

  Next, an example of the configuration of the video camera 100 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the video camera 100 includes a CPU 101, a RAM 103, a recording unit 104, a communication unit 105, a data processing unit 109, a command processing unit 110, a display unit 111, an operation unit 112, an imaging unit 114, and a ROM 115.

  The video camera 100 has operation modes such as a shooting mode and a playback mode. When the operation mode of the video camera 100 is the shooting mode, the video camera 100 can shoot a subject and can record the shot video (either a moving image or a still image) on a recording medium. When the operation mode of the video camera 100 is the playback mode, the video (either a moving image or a still image) selected by the user can be played from the recording medium.

  A CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101 controls the operation of the video camera 100 according to a computer program stored in the ROM 115. Further, the CPU 101 has a timer 102 for counting a constant value N. The constant value N is, for example, a value corresponding to 3 seconds to 10 seconds.

  The RAM 103 is a memory that functions as a work area of the CPU 101, and is also a memory that stores various values, data, and information used by the CPU 101. The CPU 101 acquires information regarding the television 200 from the television 200 via the HDMI cable 300 and stores the acquired information in the RAM 103. Information stored in the RAM 103 includes a GUID that is unique information of the television 200, an EDID of the television 200, and the like. The work area of the CPU 101 is not limited to the RAM 103, and may be an external storage device such as a hard disk device.

  When the operation mode of the video camera 100 is the shooting mode, the imaging unit 114 captures a subject and generates video data from the optical image of the subject. The video data generated by the imaging unit 114 is supplied to the recording unit 104, the display unit 111, and the data processing unit 109. Audio data generated by a microphone unit (not shown) is also supplied to the recording unit 104 and the data processing unit 109.

  When the operation mode of the video camera 100 is the shooting mode, the recording unit 104 can record video data generated by the imaging unit 114 and audio data generated by a microphone unit (not shown) on a recording medium.

  Further, when the operation mode of the video camera 100 is the playback mode, the recording unit 104 can play back the video data and audio data selected by the user from the recording medium. Video data reproduced from the recording medium is supplied to the display unit 111 and the data processing unit 109. On the other hand, the audio data reproduced from the recording medium is supplied to the data processing unit 109 and a speaker unit (not shown).

  Note that the recording medium used in the recording unit 104 may be built in the video camera 100 or removable from the video camera 100.

  The communication unit 105 has an HDMI terminal for connecting the HDMI cable 300. When the video camera 100 is in the shooting mode, the communication unit 105 uses the TMDS line 301 to generate video data generated by the imaging unit 114, audio data generated by a microphone unit (not shown), and auxiliary data generated by the CPU 101. To the TV 200 via When the operation mode of the video camera 100 is the playback mode, the communication unit 105 transmits the video data and audio data reproduced from the recording medium by the recording unit 104 and the auxiliary data generated by the CPU 101 via the TMDS line 301. Send to TV 200.

  The communication unit 105 includes a connection detection unit 106, a TMDS driver 107a, a CEC driver 107b, and a mute unit 108.

  The connection detection unit 106 detects a connection (hereinafter, HDMI connection) between the video camera 100 and the television 200 using the HPD signal transmitted from the television 200 to the video camera 100. The connection detection unit 106 receives an HPD signal from the video camera 100 via the HPD line 303. When the HPD signal is high, the connection detection unit 106 detects an HDMI connection between the video camera 100 and the television 200. When the HPD signal is low, the connection detection unit 106 detects disconnection of the HDMI connection between the video camera 100 and the television 200. Even when the HPD signal cannot be detected, the connection detection unit 106 detects disconnection of the HDMI connection between the video camera 100 and the television 200. Since the detection result of the connection detection unit 106 is notified to the CPU 101, the CPU 101 can determine whether or not the HDMI connection between the video camera 100 and the television 200 has been disconnected.

  The TMDS driver 107 a is a controller that controls the TMDS line 301. When the TMDS enable signal is received from the CPU 101, the TMDS driver 107a changes from the low power consumption state to the normal state. In this case, the TMDS driver 107a enables (enables) the TMDS line 301. When the TMDS line 301 is enabled, the communication unit 105 can transmit video data, audio data, and auxiliary data to the television 200 via the TMDS line 301.

  When the TMDS disable signal is received from the CPU 101, the TMDS driver 107a changes from the normal state to the low power consumption state. In this case, the TMDS driver 107a disables (disables) the TMDS line 301. When the TMDS line 301 is disabled, the communication unit 105 cannot transmit video data, audio data, and auxiliary data to the television 200 via the TMDS line 301, but the power consumption of the communication unit 105 is reduced. The

  The CEC driver 107 b is a controller that controls the TMDS line 301. When the CEC enable signal is received from the CPU 101, the CEC driver 107b changes from the low power consumption state to the normal state. In this case, the CEC driver 107b enables (enables) the CEC line 302. When the CEC line 302 is enabled, the communication unit 105 can receive a CEC command for controlling the video camera 100 from the television 200 and transmits the CEC command for controlling the television 200 to the television 200. It is also possible to do.

  When the CEC disable signal is received from the CPU 101, the CEC driver 107b changes from the normal state to the low power consumption state. In this case, the CEC driver 107b disables (disables) the CEC line 302. When the CEC line 302 is disabled, the communication unit 105 receives a CEC command for controlling the video camera 100 from the television 200 or transmits a CEC command for controlling the television 200 to the television 200. Can not even.

  The mute unit 108 generates data for setting the television 200 in a mute state (hereinafter referred to as a mute instruction), and performs a mute process for transmitting the generated mute instruction to the television 200 via the TMDS line 301. The mute instruction is one of auxiliary data transmitted via the TMDS line 301. When the execution of the mute process is started, the CPU 101 controls the mute unit 108 so that the mute instruction is continuously transmitted to the television 200 until the execution of the mute process is canceled. In this case, the CPU 101 controls the data processing unit 109 and the communication unit 105 so that the mute video and silence data stored in the ROM 115 are continuously transmitted to the television 200 until the mute process is canceled. Note that the mute video and silence data stored in the ROM 115 are transmitted to the television 200 via the TMDS line 301.

  Further, the communication unit 105 can receive a CEC command from the television 200 via the CEC line 302. When receiving the CEC command from the television 200, the communication unit 105 supplies the received CEC command to the CPU 101 via the command processing unit 110.

  The communication unit 105 can also transmit a CEC command for controlling the television 200 to the television 200 via the CEC line 302. A CEC command for controlling the television 200 is generated by the CPU 101 and supplied to the communication unit 105 via the command processing unit 110.

  When the operation mode of the video camera 100 is the shooting mode, the data processing unit 109 receives the video data generated by the imaging unit 114, audio data generated by a microphone unit (not shown), and auxiliary data supplied from the CPU 101. The data is supplied to the communication unit 105. When the operation mode of the video camera 100 is the playback mode, the data processing unit 109 supplies the video data and audio data reproduced from the recording medium by the recording unit 104 and auxiliary data supplied from the CPU 101 to the communication unit 105. .

  The display unit 111 is configured by a liquid crystal display or the like. When the operation mode of the video camera 100 is the shooting mode, the display unit 111 displays the video data generated by the imaging unit 114. When the operation mode of the video camera 100 is the reproduction mode, the display unit 111 displays the video data reproduced from the recording medium by the recording unit 104.

  Further, when the display unit 111 is in the mute state, the display unit 111 displays a mute video stored in the ROM 115. In the first embodiment, the mute video is video data indicating that mute is being performed. The mute video is composed of, for example, a black back video (video with a black background color) or a blue back video (video with a blue background color). The mute video may include an icon or character information indicating that the mute process is being performed. In the first embodiment, when the display unit 111 is in the mute state, the mute video stored in the ROM 115 is displayed on the display unit 111. However, the present invention is not limited to this. When the display unit 111 is in a mute state, nothing may be displayed on the display unit 111.

  The operation unit 112 is a user interface for operating the video camera 100 and includes a plurality of buttons for operating the video camera 100. An instruction from the user is input to the CPU 101 via the operation unit 112. Each button in the operation unit 112 includes a switch, a touch panel, and the like.

  The operation unit 112 includes a power button, a start / stop button, a mode change button 113, a menu button, a + button, a − button, a SET button, and the like.

  The power button is a button for instructing the CPU 101 to change the video camera 100 to a power-on (ON) state or a power-off (OFF) state. The power-on state is a state in which necessary power can be supplied to the entire video camera 100 from a power source (not shown) (battery, AC power source, etc.). The power-off state is a state in which power supply to a part or all of the video camera 100 from a power source (not shown) (battery, AC power source, etc.) is stopped.

  The start / stop button is a button for instructing the CPU 101 to start or pause recording of video data generated by the imaging unit 114 on a recording medium. The mode change button 113 is a button for instructing the CPU 101 to change the operation mode of the video camera 100 to one of a shooting mode, a playback mode, and the like.

  The menu button is a button for instructing the CPU 101 to display or hide the menu screen of the video camera 100. The menu screen of the video camera 100 includes a menu screen for controlling the video camera 100 and a menu screen for changing settings of the video camera 100. These menu screens are stored in the ROM 115.

  When displaying the menu screen, the CPU 101 reads the menu screen to be displayed from the ROM 115 and supplies the read menu screen to the display unit 111 and the data processing unit 109. At this time, the CPU 101 superimposes a cursor or the like on the menu screen. The display unit 111 and the data processing unit 109 superimpose the menu screen supplied from the CPU 101 on the video data supplied from the imaging unit 114 or the recording unit 104. As a result, the same menu screen is displayed on the display unit 111 and the television 200.

  When the menu screen is not displayed, the CPU 101 stops supplying the menu screen to the display unit 111 and the data processing unit 109.

  The + button and the-button are buttons for moving the cursor on the menu screen. The SET button is a button for instructing the CPU 101 to execute the item selected by the cursor. Movement between menu screens can also be performed using the + button, the-button, and the SET button.

  The operation unit 112 includes a play button, a stop button, a pause button, a fast forward button, a rewind button, and the like. These buttons are buttons for instructing the CPU 101 to execute playback, stop, pause, fast forward, and rewind of the video data recorded on the recording medium. is there.

  As described above, the ROM 115 stores a mute video, a menu screen, and the like. A plurality of icons for notifying the user of the state of the video camera 100 are also stored in the ROM 115. The ROM 115 stores a computer program for controlling the operation of the video camera 100.

  Note that the communication device 100 is not limited to a video camera. For example, the communication device 100 may be an imaging device such as a video camera, a still camera, or a camera-equipped mobile phone.

  Next, an example of the configuration of the television 200 will be described.

  As illustrated in FIG. 2, the television 200 includes a CPU 201, a tuner unit 202, a communication unit 203, a command processing unit 204, a display unit 205, an operation unit 206, a remote control reception unit 207, and a ROM 208.

  A CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201 controls the operation of the television 200 in accordance with a computer program stored in the ROM 208.

  The tuner unit 202 receives analog television broadcast, digital television broadcast, or cable television broadcast according to the user's selection. The type of television broadcast received by the tuner unit 202 can be selected by the remote controller 209. The television channel received by the tuner unit 202 can also be selected by the remote controller 209. Video data included in the analog television broadcast, digital television broadcast, or cable television broadcast is displayed on the display unit 205. Audio data included in analog television broadcast, digital television broadcast, or cable television broadcast is output from a speaker unit (not shown).

  The communication unit 203 has an HDMI terminal for connecting the HDMI cable 300. The communication unit 203 can receive video data, audio data, and auxiliary data transmitted from the video camera 100 via the TMDS line 301. Video data transmitted from the video camera 100 is displayed on the display unit 205. Audio data transmitted from the video camera 100 is output from a speaker unit (not shown). In addition, auxiliary data transmitted from the video camera 100 is supplied to the CPU 201.

  Further, the communication unit 203 can receive a CEC command from the video camera 100 via the CEC line 302. When receiving the CEC command from the video camera 100, the communication unit 203 supplies the received CEC command to the CPU 201 via the command processing unit 204.

  The communication unit 203 can also transmit a CEC command for controlling the video camera 100 to the video camera 100 via the CEC line 302. A CEC command for controlling the video camera 100 is generated by the CPU 201 and supplied to the communication unit 203 via the command processing unit 204.

  The communication unit 203 receives a CEC command from the video camera 100 via the CEC line 302. A CEC command from the video camera 100 is supplied from the communication unit 203 to the CPU 201 via the command processing unit 204.

  A CEC command for controlling the video camera 100 is generated by the CPU 201 and supplied to the communication unit 203 via the command processing unit 204. A CEC command for controlling the video camera 100 is supplied from the command processing unit 204 to the communication unit 203 and transmitted to the video camera 100 via the CEC line 302.

  The display unit 205 includes a display device such as a liquid crystal display. The display unit 205 can display video data supplied from at least one of the tuner unit 202 and the communication unit 203. The display unit 205 can also display a mute video stored in the ROM 208.

  The operation unit 206 is a user interface for operating the television 200. In addition, the operation unit 206 has a plurality of buttons for operating the television 200, similarly to the remote controller 209. Each button in the operation unit 206 includes a switch, a touch panel, and the like.

  When receiving the remote control signal transmitted from the remote control 209, the remote control reception unit 207 supplies the received remote control signal to the CPU 201. Thereby, an instruction from the user is input to the CPU 201 via the remote controller 209 and the remote controller receiver 207. The CPU 201 generates a CEC command corresponding to the remote control signal from the remote control reception unit 207 and supplies the generated CEC command to the communication unit 203 via the command processing unit 204. The CEC command supplied to the communication unit 203 is transmitted to the video camera 100 via the CEC line 302. As a result, the user can remotely control the video camera 100 using the remote controller 209.

  The ROM 208 stores mute video, menu screens, etc. as described above. A plurality of icons for notifying the user of the state of the television 200, the EDID of the television 200, and the like are also stored in the ROM 208. The ROM 208 stores a computer program for controlling the operation of the television 200.

  The remote controller 209 is a user interface for operating the video camera 100 and the television 200, and includes a plurality of buttons for operating the video camera 100 and a plurality of buttons for operating the television 200. Each button in the remote controller 209 includes a switch, a touch panel, and the like.

  The remote controller 209 includes a first power button, a television broadcast selection button, a channel button, an external input button, a menu button, a + button, a − button, a SET button, and the like. These buttons are buttons for operating the television 200.

  The first power button is a button for instructing the CPU 201 to change the television 200 to a power-on (ON) state or a power-off (OFF) state. The power-on state is a state in which necessary power can be supplied to the entire TV 200 from a power source (not shown). The power-off state is a state in which the supply of power to a part or all of the television 200 from a power source (not shown) is stopped.

  The television broadcast selection button is a button for instructing the CPU 201 to select any one of analog television broadcast, digital television broadcast, and cable television broadcast and cause the tuner unit 202 to receive the selected television broadcast. The channel button is a button for selecting a television channel received by the tuner unit 202.

  The external input button is a button for selecting either video data received by the tuner unit 202 or video data transmitted from the video camera 100 and causing the display unit 205 to display the selected video data.

  The menu button is a button for instructing the CPU 201 to display or hide the menu screen of the television 200. The menu screen of television 200 includes a menu screen for controlling television 200 and a menu screen for changing settings of television 200. These menu screens are stored in the ROM 208.

  When displaying the menu screen, the CPU 201 reads the menu screen to be displayed from the ROM 208 and supplies the read menu screen to the display unit 205. At this time, the CPU 201 superimposes a cursor or the like on the menu screen. The display unit 205 superimposes the menu screen supplied from the CPU 201 on the video data supplied from the tuner unit 202 or the communication unit 203. As a result, the menu screen of the television 200 is displayed on the display unit 205.

  When the menu screen is not displayed, the CPU 201 stops supplying the menu screen to the display unit 205.

  The + button and the-button are buttons for moving the cursor on the menu screen. The SET button is a button for instructing the CPU 201 to execute the item selected by the cursor. Movement between menu screens can also be performed using the + button, the-button, and the SET button.

  Note that when the menu screen of the video camera 100 is displayed on the television 200, the + button, the-button, and the SET button can also operate the cursor on the menu screen. In this case, CEC commands corresponding to operations on the + button, the − button, and the SET button are transmitted from the television 200 to the video camera 100 via the CEC line 302.

  The remote controller 209 also includes a second power button, a play button, a stop button, a pause button, a fast forward button, a rewind button, a start / stop button, a menu button, and the like. These buttons are buttons for operating the video camera 100.

  The second power button is a button for instructing the CPU 201 to transmit a power ON command or a power OFF command to the video camera 100 via the CEC line 302. The power ON command is a CEC command that instructs the CPU 101 to change the video camera 100 to the power ON state. The power OFF command is a CEC command that instructs the CPU 101 to change the video camera 100 to the power OFF state.

  The play button, stop button, and pause button are buttons for instructing the CPU 201 to transmit the play command, stop command, and pause command to the video camera 100 via the CEC line 302. The fast forward button and the rewind button are buttons for instructing the CPU 201 to transmit the fast forward command and the rewind command to the video camera 100 via the CEC line 302. These commands are CEC commands for instructing the CPU 101 to perform playback (play), stop (pause), fast forward (fast forward), and rewind (rewind) of video data recorded on a recording medium. It is.

  The start / stop button is a button for instructing the CPU 201 to transmit a recording command or a recording pause command to the video camera 100 via the CEC line 302. The recording command is a CEC command for instructing the CPU 101 to start recording video data or the like generated by the imaging unit 114 on a recording medium. The recording pause command is a CEC command that instructs the CPU 101 to pause recording of the video data generated by the imaging unit 114 on the recording medium.

  The menu button is a button for instructing the CPU 201 to transmit a menu ON command or a menu OFF command to the video camera 100 via the CEC line 302.

  The menu ON command is a CEC command that instructs the CPU 101 to display the menu screen of the video camera 100. When displaying the menu screen, the CPU 101 reads the menu screen to be displayed from the ROM 115 and supplies the read menu screen to the display unit 111 and the data processing unit 109. At this time, the CPU 101 superimposes a cursor or the like on the menu screen. The display unit 111 and the data processing unit 109 superimpose the menu screen supplied from the CPU 101 on the video data supplied from the imaging unit 114 or the recording unit 104. As a result, the same menu screen is displayed on the display unit 111 and the television 200.

  The menu OFF command is a CEC command that instructs the CPU 101 to hide the menu screen of the video camera 100. When the menu screen is not displayed, the CPU 101 stops supplying the menu screen to the display unit 111 and the data processing unit 109. Thereby, the television 200 can stop displaying the menu screen of the video camera 100.

  The external device 200 is not limited to the television receiver. For example, the external device 200 may be a personal computer having a display.

  Next, processing performed by the video camera 100 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1, 2, and 3.

  FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing performed by the video camera 100 according to the first embodiment. 3 is a process executed when the video camera 100 and the television 200 are connected via the HDMI cable 300, and the video camera 100 and the television 200 are in a power-on state. Note that the processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 3 is controlled by the CPU 101 executing a computer program stored in the ROM 115.

  When the user performs an operation for changing the video camera 100 to the power-off state using the remote controller 209, the television 200 transmits a power-off command to the video camera 100 via the CEC line 302. Even when the power button of the operation unit 206 is operated and the television 200 changes to a power-off state, the television 200 transmits a power-off command to the video camera 100 via the CEC line 302.

  In step S301, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the CEC command transmitted from the television 200 to the video camera 100 is a power OFF command. The CEC command transmitted from the television 200 to the video camera 100 is supplied to the CPU 101 via the CEC line 302, the communication unit 105, and the command processing unit 110. Thereby, the CPU 101 can determine whether or not the CEC command transmitted from the television 200 to the video camera 100 is a power OFF command.

  When it is determined that the CEC command transmitted from the television 200 to the video camera 100 is the power OFF command, the flowchart proceeds from step S301 to step S303. In this case, the CPU 101 stores the power-off command received from the television 200 by the communication unit 105 in the RAM 103. When it is determined that the CEC command transmitted from the television 200 to the video camera 100 is a CEC command other than the power OFF command, the flowchart proceeds from step S301 to step S302.

  In step S302, the CPU 101 executes a CEC command other than the power OFF command. Thereafter, the flowchart returns from step S302 to step S301.

  In step S303, the CPU 101 supplies a TMDS disable signal to the TMDS driver 107a. Upon receiving the TMDS disable signal, the TMDS driver 107a changes from the normal state to the low power consumption state, and disables the TMDS line 301. When the TMDS line 301 is disabled, the communication unit 105 cannot transmit video data, audio data, and auxiliary data to the television 200 via the TMDS line 301, but the power consumption of the communication unit 105 is reduced. The Thereafter, in the flowchart, the process proceeds from step S303 to step S304.

  In step S304, the CPU 101 resets the value M of the timer 102 to zero. Thereafter, in the flowchart, the process proceeds from step S304 to step S305.

  In step S305, the CPU 101 increments the value M of the timer 102 by one. Thereafter, the flowchart proceeds from step S305 to step S306.

  In step S306, the CPU 101 determines whether a new CEC command transmitted from the television 200 to the video camera 100 has been received. The new CEC command is supplied to the CPU 101 via the CEC line 302, the communication unit 105, and the command processing unit 110. Thereby, the CPU 101 can determine whether or not a new CEC command has been received.

  When a new CEC command is received, the flowchart proceeds from step S306 to step S310. When a new CEC command has not been received, the flowchart proceeds from step S306 to step S307.

  In step S <b> 307, the CPU 101 compares the value M of the timer 102 with the constant value N stored in the ROM 115, and determines whether or not the value M of the timer 102 exceeds the constant value N.

  When the value M of the timer 102 exceeds the constant value N, the flowchart proceeds from step S307 to step S308. In this case, the CPU 101 determines that the predetermined period T has elapsed after receiving the power OFF command from the television 200. The predetermined period T is a time until the value M of the timer 102 reaches a certain value N. When the value M of the timer 102 does not exceed the constant value N, the flowchart returns from step S307 to step S305.

  In step S308, the CPU 101 supplies a CEC disable signal to the CEC driver 107b.

  The CEC driver 107b that has received the CEC disable signal changes from the normal state to the low power consumption state, and disables the CEC line 302. When the CEC line 302 is disabled, the communication unit 105 receives a CEC command for controlling the video camera 100 from the television 200 or transmits a CEC command for controlling the television 200 to the television 200. Can not even. Thereafter, in the flowchart, the process proceeds from step S308 to step S309.

  In step S309, the CPU 101 executes a power OFF command stored in the RAM 103. When the power OFF command is executed, the CPU 101 starts a process for changing the video camera 100 from the power ON state to the power OFF state. When the power OFF command is executed, the CPU 101 deletes the power OFF command from the RAM 103. Thereafter, this flowchart ends.

  In step S310, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the new CEC command received in step S306 is a power OFF command. For example, when the user operates the power button of the operation unit 206 to change the television 200 to the power-off state, the video camera 100 receives a power-off command in step S306.

  When it is determined that the new CEC command received in step S306 is a power OFF command, the flowchart proceeds from step S310 to step S308. In this case, the CPU 101 ignores the new CEC command and does not store it in the RAM 103.

  When it is determined that the new CEC command received in step S306 is a CEC command other than the power OFF command, the process proceeds from step S310 to step S311. In this case, the CPU 101 discards the power OFF command stored in the RAM 103 and stores a new CEC command in the RAM 103. As a result, the CPU 101 can cancel the execution of the power OFF command transmitted from the television 200 to the video camera 100. When a power OFF command is transmitted to the video camera 100 due to an erroneous operation by the user, the user performs an operation for transmitting a new CEC command to the video camera 100 to execute the power OFF command. You can cancel it.

  In step S311, the CPU 101 supplies a TMDS enable signal to the TMDS driver 107a.

  Upon receiving the TMDS enable signal, the TMDS driver 107a returns from the low power consumption state to the normal state, and enables the TMDS line 301. When the TMDS line 301 is activated, the video camera 100 can transmit video data, audio data, and auxiliary data to the television 200 via the TMDS line 301.

  After the TMDS driver 107a returns from the low power consumption state to the normal state and the TMDS line 301 is enabled, the flowchart proceeds from step S311 to step S312.

  In step S <b> 312, the CPU 101 executes a new CEC command stored in the RAM 103. Thereafter, the flowchart returns from step S312 to step S301.

  As described above, the video camera 100 according to the first embodiment does not immediately invalidate the CEC line 302 even when the power-off command is received. Therefore, the CEC command is received from the television 200 until the predetermined period T elapses. Can be received.

  In addition, when the video camera 100 according to the first embodiment receives a CEC command other than the power OFF command from the television 200 before the predetermined period T elapses, the video camera 100 can cancel the execution of the power OFF command. Thereby, even when the power OFF command is transmitted to the video camera 100 due to a user's erroneous operation, the user can immediately cancel the erroneous operation, and the operability is improved.

  In addition, when the video camera 100 according to the first embodiment receives the power-off command again from the television 200 before the predetermined period T elapses, the video camera 100 executes the power-off command without waiting for the elapse of the predetermined period T. can do. This eliminates the need to execute the power OFF command after waiting for the elapse of the predetermined period T, thereby reducing power consumption.

  Note that the CPU 101 may change the constant value N used in step S307 depending on whether the power source of the video camera 100 is a battery or an AC power source. For example, the CPU 101 may make the constant value N when the power source of the video camera 100 is a battery smaller than the constant value N when the power source of the video camera 100 is an AC power source. For example, the CPU 101 may set the constant value N to a value corresponding to 0 when the power source of the video camera 100 is a battery.

  When the power source of the video camera 100 is a battery, the CPU 101 may change the constant value N used in step S307 according to the remaining battery level of the video camera 100. For example, the CPU 101 may decrease the constant value N as the remaining battery of the video camera 100 decreases. Further, for example, the CPU 101 may set the constant value N to a value corresponding to 0 when the remaining amount of the video camera 100 battery is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold.

[Embodiment 2]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the second embodiment, description of parts common to the first embodiment will be omitted, and parts different from the first embodiment will be described.

  In the second embodiment, the processing performed in the video camera 100 when the HDMI connection between the video camera 100 and the television 200 is disconnected before the predetermined period T elapses after the TMDS line 301 is disabled. explain.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing performed by the video camera 100 according to the second embodiment. 4 is a process executed when the video camera 100 and the television 200 are connected via the HDMI cable 300 and the video camera 100 and the television 200 are in a power-on state. Note that the processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 4 is controlled by the CPU 101 executing a computer program stored in the ROM 115.

  The processes performed in steps S301 to S312 in FIG. 4 are the same as the processes performed in steps S301 to S312 in FIG. Therefore, description of the processing performed in steps S301 to S312 in FIG. 4 is omitted.

  After the process of step S305 is performed, the flowchart proceeds from step S305 to step S401.

  In step S401, the CPU 101 determines whether the HDMI connection between the video camera 100 and the television 200 has been disconnected. The connection detection unit 106 detects whether or not the HDMI connection between the video camera 100 and the television 200 has been disconnected. Since the detection result of the connection detection unit 106 is notified to the CPU 101, the CPU 101 can determine whether or not the HDMI connection between the video camera 100 and the television 200 has been disconnected.

  Since the HPD signal cannot be received when the HDMI cable 300 is disconnected from the video camera 100, the connection detection unit 106 can detect disconnection of the HDMI connection between the video camera 100 and the television 200. In addition, when the television 200 changes to the power-off state, the HPD signal changes from high to low, so that the connection detection unit 106 establishes the HDMI connection between the video camera 100 and the television 200. Disconnection can be detected. Note that the operation for changing the television 200 to the power-off state may be performed by the remote controller 209 or the operation unit 206.

  When it is determined that the HDMI connection between the video camera 100 and the television 200 has been disconnected, the flowchart proceeds from step S401 to step S308. If it is not determined that the HDMI connection between the video camera 100 and the television 200 has been disconnected, the process proceeds from step S401 to step S306.

  As described above, the video camera 100 according to the second embodiment does not wait for the elapse of the predetermined period T when the HDMI connection between the video camera 100 and the television 200 is disconnected before the predetermined period T elapses. In addition, a power OFF command can be executed. This eliminates the need to execute the power OFF command after waiting for the elapse of the predetermined period T, so that power consumption can be reduced as compared with the first embodiment.

  In addition, the video camera 100 according to the second embodiment performs the same processes as those of the first embodiment except for the processes performed in step S401 in FIG.

[Embodiment 3]
Next, Embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 1, FIG. 2 and FIG. In the third embodiment, description of parts common to the first embodiment is omitted, and parts different from the first embodiment are described.

  In the third embodiment, the process performed by the video camera 100 when an instruction to change the video camera 100 to the power-off state is input to the CPU 101 before the predetermined period T elapses after the TMDS line 301 is disabled. Will be explained.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing performed by the video camera 100 according to the third embodiment. 5 is a process executed when the video camera 100 and the television 200 are connected via the HDMI cable 300 and the video camera 100 and the television 200 are in a power-on state. Note that the process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 5 is controlled by the CPU 101 executing a computer program stored in the ROM 115.

  The processing performed in steps S301 to S312 in FIG. 5 is the same as the processing performed in steps S301 to S312 in FIG. Therefore, description of the processing performed in steps S301 to S312 in FIG. 5 is omitted.

  After the process of step S305 is performed, the flowchart proceeds from step S305 to step S501.

  In step S <b> 501, the CPU 101 determines whether an instruction to change the video camera 100 to the power-off state is input to the CPU 101. The user can input an instruction to the CPU 101 to change the video camera 100 to the power-off state by operating the power button in the operation unit 112.

  When it is determined that an instruction to change the video camera 100 to the power-off state is input to the CPU 101, the flowchart proceeds from step S501 to step S308. If it is not determined that the instruction to change the video camera 100 to the power-off state has been input to the CPU 101, the process proceeds from step S501 to step S306.

  As described above, the video camera 100 according to the third embodiment waits for the elapse of the predetermined period T when an instruction to change the video camera 100 to the power-off state is input to the CPU 101 before the predetermined period T elapses. Without executing the power OFF command. This eliminates the need to execute the power OFF command after waiting for the predetermined period T to elapse, so that power consumption can be reduced as compared with the first embodiment.

  Further, the video camera 100 according to the third embodiment performs the same processes as those in the first embodiment except for the processes performed in step S501 in FIG.

  Embodiment 3 can also be implemented in combination with Embodiment 2. In this case, the video camera 100 according to the third embodiment can obtain the same advantages as those of the second embodiment.

[Embodiment 4]
Next, Embodiment 4 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 1, FIG. 2 and FIG. In the fourth embodiment, descriptions of parts common to the first embodiment are omitted, and parts different from the first embodiment are described.

  In the fourth embodiment, a process performed by the video camera 100 when a specific button in the operation unit 112 is operated before the predetermined period T elapses after the TMDS line 301 is invalidated will be described.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing performed by the video camera 100 according to the fourth embodiment. 6 is a process executed when the video camera 100 and the television 200 are connected via the HDMI cable 300 and the video camera 100 and the television 200 are in a power-on state. The process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 6 is controlled by the CPU 101 executing a computer program stored in the ROM 115.

  The processes performed in steps S301 to S312 in FIG. 6 are the same as the processes performed in steps S301 to S312 in FIG. Therefore, description of the processing performed in steps S301 to S312 in FIG. 6 is omitted.

  After the process of step S305 is performed, the flowchart proceeds from step S305 to step S601.

  In step S <b> 601, the CPU 101 determines whether a specific button in the operation unit 112 has been operated. When the CPU 101 detects the depression, selection, or rotation of a specific button in the operation unit 112, the CPU 101 determines that the specific button has been operated.

  In the fourth embodiment, the specific buttons are all buttons or some buttons in the operation unit 112. The button to be a specific button may be changed according to the operation mode of the video camera 100. For example, when the operation mode of the video camera 100 is the shooting mode, the recording button and the recording pause button may be specific buttons. When the operation mode of the video camera 100 is the playback mode, the playback button, pause button, fast forward button, and rewind button may be specified buttons.

  In addition, the user may arbitrarily select a button to be a specific button. In that case, information indicating the button selected by the user is stored in the RAM 103.

  When it is determined that a specific button in the operation unit 112 has been operated, the flowchart proceeds from step S601 to step S311. If it is not determined that a specific button in the operation unit 112 has been operated, the process proceeds from step S601 to step S306.

  As described above, in the video camera 100 according to the fourth embodiment, when a specific button in the operation unit 112 is operated before the predetermined period T has elapsed, the power is turned off without waiting for the predetermined period T to elapse. Command execution can be canceled. As a result, even if the user mistakenly transmits a power OFF command from the TV 200 to the video camera 100, if a specific button in the operation unit 112 is operated, the video camera 100 executes the power OFF command. Can be canceled. As a result, the user's erroneous operation can be canceled immediately, so that the operability is improved.

  Further, since the video camera 100 according to the fourth embodiment performs the same processes as those of the first embodiment except for the processes performed in step S601 in FIG. 6, the same advantages as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

  Embodiment 4 can also be implemented in combination with at least one of Embodiments 2 and 3. In this case, the video camera 100 according to the fourth embodiment can obtain the same advantages as at least one of the second and third embodiments.

  In the fourth embodiment, the case where there are the shooting mode and the playback mode as an example of the operation mode of the video camera 100 has been described. The shooting mode may be replaced with a moving image shooting mode for shooting a moving image and a still image shooting mode for shooting a still image. Similarly, the reproduction mode may be replaced with a moving image reproduction mode for reproducing a moving image and a still image reproduction mode for reproducing a still image.

[Embodiment 5]
Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the fifth embodiment, description of parts common to the first embodiment will be omitted, and parts different from the first embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing performed by the video camera 100 according to the fifth embodiment. The process illustrated in the flowchart of FIG. 7 is a process executed when the video camera 100 and the television 200 are connected via the HDMI cable 300 and the video camera 100 and the television 200 are in a power-on state. Note that the processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 7 is controlled by the CPU 101 executing a computer program stored in the ROM 115.

  The processes performed in steps S301 to S302, S304 to S307, S309 to S310, and S312 of FIG. 7 are the same as the processes performed in steps S301 to S302, S304 to S307, S309 to S310, and S312 of FIG. Therefore, description of the processing performed in steps S301 to S302, S304 to S307, S309 to S310, and S312 in FIG. 7 is omitted.

  If it is determined in step S301 that the CEC command transmitted from the television 200 to the video camera 100 is a power OFF command, the process proceeds from step S301 to step S701.

  In step S701, the CPU 101 starts executing the mute process. At this time, the TMDS disable signal is not supplied to the TMDS driver 107a. Thereafter, in the flowchart, the process proceeds from step S701 to step S304.

  When the execution of the mute process is started, the CPU 101 controls the mute unit 108 so that the mute instruction is continuously transmitted to the television 200 until the execution of the mute process is canceled. In this case, the CPU 101 controls the data processing unit 109 and the communication unit 105 so that the mute video and silence data stored in the ROM 115 are continuously transmitted to the television 200 until the mute process is canceled. Note that the mute video and silence data stored in the ROM 115 are transmitted to the television 200 via the TMDS line 301.

  While receiving the mute instruction from the video camera 100, the television 200 displays the mute video stored in the ROM 208 on the display unit 205. In addition, while receiving a mute instruction from the video camera 100, the television 200 mutes sound output from a speaker unit (not shown). As a result, while the mute process is being performed, the television 200 performs the mute process in the same manner as the video camera 100.

  Note that not only the mute instruction but also the mute video and silence data are transmitted to the TV 200 because the TV 200 may be a device that cannot execute the mute instruction. When the television 200 is a device that cannot execute the mute instruction, the television 200 displays the mute video received from the video camera 100 on the display unit 205. In this case, the television 200 outputs the silent data received from the video camera 100 from a speaker unit (not shown).

  In step S702, the CPU 101 supplies a TMDS disable signal to the TMDS driver 107a and supplies a CEC disable signal to the CEC driver 107b. At this time, the CPU 101 cancels the execution of the mute process. Thereafter, the flowchart proceeds from step S702 to step S309.

Upon receiving the TMDS disable signal, the TMDS driver 107a changes from the normal state to the low power consumption state, and disables the TMDS line 301. When the TMDS line 301 is disabled, the communication unit 105 cannot transmit video data, audio data, and auxiliary data to the television 200 via the TMDS line 301, but the power consumption of the communication unit 105 is reduced. The The CEC driver 107b that has received the CEC disable signal changes from the normal state to the low power consumption state, and disables the CEC line 302. CEC line 302
Is disabled, the communication unit 105 cannot receive a CEC command for controlling the video camera 100 from the television 200 or transmit a CEC command for controlling the television 200 to the television 200. .

  In step S703, the CPU 101 cancels execution of the mute process.

  When the execution of the mute process is canceled, the CPU 101 ends the process of transmitting the mute instruction, the mute video, and the silence data to the television 200. Then, the CPU 101 starts a process of transmitting the same video data as the video data displayed on the display unit 111 to the television 200. As a result, the same video is displayed on the display unit 111 and the television 200.

  After the execution of the mute process is canceled in step S703, the flowchart proceeds from step S703 to step S312.

  It should be noted that the time until the mute processing is canceled is shorter than the time until the TMDS driver 107a is returned from the low power consumption state to the normal state. It is possible to shorten the time required to execute a correct CEC command.

  As described above, the video camera 100 according to the fifth embodiment does not immediately invalidate the TMDS line 301 even when a power-off command is received. Can be shortened.

  Further, the video camera 100 according to the fifth embodiment performs the same processes as those of the first embodiment except for the processes performed in steps S701 to S703 in FIG. it can.

[Embodiment 6]
Next, a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the sixth embodiment, description of parts common to the first, second and fifth embodiments will be omitted, and parts different from the second embodiment will be described.

  The processes performed in steps S301 to S302, S304 to S307, S309 to S310, and S312 of FIG. 8 are the same as the processes performed in steps S301 to S302, S304 to S307, S309 to S310, and S312 of FIG. The process performed in step S401 in FIG. 8 is the same as the process performed in step S401 in FIG. The processes performed in steps S701 to S703 in FIG. 8 are the same as the processes performed in steps S701 to S703 in FIG. Therefore, the description about the process performed at all the steps of FIG. 8 is omitted.

  As described above, the video camera 100 according to the sixth embodiment does not immediately invalidate the TMDS line 301 even when a power OFF command is received. Can be shortened.

  Further, the video camera 100 according to the sixth embodiment performs the same processes as those in the second embodiment except for the processes performed in steps S701 to S703 in FIG. it can.

[Embodiment 7]
Next, a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the seventh embodiment, the description of the parts common to the first, third, and fifth embodiments will be omitted, and the parts different from the third embodiment will be described.

  The processes performed in steps S301 to S302, S304 to S307, S309 to S310, and S312 of FIG. 9 are the same as the processes performed in steps S301 to S302, S304 to S307, S309 to S310, and S312 of FIG. The process performed in step S501 in FIG. 9 is the same as the process performed in step S501 in FIG. The processes performed in steps S701 to S703 in FIG. 9 are the same as the processes performed in steps S701 to S703 in FIG. Therefore, the description about the process performed at all the steps of FIG. 9 is omitted.

  As described above, the video camera 100 according to the seventh embodiment does not immediately invalidate the TMDS line 301 even when a power OFF command is received. Can be shortened.

  Further, the video camera 100 according to the seventh embodiment performs the same processes as those in the third embodiment except for the processes performed in steps S701 to S703 in FIG. it can.

  Embodiment 7 can also be implemented in combination with Embodiment 6. In this case, the video camera 100 according to the seventh embodiment can obtain the same advantages as those of the sixth embodiment.

[Embodiment 8]
Next, an eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 1, FIG. 2, and FIG. In the eighth embodiment, description of parts common to the first, fourth, and fifth embodiments will be omitted, and parts different from the fourth embodiment will be described.

  The processes performed in steps S301 to S302, S304 to S307, S309 to S310, and S312 of FIG. 10 are the same as the processes performed in steps S301 to S302, S304 to S307, S309 to S310, and S312 of FIG. The process performed in step S601 in FIG. 10 is the same as the process performed in step S601 in FIG. The processes performed in steps S701 to S703 in FIG. 10 are the same as the processes performed in steps S701 to S703 in FIG. Therefore, the description about the process performed at all the steps of FIG. 10 is omitted.

  As described above, even when the video camera 100 according to the eighth embodiment receives the power OFF command, the TMDS line 301 is not invalidated immediately. Can be shortened.

  Further, the video camera 100 according to the eighth embodiment performs the same processes as those in the fourth embodiment except for the processes performed in steps S701 to S703 in FIG. it can.

  Embodiment 8 can also be implemented in combination with at least one of Embodiments 6 and 7. In this case, the video camera 100 according to the eighth embodiment can obtain the same advantages as at least one of the sixth and seventh embodiments.

[Other Embodiments]
The communication apparatus according to the present invention is not limited to the communication apparatus described in the first to eighth embodiments. For example, the communication apparatus according to the present invention can be realized by a system including a plurality of apparatuses.

  The various processes and functions described in the first to eighth embodiments can also be realized by a computer program. In this case, the computer program according to the present invention is executed by a computer (including a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and the like) and realizes various functions described in the first to eighth embodiments.

  It goes without saying that the computer program according to the present invention may realize various processes and functions described in the first to eighth embodiments using an OS (Operating System) running on the computer.

  The computer program according to the present invention is read from a computer-readable recording medium and executed by the computer. As the computer-readable recording medium, a hard disk device, an optical disk, a CD-ROM, a CD-R, a memory card, a ROM, or the like can be used. The computer program according to the present invention may be provided from an external device to a computer via a communication interface and executed by the computer.

100 communication device 101 CPU
102 Timer 103 RAM
104 Recording unit 105 Communication unit 106 Connection detection unit 107a TMDS driver 107b CEC driver 108 Mute unit 109 Data processing unit 110 Command processing unit 111 Display unit 112 Operation unit 113 Mode change button 114 Imaging unit 115 ROM
200 External device 201 CPU
202 Tuner unit 203 Communication unit 204 Command processing unit 205 Display unit 206 Operation unit 207 Remote control reception unit 208 ROM
209 Remote control 300 Connection cable 301 TMDS line 302 CEC line 303 HPD line

Claims (24)

Transmitting means for transmitting at least one of video data and audio data to an external device;
Receiving means for receiving a command from the external device;
Control means for performing a process for limiting the operation of the receiving means after a predetermined time has elapsed when a control command is received by the receiving means;
When the control command is received by the receiving unit, the control unit performs processing for limiting the operation of the transmitting unit before the predetermined time elapses.   The communication device according to claim 1, wherein the control command is used to control a power supply of the communication device.   The communication device according to claim 1, wherein the control command is used to limit power supply to a part of the communication device.   4. The control unit according to claim 1, wherein the control unit cancels the control command when a command different from the control command is received by the receiving unit after the control command is received. The communication apparatus as described in. A first operating means for instructing the communication device to perform a first operation;
5. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit cancels the control command when the first operation is instructed after the control command is received. 6. .   The communication apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the first operation corresponds to at least one of an operation related to reproduction and an operation related to recording.   The control means, when the control command is received again by the receiving means before the predetermined time elapses, performs processing for limiting the operation of the receiving means before the predetermined time elapses. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein the communication device is performed. A communication device,
Transmitting means for transmitting at least one of video data and audio data to an external device;
Receiving means for receiving a command from the external device;
When a control command is received by the receiving means, control means for performing processing for limiting the operation of the receiving means after a predetermined time has elapsed;
Second operating means for instructing a second operation for restricting power supply to a part of the communication device;
The control means performs processing for limiting the operation of the transmission means when the control command is received by the reception means,
When the second operation is instructed before the predetermined time elapses, the control means performs a process for limiting the operation of the receiving means before the predetermined time elapses. A communication device characterized by the above.   The communication device according to claim 8, wherein the control command is used to control a power supply of the communication device.   The communication device according to claim 8, wherein the control command is used to limit power supply to a part of the communication device.   11. The control unit according to claim 8, wherein the control unit cancels the control command when a command different from the control command is received by the receiving unit after the control command is received. The communication apparatus as described in. A communication device,
Transmitting means for transmitting at least one of video data and audio data to an external device;
Receiving means for receiving a command from the external device;
Control means for performing a process for limiting the operation of the receiving means after a predetermined time has elapsed when a control command is received by the receiving means;
When the control command is received by the receiving unit, the control unit performs a process for limiting the operation of the transmitting unit,
The control means restricts the operation of the receiving means before the predetermined time elapses when the connection between the communication apparatus and the external apparatus is disconnected before the predetermined time elapses. The communication apparatus characterized by performing the process.   The communication device according to claim 12, wherein the control command is used to control a power supply of the communication device.   The communication device according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the control command is used to limit power supply to a part of the communication device.   15. The control unit according to claim 12, wherein the control unit cancels the control command when a command different from the control command is received by the receiving unit after the control command is received. The communication apparatus as described in. Transmitting means for transmitting at least one of video data and audio data to an external device;
Receiving means for receiving a command from the external device;
And a control unit configured to limit power supply to the transmission unit before power supply to the reception unit is limited when a control command is received by the reception unit.   The communication device according to claim 16, wherein the control command is used to control a power supply of the communication device.   The communication device according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the control command is used to limit power supply to a part of the communication device.   19. The control unit according to claim 16, wherein the control unit cancels the control command when a command different from the control command is received by the receiving unit after the control command is received. The communication apparatus as described in.   The control means prevents the processing instructed by the control command from being performed when a command different from the control command is received by the receiving means after the control command is received. Item 20. The communication device according to any one of Items 16 to 19. A control method executed by a control unit of a communication device having a transmission unit that transmits at least one of video data and audio data to an external device and a reception unit that receives a command from the external device,
When a control command is received by the receiving means, performing a process for limiting the operation of the receiving means after a predetermined time has elapsed;
When the control command is received by the receiving means, the control method further comprises a step of performing a process for limiting the operation of the transmitting means before the predetermined time elapses. A control method executed by a control unit of a communication device having a transmission unit that transmits at least one of video data and audio data to an external device and a reception unit that receives a command from the external device,
When a control command is received by the receiving means, performing a process for limiting the operation of the receiving means after a predetermined time has elapsed;
When the control command is received by the receiving means, performing a process for limiting the operation of the transmitting means;
When a second operation for restricting power supply to a part of the communication device is instructed before the predetermined time elapses, the operation of the receiving unit is performed before the predetermined time elapses. And a step of performing processing for restricting the control. A control method executed by a control unit of a communication apparatus having a transmission unit that transmits at least one of video data and audio data to an external device, and a reception unit for receiving a command from the external device,
When a control command is received by the receiving means, performing a process for limiting the operation of the receiving means after a predetermined time has elapsed;
When the control command is received by the receiving means, performing a process for limiting the operation of the transmitting means;
When the connection between the communication device and the external device is disconnected before the predetermined time elapses, a step of performing processing for restricting the operation of the receiving unit before the predetermined time elapses The control method characterized by having. A control method executed by a control unit of a communication device having a transmission unit that transmits at least one of video data and audio data to an external device and a reception unit that receives a command from the external device,
And a step of restricting power supply to the transmitting means before power supply to the receiving means is restricted when a control command is received by the receiving means.

Images