JP6058929B2 - Facsimile apparatus, facsimile communication system, method and program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a facsimile apparatus, a facsimile communication system, a facsimile communication method, and a facsimile communication program. The present invention relates to a facsimile apparatus, a facsimile communication system, a facsimile communication method, and a facsimile communication program that are particularly suitable for performing facsimile communication using an external telephone.

  A facsimile machine that reads various documents such as manuscripts including image information and transmits it as a facsimile signal to the other device, or receives a facsimile signal from the other device, connects a telephone line for communication to the device body. Generally, it has a configuration having connecting means. Such a general facsimile apparatus usually has not only a circuit necessary for facsimile communication but also a dial function and a telephone function such as a handset used during a call. On the other hand, some facsimile apparatuses may not be provided with a user-friendly function such as a telephone directory function or an auto-dial function due to a request for cost reduction or the like.

  Therefore, as a first related technique of the present invention, it has been proposed that a telephone can be connected to the main body of the facsimile apparatus so that the functions of the telephone can be utilized (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  FIG. 10 shows a connection state between the facsimile apparatus and the telephone according to the first related technology of the present invention. The facsimile apparatus 100 according to the first related technique includes a first connection unit 103 for connecting a telephone line 102 for performing facsimile communication to the apparatus main body 101. In addition, the facsimile apparatus 100 uses an external telephone 104, and a second for connecting a cable 105 connected to the telephone 104 to the telephone line 102 via the apparatus main body 101. The connection part 106 is provided.

  The control unit 111 that performs various controls in the apparatus main body 101 is connected to the incoming call detection unit 113, the modem 114, the hook state detection unit 115, the dial signal detection unit 116, the keyboard 117, and the like via a signal transmission unit 112 such as a data bus. The recording unit 118, the reading unit 119, and the display unit 120 are connected. Here, the incoming call detection unit 113 detects an incoming call when there is a facsimile communication from another facsimile machine (not shown). The modem 114 performs modulation and demodulation for facsimile communication. The hook state detection unit 115 detects on-hook or off-hook of the external telephone 104. Dial signal detector 116 detects a dial signal output from telephone 104. The keyboard 117 includes key switches used for various operations. When the document is transmitted to another facsimile machine without using the external telephone 104, the keyboard 117 can be used for dialing. The recording unit 118 records a document including image information sent from another facsimile apparatus, or creates a copy of the document read by the own apparatus. The reading unit 119 includes a one-dimensional image sensor for reading a document on the apparatus side. The display unit 120 includes a display that displays various types of visual information.

  The incoming call detection unit 113, modem 114, hook state detection unit 115, and dial signal detection unit 116 are connected to the line switching circuit 121. The line switching circuit 121 is connected to the first connection unit 103 via the first cable 122 and is connected to the second connection unit 106 via the second cable 123.

  In the facsimile apparatus 100 according to the first related technology, the hook state detection unit 115 detects on-hook or off-hook of the external telephone 104. For example, in the on-hook state where the handset 104A of the telephone 104 is placed on the telephone main body 104B, the line switching circuit 121 connects the telephone line 102 to the incoming call detection unit 113 and the modem 114, so The telephone 104 is disconnected.

  In this state, it is assumed that a facsimile signal is sent from the other facsimile machine via the telephone line 102 to the facsimile machine 100. Then, the incoming call detection unit 113 detects the incoming call, the modem 114 demodulates the image information, and the recording unit 118 prints out the document.

  Next, a case where a document is transmitted to the facsimile machine on the other side using the external telephone 104 according to the first related technique will be described. When the user presses a predetermined communication key on the keyboard 117, the control unit 111 checks whether a document is set on the reading unit 119. In this state, when the control unit 111 detects that the handset 104A of the telephone 104 is in an on-hook state, the control unit 111 sets an automatic transmission mode in which a document is automatically transmitted. When the user picks up the handset 104A of the telephone 104, the dial signal detecting unit 116 detects that the dial signal is sent from the telephone 104 in the off-hook state, and the line switching circuit 121 transfers this to the telephone line 102. Send it out.

  When the dial signal detector 116 detects the end of dial signal transmission, the line switching circuit 121 connects the modem 114 to the telephone line 102 and transmits a CNG (calling signal) signal to the destination facsimile machine. The CNG signal is an identification signal indicating that the own apparatus is a facsimile apparatus with respect to the facsimile apparatus whose transmission source is the receiving side. When the receiving facsimile apparatus responds to the CNG signal, the control unit 111 transmits a document including image information modulated by the modem 114 using the telephone line 102 on the condition of the response.

  Further, when the user presses the predetermined communication key after setting the document with the external telephone 104 off-hook, the control unit 111 sets the facsimile apparatus 100 to the manual mode. In this case, the user can manually input the dial information by operating the telephone main body 104B, and then can send the document to the facsimile machine of the other party through a predetermined communication procedure.

  As described above, when the first related technology is used, the user can input dial information one by one by setting the facsimile apparatus 100 to the automatic transmission mode and the external telephone 104 has the auto dial function. And the document can be transmitted to the facsimile machine of the other party. In the first related technique, the transmission of a document can be started by detecting the point in time when the counterpart facsimile machine returns a response to the CNG signal. Therefore, it is possible to save time and effort for the user to transmit the document.

  However, the functions of the facsimile apparatus have been advanced after the presentation of the first related technique, and it has become common to provide a telephone directory function or an auto dial function in the apparatus main body. On the other hand, there is an increasing demand for a facsimile apparatus that supports facsimile communication using a digital line or an IP (Internet Protocol) network.

  Therefore, as a second related technique of the present invention, it has been proposed to connect a facsimile machine to a gateway device and utilize an extended function of the gateway device. In the second related technique, the analog telephone line of the facsimile apparatus is connected to the analog signal terminal of the gateway apparatus. The gateway apparatus detects an analog dial signal sent from an analog telephone line when the facsimile apparatus tries to transmit a document, and converts the analog dial signal into an identification signal representing a telephone number corresponding to the form of the line. .

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 04-023563 (second page, upper left column, line 7 to third page, upper right column, line 13; FIGS. 1 and 2)

  However, when this second related technology is used, there may occur a situation in which the dial signal is erroneously recognized due to an artificial setting error or other reasons depending on the gateway device. When an erroneous recognition of the dial signal occurs, the document is transmitted to the wrong counterpart facsimile machine. Therefore, a security problem occurs particularly in a document including confidential information or personal information.

  Of course, if the misrecognition of the dial number is due to human error, the transmission history of the gateway device may be checked to solve the problem related to the subsequent transmission. However, even if the transmission history is examined, not all problems related to misrecognition of dial signals will be solved in the future. Therefore, it is not a complete solution to add functions required by the facsimile apparatus by using the gateway apparatus.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to obtain a facsimile apparatus, a facsimile communication system, a facsimile communication method, and a facsimile communication program that can solve the problem of erroneous recognition of dial signals when an external telephone is used.

  In the present invention, (b) an input connection terminal for inputting a facsimile signal representing image information of a document received by a predetermined telephone through a telephone line provided therein; and (b) from the input connection terminal Demodulating means for demodulating the input facsimile signal and reproducing the image information of the document, (c) modulating means for modulating the image information of the document to be transmitted, and (d) modulating by the modulating means. The facsimile apparatus includes an output connection terminal for outputting to the predetermined telephone set for transmission to the destination indicated by the dial information transmitted by inputting the facsimile signal representing the image information of the document to the predetermined telephone set. .

  In the present invention, (a) dial information input means for inputting dial information for connection to a specific device as a communication partner, and a telephone for connecting dial information input by the dial information input means to the own device Dial information sending means for sending to the exchange via the line, and facsimile signal receiving means for receiving when a facsimile signal representing image information of a predetermined document is sent via the telephone line connected to the above-mentioned own apparatus. And (b) a facsimile apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5 in a facsimile communication system.

  Further, according to the present invention, (a) a line connection presence / absence detecting step for detecting whether or not a line for a facsimile apparatus as a line used for transmission / reception of a facsimile signal representing image information of a document is connected to the facsimile apparatus; B) When it is determined in this line connection presence / absence detection step that the line for the facsimile apparatus is not connected to the facsimile apparatus, a modem device for facsimile communication is externally attached to the facsimile apparatus from the line for the facsimile apparatus. (C) after switching to the signal input / output side with the telephone in the telephone side switching step, the start key of the facsimile apparatus is pressed The start key press monitoring step to monitor the point in time, and (d) this start A document determination step for determining whether or not a document for transmission is set in the facsimile apparatus when the start key is pressed in the press monitoring step; and (e) a document is set in the document determination step. The document reading step that starts reading the document for transmission when it is determined, and (f) the image information of the document read in this document reading step is modulated and switched by the telephone-side switching step. A transmission step via a telephone for transmitting a facsimile signal to a destination indicated by dial information transmitted from the telephone through a signal input / output side path with the telephone described above, and (g) a document is set in the document discrimination step described above. A facsimile signal is received via the signal input / output side path with the telephone set described above. A telephone via reception step facsimile communication method comprising.

  Further, according to the present invention, whether or not a facsimile machine line as a line used for transmission / reception of a facsimile signal representing image information of a document is connected to the facsimile machine as a facsimile communication program. Line connection presence / absence detection processing for detecting whether or not the line connection presence / absence detection processing determines that the line for the facsimile apparatus is not connected to the facsimile apparatus. A telephone-side switching process for switching from the line for the facsimile apparatus to a signal input / output side with a telephone externally attached to the facsimile apparatus; and (c) a signal input / output side with the telephone described above in the telephone-side switching process. And the start key of the facsimile machine is pressed. A start key press monitoring process for monitoring points; and (d) a document determination process for determining whether a transmission document is set in the facsimile apparatus when the start key is pressed in the start key press monitoring process. And (e) a document reading process for starting reading of the document for transmission described above when it is determined that the document is set in the document determining process, and (f) the document read by the document reading process. Via-telephone transmission processing that modulates image information and transmits a facsimile signal to a destination indicated by dial information transmitted from the telephone via a path on the signal input / output side with the telephone that has been switched by the telephone-side switching processing described above And (g) when it is not determined that the document is set in the document determination process, the signal input / output side route to the telephone is described. To execute the telephone via reception process for receiving facsimile signals Te.

  As described above, according to the present invention, dial information transmitted from a telephone and transmitted to a telephone line is processed by an exchange, not a gateway device. Therefore, there is no problem of misrecognition of a dial signal caused by the gateway device when an external telephone is used for the facsimile apparatus. In addition, according to the present invention, since a facsimile signal is transmitted / received using a telephone provided separately from the facsimile apparatus, the telephone directory of the telephone is utilized, the speed dial function is utilized, or other than analog lines are used. Communication utilizing the characteristics of the telephone, such as sending a document to a facsimile machine connected to the line, becomes possible.

  Further, according to the facsimile communication system of the present invention, even when a failure occurs in the line for the facsimile apparatus or when the line for the facsimile apparatus is not prepared, an external telephone is connected to the facsimile apparatus and the facsimile is connected. Communication is possible. Therefore, the convenience and reliability of facsimile communication can be improved.

It is a claim correspondence diagram of the facsimile apparatus of the present invention. It is a claim correspondence diagram of the facsimile communication system of the present invention. It is a claim correspondence diagram of the facsimile communication method of the present invention. It is a claim correspondence diagram of the facsimile communication program of the present invention. 1 is a system configuration diagram showing an outline of a configuration of a facsimile communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram showing the outline | summary of the circuit structure of the telephone set used by this Embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing an outline of control of a telephone set externally attached to a facsimile apparatus in the present embodiment. 3 is a flowchart showing an outline of control of the facsimile apparatus according to the present embodiment. 3 is a flowchart showing how the facsimile apparatus is controlled in an external communication mode in the present embodiment. It is the block diagram which showed the connection state of the facsimile apparatus by the 1st related technique of this invention, and a telephone.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram corresponding to claims of the facsimile apparatus of the present invention. The facsimile apparatus 10 of the present invention includes an input connection terminal 11, a demodulation unit 12, a modulation unit 13, and an output connection terminal 14. Here, the input connection terminal 11 inputs a facsimile signal representing image information of a document received by a predetermined telephone through a telephone line provided therein. The demodulator 12 demodulates the facsimile signal input from the input connection terminal 11 to reproduce the image information of the document. The modulation unit 13 modulates image information of a document to be transmitted. The output connection terminal 14 inputs a facsimile signal representing the image information of the document modulated by the modulation means 13 and outputs the facsimile signal to the telephone set for transmission to the destination indicated by the dial information transmitted.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram corresponding to claims of the facsimile communication system of the present invention. The facsimile communication system 20 of the present invention includes a predetermined telephone 21 and a facsimile device 22. Here, the predetermined telephone 21 includes dial information input means 21a, dial information sending means 21b, and facsimile signal receiving means 21c. The dial information input means 21a inputs dial information for connecting to a specific device as a communication partner. The dial information sending means 21b sends the dial information inputted by the dial information input means 21a to the exchange via a telephone line connected to the own device. The facsimile signal receiving means 21c receives a facsimile signal representing the image information of a predetermined document sent through the telephone line connected to the above-mentioned apparatus.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram corresponding to claims of the facsimile communication method of the present invention. The facsimile communication method 30 of the present invention includes a line connection presence / absence detection step 31, a telephone side switching step 32, a start key press monitoring step 33, a document determination step 34, a document reading step 35, and a transmission via telephone 36. The telephone reception step 37 is provided. Here, in the line connection presence / absence detection step 31, it is detected whether or not a line for a facsimile machine as a line used for transmission / reception of a facsimile signal representing image information of a document is connected to the facsimile machine. In the telephone side switching step 32, when it is determined in the line connection presence / absence detection step 31 that the facsimile apparatus line is not connected to the facsimile apparatus, a modem for facsimile communication is connected from the facsimile apparatus line side to the facsimile apparatus. Switch to the signal input / output side with the phone externally attached to the device. In the start key press monitoring step 33, the time point when the start key of the facsimile apparatus is pressed is monitored after switching to the signal input / output side with the telephone in the telephone side switching step 32. In the document determination step 34, it is determined whether or not a transmission document is set in the facsimile apparatus when the start key is pressed in the start key press monitoring step 33. In the document reading step 35, when it is determined in the document determination step 34 that the document is set, reading of the document for transmission described above is started. In the transmission via telephone step 36, the image information of the document read in the document reading step 35 is modulated, and the transmission is made by this telephone via the signal input / output side path with the telephone set switched in the telephone side switching step. The facsimile signal is transmitted to the destination indicated by the dial information. In the reception via telephone step 37, when it is not determined in the document determination step 34 that a document is set, a facsimile signal is received via the signal input / output side path with the telephone described above.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram corresponding to claims of the facsimile communication program of the present invention. The facsimile communication program 40 of the present invention includes a line connection presence / absence detection process 41, a telephone-side switching process 42, a start key press monitoring process 43, a document determination process 44, a document reading process 45, A telephone call transmission process 46 and a telephone call reception process 47 are executed. Here, in the line connection presence / absence detection process 41, it is detected whether or not a line for a facsimile apparatus as a line used for transmission / reception of a facsimile signal representing image information of a document is connected to the facsimile apparatus. In the telephone-side switching process 42, when it is determined in the line connection presence / absence detection process 41 that the facsimile apparatus line is not connected to the facsimile apparatus, the modem apparatus for facsimile communication is switched from the facsimile apparatus line side. Switching to the signal input / output side with a telephone externally attached to the facsimile apparatus. In the start key press monitoring process 43, the time point when the start key of the facsimile apparatus is pressed is monitored after switching to the signal input / output side with the telephone in the telephone side switching process 42. In the document determination process 44, when the start key is pressed in the start key press monitoring process 43, it is determined whether or not a document for transmission is set in the facsimile apparatus. In the document reading process 45, when it is determined that the document is set in the document determination process 44, reading of the document for transmission described above is started. In the transmission process 46 via the telephone, the image information of the document read by the document reading process 45 is modulated and transmitted by this telephone via the signal input / output side path with the telephone switched by the telephone side switching process. The facsimile signal is transmitted to the destination indicated by the dial information. In the reception process 47 via the telephone, when it is not determined that the document is set in the document determination process 44, a facsimile signal is received via the signal input / output path with the telephone described above.

  <Embodiment of the Invention>

  Next, an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  FIG. 5 shows an outline of the configuration of the facsimile communication system according to the embodiment of the present invention. A facsimile apparatus 201 constituting the facsimile communication system 200 of the present embodiment includes a female connector 203 for inserting a line, a female connector 204 for inserting a handset cable, and a telephone main body at predetermined positions on the side of the apparatus main body 202. The female connector 205 for inserting the side cable is arranged.

  If necessary, a 6-pole 2-core modular jack 206 as a male connector of the first telephone line 211 can be connected to the female connector 203 for line insertion. In addition, as required by the user, as an example of connection to the handset 213 of the telephone 212, a handset cable male connector 207 comprising a four-pole four-core jack is connected to the female connector 204 for inserting the handset cable. Can do. In this case where the telephone 212 is used, for example, a telephone main body cable male connector 208 constituted by a four-pole four-core jack is connected to the telephone main body side cable insertion female connector 205. A second telephone line 215 used for communication of the telephone 212 is connected to the telephone main body 214. The second telephone line 215 may be a wired line or a wireless line.

  The inside of the apparatus main body 202 has the same circuit configuration as that of a normal facsimile apparatus except for some circuits. That is, the apparatus main body 202 includes a main control unit 221 that performs overall control of the facsimile apparatus 201. The main control unit 221 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 222 and a memory 223 that stores a program executed by the CPU 222. The CPU 222 is connected to the following units using signal transmission means such as a data bus (not shown).

  The reading unit 224 includes, for example, a one-dimensional image sensor, and conveys a document (not shown) stored in a document tray (not shown) to a predetermined position and reads the image information. The recording unit 225 includes components constituting a printing device such as a thermal head, for example, and records document image information on a recording sheet such as a thermal recording sheet (not shown). The display unit 226 includes, for example, a liquid crystal display, and visually displays various types of information for operation and the like, and prompts an operation input required by the user. The operation unit 227 includes a plurality of key switches or key buttons, and constitutes, for example, a dial key for inputting a telephone number, a start key or a stop key for starting or stopping an operation. The user can input necessary information by operating these keys and transmit the information to the main control unit 221.

  The facsimile modem 228 includes an analog signal generation circuit and an analog signal detection circuit (not shown). The facsimile modem 228 plays a role of generating various analog signals used for facsimile communication under the control of the main control unit 221 and detecting analog signals from the partner station. Also, when transmitting a facsimile signal, the image information read by the reading unit 224 is converted into an analog image signal, while at the time of reception, an analog image signal received from another facsimile apparatus (not shown) is converted into an image signal for recording by the recording unit 225. Take the role of converting.

  The first switching unit 229 includes first and second switches 231 configured by switching means such as a relay contact depending on which of the first telephone line 211 and the second telephone line 215 is used for communication. 232 is simultaneously switched to the first telephone line 211 side or the telephone 212 side. Between the facsimile modem 228 and the first switching unit 229, a first amplifier 234 for connecting the common contact C side of the first switch 231 to amplify the received facsimile signal to match the facsimile modem 228, and the modulation A second amplifier 235 for amplifying the transmission power of the subsequent facsimile signal to match the transmission path is connected. The second amplifier 235 connects the amplified signal to the common contact C side of the second switch 232.

  The main control unit 221 is also connected to a second switching unit 233 configured by switching means such as a relay contact. The second switching unit 233 is configured to simultaneously switch the third and fourth switches 236 and 237 to the telephone 212 side or the first switching unit 229 side (facsimile modem 228 side). The common contact C side of the third switch 236 is connected to one end of the telephone main body side cable insertion female connector 205 via the reception path 238. Further, the common contact C side of the fourth switch 237 is connected to the other end of the telephone main body side cable insertion female connector 205 via the transmission path 239.

  A two-wire / four-wire converter 241 is connected to the A contact of the first switch 231 and the A contact of the second switch 232. The B contact of the first switch 231 is connected to the B contact of the third switch 236, and the B contact of the second switch 232 is connected to the B contact of the fourth switch 237. The A contact of the third switch 236 and the A contact of the fourth switch 237 are connected to one end or the other end of the female connector 204 for inserting the handset cable.

  The 2-wire to 4-wire conversion unit 241 is configured by an analog hybrid circuit. When the first telephone line 211 is accommodated in the facsimile apparatus 201, the 2-wire to 4-wire conversion unit 241 discriminates a voice signal into a transmission path and a reception path, and transmits a transmission signal and a reception signal of the facsimile modem 228. Mix on the line. The two-wire / four-wire converter 241 is connected to the line detector 243 via the network controller 242 that is controlled by the main controller 221. The line detection unit 243 is constituted by a DC detection circuit and is connected to the female connector 203 for line insertion. The network control unit 242 includes circuits such as a relay (not shown), a signal detection circuit, and a matching circuit, and plays a role of circuit switching and signal transmission when the first telephone line 211 is accommodated.

  The line detection unit 243 detects and monitors whether the first telephone line 211 is connected to the female connector 203 for line insertion of the apparatus main body 202 via the modular jack 206. That is, when the modular jack 206 is connected to the female connector 203 for line insertion and the first telephone line 211 is accommodated, the line detection unit 243 detects the direct current applied to the line, and the detection result is the main control. It transmits to the part 221.

  In the facsimile apparatus 201 having the above configuration, the handset cable insertion female connector 204 and the telephone main body side cable insertion female connector 205 for connecting the first and second switching units 229 and 233 and the telephone 212 are usually provided. This is a new circuit that is not provided in the facsimile machine. As a result of using such a circuit, in the case of the facsimile apparatus 201 of the present embodiment, the connection itself of the first telephone line 211 is possible while the telephone 212 connected to the second telephone line 215 is usable. It becomes unnecessary.

  In the facsimile communication system 200 of the present embodiment, since the facsimile apparatus 201 uses three types of female connectors 203 to 205, a name tag for identifying each of them is attached, or a name plate is attached to a corresponding portion of the apparatus main body 202. You may make it stick. For example, a name tag or name plate written as “telephone line” is prepared for the female connector 203 for line insertion. In addition, a name tag or name plate written as “handset” is prepared for the female connector 204 for plugging the handset cable. Further, it is convenient to prepare a name tag or name plate indicated as “Key Tele” for the female connector 205 for inserting the cable on the telephone body side. The first telephone line 211, the handset cable male connector 207, and the telephone body cable male connector 208 may be provided with name tags having the same notation.

  The main control unit 221 in the facsimile apparatus 201 monitors the line detection unit 243 and connects the first switching unit 229 to the telephone 212 side (B contact side) while the connection of the first telephone line 211 is not detected. Take a role. Further, in a state where the telephone 212 is controlled, the main control unit 221 performs control to restrict input of a telephone number from the operation unit 227 arranged in the apparatus main body 202. The main control unit 221 assists the user's operation by playing a role of causing the display unit 226 to display a unique facsimile procedure according to the operation of the telephone 212.

  As a result, when the user issues a transmission instruction or a reception instruction for facsimile communication using the telephone 212 using the operation unit 227, the main control unit 221 sets the second switching unit 233 in a state where the facsimile modem 228 can be used. Switch.

  FIG. 6 shows an outline of the circuit configuration of the telephone used in the present embodiment. The telephone 212 includes a main control unit 261 that performs overall control thereof. The main control unit 261 includes a CPU 262 and a memory 263 that stores a control program executed by the CPU 262. The main control unit 261 is connected to the telephone common circuit unit 264, the facsimile transmission / reception support unit 265, the line connection unit 266, the connector connection unit 267, and the mode determination unit 268.

  Here, the telephone common circuit unit 264 includes a circuit device having a function as a normal telephone. The facsimile transmission / reception correspondence unit 265 is necessary when a facsimile signal is sent from another facsimile apparatus with the telephone 212 as a destination, or when the facsimile signal is transmitted to the other party's facsimile apparatus using the telephone 212. It consists of a circuit part or application software that performs correspondence. For example, the facsimile transmission / reception support unit 265 changes the signal level of transmission / reception to that corresponding to the facsimile signal, or performs necessary negotiation with the other-side facsimile apparatus that is insufficient by the user's manual operation. When the telephone 212 is adapted to perform facsimile communication using an IP packet, a retransmission function corresponding to a delay error or packet loss may be provided. The application software may be rewritten to correspond to a manufacturer's original facsimile communication procedure.

  The line connection unit 266 connects the second telephone line 215. The connector connecting portion 267 connects the female connector 269 together with the handset cable male connector 207 and the telephone body cable male connector 208 shown in FIG.

  The handset cable male connector 207 is connected to the handset cable plug-in female connector 204 of the facsimile apparatus 201 as shown in FIG. 5 when the telephone 212 of this embodiment is used for facsimile communication. It has become. On the other hand, when there is no plan to use the telephone 212 for facsimile communication, the handset cable male connector 207 is inserted into the female connector 269. A broken line 270 indicates a connection state when the handset cable male connector 207 is inserted into the female connector 269. In this connected state, the user can make a voice call using the handset 213 of the telephone 212.

  The mode determination unit 268 is connected to the main control unit 261 and also to the connector connection unit 267. The mode determination unit 268 has two types of “normal mode” in which the telephone 212 performs communication as a normal telephone regardless of the facsimile apparatus 201 and “facsimile combined mode” in which communication is performed while the telephone 212 is connected to the facsimile apparatus 201. The mode is determined. This determination is made based on whether or not the telephone body cable male connector 208 connected to the connector connection portion 267 is connected to the telephone body side cable insertion female connector 205 shown in FIG. . Specifically, when the telephone main body cable male connector 208 is not connected to the telephone main body cable insertion female connector 205, the mode determination unit 268 determines that the telephone 212 is in the “normal mode”. In addition, when the telephone body cable male connector 208 is connected to the telephone body side cable insertion female connector 205, the "facsimile combined mode" is set in which the telephone 212 can perform not only a telephone call but also a facsimile communication. It is determined that it has been done. In the “facsimile combination mode”, a telephone call using the telephone 212 can be performed under predetermined conditions. That is, the “facsimile combination mode” is a mode that enables a telephone call by facsimile communication.

  Such mode discrimination in the mode discrimination unit 268 can be easily realized by devising the telephone main body cable male connector 208 and the telephone main body side cable insertion female connector 205 shown in FIG. For example, the receiving side (socket pin) of the telephone main body side cable insertion female connector 205 corresponding to two specific pins (not shown) not used for signal transmission in the telephone main body cable male connector 208 is connected in advance with a jumper wire. Keep it. When the above-mentioned specific pin on the telephone body cable male connector 208 side is conductive, the telephone body cable male connector 208 is connected to the telephone body cable insertion female connector 205. Determined as “normal mode”. If there is no conduction between the specific pins, the mode determination unit 268 determines that the mode is a “facsimile combination mode”. The main control unit 261 monitors the determination result of the mode determination unit 268 and sets the telephone 212 to the determined mode.

  In this embodiment, since the telephone body cable male connector 208 is attached to the telephone body 214, when the telephone 212 is used alone, it cannot be connected to the same male handset cable male connector 207. A female connector 269 is prepared separately. Alternatively, the “male” of the handset cable male connector 207 may be changed to “female” and the female connector 269 may be omitted. In this case, the “female” of the telephone main body side cable insertion female connector 205 shown in FIG. 5 may be changed to “male”.

  FIG. 7 shows an outline of control of a telephone set externally attached to the facsimile apparatus in this embodiment. This will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the mode determination unit 268 determines that the normal mode is selected (step S301: Y), the main control unit 261 sets the telephone 212 to the normal mode that functions as a normal telephone and executes the mode (step S302). . In the normal mode, the facsimile transmission / reception support unit 265 is not active, and no power is supplied thereto.

  On the other hand, when the mode determination unit 268 determines that the mode is not the normal mode (step S301: N), the control unit 261 activates the facsimile transmission / reception support unit 265 of the telephone 212 to supply power thereto. Thereby, the telephone 212 executes the facsimile combined mode (step S303).

  FIG. 8 shows an outline of control of the facsimile apparatus. This will be described with reference to FIG.

  The main control unit 221 of the facsimile apparatus 201 according to the present embodiment uses the line detection unit 243 to monitor whether the first telephone line 211 is connected to the apparatus main body 202. Specifically, it is detected whether a direct current is applied from the first telephone line 211 (step S321). When the DC component is detected (Y), since the first telephone line 211 is connected to the apparatus main body 202, facsimile communication using the first telephone line 211 is possible. Therefore, the main control unit 221 executes the “normal communication mode” as a mode using the first telephone line 211 (step S322).

  In this normal communication mode, when a facsimile signal is sent from the other party's facsimile machine through an exchange (not shown) to the telephone number of the facsimile apparatus 201 as a destination, the facsimile signal is received on the first telephone line 211, and the facsimile modem 228 is received. Use to demodulate. The recording unit 225 records the demodulated document.

  When attempting to transmit a document in the normal communication mode, the user sets a document on a document tray (not shown) and operates the dial key of the operation unit 227 to input the telephone number of the facsimile machine of the other party. Then, when the start key of the operation unit 227 is pressed, the reading unit 224 reads the image information of the document, and the facsimile modem 228 modulates the information and transmits it using the first telephone line 211. The operation of the facsimile apparatus 201 in the normal communication mode is the same as that of a conventional general facsimile apparatus.

  On the other hand, when the line detection unit 243 does not detect the DC component from the first telephone line 211 (step S321: N), the main control unit 221 can perform facsimile communication using the first telephone line 211. Can not. Therefore, in this case, the main control unit 221 executes the “external communication mode” using the external telephone 212 (step S323).

The “external communication mode” is a mode in which the external telephone 212 is used as described above. In the “external communication mode” of the present embodiment, the following three processes can be performed roughly.
(1) Processing for making a call using the handset 213 of the external telephone 212.
(2) Processing for performing facsimile transmission using the second telephone line 215 of the external telephone 212.
(3) Processing for performing facsimile reception using the second telephone line 215 of the external telephone 212.

  FIG. 9 shows how the facsimile apparatus is controlled in the external communication mode. This will be described with reference to FIGS.

  When the main control unit 221 enters the external communication mode, the first and second switches 231 and 232 of the first switching unit 229 are both switched to the B contact side, and the third and fourth of the second switching unit 233 are switched. Both switches 236 and 237 are switched to the A contact side (step S341). As a result, the facsimile apparatus 201 is disconnected from the 2-wire-4 wire conversion unit 241, the network control unit 242, and the line detection unit 243, and is independent of the first telephone line 211.

  Therefore, the control unit 221 performs a display on the display unit 226 to notify the user that the external telephone 212 can be used in this state, and an operation on the premise that the first telephone line 211 is used. The input of the unit 227 is restricted (step S342). Specifically, for example, a message stating “Please call using the attached telephone for use of facsimile” is displayed on the display unit 226 to prompt the user to use the telephone 212. Further, when the user presses the dial key of the operation unit 227 used when starting normal facsimile communication using the first telephone line 211, an alarm is output from a speaker (not shown) and the telephone number cannot be input. Let me know.

  As a result, the user can know that the first telephone line 211 is not used and that the telephone 212 should be used for communication. Further, even if a trouble occurs in the connection state between the first telephone line 211 and the facsimile apparatus 201 for some reason, normal facsimile communication using the first telephone line 211 is performed in response to the trouble. It can also be started.

  When the main control unit 221 displays the above-described message on the display unit 226, the main control unit 221 can also display a message for guiding the subsequent user operation. For example, it is possible to display a message to the effect of “send a call and set a document and press“ Start ”to start transmission” on the display unit 226 to instruct a document transmission method. In addition, “When the ring tone sounds in this state, you can start receiving faxes by pressing“ Start ”. Can be displayed on the display unit 226 to notify that facsimile reception using the telephone 212 is possible. Furthermore, a message “You can also make a call when facsimile transmission / reception is not being performed” may be displayed on the display unit 226 to indicate that a call using the telephone 212 is possible.

  The main control unit 221 monitors whether the start key of the operation unit 227 is pressed while the process of step S342 is being performed (step S343). The pressing of the start key is a necessary condition for transmission / reception of a facsimile as described above. Therefore, when the start key is not pressed (step S343: N) and the line detection unit 243 is not detecting DC (step S344: N), the user picks up the handset 213 from the telephone body 214 as necessary. It is also possible to make a call.

  If the line detection unit 243 detects a direct current in a state where this call is possible (step S344: Y), at this time, the main control unit 221 moves the first switching unit 229 to the second telephone line 215 side (A contact side). ) (Step S345: Y) to shift to the normal communication mode.

  Next, a case where the user transmits a document in the external communication mode will be described. In this case, the user lifts the handset 213 and uses the operation unit provided in the telephone common circuit unit 264 of the telephone 212 to input the telephone number of the destination facsimile machine. Then, the original (document) to be facsimile-transmitted is set in the reading unit 224, and when the destination facsimile apparatus instructs transmission of the document, the start key is pressed (step S343: Y).

  Then, the main control unit 221 checks whether there is a document in the reading unit 224 (step S346). In this case, a document exists in the reading unit 224 (Y). Therefore, the main control unit 221 switches the fourth switch 237 of the second switching unit 233 to the B contact side (step S347), reads the document by the reading unit 224, and modulates the facsimile signal after the facsimile modem 228 receives the facsimile signal. Transmission is performed from 212 using the second telephone line 215 (step S348). While the facsimile communication is continued (step S349: N), the process of step S348 is continued. When the communication ends (step S349: Y), the processing returns to step S341 (return).

  Finally, a case where the user receives a facsimile in the external communication mode will be described. In this case, a facsimile apparatus (not shown) on the transmission side starts facsimile communication with the telephone number of the external telephone 212 as a destination. In this state, the facsimile transmission / reception support unit 265 of the telephone 212 is active. The telephone 212 is ringed by a call signal from an exchange (not shown). The user picks up the handset 213 from the telephone body 214 or presses the start key to connect to the other station. In order to start the reception of the facsimile, it is necessary to press the start key by the above-mentioned message on the display unit 226.

  Therefore, when the user presses the start key (step S343: Y), the main control unit 221 checks whether there is a document in the reading unit 224 (step S346). In this case, no document exists in the reading unit 224 (N). Therefore, the main control unit 221 switches the third and fourth switches 236, 237 of the second switching unit 233 to the B contact side (step S350). The facsimile signal received by the telephone 212 is demodulated by the facsimile modem 228 and the document is recorded by the recording unit 225 (step S351). While the facsimile communication is continued (step S352: N), the process of step S351 continues. When communication ends (step S352: Y), the process returns to step S341 (return).

  Note that when the facsimile transmission or reception ends (step S349: Y, step S352: Y), the process returns to step S341. For this reason, the user can make a call using the handset 213 in this state. Further, by placing the handset 213 on the telephone body 214 (on hook), the call (communication) can be ended.

  As described above, according to the facsimile communication system 200 of the present embodiment, the second telephone line 215 connected to the telephone 212 is used even when the first telephone line 211 is not connected to the facsimile apparatus 201. Facsimile transmission / reception becomes possible. Therefore, if the facsimile apparatus 201 of the present embodiment is used, in addition to the conventional analog telephone line, the line on the apparatus body 202 side in the line connecting the apparatus body 202 of the telephone 212 and the handset 213, and the handset 213 side By accommodating each of the lines, it is possible to secure not only a conventional analog telephone line but also a line for performing facsimile communication without using the analog telephone line. Thereby, a more reliable communication system can be realized.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, the facsimile apparatus 201 or the telephone 212 uses a control program to select a mode and a communication path according to a predetermined procedure. As a result, the apparatus can be used without requiring troublesome operations and settings by the user. Furthermore, since the analog dial transmission is automatically restricted according to the selected line and the user is prompted to use the selected line, the person who is not familiar with the use of the facsimile apparatus 201 is used. However, facsimile communication independent of analog dial transmission can be easily realized.

  In the embodiment, the handset 213 of the telephone 212 and the telephone main body 214 are directly connected to the facsimile apparatus 201 with a cable. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, instead of a wired cable, the telephone body 214 and the facsimile apparatus 201 may be connected using radio.

  Alternatively, a card device to which a connection cable for connection with the facsimile device is attached may be prepared, and the card device may be installed in a slot (not shown) of the telephone. This card device can incorporate a memory storing additional application software necessary for program control of the telephone itself.

  Further, in the embodiment, it is assumed that the second telephone line 215 connected to the telephone 212 is a wired line, but it is natural that it may be a wireless line. In the embodiment, the telephone number when using the telephone 212 is set not to be input using the dial key on the facsimile apparatus 201 side. However, the present invention is not limited to this. On the premise that the user recognizes that dialing is input using the telephone 212, the dial key on the facsimile apparatus 201 side that is relatively large and easy to input dial information may be operated. Of course. Of course, in this case, it may be necessary to further devise such as adding a line for transmitting predetermined information such as dial information on the facsimile apparatus 201 side to the telephone body 214 side.

  Further, in the embodiment, the example in which the facsimile transmission / reception support unit 265 supports the facsimile communication with the minimum function is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. By increasing the degree of cooperation between the facsimile transmission / reception support unit 265 on the telephone 212 side and the main control unit 221 on the facsimile apparatus 201 side, the user can use the dedicated facsimile apparatus with an operation that is not particularly aware of the telephone 212 while using it. Of course, similar facsimile communication can be made possible.

  Some or all of the embodiments described above are described as in the following supplementary notes, but are not limited to the following descriptions.

(Appendix 1)
A connection terminal for input for inputting a facsimile signal representing image information of a document received via a telephone line provided to the predetermined telephone;
Demodulation means for demodulating the facsimile signal input from the input connection terminal to reproduce the image information of the document;
Modulation means for modulating image information of a document to be transmitted;
An output connection terminal that outputs a facsimile signal representing image information of a document modulated by the modulation means to the predetermined telephone set for transmission to a destination indicated by dial information transmitted by the predetermined telephone set; A facsimile machine characterized by the above.

(Appendix 2)
A line connection terminal for a facsimile machine connected to a line for a facsimile machine uniquely accommodated in the machine body;
Either a facsimile signal representing image information of a document received via the facsimile apparatus line connected to the facsimile apparatus line connection terminal or a facsimile signal input from the input connection terminal is sent to the demodulation means. A signal selecting means for demodulating means to be supplied;
Supplementary note 1 comprising modulation means signal selection means for selecting whether the facsimile signal modulated by the modulation means is output via the line for facsimile apparatus or output via the output connection terminal. The described facsimile machine.

(Appendix 3)
3. The facsimile apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising line detection means for determining whether or not the facsimile apparatus line is connected to the facsimile apparatus line connection terminal.

(Appendix 4)
When the line detection means determines that the line for the facsimile apparatus is not connected, the demodulation means signal selection means selects the facsimile signal input from the input connection terminal, and the modulation means signal selection means 4. The facsimile apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the facsimile apparatus is selected to output the facsimile signal modulated by the modulation means via the output connection terminal.

(Appendix 5)
Display means for displaying various visual information;
Help means for displaying on the display means information for assisting transmission / reception of a facsimile signal using the predetermined telephone when the line detection means determines that the line for the facsimile apparatus is not connected; The facsimile apparatus according to appendix 3, characterized by comprising:

(Appendix 6)
Dial information input means for inputting dial information for connection to a specific device as a communication partner, and dial information sent to the exchange via the telephone line connected to the own device by the dial information input by the dial information input means A predetermined telephone comprising: sending means; and a facsimile signal receiving means for receiving a facsimile signal representing image information of a predetermined document sent via a telephone line connected to the device;
A facsimile communication system comprising the facsimile apparatus according to any one of appendices 1 to 5.

(Appendix 7)
The predetermined telephone exchanges the facsimile signal received by the facsimile signal receiving means and the facsimile signal transmitted to the destination indicated by the dial information input by the facsimile apparatus with the dial information input means with the facsimile apparatus. The facsimile communication system according to appendix 6, further comprising a connector.

(Appendix 8)
A handset and a telephone main body for securing a call of the predetermined telephone in a state where the connector is connected to the facsimile apparatus and a facsimile signal is not transmitted / received via the connector. The facsimile communication system according to appendix 7, further comprising switch means for forming a connection path.

(Appendix 9)
The facsimile communication system according to appendix 6, wherein the telephone line is connected to an IP (Internet Protocol) telephone network.

(Appendix 10)
A line connection presence / absence detection step for detecting whether or not a line for a facsimile apparatus as a line used for transmission / reception of a facsimile signal representing image information of a document is connected to the facsimile apparatus;
When it is determined in the line connection presence / absence detection step that the line for the facsimile apparatus is not connected to the facsimile apparatus, the modem for facsimile communication is connected to the telephone set externally attached to the facsimile apparatus from the line for the facsimile apparatus. A telephone-side switching step for switching to the signal input / output side;
After switching to the signal input / output side with the telephone in the telephone side switching step, a start key pressing monitoring step for monitoring a time point when the start key of the facsimile apparatus is pressed;
A document determination step for determining whether or not a document for transmission is set in the facsimile apparatus when the start key is pressed in the start key press monitoring step;
A document reading step for starting reading the document for transmission when it is determined in the document determining step that a document is set;
Facsimile signal to destination indicated by dial information transmitted by this telephone via signal input / output side path with said telephone switched by said telephone side switching step by modulating image information of document read in this document reading step Sending step via phone to send
A facsimile reception step of receiving a facsimile signal via a signal input / output path with the telephone when it is not determined in the document determination step that a document is set. Communication method.

(Appendix 11)
A non-telephone transmission / reception step for transmitting or receiving a facsimile signal using the facsimile device line when it is determined in the line connection presence / absence detecting step that the facsimile device line is connected to the facsimile device; The facsimile communication method according to appendix 10, wherein:

(Appendix 12)
When the line connection presence / absence detecting step determines that the line for the facsimile apparatus is not connected to the facsimile apparatus, information for assisting transmission / reception of a facsimile signal using the telephone is displayed on the display means. The facsimile communication method according to appendix 10, further comprising a help display step.

(Appendix 13)
In the computer of the facsimile machine,
A line connection presence / absence detection process for detecting whether or not a line for a facsimile apparatus as a line used for transmission / reception of a facsimile signal representing image information of a document is connected to the facsimile apparatus;
When the line connection presence / absence detection process determines that the line for the facsimile apparatus is not connected to the facsimile apparatus, a modem for facsimile communication is connected to the telephone set externally attached to the facsimile apparatus from the line for the facsimile apparatus. Phone-side switching processing to switch to the signal input / output side of
A start key press monitoring process for monitoring when the start key of the facsimile apparatus is pressed after switching to the signal input / output side with the telephone in the telephone side switching process;
A document discrimination process for discriminating whether or not a document for transmission is set in the facsimile apparatus when the start key is pressed in the start key press monitoring process;
A document reading process that starts reading the document for transmission when it is determined that the document is set in the document determination process;
Facsimile signal to destination indicated by dial information transmitted by this telephone via signal input / output side path with said telephone switched by said telephone side switching process by modulating image information of document read by this document reading process A transmission process via a telephone that transmits
Facsimile processing for executing via-telephone reception processing for receiving a facsimile signal through a signal input / output side path with said telephone when it is not determined in said document discrimination processing that a document is set Communication program.

(Appendix 14)
When the line connection presence / absence detection process determines that the line for the facsimile apparatus is connected to the facsimile apparatus, a non-telephone transmission / reception process for transmitting or receiving a facsimile signal using the line for the facsimile apparatus is performed by the computer. The facsimile communication program according to appendix 13, wherein the program is further executed.

(Appendix 15)
When the line connection presence / absence detection process determines that the line for the facsimile apparatus is not connected to the facsimile apparatus, information for assisting transmission / reception of a facsimile signal using the telephone is displayed on the display means. 14. The facsimile communication program according to appendix 13, wherein the computer further executes help display processing.

  As described above, the present invention can be used for an exchange for use in a digital telephone line and an IP telephone network. Therefore, as for the telephone set used in the present invention, it is natural that a digital telephone set or an IP telephone set can be a constituent element of a facsimile communication system to which the present invention is applied.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10, 22, 201 Facsimile apparatus 11 Input connection terminal 12 Demodulation means 13 Modulation means 14 Output connection terminal 20 Facsimile communication system 21 Predetermined telephone 21a Dial information input means 21b Dial information transmission means 21c Facsimile signal reception means 30 Facsimile communication method 31 Line connection presence / absence detection step 32 Telephone side switching step 33 Start key press monitoring step 34 Document determination step 35 Document reading step 36 Telephone transmission step 37 Telephone reception step 40 Facsimile communication program 41 Line connection presence detection process 42 Telephone side switching process 43 Start key press monitoring process 44 Document discrimination process 45 Document reading process 46 Transmission process via telephone 47 Reception process via telephone 200 Facsimile communication system 2 3 Female connector for plugging in line 204 Female connector for plugging in handset cable 205 Female connector for plugging in telephone body side cable 206 Modular jack 207 Handset cable male connector 208 Telephone body cable male connector 211 First telephone line 212 Telephone 213 Handset 214 Telephone body 215 Second telephone line 221 261 Main controller 222 262 CPU
223, 263 Memory 224 Reading unit 225 Recording unit 226 Display unit 227 Operation unit 228 Facsimile modem 229 First switching unit 233 Second switching unit 243 Line detection unit 265 Facsimile transmission / reception corresponding unit 266 Line connection unit 267 Connector connection unit 268 mode Discriminator 269 Female connector

Claims (9)

A connection terminal for input for inputting a facsimile signal representing image information of a document received via a telephone line provided to the predetermined telephone;
Demodulating means for reproducing the image information of the document the full Akushimiri signal input from the input connection terminals by demodulating,
Modulation means for modulating image information of a document to be transmitted;
An output connection terminal for outputting a facsimile signal representing the image information of the document modulated by the modulation means to the predetermined telephone for transmission to the destination indicated by the dial information input by the predetermined telephone ;
A line connection terminal for a facsimile machine connected to a line for a facsimile machine uniquely accommodated in the machine body;
Either a facsimile signal representing image information of a document received via the facsimile apparatus line connected to the facsimile apparatus line connection terminal or a facsimile signal input from the input connection terminal is sent to the demodulation means. A signal selecting means for demodulating means to be supplied;
Modulation means signal selection means for selecting whether to output the facsimile signal modulated by the modulation means via the facsimile apparatus line or the output connection terminal. Facsimile machine to do. Facsimile apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that said facsimile apparatus for lines in the facsimile apparatus for the line connection terminals further comprises a channel detecting means for determining whether or not it is connected. When the line detection means determines that the line for the facsimile apparatus is not connected, the demodulation means signal selection means selects the facsimile signal input from the input connection terminal, and the modulation means signal selection means facsimile apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the selectively to output a full Akushimiri signal modulated by the modulating means via a connection terminal for the output. Display means for displaying various visual information;
Help means for displaying on the display means information for assisting transmission / reception of a facsimile signal using the predetermined telephone when the line detection means determines that the line for the facsimile apparatus is not connected; The facsimile apparatus according to claim 2 , further comprising: Dial information input means for inputting dial information for connection to a specific device as a communication partner, and dial information sent to the exchange via the telephone line connected to the own device by the dial information input by the dial information input means A predetermined telephone comprising: sending means; and a facsimile signal receiving means for receiving a facsimile signal representing image information of a predetermined document sent via a telephone line connected to the device;
Facsimile communication system characterized by comprising a facsimile apparatus according to any one of claims 1-4. The predetermined telephone exchanges the facsimile signal received by the facsimile signal receiving means and the facsimile signal transmitted to the destination indicated by the dial information input by the facsimile apparatus with the dial information input means with the facsimile apparatus. 6. The facsimile communication system according to claim 5 , further comprising a connector. A handset and a telephone main body for securing a call of the predetermined telephone in a state where the connector is connected to the facsimile apparatus and a facsimile signal is not transmitted / received via the connector. 7. The facsimile communication system according to claim 6 , further comprising switch means for forming a connection path. A line connection presence / absence detection step for detecting whether or not a line for a facsimile apparatus as a line used for transmission / reception of a facsimile signal representing image information of a document is connected to the facsimile apparatus;
When it is determined in the line connection presence / absence detection step that the line for the facsimile apparatus is not connected to the facsimile apparatus, the modem for facsimile communication is connected to the telephone set externally attached to the facsimile apparatus from the line for the facsimile apparatus. A telephone-side switching step for switching to the signal input / output side;
After switching to the signal input / output side with the telephone in the telephone side switching step, a start key pressing monitoring step for monitoring a time point when the start key of the facsimile apparatus is pressed;
A document determination step for determining whether or not a document for transmission is set in the facsimile apparatus when the start key is pressed in the start key press monitoring step;
A document reading step for starting reading the document for transmission when it is determined in the document determining step that a document is set;
Facsimile signal to destination indicated by dial information transmitted by this telephone via signal input / output side path with said telephone switched by said telephone side switching step by modulating image information of document read in this document reading step Sending step via phone to send
A facsimile reception step of receiving a facsimile signal via a signal input / output path with the telephone when it is not determined in the document determination step that a document is set. Communication method. In the computer of the facsimile machine,
A line connection presence / absence detection process for detecting whether or not a line for a facsimile apparatus as a line used for transmission / reception of a facsimile signal representing image information of a document is connected to the facsimile apparatus;
When the line connection presence / absence detection process determines that the line for the facsimile apparatus is not connected to the facsimile apparatus, a modem for facsimile communication is connected to the telephone set externally attached to the facsimile apparatus from the line for the facsimile apparatus. Phone-side switching processing to switch to the signal input / output side of
A start key press monitoring process for monitoring when the start key of the facsimile apparatus is pressed after switching to the signal input / output side with the telephone in the telephone side switching process;
A document discrimination process for discriminating whether or not a document for transmission is set in the facsimile apparatus when the start key is pressed in the start key press monitoring process;
A document reading process that starts reading the document for transmission when it is determined that the document is set in the document determination process;
Facsimile signal to destination indicated by dial information transmitted by this telephone via signal input / output side path with said telephone switched by said telephone side switching process by modulating image information of document read by this document reading process A transmission process via a telephone that transmits
Facsimile processing for executing via-telephone reception processing for receiving a facsimile signal through a signal input / output side path with said telephone when it is not determined in said document discrimination processing that a document is set Communication program.

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