JP6662073B2 - Printer and printer control method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a printer and a printer control method, and more particularly to a printer and a printer control method that enable non-experts to quickly and appropriately set setting information (for example, network setting information and printer setting information).

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, printers (network-compatible printers) that communicate with a host computer using a network address (for example, network setting information such as an IP address) are known.

  When replacing a printer of this type (hereinafter referred to as a printer before replacement) with another printer (hereinafter referred to as a printer after replacement) (typically, replacing a failed printer with another printer that operates normally) In the case of replacement, setting information (for example, network setting information (for example, IP address) and printer setting information (for example, paper width, printing area, print density, printing speed)) can be reset in the printer after replacement. Desired.

  However, in order to set the setting information in the printer after the exchange, specialized knowledge and a dedicated PC are required. For example, when exchanging a printer installed in a store such as a supermarket where a POS system is installed, a specialty is required. It is difficult for a person other than the house (for example, a clerk at the store) to quickly and appropriately set the setting information in the printer after the exchange.

  On the other hand, conventionally, an interface (hereinafter, referred to as an I / F) to which an external memory such as a USB memory can be connected is provided, and it is determined whether or not the external memory is connected to the I / F. When it is determined that is connected, a printer that reads setting information from the external memory and sets the read setting information has been proposed (for example, see Patent Document 1).

JP 2011-164872 A

  However, according to Patent Document 1, although the setting information can be set relatively easily in the printer after the exchange, there is the following problem.

  That is, Patent Document 1 discloses a first board (for example, a sub board) including a first interface connectable to a network and a second board (for example, a main board) including a second interface connectable to the first board. Does not relate to a printer having the first substrate and the second substrate. Even if an attempt is made to set the setting information according to the procedure described in Patent Document 1, the setting information cannot be set appropriately. There is a problem that there are cases.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and is a non-expert in a printer including a first substrate and a second substrate (for example, a printer after replacement or a printer after new introduction). Another object of the present invention is to provide a printer and a printer control method capable of setting setting information (for example, network setting information and printer setting information) quickly and appropriately.

  In order to achieve the above object, one aspect of the present invention is a first board including a first interface connectable to a network, a second board including a second interface connectable to the first board, and a network. A third interface connectable to a memory storing setting information including setting information, wherein the first detecting unit detects whether the first substrate is connected to the second interface. And when the first detection unit detects that the first board is connected to the second interface, the setting information is transmitted from the memory connected to the third interface via the third interface. A reading unit to be read out; and a setting unit that makes settings based on the setting information read by the reading unit. To.

  According to this aspect, in a printer including the first substrate and the second substrate (for example, a printer after replacement or a printer after new introduction), even a person other than an expert can use setting information (for example, network setting). Information and printer setting information) can be provided quickly and appropriately.

  This is because when the first detection unit detects that the first board (for example, the sub-board) is connected to the second interface, the reading unit is connected to the third interface (for example, a USB connector). This is because setting information (for example, network setting information and printer setting information) is read from the memory via the third interface, and is set by the setting unit based on the read setting information.

  In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the third interface is provided on the second substrate.

  According to this aspect, in a printer including the first board and the second board, and the third interface provided on the second board (for example, a printer after replacement or a printer after new introduction), a person other than a specialist Even if there is, it is possible to provide a printer capable of setting (succeeding) setting information (for example, network setting information and printer setting information) quickly and appropriately.

  In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the third interface is provided on the first substrate, the second substrate includes a second substrate-side control unit, and the first substrate is a first substrate. Notification unit that, when the first detection unit detects that the first substrate is connected to the second interface, notifies the first substrate-side control unit of the detection result. Wherein the first detection unit and the notification unit are realized by the second board-side control unit executing a first program, and the reading unit and the setting unit are implemented by the first board-side control unit. When the detection unit is notified of the detection result by the notification unit, the reading unit transmits the setting information from the memory connected to the third interface to the third interface. Read through the scan, the second substrate side control unit, while the processing by the reading unit or the setting unit is being performed, and executes other processing.

  According to this aspect, in a printer including the first substrate and the second substrate and the third interface provided on the first substrate (for example, a printer after replacement or a printer after new introduction), a person other than an expert Even if there is, it is possible to provide a printer capable of setting (succeeding) setting information (for example, network setting information and printer setting information) quickly and appropriately.

  Further, according to this aspect, the process executed by the first substrate-side control unit (the process performed by the reading unit and the setting unit) and the other process executed by the second substrate-side control unit (for example, mechanical initialization) are performed in parallel. Can be executed.

  Further, in the above invention, a preferred aspect is further provided that, when a printing mechanism is set based on the network setting information by the setting unit and communication becomes possible between a host computer connected to the network, And a print control unit for controlling the printing mechanism and printing the fact.

  According to this aspect, even a person other than an expert can confirm that the print content has been set based on the network setting information, and can communicate with the host computer. It can be easily understood.

  Further, in the above invention, in a preferred aspect, it is possible to supply a first power or a second power having a lower voltage than the first power from the second substrate to the first substrate via the second interface, A second detection unit that detects whether the memory is connected to the third interface; and a switching unit that switches power supplied via the second interface from the second power to the first power. The switching unit detects that the second power is supplied via the second interface, and that the memory is connected to the third interface by the second detection unit. In this case, the power supplied via the second interface is switched from the second power to the first power.

  According to this aspect, in the normal mode, the first power is supplied from the second board to the first board via the second interface (for example, a connector), and in the power saving mode, the second power is supplied from the second board to the first board. A second power having a lower voltage than the first power can be supplied via an interface (for example, a connector).

  According to this aspect, when the memory is connected to the third interface (for example, a USB connector) in a state where the second power in the power saving mode is supplied via the second interface, the switching unit The power supplied via the second interface can be switched from the second power in the power saving mode to the first power in the normal mode. Thereby, for example, it is possible to prevent the power supply to the memory connected to the third interface from being insufficient and the operation from becoming unstable and causing the printer (for example, the first substrate side control unit) to shut down.

  To achieve the above object, another aspect of the present invention provides a first substrate including a first interface connectable to a network, a second substrate including a second interface connectable to the first substrate, And a third interface connectable to a memory storing setting information including network setting information, the method comprising: detecting whether the first board is connected to the second interface. Detecting that the first substrate is connected to the second interface by the detecting step, and transmitting the setting information from the memory connected to the third interface via the third interface. A setting step based on the setting information read by the reading step. Setting the step that, characterized in that it comprises a.

  According to this aspect, in a method of controlling a printer including the first substrate and the second substrate (for example, a printer after replacement or a printer after new introduction), even a person other than an expert can use setting information (for example, It is possible to provide a printer control method capable of setting (succeeding) network setting information and printer setting information quickly and appropriately.

  This is because when the detecting step detects that the first board (for example, the sub-board) is connected to the second interface, the reading step sets the setting information (for example, the network) from the memory connected to the third interface. This is because the setting information and the printer setting information are read through the third interface, and are set in the setting step based on the read setting information.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration of a printing system (POS system) to which a printer and a printer control method according to the present invention are applied. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a printer. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the printer 2 (printer control method). 9 is a flowchart for describing an example of a process of writing setting information PD (for example, printer setting information PD2) stored in the ROM 11c of the printer 2 (main board 10) before replacement to the USB memory 4. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration of a printer 2A according to a first modification. FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a printer 2A according to a first modification. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation (a printer control method) of a printer 2A according to a first modification. FIG. 13 is a system configuration diagram of a printing system including a printer 2B according to a second modification. FIG. FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram of a detection circuit. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an operation procedure of a control unit. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating operation timings of a detection circuit and a power supply unit. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation (a printer control method) of a printer 2B according to a second modification.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the respective drawings, corresponding components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

  First, an outline of an embodiment of a printer and a printer control method of the present invention will be described.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the printer 2.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the printer 2 of the present embodiment includes a sub-board 30 (first board) including a LAN connector 62 (first interface) connectable to a network, and a connector 17 that can be connected to the sub-board 30. A USB connector 332 (third interface) to which a main board 10 (second board) including a (second interface) and a USB memory 4 (memory) storing setting information PD including network setting information PD1 can be connected; Printer. The printer 2 includes a first detection unit 68c that detects whether the sub-board 30 is connected to the connector 17, and a USB when the first detection unit 68c detects that the sub-board 30 is connected to the connector 17. A read unit 68a for reading setting information PD from the USB memory 4 connected to the connector 332 via the USB connector 332, and a setting unit 68b for setting based on the setting information PD read by the reading unit 68a.

  According to the printer 2 of the present embodiment, in the printer 2 including the sub-board 30 (first board) and the main board 10 (second board) (for example, a printer after replacement or a printer after new introduction), Anyone other than the above can set (succeed) the setting information PD (for example, the network setting information PD1 and the printer setting information PD2) quickly and appropriately.

  This is because when the first detection unit 68c of the main board 10 detects that the sub-board 30 (first board) is connected to the connector 17 (second interface), the reading unit 68a causes the USB connector 332 ( The setting information PD (for example, the network setting information PD1 and the printer setting information PD2) is read from the USB memory 4 connected to the third interface) via the USB connector 332 (third interface), and is read by the setting unit 68b. This is due to the setting based on the read setting information PD.

  Hereinafter, a printing system 1 (POS system) to which a printer and a printer control method of the present invention are applied will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration of a printing system 1 (POS system) to which a printer and a printer control method according to the present invention are applied.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the printing system 1 (POS system) of the present embodiment includes a host computer 3, a USB memory 4, and a printer 2 (printing device). The host computer 3, USB memory 4, and printer 2 are installed in each lane (first to n-th lanes) in a store such as a supermarket.

  First, the host computer 3 will be described.

  Although not shown, the host computer 3 includes, as a hardware configuration, a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, a HDD, and various I / Fs (interfaces) connected to the CPU via a bus.

  The printer 2 is connected to the host computer 3 via an I / F (not shown). Although not shown, the host computer 3 includes a barcode reader for reading a barcode via an I / F, a keyboard for inputting a deposit from a customer, a display for displaying a product name, a price, and the like. Connected.

  The host computer 3 has a function configuration of performing a payment process based on an input from a barcode reader or a keyboard, a function of generating print data, a printer 2 and a LAN cable C1 (typically, Ethernet (registered trademark)). Cable, a function of transmitting print data to the printer 2 via the LAN cable C1, a function of setting the setting information PD in the printer 2 via the LAN cable C1, and a function of setting the printer 2 via the LAN cable C1. And the like for changing the setting information PD stored in the.

  The above functions are mainly performed by the host computer 3 (CPU) for setting or changing a predetermined program (typically, an operating system, a POS application, a printer driver, setting information, etc.) read from the ROM or the HDD into the RAM. By executing a utility for the purpose). Although not shown, the host computer 3 is also connected to a store network via an I / F.

  Next, the USB memory 4 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the USB memory 4 is physically linked to the LAN cable C1 by a string-shaped connecting member 60.

  The USB memory 4 stores setting information PD including network setting information PD1. The setting information PD includes at least one of the network setting information PD1 and the printer setting information PD2. In addition, the USB memory 4 stores a printer ID and lane information.

  The network setting information PD1 is, for example, a unique IP address assigned to the printer 2 (or a lane in which the printer 2 is installed). The printer setting information PD2 is, for example, paper width, print area, print density, print speed, font settings, and margin settings. The printer ID is unique identification information (for example, a manufacturing number) assigned to the printer 2. The lane information is unique identification information assigned to the lane where the printer 2 is installed.

  Next, the printer 2 will be described.

  The printer 2 is typically a receipt printer (for example, a dot impact, thermal or ink jet type), and has a sub-board 30 (first board) and a main board 10 (second board) as shown in FIG. Substrate) and the like.

  The sub-board 30 includes a control unit 100 (first board-side control unit), a LAN connector 62 (first interface) connected to the control unit 100 via a bus, and connectable to a network.

  The control unit 100 includes a CPU 100a, a RAM 100b, a ROM 100c, and the like. The ROM 100c is, for example, a rewritable nonvolatile memory such as a flash ROM, and includes a storage area for storing network setting information PD1 set or changed by a setting unit 68b described later (or by an operation from the host computer 3). Various programs such as firmware (control program) are stored in the ROM 100c.

  The LAN connector 62 is a connector provided for connecting the printer 2 to a network (host computer 3 connected to the network). The printer 2 and the host computer 3 are connected by attaching one plug C1a of the LAN cable C1 to the printer 2 (LAN connector 62) and attaching the other plug C1b to the host computer 3.

  The main board 10 includes a main control unit 11 (a second board side control unit), a connector 17 (a second interface), a USB connector 332 (a third interface), a power switch 70, and a printer connected to the main control unit 11 via a bus. A unit 14 (printing mechanism) and the like are provided.

  The main control unit 11 includes a CPU 11a, a RAM 11b, a ROM 11c, and the like. The ROM 11c is a rewritable nonvolatile memory such as a flash ROM, for example, and a storage area (for example, a memory) for storing printer setting information PD2 set or changed by an operation from the host computer 3 (or an operation from the printer 2). Switch). The ROM 11c stores various programs such as firmware (control program), a printer ID, and lane information. The printer ID and the lane information are written to the USB memory 4 via the USB connector 332 at a predetermined timing. By referring to (or printing) the printer ID and lane information written (stored) in the USB memory 4, the replacement history of the printer 2 for each lane can be grasped.

  The connector 17 is an interface to which the sub-board 30 can be connected. The sub-board 30 is detachably mounted on an expansion slot (not shown) provided in the printer 2 to be connected to the main board 10 via the connector 17. The sub-board 30 includes various interfaces such as a parallel interface and a serial interface in addition to a network-compatible interface as in the present embodiment. The printer 2 can support various interfaces by connecting the sub-board 30 of the target interface to the main board 10. When changing the specifications of the interface of the host computer 3 with the printer 2, it is only necessary to replace the sub-board 30. Further, for example, when the printing unit 14 of the printer 2 breaks down, it is only necessary to replace the printer 2 from which the sub-board 30 has been removed, and the sub-board 30 used by the failed printer 2 is common to the printer 2 after replacement. Can be used.

  The USB connector 332 is an interface (for example, TYPE-A) to which the USB memory 4 can be connected. A USB host controller (not shown) is connected to the USB connector 332, and the printer 2 reads and writes the setting information PD from and to the USB memory 4 connected to the USB connector 332. Act as a host.

  The power switch 70 is a power switch for supplying power to the printer 2.

  The printing unit 14 (printing mechanism) includes a print head, a paper feeding mechanism, a paper cutting mechanism, and the like (all not shown).

  As shown in FIG. 2, the printer 2 includes a reading unit 68a, a setting unit 68b, a first detection unit 68c, a setting change determination unit 68d, a writing unit 68e, a print control unit 68f, and the like as functional components.

  Each of the above functions is realized mainly by the printer 2 (the CPU 11a on the main board 10 side) executing a predetermined program such as firmware read from the ROM 11c into the RAM 11b.

  The reading unit 68a reads the setting information PD from the USB memory 4 connected to the USB connector 332 via the USB connector 332 at a predetermined timing.

  The predetermined timing is, for example, when the USB connector 332 and the USB memory 4 are connected, the power switch 70 of the printer 2 is turned on, and the sub-board 30 is connected to the connector 17 by a first detection unit 68c described later. This is the timing at which the detection is performed. Also, the predetermined timing is, for example, that the USB memory 4 is connected to the USB connector 332 by a second detection unit (detection circuit 37) described below while the power switch 70 of the printer 2 is on, and Alternatively, the timing may be a timing at which the connection of the sub-board 30 to the connector 17 is detected by a first detection unit 68c described later.

  The setting unit 68b sets the network setting information PD1 of the setting information PD read by the reading unit 68a on the sub-board 30, and sets the printer setting information PD2 on the main board 10. Specifically, the setting unit 68b stores the network setting information PD1 of the setting information PD read by the reading unit 68a in the ROM 100c of the sub-board 30, and stores the printer setting information PD2 in the ROM 11c of the main board 10.

  The first detector 68c detects whether or not the sub-board 30 is connected to the connector 17. As a method for detecting whether or not the sub-board 30 is connected, various methods (for example, see JP-A-2015-195038) can be used.

  The setting change determining unit 68d determines whether the network setting information PD1 stored in the ROM 100c of the sub board 30 or the printer setting information PD2 stored in the ROM 11c of the main board 10 has been changed.

  The writing unit 68e writes the setting information PD to the USB memory 4 via the USB connector 332.

  For example, when the setting change determination unit 68d determines that the network setting information PD1 stored in the ROM 100c of the sub-board 30 has been changed, the writing unit 68e stores the changed network setting information PD1 in the USB memory 4. Write via USB connector 332. Similarly, when the setting change determination unit 68d determines that the printer setting information PD2 stored in the ROM 11c of the main board 10 has been changed, the writing unit 68e stores the changed printer setting information PD2 in the USB memory 4. Via the USB connector 332.

  The print control unit 68f controls the printing unit 14 (printing mechanism) based on the print data received from the host computer 3 (and the printer setting information PD2 and the like stored in the ROM 11c of the main board 10) to print a receipt.

  Next, an example of the operation (printer control method) of the printer 2 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 3 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation (printer control method) of the printer 2 of the present embodiment.

  Hereinafter, in the printing system 1 (POS system) shown in FIG. 1, the printer 2 installed in a specific lane (for example, the first lane) breaks down, and the failed printer 2 (hereinafter, the printer 2 before replacement) The following describes an example in which the printer 2 is replaced with another printer 2 that operates normally (hereinafter, referred to as the printer 2 after replacement).

  The process illustrated in FIG. 3 is executed, for example, in the printer 2 after the replacement.

  In the following description, it is assumed that network setting information PD1 (IP address assigned to the lane) and printer setting information PD2 are stored in advance in USB memory 4 as setting information PD. As the printer setting information PD2, a process described later (a process of writing the printer setting information PD2 stored in the ROM 11c of the printer 2 before replacement into the USB memory 4; see FIG. 4) is executed in the printer 2 before replacement. As a result, the data has been written to the USB memory 4.

  When the printer 2 installed in a specific lane (for example, the first lane) breaks down, the printer 2 before replacement is replaced with the printer 2 after replacement in the following procedure prior to the processing shown in FIG.

  First, the printer 2 (LAN connector 62) after replacement and the host computer 3 are connected. Specifically, the LAN cable C1 is detached from the printer 2 (LAN connector 62) before replacement, and the detached LAN cable C1 is connected to the printer 2 (LAN connector 62) after replacement. At the same time, the USB memory 4 is connected to the printer 2 (USB connector 332) after the replacement. At this time, the USB memory 4 in which the setting information PD is stored is physically linked to the LAN cable C1 by the string-like connecting member 60 (see FIG. 1).

  First, it is not necessary to prepare a separate external memory every time the printer 2 is replaced. Second, the management of the USB memory 4 in which the setting information PD is stored is easier than in the related art (for example, JP-A-2011-164872), and the setting information PD to be set in the printer 2 after replacement is stored. A suitable USB memory 4 can be prepared more quickly than the above-mentioned prior art. Thirdly, there is no possibility of preparing a wrong USB memory 4 different from an appropriate USB memory 4 in which the setting information PD to be set in the printer 2 after replacement is stored (as a result, Appropriate setting information PD can be set in the printer 2). Fourth, there is no possibility that the USB memory 4 will be lost.

  As described above, the USB memory 4 in which the setting information PD is stored is physically linked to the LAN cable C1 by the string-shaped connecting member 60. Even if there is, the setting information PD (for example, the network setting information PD1 and the printer setting information PD2) of the printer 2 before the replacement can be quickly and appropriately set in the printer 2 after the replacement.

  The connection between the printer 2 (LAN connector 62) after the replacement and the host computer 3 and the connection between the printer 2 (USB connector 332) and the USB memory 4 after the replacement are performed by a power switch of the printer 2 after the replacement. The operation is performed under the condition that 70 is off.

  Next, the power switch 70 of the printer 2 after replacement is turned on.

  When the power switch 70 of the printer 2 after the replacement is turned on (Step S10: Yes), the CPU 11a mounted on the main board 10 of the printer 2 after the replacement performs a predetermined program (eg, firmware) read from the ROM 11c into the RAM 11b. 1 program) (step S12). As a result, the processing of steps S14 to S26 is performed. Further, the CPU 100a mounted on the sub-board 30 of the printer 2 after the replacement executes a predetermined program (second program) such as firmware read from the ROM 100c to the RAM 100b (Step S28). Thereby, the processing of steps S30 to S32 is executed.

  Specifically, first, the first detection unit 68c of the main board 10 detects whether or not the sub-board 30 is connected to the connector 17 (Step S14). This corresponds to the detection step of the present invention.

  Here, since the sub-board 30 is connected to the connector 17, the first detection unit 68c of the main board 10 detects that the sub-board 30 is connected to the connector 17 (Step S14: Yes).

  When it is detected that the sub-board 30 is connected to the connector 17 (step S14: Yes), the reading unit 68a of the main board 10 accesses the USB memory 4 (step S16) and reads out the USB memory 4. The setting information PD is read out via the USB connector 332 (step S18). This corresponds to the reading step of the present invention.

  If the printer 2 has been replaced with one without the sub-board 30 (step S14: No), the process ends without performing these processes. A warning indicating that there is no sub-board 30 may be issued. In this case, after the power switch 70 is once turned off, the sub-board 30 may be removed from the printer 2 before replacement, connected to the printer 2 after replacement, and the power switch 70 may be turned on. By doing so, it is possible to proceed to step S10: Yes, step S12, step S14: Yes.

  Here, since the USB memory 4 stores the network setting information PD1 (IP address assigned to the lane) and the printer setting information PD2 as the setting information PD, the network setting information PD1 and the printer setting information PD2 are stored. Is read. When at least one of the network setting information PD1 and the printer setting information PD2 is set to be read, at least one of the network setting information PD1 and the printer setting information PD2 is read based on the setting.

  As described above, the reading unit 68a of the main board 10 turns on the power switch 70 of the printer 2 at a predetermined timing, that is, in a state where the USB connector 332 and the USB memory 4 are connected (Step S10: Yes). The setting information PD is read from the USB memory 4 via the USB connector 332 at the timing when the first detecting unit 68c detects that the sub-board 30 has been connected to the connector 17 (step S14: Yes).

  Next, the setting unit 68b of the main board 10 sets the network setting information PD1 of the setting information PD read by the reading unit 68a on the sub-board 30, and sets the printer setting information PD2 on the main board 10 (Step S20). . This corresponds to the setting step of the present invention. Specifically, the setting unit 68b of the main board 10 stores the network setting information PD1 of the setting information PD read by the reading unit 68a in the ROM 100c of the sub-board 30, and stores the printer setting information PD2 in the ROM 11c of the main board 10. Remember.

  As described above, the setting information PD (the network setting information PD1 and the printer setting information PD2) is quickly and appropriately set (inherited) to the printer 2 after the replacement.

  Next, a known process is executed based on the network setting information PD1 (IP address) set in the sub-board 30 as described above, and a communication path (for example, between the host computer 3 and the printer 2 after replacement) is performed. , TCP connection) is established (step S30).

  When a communication path has been established between the host computer 3 and the printer 2 after the exchange, that is, when communication between the two is possible (step S22: Yes), the print control unit 68f of the main board 10 14 (printing mechanism) to print that fact (step S24). As a result, even if a person other than the expert confirms the print contents, the setting based on the network setting information PD1 is performed, and communication with the host computer 3 is enabled. Can be easily grasped.

  After that, the printer 2 after the exchange communicates with the host computer 3 via the LAN cable C1 based on the network setting information PD1 (IP address) set in the printer 2 (sub-board 30) after the exchange as described above. To communicate.

  Then, when the print data is received from the host computer 3 via the LAN cable C1 (and the LAN connector 62) (step S32: Yes), the print control unit 68f of the printer 2 after replacement replaces the received print data and The printing unit 14 (printing mechanism) is controlled to print a receipt based on the printer setting information PD2 and the like set in the printer 2 (main board 10) after the replacement as described above (step S26).

  Next, an example of a process of writing the setting information PD (for example, the printer setting information PD2) stored in the ROM 11c of the printer 2 (main board 10) before replacement to the USB memory 4 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process of writing setting information PD (for example, printer setting information PD2) stored in the ROM 11c of the printer 2 (main board 10) before replacement to the USB memory 4.

  The process illustrated in FIG. 4 is a process executed in, for example, the printer 2 before replacement (the same applies to the printer 2 after replacement). The printer 2 (CPU 11a) before replacement is mainly read from the ROM 11c into the RAM 11b. This is realized by executing a predetermined program such as firmware.

  The printer setting information PD2 stored in the ROM 11c of the printer 2 (main board 10) before replacement is written to the USB memory 4 every time at least a part of the printer setting information PD2 is changed. Specifically, it is written as follows. At least a part of the printer setting information PD2 stored in the ROM 11c of the printer 2 (main board 10) before replacement is changed based on an operation from the host computer 3 (or an operation from the printer 2 before replacement). .

  First, the printer 2 (setting change determination unit 68d) before replacement determines whether the printer setting information PD2 stored in the ROM 11c of the main board 10 has been changed (Step S30).

  When it is determined that the printer setting information PD2 stored in the ROM 11c of the main board 10 has been changed (for example, changed based on an operation from the host computer 3) (Step S30: Yes), the printer 2 before replacement (Yes). The writing unit 68e) writes the changed printer setting information PD2 to the USB memory 4 via the USB connector 332 (Step S32).

  As described above, the printer setting information PD2 stored in the ROM 11c of the printer 2 before replacement is written to the USB memory 4 every time at least a part of the printer setting information PD2 is changed (for example, overwritten. ). The network setting information PD1 stored in the ROM 100c of the printer 2 before replacement is also written (for example, overwritten) to the USB memory 4 every time the network setting information PD1 is changed.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the printer 2 including the sub board 30 (first board) and the main board 10 (second board), and the USB connector 332 (third interface) provided on the main board 10 In a printer (for example, a printer after replacement or a printer after new installation), even a person other than a specialist can quickly and appropriately set (succeed) setting information PD (for example, network setting information PD1 and printer setting information PD2). A) a printer and a printer control method that can be provided.

  This is because when the first detection unit 68c of the main board 10 detects that the sub-board 30 (first board) is connected to the connector 17 (second interface) (step S14: Yes), the reading unit 68a Accordingly, the setting information PD (for example, the network setting information PD1 and the printer setting information PD2) is read from the USB memory 4 connected to the USB connector 332 via the USB connector 332, and is read by the setting unit 68b. This is due to being set based on the setting information PD.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, even a person other than a specialist can exchange the changed setting information PD changed (for example, changed based on an operation from the host computer 3) by the printer 2 before the exchange. The settings can be quickly and appropriately set in the printer 2 later.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, the setting information PD after the replacement is exchanged by a very simple procedure of turning on the power switch 70 of the printer 2 while the USB connector 332 and the USB memory 4 are connected. It can be set to the printer 2.

  In the above embodiment, a receipt printer is exemplified as the printer 2, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the present invention can be applied to printers other than the receipt printer.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the printer and the printer control method according to the present invention are described assuming that the printer 2 installed in a specific lane (for example, the first lane) fails in the printing system 1 (POS system) shown in FIG. In the case where the failed printer 2 is replaced with another printer 2 that operates normally, an example in which the failed printer 2 is applied to another printer 2 after the replacement has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this.

  For example, in the printing system 1 (POS system) shown in FIG. 1, when a printer 2 is newly installed in a specific lane (for example, the (n + 1) th lane), the present invention can be applied to the printer 2 after the new installation.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, at a predetermined timing, that is, at the timing when the power switch 70 of the printer 2 is turned on (step S10: Yes), the setting information PD is read from the USB memory 4 connected to the USB connector 332. Has been described through the USB connector 332 (step S18), but the present invention is not limited to this.

  For example, the reading unit 68a transmits the setting information PD from the USB memory 4 at another predetermined timing, for example, when the USB memory 4 is connected to the USB connector 332 with the power switch 70 of the printer 2 after the replacement being on. May be read out via the USB connector 332. Note that whether or not the USB memory 4 is connected to the USB connector 332 can be detected by, for example, a detection circuit 37 described later.

  In the above-described embodiment, the example in which the network setting information PD1 is an IP address has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and another network address can be used as the network setting information PD1.

  In the above-described embodiment, the reading unit 68a, the setting unit 68b, the first detecting unit 68c, the setting change determining unit 68d, the writing unit 68e, and the printing control unit 68f are executed by the CPU 11a on the main board 10 side to execute the first program. Although an example realized by performing the above has been described, the present invention is not limited to this.

  For example, at least one or all of the reading unit 68a, the setting unit 68b, the first detecting unit 68c, the setting change determining unit 68d, the writing unit 68e, and the printing control unit 68f are executed by the CPU 100a on the sub-substrate 30 side. May be implemented.

  In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the LAN connector 62 is used as the first interface and the connector 17 is used as the second interface has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and another appropriate interface may be used.

  In the above embodiment, an example in which the USB connector 332 is used as the third interface has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and another interface such as a serial interface or a parallel interface may be used.

  Next, a printer 2A of a first modification will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration of the printer 2A according to the first modification.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the printer 2A of this modified example is different from the printer 2 of the above embodiment in that a USB connector 332 (third interface) is provided on the sub-board 30A. The configuration is the same as that of the printer 2 of the embodiment. Hereinafter, differences from the printer 2 of the above embodiment will be mainly described, and the same components will be denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof will be appropriately omitted.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a printer 2A according to a first modification.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the printer 2A of this modification includes a notification unit in addition to a first detection unit 68c, a setting change determination unit 68d, a writing unit 68e, a print control unit 68f as a functional configuration on the main board 10A side. 68 g. These functions are mainly realized when the CPU 11a (second board-side control unit) on the main board 10A executes a predetermined program (first program) such as firmware read from the ROM 11c to the RAM 11b.

  When the first detection unit 68c detects that the sub-board 30A is connected to the connector 17, the notification unit 68g notifies the CPU 100a on the sub-board 30A of the detection result via the connector 17.

  The first detection unit 68c, the setting change determination unit 68d, the writing unit 68e, and the print control unit 68f are the same as those in the above-described embodiment, and thus description thereof will be omitted.

  Further, the printer 2A of the present modification includes a reading unit 68a, a setting unit 68b, and the like as a functional configuration on the sub-board 30A side. These functions are mainly realized by the CPU 100a (first board-side control unit) on the sub-board 30A executing a predetermined program (second program) such as firmware read from the ROM 100c into the RAM 100b.

  The reading unit 68a reads the setting information PD from the USB memory 4 connected to the USB connector 332 via the USB connector 332 at a predetermined timing.

  At the predetermined timing, for example, the power switch 70 of the printer 2A is turned on while the USB connector 332 and the USB memory 4 are connected, and the detection result (the sub-board 30A is This is the timing at which the notification of the occurrence of the error is notified. Further, at the predetermined timing, for example, when the power switch 70 of the printer 2A is turned on, it is detected that the USB memory 4 is connected to the USB connector 332 by a second detection unit (detection circuit 37) described later, and Alternatively, the timing may be a timing at which a notification result (a detection result indicating that the sub-board 30A is connected to the connector 17) is notified by the notifying unit 68g.

  The setting unit 68b is the same as in the above embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  Next, an example of the operation (printer control method) of the printer 2A of the present modified example will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation (printer control method) of the printer 2A of the present modified example.

  Hereinafter, in the printing system 1A (POS system) shown in FIG. 5, the printer 2A installed in a specific lane (for example, the first lane) fails, and the failed printer 2A (hereinafter, the printer 2A before replacement) The following describes an example in which the printer 2A is replaced with another printer 2A that operates normally (hereinafter, referred to as the printer 2A after replacement).

  The process illustrated in FIG. 7 is executed, for example, in the printer 2A after the replacement.

  In the following description, it is assumed that network setting information PD1 (IP address assigned to the lane) and printer setting information PD2 are stored in advance in USB memory 4 as setting information PD. Note that the printer setting information PD2 is obtained by executing the process illustrated in FIG. 4 (the process of writing the printer setting information PD2 stored in the ROM 11c of the printer 2A before replacement into the USB memory 4) in the printer 2A before replacement. The data has been written to the USB memory 4.

  When the printer 2A installed in a specific lane (for example, the first lane) breaks down, the printer 2A before the replacement is replaced with the printer 2A after the replacement in the same procedure as in the above embodiment, prior to the processing shown in FIG. Replace with

  Next, the power switch 70 of the replaced printer 2A is turned on.

  When the power switch 70 of the printer 2A after replacement is turned on (Step S40: Yes), the CPU 11a mounted on the main board 10A of the printer 2A after replacement replaces a predetermined program (eg, firmware) read from the ROM 11c into the RAM 11b. 1 program) (step S42). Thereby, the processing of steps S44 to S54 is executed. The CPU 100a mounted on the sub-board 30A of the printer 2A after replacement executes a predetermined program (second program) such as firmware read from the ROM 100c to the RAM 100b (Step S56). Thereby, the processing of steps S58 to S68 is executed.

  Specifically, first, the first detection unit 68c of the main board 10A detects whether or not the sub-board 30A is connected to the connector 17 (Step S44).

  Here, since the sub-board 30A is connected to the connector 17, the first detection unit 68c of the main board 10A detects that the sub-board 30A is connected to the connector 17 (Step S44: Yes).

  When the first detection unit 68c detects that the sub-board 30A is connected to the connector 17 (step S44: Yes), the notification unit 68g mounts the detection result on the sub-board 30A via the connector 17. The CPU 100a (the first board-side control unit) is notified (step S46).

  Next, when the notification of the detection result is received from the main board side (Step S58: Yes), the reading unit 68a of the sub-board 30A accesses the USB memory 4 (Step S60), and sets the setting information from the USB memory 4. The PD is read out via the USB connector 332 (step S62).

  Here, since the USB memory 4 stores the network setting information PD1 (IP address assigned to the lane) and the printer setting information PD2 as the setting information PD, the network setting information PD1 and the printer setting information PD2 are stored. Is read. When at least one of the network setting information PD1 and the printer setting information PD2 is set to be read, at least one of the network setting information PD1 and the printer setting information PD2 is read based on the setting.

  As described above, the reading unit 68a of the sub-board 30A turns on the power switch 70 of the printer 2A at a predetermined timing, that is, in a state where the USB connector 332 and the USB memory 4 are connected (Step S40: Yes). The setting information PD is transmitted from the USB memory 4 via the USB connector 332 at the timing when the notification that the sub-board 30A is connected to the connector 17 (that is, the detection result) is notified to the connector 17 by the notification unit 68g (step S58: Yes). Read.

  Next, the setting unit 68b of the sub-board 30A sets the network setting information PD1 of the setting information PD read by the reading unit 68a to the sub-board 30A, and sets the printer setting information PD2 to the main board 10A (step S64). . Specifically, the setting unit 68b of the sub-board 30A stores the network setting information PD1 of the setting information PD read by the reading unit 68a in the ROM 100c of the sub-board 30A, and stores the printer setting information PD2 in the ROM 11c of the main board 10A. Remember.

  As described above, the setting information PD (the network setting information PD1 and the printer setting information PD2) is quickly and appropriately set (inherited) to the printer 2A after the replacement.

  As described above, while the processing (steps S60 to S64) is performed by the reading unit 68a and the setting unit 68b on the sub-board 30A side, the main control unit 11 (second board-side control unit) on the main board 10A is Then, other processing such as mechanical initialization is executed (step S48). That is, the processing executed by the control unit 100 (first substrate-side control unit) (processing by the reading unit 68a and the setting unit 68b; steps S60 to S64) and the other operations executed by the main control unit 11 (second substrate-side control unit) (For example, mechanical initialization; step S48) is performed in parallel.

  Next, a known process is executed based on the network setting information PD1 (IP address) set in the sub-board 30A as described above, and a communication path (for example, between the host computer 3 and the replaced printer 2A). , TCP connection) is established (step S66).

  When a communication path has been established between the host computer 3 and the printer 2A after replacement, that is, when communication between the two is possible (step S50: Yes), the print control unit 68f of the main board 10A sets the printing unit 14 (printing mechanism) to print that effect (step S52). As a result, even if a person other than the expert confirms the print contents, the setting based on the network setting information PD1 is performed, and communication with the host computer 3 is enabled. Can be easily grasped.

  Thereafter, based on the network setting information PD1 (IP address) set in the printer 2A (sub-board 30A) after the replacement as described above, the printer 2A after the replacement communicates with the host computer 3 via the LAN cable C1. To communicate.

  Then, when print data is received from the host computer 3 via the LAN cable C1 (and the LAN connector 62) (step S68: Yes), the print control unit 68f of the printer 2A after replacement replaces the received print data and the The printing unit 14 (printing mechanism) is controlled to print a receipt based on the printer setting information PD2 and the like set in the replaced printer 2A (main board 10A) as described above (step S54).

  According to this modification, a printer 2A (for example, after replacement) including the sub-board 30 (first board) and the main board 10 (second board), and the USB connector 332 (third interface) provided on the sub-board 30 Printers and printers that have been newly introduced, and printers and printers that allow even non-experts to quickly and appropriately set (succeed) setting information PD (for example, network setting information PD1 and printer setting information PD2). A control method can be provided.

  Further, according to the present modified example, the processing executed by the control unit 100 (first substrate-side control unit) (processing by the reading unit 68a and the setting unit 68b; steps S60 to S64) and the main control unit 11 (second substrate-side control unit) Other processing (for example, mechanical initialization; step S48) executed by the control unit) can be executed in parallel.

  Next, a printer 2B of a second modification will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIGS. 8 and 9 are diagrams mainly illustrating an example of a system configuration of the printer 2B of the second modified example.

  The printer 2B of this modified example is different from the printer 2A of the first modified example in that a configuration for realizing a power saving mode is added. It has a similar configuration. Hereinafter, description will be made focusing on differences from the printer 2A of the first modification, and the same components will be denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof will be appropriately omitted.

  The printer 2B of the present modified example supplies a DC power W1 (first power, for example, a voltage of 24 V) from the main board 10 (second board) to the sub-board 30 (first board) via the connector 17 (second interface). , Current 100 mA) or DC power W2 (second power, for example, voltage 5 V, current 100 mA) lower in voltage than the DC power W1. Further, the USB memory 4 (the third interface) can be supplied to the USB connector 332 (third interface). (For example, a detection circuit 37 to be described later) for detecting whether or not a memory is connected, and a switching unit (for example, for switching power supplied via the connector 17 from DC power W2 to DC power W1). A switch 51 and an OR gate 52 described later).

  The switching unit (for example, the switch 51 and the OR gate 52) is supplied with the DC power W2 via the connector 17, and is connected to the USB connector 332 by the second detection unit (for example, the detection circuit 37 described later). When it is detected that the memory 4 has been connected, the power supplied via the connector 17 is switched from the DC power W2 to the DC power W1.

  Hereinafter, the printer 2B of the second modified example (mainly, a configuration for realizing the power saving mode) will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Hereinafter, the printer 2 is referred to as a printing device 2, and the USB memory 4 is referred to as a USB device.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the printing system 1 includes a printing device 2 and a host computer 3 that communicates with the printing device 2 and causes the printing device 2 to perform printing. The printing device 2 and the host computer 3 are communicably connected via a network 5 conforming to the Ethernet (registered trademark) standard.

  The host computer 3 has an application for creating print data and a printer driver. The host computer 3 generates information on images and characters to be printed by the printing apparatus 2 using a user's instruction or the like as a trigger. The host computer 3 generates control data of a command system that can be interpreted by the printing apparatus 2 based on the generated image and character information. The host computer 3 transmits the generated control data to the printing device 2 via the network 5. The printing device 2 prints an image on printing paper based on the control data received from the host computer 3.

  The printing apparatus 2 includes a main board 10 and a sub board 30 as an extension board.

  The main board 10 includes a main control unit 11, a nonvolatile memory 12, a buffer memory 13, a printing unit 14, and a printing apparatus side power supply circuit 15.

  The main control unit 11 controls a printing operation as a print engine and centrally controls each unit of the printing apparatus 2. The nonvolatile memory 12 stores programs executed by the main control unit 11, various data, and the like. The buffer memory 13 temporarily stores data received from the host computer 3. The printing unit 14 includes hardware for printing on printing paper under the control of the main control unit 11.

  The printing apparatus-side power supply circuit 15 is connected to the AC adapter 7 that converts commercial AC power into DC power W1. The printing apparatus-side power supply circuit 15 converts the voltage V1 of the DC power W1 (for example, voltage 24 V, current 100 mA) input from the AC adapter 7 into a voltage V2 (for example, 5 V). The printing apparatus-side power supply circuit 15 supplies voltage-converted DC power W2 (for example, voltage 5V, current 100mA, second power) to each part of the main board 10. Further, the printing apparatus-side power supply circuit 15 supplies the DC power W2 to the sub-board 30. The sub-board 30 receives the supply of the DC power W1 from the AC adapter 7.

  The main board 10 has a connector 17 (second interface) mounted thereon, and the sub-board 30 is detachably attached to the main board 10 via the connector 17. The sub-board 30 is an extension board for the main control unit 11 of the main board 10 to exchange data with the host computer 3, and the sub-board 30 has a communication processing unit 35 mounted thereon.

  FIG. 9 is a configuration diagram of the sub-board 30.

  The communication processing unit 35 of the sub-board 30 includes a power supply unit 50, an electronic component 31, a first communication unit 33, a second communication unit 34, a detection circuit 37 (second detection unit), and a control unit 100. The power supply unit 50 includes a switch 51, an OR gate 52, a first voltage converter 53, a second voltage converter 54, a third voltage converter 55, a fourth voltage converter 56, and an OR gate 57. The first communication unit 33 includes a USB controller 331 (USB host controller; hereinafter, simply referred to as a USB controller 331) and a USB connector 332 (third interface). The second communication unit 34 includes a MAC (Media Access Control) unit 341, a PHY (Physical Layer) unit 342, and a LAN connector 62 (first interface), not shown.

  The switch 51 controls the input of the DC power W1 supplied from the AC adapter 7 to the power supply unit 50 under the control of the control unit 100. When the switch 51 is turned off by the control unit 100, the supply of the current to the power supply unit 50 is cut off. Therefore, the supply of the DC power W1 to the power supply unit 50 is cut off.

  The OR gate 52 outputs the DC power W2 supplied from the printing apparatus power supply circuit 15 to the first voltage converter 53. When the switch 51 is turned on and the DC power W1 is supplied from the AC adapter 7, the OR gate 52 outputs the supplied DC power W1 to the first voltage conversion unit 53. That is, when the switch 51 is turned on, the OR gate 52 outputs both the DC powers W1 and W2 to the first voltage converter 53.

  The first voltage converter 53, the second voltage converter 54, the third voltage converter 55, and the fourth voltage converter 56 are configured by a DC-DC converter. Various circuits such as a linear regulator, a chopper circuit, and a switching regulator can be used for the DC-DC converter.

  When the switch 51 is turned on and the DC powers W1 and W2 are input via the OR gate 52, the first voltage converter 53 converts the voltage V1 to a voltage using the voltage V1 of the DC power W1, for example. After the conversion, a voltage V3 (for example, 3.3 V) as a system power supply is generated. Further, the first voltage converter 53 may convert the voltage V2 to generate the voltage V3.

  When the switch 51 is turned off and the supply of the DC power W1 is cut off, the first voltage converter 53 converts the voltage V2 of the DC power W2 into a voltage V3.

  The first voltage conversion unit 53 outputs the generated voltage V3 to the control unit 100, the second communication unit 34, the second voltage conversion unit 54, and the third voltage conversion unit 55. The control unit 100 performs communication with the second communication unit 34 using the voltage V3. Further, the second communication unit 34 operates using the voltage V3 as a driving voltage.

  The second voltage converter 54 converts the voltage V3 input from the first voltage converter 53 into a voltage V4 (for example, 1.5 V). The second voltage converter 54 supplies the generated voltage V4 to the electronic component 31. The electronic component 31 includes, for example, a memory such as a DRAM for storing data. Further, the second voltage conversion unit 54 supplies the generated voltage V4 to the control unit 100. The control unit 100 uses the voltage V4 to write data to the memory as the electronic component 31 and read data from the memory.

  The third voltage converter 55 converts the voltage V3 input from the first voltage converter 53 into a voltage V5 (for example, 1.1 V). The third voltage conversion unit 55 supplies the generated voltage V5 to the control unit 100. The control unit 100 operates with the voltage V5 supplied from the third voltage conversion unit 55.

  The fourth voltage converter 56 converts (steps down) the voltage V1 of the DC power W1 input from the AC adapter 7 to generate a DC power W3 of a voltage V6 (for example, 5 V) and a current of 550 mA. The generated DC power W3 is output to the OR gate 57.

  The DC power W2 is input to the OR gate 57 from the printing apparatus side power supply circuit 15, and when the switch 51 is on, the DC power W3 is also input from the fourth voltage converter 56.

  The OR gate 57 outputs the DC power W2 input from the printing apparatus power supply circuit 15 to the USB controller 331. When the switch 51 is turned on and the DC power W3 is input from the fourth voltage converter 56, the OR gate 57 outputs the input DC power W3 to the USB controller 331. When the switch 51 is turned on, the OR gate 57 outputs both the DC powers W3 and W2 to the USB controller 331.

  A current limiting circuit (not shown) is provided between the OR gate 57 and the USB controller 331. The current limiting circuit limits the current of the DC power W3 supplied from the fourth voltage converter 56 to the USB controller 331 from 550 mA to 500 mA.

  The USB controller 331 is connected to the USB connector 332, and performs bidirectional data communication with the USB device connected to the USB connector 332 according to the USB standard under the control of the control unit 100.

  When the switch 51 is on, the USB controller 331 is supplied with a DC power W4 (first power) having a voltage V6 (5 V) and a current of 500 mA, and a DC power W2 having a voltage V2 (5 V) and a current of 100 mA. . The DC power W2 supplied from the printing apparatus side power supply circuit 15 is lower in power than the DC power W6 supplied from the fourth voltage converter 56.

  The USB controller 331 uses the DC powers W4 and W2 as a drive voltage for the first communication unit 33. The USB controller 331 supplies the DC power W4 to the USB connector 332 when a USB device is connected to the USB connector 332. Specifically, the USB controller 331 applies a voltage V6 (5 V) to a terminal (referred to as a VBUS terminal) of a USB connector 332 connected to a power supply line (VBUS) of a USB cable connected to a USB device, The DC power W4 is supplied to the USB device.

  When the switch 51 is off, the USB controller 331 is supplied with a voltage V2 (5 V) and a DC power W2 of 100 mA. The USB controller 331 uses the DC power W2 as a drive voltage for the first communication unit 33. When a USB device is connected to the USB connector 332 via a USB cable, the USB controller 331 applies a voltage V2 (5 V) to the VBUS terminal of the USB connector 332 and supplies DC power W2 to the USB device. I do. Further, the USB controller 331 applies the voltage V2 to the VBUS terminal of the USB connector 332 as a temporary voltage even when the USB device is not connected to the USB connector 332. This is a voltage for coping with a case where a USB device operating with USB bus power is connected to the USB connector 332.

  The USB connector 332 is a connector for connecting a USB device to the USB controller 331. The USB connector 332 has four output terminals, a VBUS terminal to which a voltage of 5 V is connected, a GND terminal, and a D + terminal and a D- terminal as data lines.

  The MAC unit 341 is a controller for data link layer processing of the Ethernet, and divides data into packets according to the standard of the network 5, and conversely, assembles packets received via the network 5 into data.

  The PHY unit 342 is a controller that plays the physical layer of Ethernet. The PHY unit 342 converts the encoded data into a signal according to the signal standard of the communication cable, and encodes the received signal. The PHY unit 342 monitors the network 5 and detects a state in which a control data packet related to printing has not been received for a predetermined period of time as an LPI (Low Power Idle) state. When detecting the LPI state, the PHY unit 342 outputs a signal indicating the detection of the LPI state (hereinafter, referred to as a first detection signal) to the control unit 100. Further, when detecting the reception of the control data packet after outputting the first detection signal to the control unit 100, the PHY unit 342 outputs a signal notifying the reception of the packet (hereinafter, referred to as a second detection signal) to the control unit 100. Output to 100.

  The control unit 100 controls the functional units mounted on the sub-board 30 to realize communication conforming to the Ethernet standard and communication conforming to the USB standard.

  The communication processing unit 35 has a normal mode (first mode) and a power saving mode (second mode) as operation modes. The normal mode refers to a mode in which power supply to all components on the sub-substrate 30 is not limited, and all components on the sub-substrate 30 are in a driving state or a drivable state. In the normal mode, the control unit 100 turns on the switch 51 and supplies the DC power W1 to the power supply unit 50.

  The power saving mode is a mode in which power supply to some components on the sub-board 30 is limited to reduce power consumption of the sub-board 30. For example, when the PHY unit 342 detects the LPI state, the control unit 100 stops power supply to the MAC unit 341 that is an upper layer of the PHY unit 342. The control called LPI specified in az is performed.

  In the power saving mode, the control unit 100 turns off the switch 51 to stop the supply of the DC power W1 to the power supply unit 50, thereby reducing the power consumption of the communication processing unit 35. Further, since the supply of the DC power W1 to the power supply unit 50 is stopped, the power supply unit 50 changes the voltage V3 (3.3 V) required as the system power supply and the voltage applied to the VBUS terminal of the USB connector 332 to It is generated based on the DC power W2 supplied from the printing apparatus side power supply circuit 15 of the main board 10.

  In the power saving mode, the control unit 100 operates with a low-speed clock whose operating frequency is lower than that in the normal mode.

  The detection circuit 37 (second detection unit) is a circuit that detects connection of the USB device to the USB connector 332.

  The current required for the operation of a USB device that operates by receiving power supply from the first communication unit 33 differs for each USB device. For example, devices that consume a relatively large amount of current, such as hard disks and scanners, require a current of about 500 mA. Therefore, the USB controller 331 needs to recognize the USB device connected to the USB connector 332. However, when a USB device such as a wireless converter that uses only the power supply lines of VBUS and GND and does not use the signal lines D + and D− is connected, the USB controller 331 recognizes which device is connected. Can not.

  In the power saving mode, the power supplied to the USB controller 331 is the DC power W2 lower than the DC power W4. Therefore, when the supply of the current to the USB device is insufficient, the USB device is not correctly recognized. The operation may become unstable, and the control unit 100 may shut down.

  When the control unit 100 is in the power saving mode, the detection circuit 37 detects connection of a USB device to the USB connector 332 and outputs an interrupt signal to the control unit 100. The control unit 100 that has received the interrupt signal starts up from the power saving mode and turns on the switch 51. As a result, the supply of the power W1 input from the AC adapter 7 to the power supply unit 50 is restarted, and the 5 V, 500 mA DC power W4 is supplied to the USB controller 331.

  FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram of the detection circuit 37.

  The detection circuit 37 is configured by a hysteresis comparator having an operational amplifier 38. The resistor R5 is connected to the non-inverting input terminal of the operational amplifier 38, and the resistor R6 is connected to the inverting input terminal of the operational amplifier 38. A resistor R7 is connected between the output terminal of the operational amplifier 38 and the non-inverting input terminal.

  The other end of the resistor R5 connected to the non-inverting input terminal of the operational amplifier 38 is connected to a voltage dividing circuit 42 in which resistors R1 and R2 are connected in series. A voltage obtained by dividing the voltage V2 supplied from the printing apparatus side power supply circuit 15 by the voltage dividing circuit 42 is supplied to the non-inverting input terminal of the operational amplifier 38.

  Further, a voltage dividing circuit 41 in which resistors R3 and R4 are connected in series is connected to the opposite end of the resistor R6 connected to the inverting input terminal of the operational amplifier 38. A voltage obtained by dividing the voltage V7 output from the OR gate 57 by the voltage dividing circuit 42 is supplied to the inverting input terminal of the operational amplifier 38. The output terminal of the operational amplifier 38 is connected to the control unit 100.

  The voltage V7, which is the output voltage of the OR gate 57, is not a voltage supplied only to the detection circuit 37, but a voltage supplied to a plurality of elements such as a boost terminal of a DC-DC converter. Therefore, the voltage V7 is lower than the voltage V2. When a high-load USB device is connected to the USB connector 332, the voltage V7 drops before the voltage V2 because the voltage is supplied to the plurality of elements.

  The detection circuit 37 outputs an interrupt signal to the control unit 100 when the difference between the voltage V2 as the reference voltage and the voltage V7 is larger than a preset value.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure of the control unit 100. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating operation timings of the detection circuit and the power supply unit, and FIG. 12A is a diagram illustrating a voltage change between the voltage V7 and the interrupt signal. FIG. 12B is a diagram showing a change between the voltage V1 input to the power supply circuit and the voltage V6.

  The control unit 100 determines whether the first detection signal has been input from the PHY unit 342 (step S1). The PHY unit 342 monitors the network 5 and outputs a first detection signal to the control unit 100 when a control data packet has not been received for a predetermined period of time.

  If the first detection signal has not been input from PHY section 342 (step S1 / NO), control section 100 repeats the processing of step S1. Further, when the control unit 100 receives the first detection signal from the PHY unit 342 (step S1 / YES), the control unit 100 determines whether or not an interrupt signal is input from the detection circuit 37 (step S2). When the control unit 100 determines that the interrupt signal is input from the detection circuit 37 (step S2 / YES), the control unit 100 stops shifting to the power saving mode and ends this processing flow.

  When the control unit 100 determines that the interrupt signal is not input from the detection circuit 37 (step S2 / NO), the control unit 100 turns off the switch 51 and shifts to the power saving mode (step S3). When the switch 51 is turned off, the supply of the voltage V1 to the power supply unit 50 is cut off, and the voltage used to generate the voltage V3 (3.3 V), which is the system power supply, is changed from the voltage V1 (24 V) to the voltage V2. (5V). Further, the supply of the DC power W4 to the USB controller 331 is stopped. The USB controller 331 applies the voltage V2 of the DC power W2 supplied from the printing apparatus-side power supply circuit 15 to the VBUS terminal of the USB connector 332.

  In the power saving mode, the control unit 100 operates with a low-speed clock whose operating frequency is lower than that in the normal mode.

  When shifting to the power saving mode, the control unit 100 monitors an interrupt signal input from the detection circuit 37. When an interrupt signal is input from the detection circuit 37 (step S4 / YES), the control unit 100 switches the operation mode to the normal mode and turns on the switch 51 (step S6). The control unit 100 changes the operation clock to a high-speed clock having an operation frequency higher than the operation clock in the power saving mode.

  When the interrupt signal has not been input from the detection circuit 37 (step S4 / NO), the control unit 100 determines whether the second detection signal has been input from the PHY unit 342 (step S5). When the second detection signal has not been input from the PHY unit 342 (step S5 / NO), the control unit 100 returns to the process of step S4, and monitors the interrupt signal input from the detection circuit 37. In addition, when the second detection signal is input from the PHY unit 342 (step S5 / YES), the control unit 100 turns on the switch 51 and sets the operation mode to the normal mode (step S6).

  When a USB device is connected to the USB connector 332, the value of the voltage V7 decreases. In the example shown in FIG. 12A, at the timing A, the value of the voltage V7 decreases. The detection circuit 37 outputs an interrupt signal to the control unit 100 when the difference between the voltage V2, which is the reference voltage, and the voltage V7 becomes larger than a preset value due to the decrease in the voltage V7. When receiving the interrupt signal, the control unit 100 returns to the normal mode and turns on the switch 51. When the switch 51 is turned on, the voltage V1 of the DC power W1 supplied by the AC adapter 7 increases. In the example shown in FIG. 12B, at the timing B, the voltage value of the voltage V1 increases. Then, as the voltage V1 increases, the voltage value of the voltage V6 also increases. In the example shown in FIG. 12B, the voltage of the voltage V6 increases at a timing C that is later than the timing B.

  Next, an example of the operation (printer control method) of the printer 2B of the present modified example will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation (printer control method) of the printer 2B of the second modification.

  The process illustrated in FIG. 13 is executed, for example, in the printer 2B after the replacement.

  In the following description, it is assumed that the printer 2B is in the power saving mode, and the DC power W2 having a lower voltage than the DC power W1 is supplied from the main board 10 to the sub-board 30 via the connector 17. I do.

  Under this state, the second detection unit (for example, the detection circuit 37) detects whether a USB device (USB memory 4) is connected to the USB connector 332 (Step S70).

  Then, the DC power W2 is supplied via the connector 17 and the connection of the USB device (USB memory 4) to the USB connector 332 is detected by the second detection unit (for example, the detection circuit 37). (Step S70: Yes), the switching unit (for example, the switch 51 and the OR gate 52) switches the power supplied via the connector 17 from the DC power W2 in the power saving mode to the DC power W1 in the normal mode. Switching is performed (step S72). As a result, the power supply to the USB device (USB memory 4) connected to the USB connector 332 becomes insufficient, the operation becomes unstable, and the printer (for example, the control unit 100 on the sub-board side) shuts down. Can be prevented.

  As described above, the communication processing unit 35 of the present modification includes the USB connector 332, the power supply unit 50, and the control unit 100. The USB connector 332 can connect to a USB device and supply power to the USB device. The power supply unit 50 generates power to be supplied from the USB connector 332. The control unit 100 executes the normal mode and the power saving mode, supplies the DC power W4 generated by the power supply unit 50 to the USB connector 332 in the normal mode, and externally lowers the DC power W4 in the second mode. Upon receiving the supply of the DC power W2, the DC power W2 is supplied to the USB connector 332. Therefore, it is possible to achieve power saving with a simple configuration while supporting power supply to the USB connector 332.

  In addition, the communication processing unit 35 includes a detection circuit 37 that detects connection of the USB device to the USB connector 332. When the detection circuit 37 detects the connection of the USB connector 332 to the USB connector 332, the control unit 100 changes the operation mode from the power saving mode to the normal mode, and restarts the supply of the DC power W4 from the power supply unit 50. . Therefore, the power supplied to the connected USB device is large, and the supply of the DC power W4 can be restarted before the power supply unit 50 shuts down due to insufficient power.

  In addition, the communication processing unit 35 includes a switch 51 that connects and disconnects the supply of the power used to generate the DC power W4 to the power supply unit 50. When shifting to the power saving mode, the control unit 100 controls the switch 51 to cut off the supply to the USB connector 332 in the normal mode. Therefore, when the USB device shifts to the power saving mode, the supply of the DC power W4 is cut off, so that the power consumption can be reduced.

  The communication processing unit 35 includes a second communication unit 34 that performs Ethernet communication. The control unit 100 sets the USB device to the LPI (Low Power Idle) in the power saving mode. Therefore, power consumption of the USB device in the power saving mode can be reduced.

  Further, the communication processing unit 35 includes a fourth voltage conversion unit 56 having a DC-DC converter that reduces the voltage of the power supply and generates the DC power W4. Therefore, voltage conversion can be performed with a simple configuration, and voltage conversion can be performed with high efficiency.

  The above-mentioned second modification is a preferred embodiment of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

  For example, in the second modification described above, the first communication unit has been described as a communication unit conforming to the USB standard, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a communication device or device compatible with HDMI (registered trademark) capable of supplying power to a device to be connected, IEEE 1394, or the like can be used as the first communication unit.

  Further, the power supply device of the present invention is applicable not only to a printing device but also to, for example, a scanner device and a hard disk device. The printing device may be a dot impact type printer, an ink jet type printer, a thermal sublimation type printer, a laser printer, and may be applied to a printer incorporated in another device, and the application target is not limited. .

  Further, each processing of the communication processing unit 35 shown in the second modification can be provided as a program. Further, the program can be stored in a recording medium such as a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, or a flash memory and provided.

  According to the present modification, in addition to the effect of the first modification, the following effect is further obtained.

  First, in the normal mode, the DC power W1 (first power; for example, voltage 24V, current) from the main board 10 (second board) to the sub-board 30 (first board) via the connector 17 (second interface). 100 mA), and in the power saving mode, a DC power W2 (second power, for example, a voltage of 5 V and a current of 100 mA) lower than the DC power W1 can be supplied from the main board 10 to the sub-board 30 via the connector 17. .

  Secondly, when the USB memory 4 is connected to the USB connector 332 while the DC power W2 in the power saving mode is being supplied from the main board 10 to the sub board 30 via the connector 17 in the power saving mode, the switching unit ( For example, by the operation of the switch 51 and the OR gate 52), the power supplied from the main board 10 to the sub-board 30 via the connector 17 is switched from the DC power W2 in the power saving mode to the DC power W1 in the normal mode. Can be. Thereby, for example, the supply of power to the USB memory 4 connected to the USB connector 332 is insufficient, and the operation becomes unstable, thereby preventing the printer (for example, the control unit 100 on the sub-board side) from shutting down. .

  In the present modification, an example in which a configuration (see FIGS. 8 and 9) for realizing the power saving mode is added to the printer 2A of the first modification is described. Even if a configuration (see FIGS. 8 and 9) for realizing the power saving mode is added to the printer 2 of the embodiment, the same effect as that of the present modified example can be obtained.

  The above embodiments are merely examples in every respect. The present invention is not construed as being limited by the description of the above embodiment. The present invention may be embodied in various other forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics.

  1, 1A: printing system, 2, 2A, 2B: printer (printing device), 3: host computer, 4: USB memory, 5: network, 7: AC adapter, 10, 10A: main board, 11: main control unit 11a CPU, 11b RAM, 11c ROM, 12 nonvolatile memory, 13 buffer memory, 14 printing unit, 15 printing apparatus side power supply circuit, 17 connector, 30, 30A sub board, 31 Electronic components, 33: first communication unit, 34: second communication unit, 35: communication processing unit, 37: detection circuit, 38: operational amplifier, 41: voltage dividing circuit, 42: voltage dividing circuit, 50: power supply unit, 51 ... Switch, 52 OR gate, 53 first voltage converter, 54 second voltage converter, 55 third voltage converter, 56 fourth voltage converter, 57 OR gate, 60 Member, 62 LAN connector, 68a Reading section, 68b Setting section, 68c First detection section, 68d Setting change determination section, 68e Writing section, 68f Printing control section, 68g Notification section, 70 Power switch, 100 ... Control unit, 100a ... CPU, 100b ... RAM, 100c ... ROM, 331 ... USB controller, 332 ... USB connector, 341 ... MAC unit, 342 ... PHY unit, A, B, C ... Timing, C1 ... LAN cable, C1a plug, C1b plug, PD setting information, PD1 network setting information, PD2 printer setting information, R1, R3, R5, R6, R7 resistance, V1 to V7 voltage, W1, W2, W3, W4, W6 ... DC power.

Claims (6)

A first board including a first interface connectable to a network, a second board including a second interface connectable to the first board, and a second board connectable to a memory storing setting information including network setting information. A printer with three interfaces,
A first detection unit that detects whether the first board is connected to the second interface;
When the first detection unit detects that the first substrate is connected to the second interface, reading the setting information from the memory connected to the third interface via the third interface Department and
A setting unit for setting based on the setting information read by the reading unit.   The printer according to claim 1, wherein the third interface is provided on the second substrate. The third interface is provided on the first substrate,
The second substrate includes a second substrate-side control unit,
The first substrate includes a first substrate-side control unit,
further,
When the first detection unit detects that the first substrate is connected to the second interface, the notification unit notifies the first substrate-side control unit of the detection result,
The first detection unit and the notification unit are realized by the second board-side control unit executing a first program,
The reading unit and the setting unit are realized by the first substrate-side control unit executing a second program,
The reading unit, when the detection result is notified by the notifying unit, reads the setting information from the memory connected to the third interface via the third interface,
The printer according to claim 1, wherein the second substrate-side control unit executes another process while the reading unit or the setting unit performs the process. further,
A printing mechanism,
When a setting based on the network setting information is set by the setting unit and communication becomes possible with a host computer connected to the network, a print control unit that controls the printing mechanism and prints that fact. The printer according to claim 1, further comprising: A second power having a lower voltage than the first power or the first power can be supplied from the second board to the first board via the second interface;
further,
A second detection unit that detects whether the memory is connected to the third interface;
A switching unit that switches power supplied via the second interface from the second power to the first power,
The switching unit is configured to supply the second power via the second interface, and when the second detection unit detects that the memory is connected to the third interface, The printer according to claim 1 , wherein power supplied via a second interface is switched from the second power to the first power. A first board including a first interface connectable to a network, a second board including a second interface connectable to the first board, and a second board connectable to a memory storing setting information including network setting information. A control method of a printer having three interfaces.
A detecting step of detecting whether or not the first board is connected to the second interface;
A step of reading the setting information from the memory connected to the third interface via the third interface, when the detection step detects that the first substrate is connected to the second interface; ,
A setting step of setting based on the setting information read by the reading step.