JP4277924B2 - Printer - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a printer.

  In recent years, many multifunctional printers that have a facsimile communication function (hereinafter, abbreviated as “FAX” in some cases) in addition to the original functions of the printer are commercially available. Such a multifunction printer is connected to a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as a “personal computer”) and a public network, so that printer data from the personal computer can be printed out or a FAX communication application installed on the personal computer. It is used as a device for performing FAX transmission using the PC, or as a device for printing out FAX data received from outside through a public line network.

  There are various types of printers having a FAX communication function, such as a printer having only one paper feed tray and a printer having a plurality of paper feed trays.

  Normally, in the case of having only one paper feed tray, when printing data is input, the paper is automatically fed from the single paper feed tray one by one and printing is performed. It is configured.

  Also, in the case of having a plurality of paper feed trays, it is possible to identify the size of the paper stored in the paper feed tray, or the one used by switching the paper feed tray by operating the tray change switch or the like according to the user's selection. In some cases, printing is performed by automatically selecting a paper feed tray that stores paper whose size matches that of the printing data.

  Furthermore, in the case where a plurality of paper feed trays are provided and a paper feed tray containing paper that matches the size of the printing data is automatically selected and fed, the paper feed containing paper of an appropriate size is stored. In some cases, even when there is no tray, forced printing can be performed on paper of different sizes by user operation.

  In addition, a plurality of paper feed trays that automatically select a paper feed tray that contains paper that matches the size of the printing data and feed the paper. If there is no paper size, set the paper tray that should be used preferentially from these multiple paper trays, and use different paper sizes from the paper tray that should be used preferentially according to this setting. Some have made it possible to perform forced printing while feeding paper.

  However, in the case of FAX data, if data is printed on paper of a different size, a part of the data body may be lost. In such a case, the FAX data is transmitted again by contacting the transmission source. There is an inconvenience that measures such as getting them are required.

  In view of the above, an object of the present invention is to prevent a printer from executing printing that partially loses data depending on the usage mode while realizing proper usage in accordance with the usage mode.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a printer comprising: a paper feed tray for storing paper; a selection means for selecting a paper feed tray used for printing; and a paper feed tray selected by the selection means. Printing means for feeding paper and executing printing; identification means for identifying the size of the paper stored in the paper feed tray; whether printing by the printing means is printing under a printer function or FAX function Determining means for determining whether the printing is under printing, wherein the selecting means stores paper that does not match the paper size required for printing when the determination by the determining means is printing under a printer function. While it is possible to select a paper feed tray, if the determination by the determination means is printing under the FAX function, it is impossible to select a paper feed tray that stores paper in which a FAX data body is missing. And butterflies.

  According to the printer of claim 1, for example, even if someone receives a postcard in the paper feed tray for printing a postcard, FAX data is printed on the postcard. The problem of missing text data can be prevented.

  Further, as described in claim 2, in the printer according to claim 1, when the determination by the determination unit is printing under a FAX function, the selection unit is any one of A4, letter, and legal. It is desirable to be able to select a paper feed tray that stores paper of a size.

  According to the printers of the first and second aspects of the present invention, it is possible to prevent printing in which a part of the text of the FAX data is missing.

  In particular, according to the printer of the first aspect, it is possible to properly use the printer in accordance with the usage mode of the printer function and the usage mode of the FAX function.

  Next, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  First, a schematic configuration of the local area network system as the present embodiment will be described.

  In the system according to the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, a plurality of personal computers (hereinafter referred to as “personal computers”) 11 to 13, a server 20, and a color laser with respect to a local area network (LAN) 1. A printer 30 is connected. The color laser printer 30 is also connected directly to the personal computer 14 and the image scanner 17 without going through the LAN 1. Further, the color laser printer 30 is in a state in which communication with the outside is possible via the public line network 5 by mounting the FAX modem card 3. In addition, a facsimile machine 19 and a personal computer 15 are connected to the public network 5 via respective built-in modems. An image scanner 18 is connected to at least one of the personal computers 11 to 13 connected to the LAN 1.

  In order to perform color printing, the color laser printer 30 includes a Y station 31 containing yellow toner, an M station 32 containing magenta toner, a C station 33 containing cyan toner, and black toner. And an intermediate transfer belt 36 for transferring the toner of each of the stations 31 to 34 to the transfer drum 35, a fixing roller 37, a paper discharge switching mechanism 38, and the like.

The paper discharge switching mechanism 38 switches whether the printed paper is discharged to the normal paper discharge stacker 39 on the upper surface of the main body or to the paper discharge stackers 41 to 43 of the sorter unit 40. The sorter unit 40 is provided in the vicinity of the stacker switching mechanism (not shown) for discharging the paper to any of the paper discharge stackers 41 to 43 at the time of sort output, and in the vicinity of the exit of each of the stackers 41 to 43. A paper discharge sensor (not shown) is provided.

  Further, the color laser printer 30 includes a manual feed tray 54 in front of the main body in addition to the three paper feed trays 51 to 53 as a paper feed mechanism. Here, the three paper feed trays 51 to 53 are No. 1 from the top. 1 tray 51, no. 2-tray 52, No. 2 It will be called three trays 53. And as a normal state, it is No. One tray 51 stores A4 size plain paper. The two trays 52 store OHP paper for printing an overhead projector (OHP) document. It is assumed that A3 size plain paper is stored in the three trays 53 and used. Further, a control unit 60 for driving and controlling the color laser printer 30 is provided at the center of the main body. Further, an interface unit 70 for mounting the above-described FAX modem card 3 and the like is provided on the back of the main body.

  FIG. 2 shows the color laser printer 30 in a block diagram. As shown in the figure, the color laser printer 30 is roughly composed of a control unit 60, an interface unit 70, and a mechanism unit 80.

  The control unit 60 includes a CPU 61, ROM 62, RAM 63, additional RAM 64, NVRAM 65, flash ROM 66, ASIC 67, and timer 68.

  The CPU 61 executes arithmetic processing for realizing various functions in the printer 30, and becomes the center of the control unit 60. The ROM 62 stores various programs executed by the CPU 61 and data such as fonts in advance. The RAM 63 and the additional RAM 64 are used as a work memory and a data storage area when the CPU 61 executes various arithmetic processes. The NVRAM 65 is a non-volatile RAM and is provided for storing various unique settings by the user. The flash ROM 66 can also store various programs, data such as fonts and forms, and the like. For example, a program or the like added by version upgrade or the like is written in the flash ROM 66 in a state where it is mounted on the main body, and is retained even after the main body is turned off. The ASIC 67 is an application-specific IC, and is provided to execute processing suitable for execution by hardware logic without using the CPU 61. The timer 68 is used to determine interrupt timings and the like for various arithmetic processes described later.

  Here, various programs stored in the ROM 62 or the flash ROM 66 process a program as a printer function for processing the received print data (corresponding to the second data) and the received FAX data (corresponding to the first data). A program as a FAX function to be stored is stored. Further, the program as the FAX function may be added to the flash ROM 66 by later upgrading the version, or may be provided as a ROM card in one PCMCIA slot.

  The interface unit 70 includes an RS-232C interface 71 and a bidirectional Centronics interface 72 for connecting to a personal computer, a network interface 73 for connecting to the LAN 1, a SCSI interface 74 for connecting an image scanner, and a FAX modem card. 3 and PCMCIA slots 75 and 76 corresponding to the PCMCIA standard (Personal Computer Memory Card International Association) as an optional interface for mounting a memory card such as a ROM card, hard disk card, or RAM card.

  The mechanism unit 80 includes a print engine unit 81, a paper supply / discharge unit 82, an operation unit 83, a display unit 84, and a detection unit 85.

  The print engine unit 81 includes Y, M, C, and K toner stations 31 to 34, a transfer drum 35, an intermediate belt 36, a motor for driving these, and the like, and executes printing on recording paper. It is. The paper feed / discharge unit 82 includes a paper discharge switching mechanism 38, paper discharge trays 39, 41 to 43, a sorter unit 40, paper feed trays 51 to 53, and the like. The operation unit 83 includes various setting input switches, a power switch, and the like. The display unit 84 is configured by an LCD, an LED, or the like, and is provided for displaying the operating state of the printer. The detection unit 85 includes a paper size detection sensor, a paper type detection sensor, a paper discharge sensor, and the like. The detection unit 85 detects the size of the paper stored in each of the paper feed trays 51 to 53 and generates a paper jam. Is detected.

  The color laser printer 30 employed in the present embodiment includes the PCMCIA slots 75 and 76 as described above. By mounting the FAX modem card 3 here, not only as a printer but also for facsimile communication equipment. One big feature is that it can be used as

  First, an option detection process for enabling the printer 30 to function as a facsimile communication device by installing the FAX modem card 3 in the PCMCIA slots 75 and 76 will be described. Processing start conditions are set so that this processing is periodically executed when the printer 30 is powered on or during power on.

  In this process, as shown in FIG. 3, first, it is determined whether or not any card is inserted into the PCMCIA slots 75 and 76 based on the presence or absence of a card insertion signal (S10). If there is no card insertion signal for any of the slots 75 and 76, the present process is exited.

  If a card is inserted (S10: YES), the card is reset by a card reset signal (not shown) (S20), and then the card information recorded on the inserted card is read (S30). Based on the newly read card information, it is determined whether or not the card currently inserted in the PCMCIA slot 75 or 76 is the FAX modem card 3 (S40).

  If it is determined that it is not the FAX modem card 3 (S40: NO), the process proceeds to another card check routine. Examples of other cards that can be inserted into the PCMCIA slot 75 or 76 include an expansion memory card, a font card, and a LAN card.

  If it is determined that the fax modem card 3 is used (S40: YES), it is determined whether the setting for FAX has already been performed (S45). If it is set (S45: YES), a return is made. To do. If not set (S45: NO), the FAX modem card 3 is initialized for the FAX modem card 3 (S50). Subsequently, a FAX work area is secured in the RAM 63 and the additional RAM 64 of the printer 30 (S60). Here, the processing of S45 makes it possible to install the FAX modem card 3 only in one of the two PCMCIA slots 75 and 76, and if a plurality of FAX modem cards are installed, a FAX reception conflict or the like that may occur. This is to avoid the occurrence of problems.

Next, it is determined whether there is a setting for FAX in the NVRAM 65 (S70). In the printer 30, when various condition settings for FAX are set different from the default values, the setting conditions are stored in the NVRAM 65, and the condition setting is changed every time the power is turned on. It is configured so that it may not be necessary.

  If the setting for FAX is made in the NVRAM 65 (S70: YES), the condition setting for FAX is set according to the setting value stored in the NVRAM 65 (S80). On the other hand, if the NVRAM 65 is not set for FAX (S70: NO), the FAX condition is set according to the FAX setting value written in advance as a default value in the ROM 62 of the printer 30 (S90). ).

  Here, “(1) RAM size of data area”, “(2) RING DELAY”, “(3) RECEIVE ON / OFF”, “(4) FAX priority ON / OFF”, (5) “Reduced recording” , “(6) LOG recording interval” is set for FAX conditions.

  “(1) RAM size of the data area” defines how many MBs or what percentage of the RAMs 63 and 64 are used as the FAX image storage area.

  “(2) RING DELAY” determines how many times a call is received when a FAX is received before the incoming call response process is performed.

  “(3) RECEIVE ON / OFF” determines whether the printer 30 functions as a FAX transmission dedicated machine or as a device capable of FAX reception. The printer 30 functions as a device capable of receiving FAX by setting RECEIVE = ON, and functions as a FAX transmission dedicated machine by setting RECEIVE = OFF.

  “(4) Fax priority ON / OFF” means that when fax printing and printer printing are instructed to the printer 30, whether fax printing is processed with priority or printer printing is prioritized. It is determined whether to process. When FAX priority = ON is set, FAX printing is executed with priority, and when FAX priority = OFF is set, printer printing is executed with priority.

  “(5) Reduced recording” is a setting for reducing and recording the received FAX image in the vertical direction, and can be set to AUTO / OFF / 90%. In the case of the AUTO setting, the reduction ratio is automatically set so that the reception of one page fits in the recording of one page. However, when the reduction ratio exceeds 50%, the page is divided into two or more pages. When set to OFF, there is no reduction in the vertical direction, and when the FAX image on the transmission side is long, it is divided into two or more pages. When the setting is 90%, the reduction ratio in the vertical direction is fixed at 90%. For example, the document size on the transmission side is A4 size (297 mm length) and the recording paper size on the reception side is letter size (279 mm length). This is effective when the receiving paper is a little short.

  “(6) LOG recording interval” sets a time interval for printing and recording LOG information of FAX communication on paper, and is OFF / 6 hours / 12 hours / 24 hours / 2 days / 4 days / 7 days. Can be set. The LOG information includes the date / time of transmission / reception, the name of the other party, the communication time, the number of pages, the communication result, and the discrimination of transmission / reception.

Next, it is determined whether or not FAX priority is set (S100). Whether or not to give priority to FAX is set by the processing of S80 or S90 as described above. When FAX priority is set (S100: YES), FAX priority memory management is set as a memory management method (S110). When this FAX priority memory management is set, even if the printer data is sent from the personal computer 11 or the like during FAX reception, only the process of storing it in the printer buffer is executed first without printing it. It will be. On the other hand, if FAX priority is not set (S100: NO), printer priority memory management is set (S120). When this printer priority memory management is set, contrary to the previous case, even if FAX data is sent while receiving printer data, it is not possible to print the FAX data on recording paper. First, only accumulation in the buffer area for FAX is performed.

  Next, in accordance with the setting of the RAM size of the data area set by the processing of S80 or S90, a FAX data area is secured in the RAMs 63 and 64 (S130). In addition, the interrupt processing for FAX control is enabled, and various interrupt processing for FAX control can be performed (S140). Further, the FAX panel display is enabled, and the setting of the FAX RAM size can be changed by the panel operation (S150). In the printer 30, when the FAX modem card 3 is not inserted, it is not necessary to perform settings related to the FAX function or change settings related to the FAX function. This is because the configuration is not performed.

  Next, the FAX command reception is enabled, and the FAX command from the personal computer 11 or the like can be received (S160). As a result, it is possible to instruct FAX transmission from the personal computer 11 or the like.

  By making these settings, the printer 30 can function as a facsimile machine under the conditions set by the option detection process. In the case where the FAX modem is attached to the RS-232C interface 71 instead of the PCMCIA slots 75 and 76, the printer 30 side is connected to the RS-232C interface 71 instead of the processing of S10 to S40. It is possible to adopt a configuration in which it is determined whether or not a FAX modem is attached by outputting an AT command and confirming whether or not there is a response.

  Next, the contents of the FAX interrupt control process will be described. This process can be executed when the FAX control interrupt is enabled in the option detection process, and is executed as an interrupt process every predetermined time.

  In this FAX interrupt control process, as shown in FIG. 4, it is first determined whether or not the reception mode is set to ON (S210). If the reception mode is not set to ON (S210: NO), it is next determined whether or not the transmission mode is set to ON (S220). If this transmission mode is not ON (S220: NO), it is determined whether a reception start signal has been accepted (S230). This reception start signal is determined by the presence / absence of a call signal from the FAX transmission source. As for the call signal, as described in the option detection process, when the call signal is received for the number of times set in the RING DELAY, it is determined that the reception start signal has been received.

If it is determined that the reception start signal has been received (S230: YES), the reception mode is set to ON (S240), and then this interrupt routine is exited. On the other hand, if the reception start signal has not been received (S230: NO), it is determined whether a transmission start request from the personal computer 11 or the like has been received (S250). If a transmission start request is accepted (S250: YES), the transmission mode is set to ON (S260), and then this interrupt routine is exited. If no transmission start request has been received (S250: NO), it is determined whether there is data in a state in which FAX printing should be executed (S270). If there is data in a state in which FAX printing is to be executed (S270: YES), the print start request is turned ON (S280), and then this interrupt routine is exited.

  As a result of executing the FAX control interrupt processing routine, for example, when the reception mode is turned on, the next time this routine is interrupted, S210 becomes “YES” and the reception processing is executed (S290). If the transmission mode is ON (S220: YES), a transmission process is executed (S300). When either the reception mode or the transmission mode is turned on, in this interrupt routine, the processing after S230 is not performed, so the reception mode and the transmission mode are turned on at the same time. There is nothing. However, when the print start request is ON, the reception mode or the transmission mode may be ON after that.

  In the option detection process, when RECEIVE = OFF is set, S230 does not become YES and functions as a device that cannot enter the FAX reception mode.

  Next, the content of the reception process executed when the reception mode is ON will be described. This process is configured by a routine as shown in FIG. 5A, and reception of FAX data from the outside is executed until reception is completed (S310, S320). When reception ends (S310: YES), the reception mode is turned off and the reception mode is exited (S330).

  Next, the content of the transmission process executed when the transmission mode is ON will be described. This process is configured by a routine as shown in FIG. 5B, and the transmission of FAX data to the other party is executed until the transmission is completed (S340, S350). When the transmission is completed (S340: YES), the transmission mode is turned off and the transmission mode is exited (S360).

  Next, the print interrupt process will be described. This process is executed as an interrupt process at a lower level than the FAX control interrupt process, and its contents are constituted by a routine as shown in FIG. In this interrupt process, first, it is determined whether or not the print start request is ON (S370). If the print start request is not ON, this interrupt process is terminated. On the other hand, if the print start request is ON (S370: YES), printing is executed (S380). Then, it is determined whether or not it is FAX reception data that has been printed (S390). If it is FAX reception data (S390: YES), the printed FAX data is deleted (S400). On the other hand, if it is not FAX reception data that has been printed (S390: NO), this interrupt routine is exited without deleting the FAX data.

  Here, in this print interrupt process, if the printed fax data is the fax data received from the outside, it is deleted immediately, but more specifically, if the printed fax data is not the data received from the outside, more specifically, the personal computer One of the features is that, in the case of FAX data sent for transmission from 11 or the like, the data is not immediately deleted even after printing is completed.

As will be described later, in the system according to the present embodiment, the document created by the word processor software installed as an application in the personal computer 11 or the like is converted into FAX data before being sent to the outside by FAX. This corresponds to having a function of performing test printing in order to confirm whether or not printing is correctly performed. Even if the transmission data is not output to the printer 30 again after performing the test printing, the transmission data is held in the printer 30 as described above. It is sufficient to output a command indicating that processing should be executed.

  Next, the contents of the main routine executed when the printer 30 according to the present embodiment realizes the FAX transmission function and the printer function will be described. This main routine is composed of procedures as shown in FIG.

  In this main routine, first, it is determined whether or not a FAX transfer command is sent from the personal computer 11 or the like (S410). If a FAX transfer command has not been sent (S410: NO), it is determined whether a printer command has been sent (S420). If neither the FAX shift command nor the printer command is sent, the routine (S410, S420) for interpreting the command from the personal computer 11 or the like is continuously executed.

  If a printer command is sent (S420: YES), the printer function is activated and print data sent from the personal computer 11 or the like via the printer cable or LAN 1 is stored in the printer buffer. When the data for one page has been accumulated, the printer process for converting the data into printer output data and printing is executed (S430).

  On the other hand, when a FAX transfer command is sent from the personal computer 11 or the like (S410: YES), it is determined whether or not the data sent subsequently is data for FAX transmission (S440). Here, the FAX transmission data includes image data composed of FAX data and identification data for enabling identification when the image data is stored in the memory area (read as a file as described later). . If it is data for FAX transmission (S440: YES), processing for storing the data sent from the personal computer 11 or the like in the memory area allocated for FAX is executed (S450).

  If it is not data for FAX transmission (S440: NO), it is determined whether or not the data specifies a FAX number (S460). If the data is data specifying a FAX number (S460: YES), the received data is stored as a FAX number of the transmission destination in the area for storing FAX numbers allocated in the RAMs 63 and 64 (S470). . Here, the identification data of the FAX transmission data (file) corresponding to the data specifying the FAX number and the later-described transmission source information and data operation command are given, and a correspondence relationship can be established. ing.

  If the sent data is not a FAX number (S460: NO), it is determined whether the data is source information (S480). If it is transmission source information (S480: YES), the received data is stored in the transmission source information storage area allocated in the RAM 63, 64 (S490). This transmission source information is used when attached to FAX data when FAX transmission is performed or when a management report of FAX transmission is output.

  If the transmitted data is not the transmission source information (S480: NO), it is determined whether or not it is a data operation command (S500). As this data operation command, a FAX data print command, a send command, and a delete command are prepared.

If it is a data operation command (S500: YES), it is determined whether or not the current state is a data operation end state (S510). This is to prevent the FAX data from being deleted until the processing corresponding to the transmission command sent first is completed when a deletion command is sent following the transmission command. If the data operation in accordance with the previously sent data operation command has been completed (S510: YES), it is determined whether or not the print command has been sent as the data operation command (S520). ). If the command is a print command (S520: YES), “print (P)” is designated as the data operation command to indicate the type of data operation for the data stored in the FAX data storage area (S530). ). When “print (P)” is designated in the FAX data, the processing of S270 is determined as “YES” in the interrupt processing routine for FAX control.

  On the other hand, if it is not a print command that is sent as a data operation command (S520: NO), it is next determined whether or not it is a transmission command (S540). If it is a transmission command (S540: YES), “Send (S)” is designated as a data operation command for the data stored in the FAX data storage area (S550). When “transmission (S)” is designated in the FAX data, the processing in S250 is determined as “YES” in the above-described FAX control interrupt processing routine, and the transmission mode is set to ON. .

  If it is not a transmission command that is sent as a data operation command (S540: NO), it is next determined whether or not it is a deletion command (S560). If it is a delete command (S560: YES), “delete (D)” is designated as the data operation command for the data stored in the FAX data storage area (S570). The FAX data for which “Deletion (D)” is designated is then deleted from the FAX storage area by an interrupt processing routine (not shown).

  In this way, the transmission FAX data input from the personal computer 11 or the like is not deleted immediately after printing or transmission, but is deleted from the memories 63 and 64 of the printer 30 for the first time by a deletion command. This is also one feature of the present embodiment. In other words, in this embodiment, a document created with word processing software installed in the personal computer 11 or the like can be faxed as if it were printed on a printer, and a test print was performed prior to transmission. The FAX data for transmission is deleted for the first time by a deletion command so that the request to store the transmitted document even when it is printed on paper can be met.

  By adopting this configuration, it is not necessary to send the data body for transmission again from the personal computer 11 or the like to the printer 30 after the trial printing, and it is printed on paper as a copy to keep the contents of the transmitted document at hand. In order to do so, it is no longer necessary to transmit the data body from the personal computer 11 or the like to the printer 30 again, and operations that meet various needs can be easily performed while taking full advantage of the benefits of having both the printer function and the FAX function. Can be made.

  As described above, when a FAX transfer command is input from the personal computer 11 or the like, processing such as storing of FAX data is executed, and in accordance with an instruction of the data operation command, the FAX mode or the FAX mode such as test printing before FAX transmission is performed. Various processes in are performed. Various processes under the FAX mode are continued until an end command is input (S580). Accordingly, a FAX transfer command is input from the personal computer 11 or the like, FAX data is transmitted to the printer 30, stored in the memories 63 and 64, and first, a print command for test printing is input to perform test printing. , And after that, a series of operations in the FAX mode are executed such that a transmission command is input and FAX transmission is actually performed to the other party.

  Note that the above-described data operation command and end command may be input not only from the personal computer 11 or the like, but also from a panel operation from the operation unit 83 provided in the main body of the printer 30. This is because the FAX sender who came to the installation location of the printer 11 or the like to confirm the result of the trial printing can immediately issue a transmission command or the like without returning to the personal computer 11 or the like of his seat. This is because it becomes more convenient.

  Also, as shown in this main routine, a configuration is adopted in which the printer 30 is shifted to fax processing by attaching a FAX shift command when sending FAX transmission data. The server to be provided in the LAN need only include a server that can be shared between the FAX transmission data and the printer data. That is, in the printer 30 according to the present embodiment, as the FAX transmission function is added in addition to the printer function, command interpretation is executed as shown in this main routine, and processing by the printer function and the FAX transmission function are performed. Therefore, it is configured to switch between the processes according to the above. As a result, in this embodiment, the server 20 shown in the overall system configuration diagram of FIG. 1 is shared by both the printer function data and the FAX transmission function data.

  Next, the contents of the memory clear process when the printer 30 is reset by a panel operation of the printer 30 or a command instruction from the personal computer 11 or the like will be described.

  This process consists of a routine as shown in FIG. 7. First, the reception buffer for receiving data from the personal computer 11 or the like is cleared (S610), and then the printer work area is cleared (S620). After clearing the printer data area (S630), it is determined whether FAX transmission data is being received (S640).

  In this determination, if the data is being received (S640: YES), the FAX transmission data being received is cleared (S650), and the FAX transmission data is cleared during reception by outputting an error report. This is notified to the FAX sender (S660).

  On the other hand, if the FAX transmission data is not being received (S640: NO), the data in the FAX memory area is held as it is (S670).

  This is because the printing state becomes abnormal during printing as a printer, and a meaningless character string may be printed. In such a case, even if a reset operation is performed, the FAX transmission data has already been set. This processing is provided to eliminate the need for twice the fax transmission work by not resetting the data stored in the fax memory area. In other words, FAX data that has already been stored as normal data even if the reset process is performed on the printer 30 by performing different processes for the reset process in the printer memory area and the FAX memory area. By not clearing the, it eliminates the hassle twice and improves operability.

  Similarly, when the memory clear process at the time of resetting is handled differently for the printer memory and the FAX memory, a configuration as shown in FIG. 8 may be used.

  In the memory clear process of FIG. 8, first, it is determined whether or not FAX transmission data is being received (S710). If it is determined that the data is not being received (S710: NO), the data from the personal computer 11 or the like is received. The reception buffer is cleared (S750), the printer work area is cleared (S760), and the printer data is cleared (S770).

However, if it is determined that the FAX transmission data is being received (S710: YES), it is determined whether the reception of the END data as the FAX transmission data has been completed (S720). If it is before reception (S720: NO), reception of FAX transmission data is continued (S730). When the reception of the END data is completed (S720: YES), the FAX memory data reception is set to BUSY while retaining the data in the FAX memory area (S740). Do not accept FAX transmission data.

  With this configuration, even if the reset process associated with the system error of the printer 30 is performed, the reception of the FAX transmission data that has already started reception at that time is continued and an error is sent to the FAX sender. Can be eliminated. When reception of one FAX transmission data is completed, a new FAX transition command is input to the printer 30 during the reset process by setting the reception of FAX transmission data to BUSY. But don't deal with this. As a result, the reset process can be completed promptly while retaining the FAX transmission data.

Next, panel display processing executed to call attention so that the power is not accidentally turned off during FAX communication will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. This routine is set to be interrupted every second. In this process, it is first determined whether or not the panel is being operated (S810). If the panel is not being operated (S810: NO), it is determined whether FAX communication is in progress (S820). If the FAX communication is being performed (S820: YES), 1 is added to TIMER (S830), and it is determined whether or not the value of TIMER is 2 or more (S840). If TAIMER ≧ 2 is satisfied (S840: YES), a message indicating that FAX communication is being performed is displayed on a display panel such as an LCD provided as the display unit 84 (S850). For example, if FAX transmission is in progress, “FAX
A character string such as “SENDING” is displayed, and if a FAX is being received, a character string such as “FAX RECEIVING” is displayed.

  Next, it is determined whether the value of TIMER has become 4 or more (S860). When TIMER ≧ 4 (S860: YES), TIMER is reset to 0 (S870).

  When the panel is being operated (S810: YES), when FAX communication is not being performed (S820: NO), and when TIMER <2 (S840: NO), a panel display for the printer is performed (S880).

  As a result, when the FAX communication is being performed and the panel operation is not performed, the panel display is executed while the display of the FAX communication state and the printer state is alternately switched every 2 seconds. For example, a display indicating the content of the printer status such as “READY” or “PAPER JAM” and a display indicating the content of the FAX communication status such as “FAX RECEIVING” or “FAX SENDING” are alternately displayed on the panel every 2 seconds. It will be displayed. Thereby, it is possible to notify the outside that the FAX communication is being performed, and it is possible to prevent the power from being accidentally turned off during the FAX communication.

  Note that during panel operation, even during FAX communication, printer display is used instead of alternating display. When the panel operation is to be performed, the panel display is switched alternately before that. For this reason, it is considered that the power will not be accidentally turned off, and the operation is difficult if the panel display is alternately displayed when the panel operation is to be performed. Normally, when panel operation is performed, the ON LINE key (not shown) on the panel is set to OFF LINE (print data cannot be accepted), and ON LINE (print data can be accepted) by pressing the ON LINE key again at the end of panel operation. ) Return to the state. Accordingly, whether or not the panel is being operated can be determined based on whether or not the printer 30 is in the OFF LINE state by the panel operation.

It is needless to say that the same purpose can be achieved even if the process is changed to a process such as blinking the LED during FAX communication, instead of alternately displaying the panels. Further, instead of blinking the LED, during FAX communication, a process of deleting or displaying the fax communication status such as “SENDING” or “RECEIVING” may be repeatedly executed to call attention.

  Next, the print tray selection process will be described. This print tray selection process is also configured to be interrupted at a predetermined timing.

  In this print tray selection process, as shown in FIG. 10, first, it is determined whether or not the print mode is under the printer function (S910), and it is determined that the print mode is under the printer function. If YES (S910: YES), printer printing tray selection processing is executed (S920).

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the print mode is not under the printer function (S910: NO), it is determined whether the print mode is under the FAX function (S930). If it is determined that the print mode is not under the FAX function (S930: NO), the process is left as it is.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the printing mode is under the FAX function (S930: YES), it is further determined whether the forced printing mode is set (S940). If the forced printing mode is not set (S940: NO), the process proceeds to the FAX printing tray selection process 1 described later (S950). If the forced printing mode is set (S940: YES), the FAX described later is used. The process proceeds to the print tray selection process 2 (S960). The forced printing mode here is different from the forced printing described later, and the FAX reception data storage memory is checked for free space. When the memory shortage is likely to occur, the FAX printing is automatically performed. In this mode, printing of received data is started to prevent reception NG from occurring due to a memory shortage.

  The printer printing tray selection process is configured according to the procedure shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. This flowchart is shown in FIG. 1 tray 51 and no. No. 2 when two trays 52 are provided. This is a case where one tray 51 is set to have priority for printer printing. As shown in FIG. 1, the printer 30 according to the present embodiment is No. 1 for A3 plain paper. 3 tray 53 is also provided. A description will be given of the print tray selection process assuming that there is no three trays 53.

  First, as a paper feed tray for printing, No. 1 is used. One tray 51 is designated (S1010). And No. It is determined whether or not there is a sheet in one tray 51 (S1020). If there is paper (S1020: YES), No. It is determined whether or not the paper in one tray 51 matches the size of paper required for printing (S1030). If the sizes match (S1030: YES), no. Printing is executed with one tray 51 selected as a paper feed tray (S1040).

  On the other hand, no. If there is paper in one tray 51 but the sizes do not match (S1020: YES, S1030: NO), no. The two trays 52 are designated as paper feed trays (S1050). And No. It is determined whether or not there is a sheet in the second tray 52 (S1060). If there is a sheet (S1060: YES), No. It is determined whether the size of the paper in the two trays 52 is the same as that required for printing (S1070). If the sizes match (S1070: YES), the process proceeds to S1140 and No. Printing is executed with the two trays 52 selected as the paper feed tray.

On the other hand, no. When there is no paper in the second tray 52 (S1060: NO), and If there is paper in the two trays 52 but the sizes do not match (S1070: NO), a size error is displayed to prompt the user to replace the paper (S1080). However, if a command to force printing is issued even if the size error remains due to panel operation or the like (S1090: YES), the priority setting No. One tray 51 is selected as a paper feed tray (S1040), and printing is performed on sheets of different sizes. If the print forcing command is not issued (S1090: NO) and the paper is replaced (S1100: YES), the process returns to S1010 and this routine is executed again from the beginning.

  No. If there is no paper in one tray 51 (S1020: NO), as shown in FIG. The two trays 52 are designated (S1110). And No. It is determined whether or not there is a sheet in the two trays 52 (S1120). If there is a sheet (S1120: YES), No. It is determined whether the size of the paper in the two trays 52 is the same as that required for printing (S1130). If the sizes match (S1130: YES), no. Printing is executed with the two trays 52 selected as the paper feed tray (S1140).

  On the other hand, no. If there are sheets in the two trays 52 but the sizes do not match (S1120: YES, S1130: NO), a size error is displayed to prompt the user to replace the sheets (S1150). In this case as well, if a command to force printing is issued even if the size error remains (S1160: YES), No. containing the paper is displayed. The 2-tray 52 is selected as a paper feed tray (S1140), and printing is performed on paper of different sizes. If the print forcing command is not issued (S1160: NO) and the paper is replaced (S1170: YES), the process returns to S1010 and this routine is executed again from the beginning.

  No. There is no paper in one tray 51 (S1020: NO). If there is no paper in the two trays 52 (S1120: NO), an out-of-paper error is displayed (S1180) to prompt the user to replace the paper. When the sheets are replaced (S1190: YES), the process returns to S1010 and this routine is executed again from the beginning.

  On the other hand, the FAX printing tray selection process 1 is constituted by a procedure of flowcharts as shown in FIGS. This flowchart is also No. 1 tray 51, no. No. 2 when two trays 52 are provided. This is a case where priority is given to one tray 51 as a paper tray for FAX printing.

  First, as a paper feed tray for printing, No. 1 is used. One tray 51 is designated (S1210). And No. It is determined whether or not plain paper of A4, letter or legal size is contained in one tray 51 (S1220). Here, for example, even if it is A4 size, it is determined as “NO” when OHP paper, thick paper, colored paper or the like is contained instead of plain paper. That is, in S1220, not only the paper size but also the type is identified. In identifying the paper size and type, a sensor for detecting the paper size and a sensor for detecting the paper type may be provided, or the user sets the paper size by the panel operation when putting the paper into each tray. You may make it judge based on information.

  No. If it is determined that A4, letter, or legal size plain paper is contained in one tray 51 (S1230: YES), No. It is determined whether the size of the paper in one tray 51 is the same as that required for FAX printing (S1230). If the sizes match (S1230: YES), no. One tray 51 is selected as a paper feed tray, and FAX printing is executed (S1240).

On the other hand, no. If there is A4, Letter, or Legal size paper in one tray 51, but it is not the optimum size for printing paper for FAX received data (S1220: YES, S1230: NO), No. The two trays 52 are designated as the paper feed tray (S1250). And No. It is determined whether there is A4, letter, or legal size plain paper in the two trays 52 (S1260). If there is plain paper of these sizes (S1260: YES), the determination in S1230 is made. Similarly, it is determined whether or not the sizes match (S1270). If the sizes match (S1270: YES), the process proceeds to S1340. Printing is executed with the two trays 52 selected as the paper feed tray.

  On the other hand, no. When the two trays 52 do not contain any A4, letter, or legal size plain paper (S1260: NO); If the paper sizes of the two trays 52 do not match (S1270: NO), a size error is displayed to prompt the user to replace the paper (S1280). However, if a command to force printing is given by panel operation or the like even if the size error remains (S1290: YES), the priority setting No. One tray 51 is selected as a paper feed tray (S1240), and printing is performed on paper of different sizes. Even if forced printing is performed here, the size is slightly different. Since one tray contains plain paper of any size of A4, letter, or legal, the text itself of the data received by FAX will not be printed.

  Note that if the instruction for forced printing is not issued (S1290: NO) and the paper is replaced (S1300: YES), the process returns to S1210 and this routine is executed again from the beginning.

  No. If no plain paper of A4, letter, or legal size is contained in one tray 51 (S1220: NO), as shown in FIG. Two trays 52 are designated (S1310). And No. It is determined whether plain paper of A4, letter, or legal size is contained in the two trays 52 (S1320). When it is determined that plain paper of any one of these sizes is contained (S1320: YES), No. It is determined whether or not the paper in the two trays 52 matches the appropriate size as the print size of the received FAX data (S1330). If the sizes match (S1330: YES), no. Printing is executed with the two trays 52 selected as the paper feed tray (S1340).

  On the other hand, no. If there is A4, letter or legal size paper in the two trays 52 but the sizes do not match (S1320: YES, S1330: NO), a size error display is displayed to prompt the user to replace the paper. (S1350). If a command to force printing is issued even if the size error remains (S1360: YES), the No. containing the paper is displayed. The 2-tray 52 is selected as a paper feed tray (S1340), and printing is performed on paper of different sizes. In this case as well, since it is forced printing on plain paper of any size of A4, letter, or legal, even if it is not optimal as a FAX printing paper, it is possible to obtain a FAX printing output in which the body data is not lost. .

  On the other hand, if the instruction for forced printing is not issued (S1360: NO) and the paper is replaced (S1370: YES), the process returns to S1210 and this routine is executed again from the beginning.

No. There is no A4, letter or legal size paper in one tray 51 (S1220: NO). If the two trays 52 do not contain any A4, letter, or legal size plain paper (S1320: NO), no. 1 tray 51 or no. It is determined whether any other size of plain paper is contained in any of the two trays 52 (S1380). If plain paper of another size is in any tray (S1380: YES), a size error is displayed (S1390). On the other hand, if no plain paper is in any tray, (S1380: NO), an out-of-paper error is displayed (S1400), and prompts for paper replacement. When the sheets are replaced (S1410: YES), the process returns to S1210 and this routine is executed again from the beginning.

  In this way, in the case of this FAX printing tray selection processing 1, if there is A4, letter or legal size plain paper, forced printing by panel operation or the like is possible. A configuration in which forced printing cannot be performed simply by containing plain paper of a size or paper that falls into A4, letter, or legal size but is not plain paper (for example, OHP paper, cardboard, colored paper, etc.) It is said.

  This is because plain paper of the above size can be printed without losing the body of the FAX reception data, so that it is possible to perform forced printing even if it is not the optimum size. For example, by not performing forced printing, for example, printing on B5 plain paper is not performed, and it is possible to accurately prevent FAX printing with a part of the received data body missing. Also, expensive paper such as OHP paper is not used in vain.

  Next, the FAX printing tray selection process 2 will be described. This FAX printing tray selection process 2 is constituted by a procedure of flowcharts as shown in FIGS. The specific contents of the processes of S1510 to S1600 shown in FIG. 15 are the same as the processes of S1210 to S1300 described with reference to FIG. Further, the specific contents of the processes of S1610 to S1710 in FIG. 16 are the same as the processes of S1310 to S1410 described in FIG.

  The difference from the FAX printing tray selection process 1 is that no. 1 tray 51 or no. When some paper is contained in the 2-tray 52 but not A4, letter, or legal size paper (S1680: YES), a size error is displayed (S1690), and the FAX reception area is insufficient for memory. A process of determining whether or not is added (S1720). If the memory is not insufficient (S1720: NO), the process proceeds to S1710 to wait for paper replacement. If it is determined that the memory is insufficient (S1720: YES), OHP paper other than plain paper, cardboard, colored paper, etc. However, if there is no problem in FAX reception printing in terms of size, this is selected and printing is executed (S1730).

  According to this FAX printing tray selection processing 2, it is possible to perform forced printing on plain paper of a size in which the text of the FAX data is not lost, and prohibit forced printing on small size plain paper such as B5. This is similar to the case of FAX printing tray selection processing 1. However, as a difference from the FAX printing tray selection process 1, there is no. 1 tray 51 or no. If there is a shortage of memory when paper other than plain paper of the specified size is contained in the two trays 52, even if it is not plain paper, if the size is satisfied, forced printing is performed on OHP paper, etc. Generation of reception NG due to memory shortage is prevented.

  In the present embodiment, No. 1 tray 51 and no. In addition to two trays 52, No. 3 for A3 plain paper. Since 3 trays 53 are also provided, No. The three trays 53 may be selected to execute printing. This is because although the paper is too large, it does not cause partial missing of FAX reception data, and is cheaper than OHP paper and can be trimmed to a predetermined size with a paper cutter or the like.

  Next, the FAX printing process will be described. This process shows a printing process when a fax is received from the outside, and includes a procedure as shown in FIG.

  As a printing process at the time of FAX reception in this embodiment, first, it is determined whether or not FAX reception is completed (S1810). Only when the FAX reception is completed (S1810: YES), the FAX printing is started (S1820). Once the FAX printing is started, the FAX printing is continued until the FAX data disappears (S1830: NO, S1820). After the FAX data disappears (S1830: YES), the printer printing can be accepted (S1840). ).

  On the other hand, during FAX reception (S1810: NO), if there is a request for printer printing (S1840: YES), printer printing is started (S1850), and the printer print mode is continued until there is no printer data (S1860: NO, S1850). Then, after all the printer data is printed (S1860: YES), the printer can enter the FAX printing mode. Note that the FAX reception is continued in a separate routine while the printer print mode is being executed.

  As a result of configuring the FAX printing process in this way, as shown in FIG. 17B, for example, when receiving 2 pages of FAX data, it is not until the end of receiving 2 pages. Execute printing. Accordingly, printer printing is possible during FAX reception, and the period during which printer printing cannot be executed is limited to the period during which FAX printing is executed as shown in the figure. In addition, as described above, since the fax reception is configured to print out after one communication is completed, the print engine unit 81 only needs to be driven for a short period, which is advantageous in preventing the transfer drum 35 and the like from being consumed. It has become.

  For comparison, FIG. 17C shows a timing chart in the case of adopting a configuration in which printing is output every time one page is received in FAX reception. As shown in the figure, if the configuration is such that printing is performed every time one page is received, the period during which printer printing cannot be used becomes longer, and the print engine unit 81 performs printing of the first page and printing of the second page. Since the interval is wide, continuous printing in which the paper feeding operation for the second page is simultaneously performed during the printing of the first page cannot be performed. As a result, the driving time for paper conveyance becomes longer and the transfer drum 35 and the like are consumed. Get faster. Also, depending on the amount or speed of FAX reception, the printing interval may be further increased, so that the operation such as temporarily stopping the operation of the transfer drum 35 and the like and then starting again is performed. 35, etc. and the paper transport mechanism are consumed quickly.

  Next, a modified example of the FAX printing process will be described. This process consists of a procedure as shown in FIG. 18A. It is determined whether or not FAX reception is in progress (S1910). If FAX reception is in progress, the remaining data in the FAX data reception memory remains. It is determined whether memory full is expected to occur by a method such as checking the amount (S1920). Note that the determination of the occurrence of memory full may be performed prior to FAX reception. If it is predicted that memory full will occur (S1920: YES), FAX printing is started even during FAX reception (S1940). If memory full is not expected (S1920: NO), it is determined whether or not the FAX reception is completed (S1930), and the FAX printing process is executed according to the same procedure as described with reference to FIG. (S1930 to S1980).

As a result of configuring the FAX printing process in this way, as shown in FIG. 18B, for example, when it is predicted that the memory becomes full during reception of two pages of FAX data, before the memory becomes full. First, FAX printing is started at a timing at which FAX printing of the first page is completed, and the generation of reception NG due to memory full is prevented by quickly clearing the FAX reception memory. Also in the process of this modified example, when FAX printing is started once, FAX printing is prioritized until there is no FAX data. Accordingly, there is no possibility that a printer printing command is interrupted in the middle, and the output printed matter is not mixed with the fax reception data and the printer data.

  Note that the above-described FAX printing processes in FIGS. 17 and 18 are described on the assumption that FAX priority = OFF is set in the option detection process. For this reason, as described above, the effect that the period during which printer printing cannot be used can be shortened is exhibited.

  If FAX priority = ON is set, only the printer data is stored during FAX reception even if there is a request for printer printing. Therefore, the effect of shortening the period during which printer printing cannot be used is reduced. It is not demonstrated. However, even when FAX priority = ON, the FAX printing process employs a configuration in which FAX output is performed after reception of FAX data is completed, so the print engine unit 81 corresponds to FAX reception. Since the period during which the toner is continuously driven is shortened, the effect of suppressing the consumption of the transfer drum 35 and the like is sufficiently exhibited.

  By the way, the present embodiment is configured so that the page protection mode can be set for the memory management of the RAMs 63 and 64 when performing printer printing. As is generally known, the page protect mode is an image area in which one page of printer data received from the personal computer 11 or the like can be expanded in a free area in the memory when performing printer printing. This mode is reserved.

  However, in the case of FAX printing, image data is always sent in order from the upper left, so there is no need to perform processing in the page protect mode, and it is necessary to secure an image development area for one page in the free area. Absent. Rather, it can be said that it is suitable for so-called band processing in which several areas for image development for several lines are prepared, and printing is performed by rewriting these areas repeatedly.

  In the case of FAX printing, if the page protect mode is enabled, the free areas of the RAMs 63 and 64 are limited, and FAX data (G3 compressed data) is temporarily expanded into intermediate compressed data for printer output. There is a problem that the memory area is restricted, and the original data area for FAX must be set small.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, processing as shown in FIG. 19 is executed with respect to FAX printing processing when the page protection mode is set for printer printing.

  In this process, first, as shown in FIG. 19A, after setting conditions relating to the page protection mode are stored (S2010), page protection is turned off (S2020). As a result, for example, as shown in FIG. 19B, even if a large image area is secured when the page protection mode is ON, by turning the page protection mode OFF during FAX printing, FIG. As shown, the image area can be reduced to the extent necessary for band processing, and the free area for expanding the FAX data into compressed data for printer output becomes large. In addition, the fact that the free area can be increased in this way also means that the setting frame of the first FAX data area can be increased. Thus, in the fax printing process, the fax data processing always converts the fax data (G3 compressed data) to the compressed data for printer output using a wide free area after the page protect mode is turned off. (S2030) and by executing band processing, FAX printing processing is executed while developing data corresponding to predetermined lines sequentially into bitmap data for actual printing from the top of the page (S2040). .

  When the FAX printing is completed (S2050: YES), the setting conditions relating to the page protection mode stored in S2010 are returned to the original state, and this process is terminated (S2060).

  In this embodiment, since the configuration in which the free area shown in FIG. 19C is shared by the printer and FAX is used, the FAX data is used as printer output data in this free area. A process of setting an interface not used by FAX to BUSY before it becomes impossible to secure a free space necessary for expansion.

  This process is configured as shown in FIG. 20. First, it is determined whether or not there is a sufficient area for FAX development in the free area (S2110). If it is determined that it is not sufficient (S2110: NO), it is first determined whether or not a FAX is being received (S2115). If it is determined that FAX reception is in progress (S2115: YES), the other interface is set to BUSY (S2190). If it is determined that FAX reception is not being performed (S2100: NO), it is then determined whether the Centronics interface 72 is receiving FAX transmission data (S2120). If it is determined that the Centronics interface 72 is not receiving FAX transmission data (S2120: NO), the Centronics interface 72 is set to BUSY (S2130).

  Next, it is determined whether the RS-232C interface 71 is receiving data for FAX transmission (S2140). If it is determined that the RS-232C interface 71 is not receiving data for FAX transmission (S2140: NO), the RS-232C interface 71 is set to BUSY (S2150).

  Next, it is determined whether the network interface 73 is receiving FAX transmission data (S2160). When it is determined that the network interface 73 is not receiving FAX transmission data (S2160: NO), the network interface 73 is set to BUSY (S2170).

  In this way, when the free capacity of the FAX development free area (shared area) seems to be insufficient, if the FAX is not being received, all other than the interface that is currently receiving the FAX transmission data is BUSY. And When FAX reception is in progress, all interfaces for receiving data from other personal computers are set to BUSY. If there is sufficient free area (S2110: YES), the BUSY state of the interface that has been changed to BUSY due to insufficient FAX development area is canceled (S2180). In S2180, the BUSY state is canceled only when the FAX development area is insufficient and the BUSY state is set. If the interface is set to BUSY for other reasons, the BUSY state of each interface is released. I won't do that. The reason for this BUSY state can be determined by setting a flag indicating the state in the memory.

  By executing the above-described empty area check process for FAX development, it is not used by FAX before the free space required for FAX data development cannot be secured due to development of printer data in the free area. The interface is set to BUSY to prevent a shortage of empty areas.

  Next, description will be made regarding the contents of processing in a case where FAX broadcast transmission is executed using an application such as word processing software installed in a personal computer using the system in the present embodiment.

  First, the processing on the personal computer side will be described with reference to FIGS.

  On the personal computer side, application processing such as text creation for FAX transmission is executed using an installed application such as word processing software (S2210). This application process is repeatedly executed until a print command is issued (S2220: NO).

  If a print command is issued in the application process (S2220: YES), it is next determined whether or not the current print command is for FAX transmission data (S2230). If it is not data for FAX transmission (S2230: NO), normal print data transmission processing by the currently used application is executed (S2240).

  In this embodiment, when selecting a printer for print output on the personal computer side, a setting for specifying a printer with a FAX modem card as a normal printer and a setting for specifying as a FAX transmitter are provided. You can choose. That is, two printer drivers are registered so that one printer 30 looks like two printers of “ordinary printer” and “printer as a FAX transmitter”. When a “printer as a FAX transmitter” is designated when a print command is issued from the word processing software, a program for processing the data for FAX transmission by a print command is sent to the printer 30 as a print command. Is installed in advance on each of the personal computers 11 to 14 capable of executing the above. Thus, it is determined whether or not the data selected in step S2230 is data for FAX transmission depending on whether or not the printer selected in response to the print command is “a printer as a FAX transmitter”.

  Then, when “printer as FAX transmitter” is specified in the printer specification at the time of the printing command by the word processor software, it is determined that the data is for FAX transmission (S2230: YES). 14 starts a program installed in advance, and displays a screen for inputting a destination necessary for FAX transmission, a screen for selecting whether or not to attach a cover page, and the like. Accordingly, FAX transmission information input processing (S2235) for inputting the telephone number of the transmission destination, the contents of the memo to be described on the cover page, and the like is executed. In the FAX transmission information input processing, the following processing is executed by finally specifying printing OK. In this transmission destination input, broadcast transmission is performed by inputting a plurality of destinations.

  Thus, when “printer as FAX transmitter” is selected as a print output device, and necessary information is input and the OK button is clicked, first, a counter n indicating the number of transmission data is set to 1 (S2250). . Subsequently, FAX text data is created by executing FAX transmission data forming processing (S2260). Specifically, a process of converting the text data created by word processing software into G3 compressed FAX data is performed. Then, attribute information indicating the body is attached to the G3 compressed FAX data created in S2260 and defined as file n (in this case, file 1) (S2270). Subsequently, the file n is sent to the printer 30 designated for FAX transmission (S2280), and sending information n (in this case, sending information) indicating that the text data is sent to the FAX sending printer 30 as the file n. Information 1 is stored in the RAM in the personal computer (S2290).

Next, it is determined whether there is a cover page for FAX transmission (S2300). If there is a cover page (S2300: YES), the counter n indicating the number of transmission data is incremented (S2310), and the cover page data in the FAX transmission data format (G3 compression format) is also obtained for the cover page as in the text. Create (S2320). Subsequently, attribute information indicating that it is a cover page for FAX transmission is attached to the cover page data and defined as a file n (S2330), and then the file n is sent to the FAX transmission printer 30. At the same time (S2340), sending information n indicating that the cover page data is sent to the FAX transmission printer 30 as file n is stored in the RAM in the personal computer (S2350).

  Thereafter, it is determined whether there is a next cover page (S2360). If there is a next cover page (S2360: YES), the process returns to S2310, increments the transmission data number counter n again, and repeats the processing from S2320 onward. When the processing of S2310 to S2350 is thus completed for all cover pages (S2360: NO), the process proceeds to processing for determining whether or not the value of the transmission data number counter n is 2 or more (S2370). If it is determined in S2300 that there is no cover page (S2300: NO), the process proceeds to S2370 without performing S2310 to S2360. If it is determined that the value of the transmission data number counter n is 2 or more (S2370: YES), the counter m indicating the cover page transmission information start number is set to 2 (S2380). m and the transmission information 1 are combined, and a command to execute FAX output to the destination corresponding to the transmission information m is output to the FAX transmission printer 30 (S2390).

  After outputting a FAX transmission command for one destination in this way, it is determined whether n> m is satisfied (S2400). If n> m (S2400: YES), the counter m is incremented (S2410), and the process returns to S2390 to specify the combination of the cover page and the body for the second destination, and the destination corresponding to the cover page. In response to this, a command to the effect of FAX transmission is output (S2390). The above processing is repeatedly executed until the determination in S2400 becomes “NO”, and when the transmission command “cover page + text” is output to all destinations, the transmission information stored in the RAM is cleared. In step S2430, an instruction to clear the files 1 to n created in steps S2270 and S2330 is output to the fax transmission printer 30 (S2440).

  When the value of the counter n is less than 2 (S2370: NO), the FAX transmission command instructed this time is a case where FAX transmission is performed to one destination without a cover page. A command indicating that 1 (text data) should be faxed to the designated destination is output to the fax transmission printer 30 (S2420), and the processing from S2430 onward is executed.

  Next, a process on the printer 30 side corresponding to the broadcast transmission process will be described with reference to FIG.

  The printer 30 determines whether there is data input from the personal computer 11 or the like (S2510), and if there is data input (S2510: YES), it is determined whether it is print data (S2520). . If it is print data (S2520: YES), print processing as a normal printer is executed (S2530).

On the other hand, if it is not print data (S2530: NO), it is determined whether the data input from the personal computer 11 or the like is a file having attribute information (S2540). As described above, when transmitting data created by word processing software or the like on the personal computer side, as described in, for example, S2270 and S2280, first, a file is output in a format attached with attribute information indicating the text. . Further, as described in S2330 and S2340, the cover page is output with a file attached with attribute information as a cover page. The printer 30 can determine whether the data is for FAX transmission, a transmission command or a clear command based on the presence or absence of the attribute information.

  If it is determined that the file has an attribute (S2540: YES), the data sent from the personal computer 11 or the like is stored in the FAX data storage memory area together with the file number (S2550). As described above, when sending the broadcast, the personal computer sends the necessary number of cover pages for each destination after sending the body data, so it is stored in the FAX data storage memory on the printer 30 side. Will store text data as file 1 and cover page data as files 2 to n.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the data input from the personal computer 11 or the like is not a file having an attribute (S2540: NO), it is then determined whether it is an output command (S2560). As described above, in the case of broadcast transmission, text data is first transmitted from the personal computer 11 or the like, and then an output command is transmitted after a necessary number of cover pages are transmitted.

  If it is determined that the command is an output command (S2560: YES), the presence / absence of a file having an attribute designated by the output command is determined (S2570). If a file having the specified attribute is stored (S2570: YES), the cover page and the body are combined according to the specification of the output command from the personal computer (S2580), and the corresponding destination is specified. Then, FAX transmission is executed (S2590).

  If the command from the personal computer 11 or the like is not an output command (2560: NO), as described above, the command is a command for clearing the files 1 to n stored on the printer 30 side. Processing for clearing files 1 to n is executed (S2600).

  As described above, in the broadcast transmission processing in this embodiment, when sending data from the personal computer 11 or the like to the FAX transmission printer 30, the text data is sent only once, and then the necessary number of copies is sent. Since only cover page data is transmitted, the amount of data transmitted from the personal computer 11 or the like when performing broadcast transmission can be reduced. Further, since the amount of data sent from the personal computer 11 or the like to the printer 30 is small, the memory on the printer 30 side is not compressed. As described above, the body data and the cover page can be distinguished from each other by their file numbers. Therefore, according to the output command from the personal computer 11 or the like, the files stored on the printer 30 side can be combined and the same contents can be obtained. Broadcast transmission can be executed for FAX data with a cover page in which body data is combined with each cover page.

  In this explanation, the output command (S2390) is issued after all the files are sent to the printer 30, but the body data is sent to the printer 30 as the file 1 before the cover page (S2280). Therefore, after the cover page data is sent to the printer 30 as the file n (S2340), an output command can be issued immediately (S2390).

As a result, when there is a small amount of FAX memory area, if there are a large number of cover pages or if there is a large amount of data for one cover page, the text data is stored in memory after all cover pages are placed in the memory. In this case, if you send the text data first, the text data can be kept in the memory area. Send out a cover page, issue an output command, and then delete only that cover page (issue a command to clear only that cover page in S2440, and delete it from the memory area in S2600). The object of minimizing the file transfer operation can be achieved without causing it to occur.

  That is, when such a processing flow is performed, the order in which the body data is sent to the printer 30 first and the cover page data is sent to the printer 30 later is also significant.

  Also, the configuration in which the body data and the cover page data are transmitted in combination is the same as sending a plurality of body data files to the printer 30 in advance and combining the plurality of body data with the cover page. Can be done.

  Next, as another embodiment, when there is only one paper feed tray, and there are a plurality of paper feed trays, it is fixed to one of the paper feed trays for FAX printing. The processing contents at the time of FAX data reception in a printer configured to be unable to feed paper from other paper feed trays will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, it is determined whether or not plain paper of A4, letter, or legal size is in the paper feed tray (S2710). Here, for example, even if it is A4 size, it is judged as “NO” when OHP paper, thick paper, colored paper, etc. are contained instead of plain paper. In identifying the size and type of the paper, as already described, a sensor for detecting the paper size and a sensor for detecting the paper type may be provided, or the user puts the paper into this paper feed tray. At this time, the determination may be made based on information set by panel operation.

  If it is determined that A4, letter, or legal size plain paper is contained in the paper feed tray (S2710: YES), the paper in the paper feed tray is further classified as a paper required for FAX printing. It is determined whether or not the sizes match (S2720). If the sizes match (S2720: YES), printing using the paper stored in the paper feed tray is permitted (S2730).

  On the other hand, if there is A4, Letter, or Legal size paper in the paper feed tray, but it is not the optimal size for printing paper for FAX reception data (S2710: YES, S2720: NO), a size error display is displayed. (S2780) to prompt the user to replace the paper. In this state, if the operation of “CONTINUE KEY” instructing forced printing is performed (S2750: YES), the paper stored in the paper feed tray (in this case, A4, letter) is slightly different in size. Alternatively, the execution of printing on legal-sized plain paper) is permitted (S2730).

  On the other hand, if the forced printing command is not issued (S2750: NO), it is determined whether or not the paper has been replaced (S2760). If the paper is replaced (S2760: YES), this routine is executed again from the beginning.

  On the other hand, when the A4, letter, or legal size paper is not contained in the paper feed tray (S2710: NO), whether or not any paper is contained in the paper feed tray. Is determined (S2810). If it is determined that there is no paper in the paper feed tray (S2810: NO), a paper out error is displayed (S2820) to prompt the user to replace the paper.

On the other hand, if the A4, letter or legal size paper is not included in the paper feed tray, but some paper is present (S2710: NO, S2810: YES), the FAX reception area is set. It is determined whether or not memory is insufficient (S2830). If the memory is not insufficient (S2830: NO), a paper error display is performed (S284).
0) Prompt the user to replace the paper. After the error display in S2820 and S2840, it is determined whether or not the sheet has been replaced in the same manner as in S2760 (S2850). If the sheet has been replaced (S2850: YES), the process returns to the beginning of this routine.

  However, if it is determined that the memory is insufficient (S2830: YES), it is determined whether the size of the paper stored in the paper feed tray is A4, letter, or legal (S2860). The difference between the determination in S2860 and the determination in S2710 is that the type of paper is not identified in S2860. If it is confirmed that the OHP paper, cardboard, and color paper other than plain paper are stored in the paper feed tray, the size of the paper does not interfere with FAX reception printing (S2860: YES). Then, the FAX data printing process is executed using the paper stored in the paper feed tray.

  As described above, in the second embodiment, when the printer originally has only one paper feed tray, and although it has a plurality of paper feed trays, a paper feed tray for FAX printing. In this case, printing is performed if plain paper that is optimal for FAX printing is contained in this paper feed tray. However, if the paper is not optimal, printing is not performed. There is no print output that seems to be missing the body of the received data.

  Also, forced printing is possible only when A4, letter, or legal size plain paper is in the paper tray for FAX printing, and small size paper like B5 plain paper is included. In such a case, the forced printing cannot be performed, so that the paper output without the text due to the forced printing is eliminated. In response to the forced printing command, printing is permitted on any of the above three sizes of plain paper, but FAX data can be received with A4 size fixed, so if it is any of these sizes Fax data can be output on paper without missing text.

  Furthermore, even if the paper feed tray has any of the above three sizes, if it is not plain paper but is similar to OHP paper or an envelope, the process proceeds to the above-described forced printing step. I can't. This eliminates the problem of wastefully consuming expensive OHP paper and the like.

  Also, if there is any paper in the paper feed tray, it is determined whether or not memory shortage can occur. If it is determined that memory shortage can occur, the size of this paper is A4 or the like. If there is, a forced printing mode is also set to permit printing even if it is OHP paper. This prevents the occurrence of reception NG due to memory shortage. In addition, even if it is determined that memory shortage may occur, printing is not permitted if the size of the paper stored in the paper feed tray is not A4 or the like, so the problem of missing text in the received data is precisely Eliminated.

  In the present embodiment, not only the above three sizes but also plain paper of the above three sizes or more is set to be capable of forced printing, or set to permit printing in the forced printing mode. You may keep it. If the size is large, there will be no partial missing of FAX received data, and A3 plain paper or B4 plain paper is cheaper than OHP paper, and cut to a predetermined size with a paper cutter or the like. It is also possible.

  Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and it is needless to say that various forms can be adopted without departing from the scope of the present invention. .

It is a schematic diagram which shows schematic structure of the whole system in embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of the control system of the color laser printer employ | adopted in embodiment. 6 is a flowchart showing the contents of option detection processing executed on the printer side in the embodiment. 5 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of FAX control interrupt processing executed on the printer side in the embodiment. 4 is a flowchart illustrating contents of a reception process, a transmission process, and a print interrupt process executed on the printer side in the embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing the contents of processing in a main routine executed on the printer side in the embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing the contents of a memory clear process at reset executed on the printer side in the embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the modification regarding the above-mentioned memory clear process. 4 is a flowchart showing the contents of panel display processing executed on the printer side in the embodiment. 6 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of a printing tray selection process executed on the printer side in the embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the more specific content of the printer printing tray selection process in the above-mentioned printing tray selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the more specific content of the printer printing tray selection process in the above-mentioned printing tray selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the more specific content of the tray selection process 1 for FAX printing in the above-mentioned printing tray selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the more specific content of the tray selection process 1 for FAX printing in the above-mentioned printing tray selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the more specific content of the tray selection process 2 for FAX printing in the above-mentioned tray selection process for printing. It is a flowchart which shows the more specific content of the tray selection process 2 for FAX printing in the above-mentioned tray selection process for printing. The details of the FAX printing process executed on the printer side in the embodiment are shown, (A) is its flowchart, (B) is a timing chart corresponding to the process of the flowchart, and (C) is as shown in (A). It is a timing chart which shows the evil when not performing a process. The content of the modification regarding the above-mentioned FAX printing process is shown, (A) is the flowchart, (B) is a timing chart corresponding to the process of the said flowchart. FIG. 4 shows the contents of FAX printing processing executed by canceling the page protection mode on the printer side in the embodiment, (A) is a flowchart thereof, and (B) is a schematic diagram showing the state of a memory area when the page protection mode is ON. FIG. 4C is a schematic diagram showing the state of the memory area when the page protect mode is OFF. 4 is a flowchart showing the contents of a FAX memory empty area check process executed on the printer side in the embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the personal computer side broadcast transmission process in the case of performing broadcast transmission in embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the personal computer side broadcast transmission process in the case of performing broadcast transmission in embodiment. 6 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of printer-side broadcast transmission processing when broadcast transmission is performed in the embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of a paper type determination process during FAX printing in the second embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Local area network (LAN), 3 ... FAX modem card, 5 ... Public line network, 11-15 ... Personal computer, 17, 18 ... Image scanner, 19 ... Facsimile Equipment 20 ... Server 30 ... Color laser printer 31 ... Y station 32 ... M station 33 ... C station 34 ... K station 35 ... Transfer drum , 36 ... intermediate transfer belt, 37 ... fixing roller, 38 ... paper discharge switching mechanism, 39 ... paper discharge stacker, 40 ... sorter unit, 41 to 43 paper discharge stacker, 51・ ・ No. 1 tray, 52. 2 trays, 53. 3 trays, 54... Manual feed tray, 60... Control unit, 61... CPU, 62... ROM, 63. ..Flash ROM, 67... ASIC, 68... Timer, 70... Interface unit, 71... RS-232C interface, 72 .. Bidirectional Centronics interface, 73. ... SCSI interface, 75, 76 ... PCMCIA slot, 80 ... Mechanism part, 81 ... Print engine part, 82 ... Paper feed / discharge part, 83 ... Operation part, 84 ... -Display part, 85 ... detection part.

Claims (2)

A paper tray for storing paper,
A selection means for selecting a paper feed tray to be used for printing;
Printing means for feeding paper from the paper feed tray selected by the selection means and executing printing;
Identifying means for identifying the size of the paper stored in the paper feed tray;
Determining means for determining whether printing by the printing means is printing under a printer function or printing under a FAX function;
When the determination by the determination unit is printing under a printer function, the selection unit can select a paper feed tray that stores paper that does not match the paper size required for printing. If the determination is printing under the FAX function, the printer cannot select the paper feed tray that stores the paper in which the FAX data body is lost. The selection means is capable of selecting a paper feed tray containing A4, letter, or legal size paper when the judgment by the judgment means is printing under a FAX function. The printer according to claim 1.