Image forming apparatus and storage medium

Abstract

An image forming apparatus and a storage medium capable of shortening a time from a power saving mode to a state capable of printing. An image forming apparatus according to an embodiment includes a first control circuit, a second control circuit, and a third control circuit. The first control circuit communicates with an information processing apparatus. The second control circuit communicates with the first control circuit. The third control circuit is a control circuit that communicates with the second control circuit and controls a printer unit. The first control circuit receives print information from the information processing apparatus in a power saving mode and controls activation of the second control circuit based on the print information. The second control circuit supplies power to the third control circuit based on activation control achieved by the first control circuit, and after becoming capable of communication with the third control circuit, transmits a preheat start instruction of the printer unit based on the print information acquired from the first control circuit to the third control circuit.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Embodiments of the present application relate to an image forming apparatus and a program. BACKGROUND

[0002] When the image forming apparatus is in the power saving mode (referred to as S3 state in accordance with ACPI (Advanced Configuration and Power Interface) specification), the image forming apparatus cuts off the power supply to the printer unit and the like. The image forming apparatus maintains the network-related functions of the image forming apparatus by supplying power mainly to a part of the main CPU, the main memory, and the NIC (Network Interface Card).

[0003] Conventionally, if the image forming apparatus receives an NW packet in the power saving mode, the NIC determines whether it is a packet requiring the recovery processing of the image forming apparatus. In the case where the NIC determines that it is a packet requiring the recovery processing of the image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus restarts the power supply to the entire system substrate and communicates with the client. The client requests printing to the image forming apparatus through the communication, and in the case where the image forming apparatus receives the print data, the image forming apparatus restarts the power supply to the printer unit. The image forming apparatus performs the printing processing based on the data received from the client after becoming the print-ready state based on the completion of the initialization and warm-up operation of the printer unit.

[0004] In Energy Star, which is an international energy saving system for office equipment, and Blue Angel Mark, which is an environmental label in Germany, a criterion related to the time required from the start of the power saving mode to the completion of the NW printing processing is prescribed. In order to acquire the certification, the shortening of the printing recovery time is being performed in various methods. SUMMARY

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present application is to provide a technology for shortening the time from the power saving mode to the state capable of printing.

[0006] In one embodiment, an image forming apparatus includes a first control circuit that communicates with an information processing apparatus, a second control circuit that communicates with the first control circuit, and a third control circuit that is a control circuit that communicates with the second control circuit and controls a printer unit, the first control circuit receives print information from the information processing apparatus in a power saving mode and controls activation of the second control circuit based on the print information, the second control circuit supplies power to the third control circuit based on activation control achieved by the first control circuit, and after becoming capable of communication with the third control circuit, transmits a warm-up start instruction of the printer unit based on the print information acquired from the first control circuit to the third control circuit.

[0007] In one embodiment, an image forming apparatus includes a first control circuit that communicates with an information processing apparatus, a second control circuit that communicates with the first control circuit, and a plurality of signal lines that are provided between the first control circuit and the second control circuit and with which each process in the image forming apparatus is associated, the first control circuit receives print information from the information processing apparatus in a power saving mode and transmits a signal via a signal line with which printing is associated among the plurality of signal lines based on the print information, the second control circuit is activated based on reception of the signal, and performs control associated with printing based on activation, wherein the signal is transmitted via the signal line with which the printing is associated.

[0008] In one embodiment, a program causes a computer to execute a function of transmitting print information including a print mode showing any one of achromatic printing and non-achromatic printing to an image processing apparatus, and a function of transmitting print data to the image processing apparatus after transmitting the print information BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating an information processing system to which embodiments relate.

[0010] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an outline of a configuration example of an image forming apparatus to which embodiments relate.

[0011] Figure 3 is a diagram showing an outline of a configuration example of a printer unit to which embodiments relate.

[0012] Figure 4 is a diagram showing an outline of a configuration example of a fuser to which embodiments relate.

[0013] Figure 5 is a diagram showing an outline of a configuration example of a terminal to which embodiments relate.

[0014] Figure 6 is a diagram showing an outline of the MIB to which the embodiment relates.

[0015] Figure 7 is a diagram showing an example of the index value to which the embodiment relates.

[0016] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating the process of the processor of the terminal to which the embodiment relates.

[0017] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating the process of the NIC of the image forming apparatus to which the embodiment relates.

[0018] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating the process of the processor of the control unit of the image forming apparatus to which the embodiment relates.

[0019] Figure 11 is a flowchart illustrating the process of the processor of the printer unit of the image forming apparatus to which the embodiment relates.

[0020] Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0021] 1…image forming apparatus; 2…terminal; 10…control unit; 11…processor; 12…NIC; 15…wireless LAN section; 70…power supply circuit; 100…printer unit; 101…processor; 130…image forming section; 140…fuser; 171…print request call signal line; 172…network call signal line; 1101…print request call GPIO; 1102…network call GPIO; 1201…print request call GPIO; 1202…network call GPIO; 1203…register; 1407…coil; S…information processing system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] The embodiments are described below using the drawings.

[0023] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating the information processing system S.

[0024] The information processing system S includes the image forming apparatus 1 and the terminal 2. The image forming apparatus 1 and the terminal 2 are freely connected to each other in communication by wire or wirelessly via a network. The network is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) or the like, but is not limited thereto.

[0025] The image forming apparatus 1 is a device provided with a printing function of an electrophotographic system. The image forming apparatus 1 is explained as a digital multifunction peripheral (MFP) provided with a copying function, a printing function, a facsimile function, a scanning function, and the like. The image forming apparatus can perform non-bleachable printing and bleachable printing.

[0026] The non-bleachable printing is suitable for making a text to be saved. The non-bleachable printing uses non-bleachable toner. The non-bleachable toner is also called permanent toner, general toner, or the like.

[0027] The bleachable printing is printing for making a text capable of "erasing" a printed character or the like. The bleachable printing uses bleachable toner. The bleachable toner is toner that is bleached by an external stimulus such as temperature, light of a specific wavelength, pressure, or the like. In the present embodiment, the bleachable toner is toner that is bleached by heat applied at a certain temperature or higher. Note that, in the present embodiment, "bleaching" means making an image such as a character formed in a color different from the color of the texture of a sheet visually invisible. Here, the color includes not only a color but also achromatic colors such as white and black.

[0028] The terminal 2 is a device capable of processing information. For example, the terminal 2 is a PC (Personal Computer), a tablet terminal, a smartphone, or the like, but is not limited to these. The terminal 2 is an example of an information processing apparatus.

[0029] A configuration example of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described.

[0030] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an outline of the configuration example of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0031] As shown in Figure 2 , the image forming apparatus 1 has a control unit 10, a control panel 30, a scanner unit 50, a power supply circuit 70, and a printer unit 100.

[0032] The control unit 10 controls the operation of each part of the image forming apparatus 1. The control unit 10 includes a processor 11, a NIC (Network Interface Card) 12, a main memory 13, a storage 14, and a wireless LAN section 15.

[0033] The processor 11 corresponds to a central part of the image forming apparatus 1. The processor 11 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), but is not limited thereto. The processor 11 can also be constituted by various circuits. The processor 11 expands a program stored in advance in the main memory 13 or the memory 14 in the main memory 13. The processor 11 performs various actions by executing the program expanded in the main memory 13.

[0034] The processor 11 has a plurality of GPIOs (General Purpose Input / Output) associated with each process in the image forming apparatus 1. The GPIO is also sometimes referred to as a GPIO port. The plurality of GPIOs include a print request arousing GPIO 1101. The print request arousing GPIO 1101 is associated with a process in the image forming apparatus 1 that requires power supply to the printer unit 100. Here, printing is taken as an example as the process in the image forming apparatus 1 that requires power supply to the printer unit 100. The printing is a process using the printer unit 100. A signal that causes the processor 11 to start up, which is transmitted through the NIC 12 with printing as an arousal element, is input to the print request arousing GPIO 1101. The arousal corresponds to the start-up.

[0035] The plurality of GPIOs include a network arousing GPIO 1102. The network arousing GPIO 1102 is associated with a process in the image forming apparatus 1 that does not require power supply to the printer unit 100. Here, file transfer is taken as an example as the process in the image forming apparatus 1 that does not require power supply to the printer unit 100. The file transfer is a process that can be completed by the control unit 10 that controls the network between the terminal 2. The file transfer does not require the printer unit 100. A signal that causes the processor 11 to start up, which is transmitted through the NIC 12 with the file transfer as an arousal element, is input to the network arousing GPIO 1102.

[0036] The processor 11 can also have three or more GPIOs associated with different processes in the image forming apparatus 1.

[0037] The NIC 12 communicates with the wiredly connected terminal 2. The NIC 12 is a module having a processor. The processor is, for example, a CPU, but is not limited thereto. The processor can also be constituted by various circuits.

[0038] The NIC 12 has a plurality of GPIOs associated with each process in the image forming apparatus 1. The plurality of GPIOs includes a print request arousing GPIO 1201. Like the print request arousing GPIO 1101, the print request arousing GPIO 1201 is associated with printing. The print request arousing GPIO 1201 outputs a signal to cause the processor 11 to start up with printing as an arousal element.

[0039] The plurality of GPIOs has a network arousing GPIO 1202. Like the network arousing GPIO 1102, the network arousing GPIO 1202 is associated with file transfer. The network arousing GPIO 1202 outputs a signal to cause the processor 11 to start up with file transfer as an arousal element.

[0040] The NIC 12 can also have three or more GPIOs associated with different processes in the image forming apparatus 1.

[0041] The NIC 12 has a register 1203. The register 1203 is a storage circuit.

[0042] The main memory 13 corresponds to a main storage section of the image forming apparatus 1. The main memory 13 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 13 stores an operating system or a program in the non-volatile memory area. The main memory 13 uses the volatile memory area as a work area in which data is suitably rewritten by the processor 11. For example, the main memory 13 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) as the non-volatile memory area. For example, the main memory 202 includes a RAM (Random Access Memory) as the volatile memory area.

[0043] The storage 14 corresponds to an auxiliary storage section of the image forming apparatus 1. For example, the storage 14 includes a HDD (Hard Disk Drive). In addition to or instead of the HDD, the storage 14 can include a semiconductor storage medium such as an SSD (Solid State Drive), or the like. The storage 14 stores the above-described program, data used for various processes by the processor 11, and data generated by processing in the processor 11. The storage 14 is an example of a storage section.

[0044] The wireless LAN section 15 communicates with the terminal 2 connected wirelessly. The wireless LAN section 15 is configured like the NIC.

[0045] The control unit 10 has a plurality of signal lines provided between the NIC 12 and the processor 11. The signal lines correspond to the bus. The plurality of signal lines are associated with each process in the image forming apparatus 1. The plurality of signal lines connect a plurality of GPIOs that the processor 11 has and a plurality of GPIOs that the NIC 12 has. The processor 11 communicates with the NIC 12 by means of the plurality of signal lines.

[0046] The plurality of signal lines include a print request arousal signal line 171. The print request arousal signal line 171 is associated with a process in the image forming apparatus 1 that requires power supply to the printer unit 100. The print request arousal signal line 171 connects a print request arousal GPIO 1101 that the processor 11 has and a print request arousal GPIO 1201 that the NIC 12 has. The print request arousal signal line 171 transmits a signal that causes the processor 11 to start up with printing as an arousal element from the print request arousal GPIO 1201 to the print request arousal GPIO 1101.

[0047] The plurality of signal lines include a network arousal signal line 172. The network arousal signal line 172 is associated with a process in the image forming apparatus 1 that does not require power supply to the printer unit 100. The network arousal signal line 172 connects a network arousal GPIO 1102 that the processor 11 has and a network arousal GPIO 1202 that the NIC 12 has. The network arousal signal line 172 transmits a signal that causes the processor 11 to start up with file transfer as an arousal element from the network arousal GPIO 1202 to the network arousal GPIO 1102.

[0048] The control unit 10 has three or more signal lines associated with different processes in the image forming apparatus 1.

[0049] The control panel 30 can include a display element 31, a touch panel 32, and input buttons 33. The display element 31 is, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (electroluminescence) display. The display element 31 displays information such as the state of the image forming apparatus 1, various settings, and the like. In addition, the display element 31 displays selection items and the like for changing the settings and the like of the image forming apparatus 1. The touch panel 32 is provided on the display element 31. The touch panel 32 forms a touch screen together with the display element 31. The touch panel 32 acquires an instruction of a user. The input buttons 33 include, for example, a print start button and the like. The input buttons 33 acquire an instruction of a user.

[0050] The scanner unit 50 reads an image of a character, a figure, a photograph, or the like depicted on a medium placed at a predetermined position. Thus, the scanner unit 50 includes a line sensor. The line sensor can employ a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) system, a CIS (Contact Image Sensor) system, or another system. The line sensor is an example of an imaging element. The scanner unit 50 generates image data based on an image read by the line sensor. The scanner unit 50 transmits the generated image data to the control unit 10. The control unit 10 saves the received image data in the storage 14 or transmits the image data to the printer unit 100.

[0051] The power supply circuit 70 converts alternating current supplied from a commercial power supply into direct current and supplies power to the control unit 10, the control panel 30, the scanner unit 50, and the printer unit 100. The power supply circuit 70 can be controlled by the processor 11, the NIC 12, and the processor 101.

[0052] The printer unit 100 forms an image on a medium. For example, the printer unit 100 forms an image on a surface of a medium based on image data transmitted from the terminal 2 via a network.

[0053] Here, an example of the printer unit 100 using a tandem type toner image transfer unit will be described. The printer unit 100 includes a processor 101, a housing 110, a conveyance unit 120, an image forming unit 130, and a fuser 140.

[0054] The processor 101 communicates with the processor 11 through a UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter). The processor 101 controls the printer unit 100. For example, the processor 101 is a CPU, but is not limited thereto. The processor 101 can also be configured by various circuits. The housing 110 houses a medium such as paper, cloth, or a plastic film. The medium is conveyed from the housing 110 to the image forming unit 130 and the fuser 140 in order by the conveyance unit 120. The image forming unit 130 forms an image of a character, a figure, a photograph, or the like on the medium. The fuser 140 fixes a toner image transferred to the medium by heat and pressure. An example of the configuration of the fuser 140 will be described later.

[0055] Figure 3 is a diagram showing an outline of an example of the configuration of the printer unit 100.

[0056] Reference Signs Figure 3 The printer unit 100 will be described.

[0057] The housing 110 has a plurality of paper feed cassettes. In Figure 3 In the illustrated example, the housing 110 has a first paper feed cassette 111, a second paper feed cassette 112, and a third paper feed cassette 113. Each of the paper feed cassettes accommodates a predetermined size and kind of media 300. That is, the first paper feed cassette 111 accommodates first media 301. The second paper feed cassette 112 accommodates second media 302. The third paper feed cassette 113 accommodates third media 303. An example of three paper feed cassettes is shown here, but the number of paper feed cassettes can be one or several.

[0058] Each of the paper feed cassettes has a pickup roller. That is, the first paper feed cassette 111 has a first pickup roller 114. The second paper feed cassette 112 has a second pickup roller 115. The third paper feed cassette 113 has a third pickup roller 116. Each of the pickup rollers takes out the media 300 from each of the paper feed cassettes one by one. Each of the pickup rollers feeds the taken-out media 300 to the conveyance section 120.

[0059] The conveyance section 120 conveys the media 300 in the printer unit 100. The conveyance section 120 has conveyance rollers 121 to 124, a registration roller 125, and a conveyance roller 126. The conveyance roller 121 conveys the first media 301 fed by the first pickup roller 114 to the conveyance roller 124. The conveyance roller 122 conveys the second media 302 fed by the second pickup roller 115 to the conveyance roller 124. The conveyance roller 123 conveys the third media 303 fed by the third pickup roller 116 to the conveyance roller 124. The conveyance roller 124 conveys the media 300 further to the registration roller 125. The registration roller 125 conveys the media 300 to the transfer section 138 of the image forming section 130 according to timing at which a toner image is transferred to the media 300 by the transfer section 138, which will be described later. The conveyance roller 126 is provided on a downstream side of a fixing device 140 and conveys the media 300 to a paper discharge section 180. The paper discharge section 180 can be an opening or a tray having a paper receiving surface 181. The conveyance section 120 can have a flipper 127 that flips the media 300 when an image is formed on both sides of the media 300.

[0060] The image forming section 130 forms a toner image on the media 300. The image forming section 130 has a plurality of developing sections 131 to 135, an exposure device 136, an intermediate transfer belt 137, a transfer section 138, and a transfer belt cleaner 139. The plurality of developing sections 131 to 135 correspond to the number of kinds of toner.

[0061] The image forming section 130 is configured to be capable of monochrome printing (black and white) and color printing of non-bleachable printing, and monochrome bleachable printing. The image forming section 130 has a black developing section 131, a cyan developing section 132, a magenta developing section 133, a yellow developing section 134, and a bleachable developing section 135. The black developing section 131 is a developing section corresponding to toner of black (K). The cyan developing section 132 is a developing section corresponding to toner of cyan (C). The magenta developing section 133 is a developing section corresponding to toner of magenta (M). The yellow developing section 134 is a developing section corresponding to toner of yellow (Y). The bleachable developing section 135 is a developing section corresponding to bleachable toner. Each developing section has the same configuration.

[0062] Each developing section has a photosensitive drum 151 functioning as an image carrier. Each developing section has a charger 152, a developing device 153, a primary transfer roller 154, a cleaning unit 155, and a de-charger 156 around the photosensitive drum 151.

[0063] The intermediate transfer belt 137 is a loop-shaped belt. The intermediate transfer belt 137 passes between the photosensitive drum 151 and the primary transfer roller 154 of each developing section. The intermediate transfer belt 137 is hung around a support roller 1381 and a support roller 1301 of the transfer section 138. The intermediate transfer belt 137 is rotated in a counterclockwise direction in Figure 3 counterclockwise direction in

[0064] The photosensitive drum 151 has a photosensitive layer on a surface. The photosensitive drum 151 is rotated in a clockwise direction around an axis in Figure 3 The charger 152 uniformly charges the photosensitive layer of the surface of the photosensitive drum 151. For example, the charger 152 charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 151 to a negative polarity.

[0065] The exposure device 136 is positioned opposite the photosensitive drum 151 of each developing section. The exposure device 136 has a semiconductor laser source. The exposure device 136 irradiates laser light to the surface of the photosensitive drum 151 of each developing section by means of an optical system such as a polygon mirror. The exposure device 136 performs an operation including light emission based on image data under the control of the control unit 10. The exposure device 136 forms an electrostatic latent image in the position on the surface of the photosensitive drum 151 irradiated by the laser light. Note that instead of the laser source, the exposure device 136 can use an LED (Light Emitting Diode).

[0066] The developing device 153 develops the electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 151 by toner. That is, the toner adheres to the electrostatic latent image of the photosensitive drum 151. Thus, the developing device 153 forms a toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 151.

[0067] The primary transfer roller 154 opposes the photosensitive drum 151 to sandwich the intermediate transfer belt 137. The primary transfer roller 154 functions as a bias roller. The primary transfer roller 154 transfers the toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 151 to the intermediate transfer belt 137. This transfer is called primary transfer. The black developing portion 131, the cyan developing portion 132, the magenta developing portion 133, and the yellow developing portion 134 can multiply transfer toner images of various colors on the intermediate transfer belt 137.

[0068] The cleaning unit 155 is positioned behind the position on the surface of the photosensitive drum 151 at which the toner image is transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 137. The cleaning unit 155 scrapes and removes the toner and the like on the surface of the photosensitive drum 151 that is not transferred. The cleaning unit 155 collects the removed toner in a waste toner tank.

[0069] The charge eliminator 156 opposes the photosensitive drum 151 passed through the cleaning unit 155. The charge eliminator 156 irradiates light to the surface of the photosensitive drum 151. The charge eliminator 156 uniformly charges the photosensitive layer by the light irradiation. The charge of the photosensitive layer is uniformed.

[0070] The transfer portion 138 has a support roller 1381 and a secondary transfer roller 1382. The support roller 1381 and the secondary transfer roller 1382 are configured to sandwich the intermediate transfer belt 137 and the medium 300 from both sides in the thickness direction. The support roller 1381 is a driving roller of the intermediate transfer belt 137. The secondary transfer roller 1382 opposes the support roller 1381 across the intermediate transfer belt 137. The transfer portion 138 transfers the charged toner image on the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 137 to the surface of the medium 300. This transfer is called secondary transfer.

[0071] The transfer belt cleaner 139 is positioned between the transfer portion 138 and the developing portion in the moving direction of the intermediate transfer belt 137. The transfer belt cleaner 139 removes the toner that is not transferred on the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 137 after the toner image is transferred from the intermediate transfer belt 137 to the medium 300.

[0072] The fuser 140 applies heat and pressure to the medium 300 on which the toner image is formed, which is supplied from the image forming portion 130. The fuser 140 fixes the toner image formed on the medium 300 by the heat and pressure.

[0073] Figure 4 A diagram showing an outline of a configuration example of the fuser 140.

[0074] The fuser 140 is, for example, a fuser of an induction heating system. The fuser 140 has a pressure roller 1401, a pressure pad 1402, a magnetic alloy position adjustment mechanism 1403, an aluminum member 1404, a magnetic alloy 1405, a core 1406, a coil 1407, a fuser belt 1408, a frame 1409, and a sensor 1410.

[0075] The pressure roller 1401 is positioned so as to be in mutual circumferential opposition with the fuser belt 1408. The pressure roller 1401 is abutted to the fuser belt 1408 by springs at both ends. The pressure roller 1401 has a core of a metal member, and an elastic layer such as a rubber layer on the outside thereof. The pressure roller 1401 has a release layer on the surface. The pressure roller 1401 is rotationally driven. The pressure roller 1401 can also drive the fuser belt 1408. The pressure roller 1401 can also have a one-way clutch so that a speed difference with the fuser belt 1408 does not occur.

[0076] The pressure pad 1402 is positioned on the inside of the fuser belt 1408. The pressure pad 1402 presses the fuser belt 1408 toward the pressure roller 1401. A nip is formed between the fuser belt 1408 and the pressure roller 1401. The shape of the portion of the pressure pad 1402 that opposes the pressure roller 1401 is the same as the outer circumferential shape of the pressure roller 1401. The width of the pressure pad 1402 in the longitudinal direction is wider than the width of the medium 300 being conveyed. In order to make the sliding properties better, the pressure pad 1402 has a low-friction sheet material between the pressure pad 1402 and the pressure roller 1401.

[0077] The magnetic alloy position adjustment mechanism 1403 is fixed to the frame 1409. The magnetic alloy position adjustment mechanism 1403 is a position adjustment mechanism for the magnetic alloy 1405.

[0078] The aluminum member 1404 is connected to the magnetic alloy position adjustment mechanism 1403. The aluminum member 1404 shields the magnetic flux of the coil 1407.

[0079] The magnetic alloy 1405 opposes the coil 1407 across the fuser belt 1408. If the magnetic alloy 1405 becomes equal to or higher than the Curie point temperature, the magnetic permeability decreases, and the magnetic flux density that passes through the fuser belt 1408 decreases.

[0080] The core 1406 is positioned further outward than the coil 1407. The core 1406 shields the magnetic flux of the coil 1407.

[0081] The coil 1407 is positioned further outward than the fuser belt 1408. The coil 1407 generates a magnetic flux.

[0082] The fuser belt 1408 is a belt that is annular. The fuser belt 1408 is made of a material that is resistant to heat and electricity, and has a release layer on the surface. Figure 4The fixing belt 1408 rotates counterclockwise. The fixing belt 1408 has a plurality of layers. The fixing belt 1408 has an electrically conductive layer that generates heat by the magnetic field of the coil 1407. For example, the electrically conductive layer is made of an electrically conductive substance such as iron, nickel, or copper. The fixing belt 1408 can also have a Cu layer stacked on a Ni layer. The fixing belt 1408 has an elastic layer on the electrically conductive layer. The fixing belt 1408 has a release layer on the electrically conductive layer. The release layer is a layer that directly contacts the toner. The release layer is preferably a tetrafluoroethylene perfluoroalkyl vinyl ether copolymer resin (PFA) or the like that has good release properties.

[0083] The frame 1409 is positioned inside the fixing belt 1408. The frame 1409 holds the pressure pad 1402.

[0084] The sensor 1410 is positioned inside the fixing belt 1408. The sensor 1410 detects the temperature of the fixing belt 1408. The sensor 1410 is positioned on the downstream side of the heating section formed by the magnetically permeable alloy 1405 and the coil 1407 and on the upstream side of the pinch section between the fixing belt 1408 and the pressure roller 1401. The sensor 1410 can also be a contact type thermistor.

[0085] The image forming apparatus 1 configured as described above has an operation mode that will be described.

[0086] The image forming apparatus 1 has at least a power saving mode and a normal mode. The power saving mode is a mode in which power consumed in the image forming apparatus 1 is reduced compared to the normal mode.

[0087] The power saving mode is a mode in which power supply from the power supply circuit 70 to the printer unit 100 is stopped, power supply to a portion of the control unit 10 is maintained, and power supply to other portions of the control unit 10 is stopped. Power supply can also be understood as power feeding. The power supply to the portion of the control unit 10 is maintained in order to maintain network-related functions of the image forming apparatus 1 even in the power saving mode. For example, the portion of the control unit 10 includes the NIC 12 and the wireless LAN section 15. The portion of the control unit 10 can also include the main memory 13. The portion of the control unit 10 can also include a portion or all of the processor 11.

[0088] In the power saving mode, the power supply circuit 70 stops power supply to the printer unit 100. For example, the power supply circuit 70 stops power supply to the processor 101 in the printer unit 100. As a result, the processor 101 stops operating in the power saving mode. For example, the power supply circuit 70 stops power supply to the coil 1407 of the fuser 140. As a result, the fuser 140 stops operating in the power saving mode. The temperature of the fuser 140 detected by the sensor 1410 decreases in the power saving mode.

[0089] In the power saving mode, the power supply circuit 70 maintains the supply of power to a part of the control unit 10. The power supply circuit 70 stops the supply of power to other parts of the control unit 10. For example, the power supply circuit 70 supplies power to the NIC 12, the main memory 13, and the wireless LAN section 15 in the control unit 10. Thus, the NIC 12 and the wireless LAN section 15 operate in the power saving mode and can communicate with the terminal 2. The main memory 13 operates in the power saving mode and holds the contents of the job before the transition to the power saving mode. The power supply circuit 70 supplies power to at least a part of the processor 11 in the control unit 10. Thus, the processor 11 can receive a signal to activate the processor 11 in the power saving mode. The processor 11 can activate based on the reception of the signal to activate the processor 11 in the power saving mode. Note that, in order to enable the processor 11 to activate based on the reception of the signal to activate the processor 11, the power supply to the processor 11 is minimized in the power saving mode.

[0090] The normal mode is a mode in which the supply of power from the power supply circuit 70 to the printer unit 100 is maintained and the supply of power to the entire control unit 10 is maintained.

[0091] In the normal mode, the power supply circuit 70 maintains the supply of power to the printer unit 100. For example, the power supply circuit 70 supplies power to the processor 101 in the printer unit 100. Thus, the processor 101 operates in the normal mode. For example, the power supply circuit 70 supplies power to the coil 1407 of the fuser 140. Thus, the fuser 140 operates in the normal mode.

[0092] In the normal mode, the power supply circuit 70 maintains the supply of power to the entire control unit 10. For example, the power supply circuit 70 supplies power to the processor 11 in the control unit 10. Thus, the processor 11 operates in the normal mode. For example, the power supply circuit 70 supplies power to the NIC 12 and the wireless LAN section 15 in the control unit 10. Thus, the NIC 12 and the wireless LAN section 15 operate in the normal mode.

[0093] In the normal mode, there are various states such as a preheat state and a ready state. The preheat state is a state in which the fuser 140 is controlled to be preheated by the processor 101. The preheating is control in which the processor 101 controls to supply power to the coil 1407 in a state in which power supply is stopped and stabilize the temperature of the fuser 140 at a target temperature. The target temperature is determined in accordance with the fusing temperature of each time of print processing, which is processing based on a task related to printing. The preheating is control before starting print processing, which is processing based on a task related to printing of the printer unit 100. Since it is necessary to raise the temperature of the fuser 140 to the target temperature, the preheating requires a large processing time. The ready state is a state in which print processing, which is processing based on a task related to printing, can be executed. The ready state is a state after the preheat state.

[0094] The recovery from the power saving mode to the ready state will be described. The image forming apparatus 1 shifts from the power saving mode to the preheat state of the normal mode. The image forming apparatus 1 shifts from the preheat state to the ready state after the preheating ends. Thus, the image forming apparatus 1 recovers from the power saving mode to the ready state.

[0095] Figure 5 A diagram showing an outline of a configuration example of the terminal 2.

[0096] The terminal 2 is a computer including a processor 201, a main memory 202, a storage 203, a communication interface 204, an input device 205, and a display device 206. The respective parts configuring the terminal 2 are connected in a manner that enables input and output of signals to each other. In the following description, the processor 201, the main memory 202, the storage 203, the communication interface 204, the input device 205, and the display device 206 are referred to as "the processor 201, the main memory 202, the storage 203, the communication interface 204, the input device 205, and the display device 206, respectively, or collectively as "the terminal 2". Figure 2 In the following description, the interface is referred to as "I / F".

[0097] The processor 201 corresponds to a central part of the terminal 2. For example, the processor 201 is a CPU, but is not limited thereto. The processor 201 can also be configured by various circuits. The processor 201 expands a program stored in advance in the main memory 202 or the storage 203 in the main memory 202. The processor 201 executes various processes by executing the program expanded in the main memory 202.

[0098] The main memory 202 corresponds to a main storage part of the terminal 2. The main memory 202 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 202 stores an operating system or a program in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 202 uses the volatile memory area as a work area in which data is suitably rewritten by the processor 201. For example, the main memory 202 includes a ROM as the nonvolatile memory area. For example, the main memory 202 includes a RAM as the volatile memory area.

[0099] The memory 203 corresponds to an auxiliary storage portion of the terminal 2. For example, the memory 203 includes an HDD. In addition to or instead of the HDD, the memory 203 can include a semiconductor storage medium such as an SSD, or the like. The memory 203 stores the above-described programs, data used for various processing by the processor 201, and data generated through processing in the processor 201. The memory 203 is an example of a storage portion.

[0100] The memory 203 stores a printer driver 2031. The printer driver 2031 is a program for causing the terminal 2 to perform various processing in order to enable printing in the image forming apparatus 1.

[0101] The communication interface 204 includes various interfaces that communicably connect the terminal 2 with other devices by wire or wirelessly in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0102] The input device 205 is a device that enables input of data or instructions to the terminal 2 through a touch operation. For example, the input device 205 is a keyboard or a touch panel, or the like.

[0103] The display device 206 is a device that enables display of an image. For example, the display device 206 is a liquid crystal display, or the like.

[0104] A description is given of an MIB (Management Information Base) used in communication between the terminal 2 and the image forming apparatus 1.

[0105] Figure 6 A diagram showing an outline of the MIB.

[0106] The MIB is a collection of device information, and is exchanged by SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol). The format of the SNMP is Figure 6 an example format. The OID (Object Identifier) indicates which information within the MIB is exchanged. The OID is privately definable for each enterprise in addition to common definitions.

[0107] Figure 6 The "1.3.6.1.4.1.1129...X.Y" shown is an OID showing a print request. The print request is a request from the terminal 2 to the image forming apparatus 1 to execute a print process, and is processing based on a task related to printing. The OID showing the print request is an OID using an OID that can be privately defined. The "1.3.6.1.4.1.1129...X" in the OID showing the print request shows that it is a print request. The "Y" in the OID showing the print request shows an index value.

[0108] Figure 7 is a diagram showing an example of an index value.

[0109] The index value is a value showing a print condition. The print condition is a condition of printing that has an influence on a target temperature of the fuser 140 at the time of preheating in the print setting set by the user with the input device 205 of the terminal 2.

[0110] For example, the print condition includes one or more of a color mode, a medium type, and a print mode. The color mode is a mode related to a color of printing. For example, the color mode shows either one of monochrome printing and color printing. The fixing temperature differs depending on monochrome printing or color printing, so the target temperature of the fuser 140 at the time of preheating also differs depending on monochrome printing or color printing. The medium type is a type related to a medium on which an image is formed. For example, the medium type shows either one of regular paper and others (plastic film, etc.). The medium type is not limited to two gradations of regular paper and others, but can be divided into three or more gradations. The fixing temperature differs depending on the type of the medium, so the target temperature of the fuser 140 at the time of preheating also differs depending on the type of the medium. The print mode is a mode related to a colorlessness of printing. For example, the print mode shows either one of non-colorless printing and colorless printing. The fixing temperature differs depending on non-colorless printing or colorless printing, so the target temperature of the fuser 140 at the time of preheating also differs depending on non-colorless printing or colorless printing.

[0111] For example, the index value is a value that differs depending on a combination of the color mode, the medium type, and the print mode included in the print condition. In the example of Figure 7 In the example of the index value, in a case where the color mode is color printing, the medium type is regular paper, and the print mode is non-colorless printing, the index value is 1. In a case where the medium type is regular paper and the print mode is colorless printing, the index value is 5. The correspondence relationship of the print condition and the index value can be appropriately set.

[0112] The index value is an example of print information including the print condition. The index value based on at least the color mode is an example of print information including the color mode. The index value based on at least the medium type is an example of print information including the medium type. The index value based on at least the print mode is an example of print information including the print mode.

[0113] The processing of the processor 201 of the terminal 2 is described.

[0114] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the processor 201 of the terminal 2.

[0115] Note that the following-described processing is one example, and each processing can be changed to the maximum extent. In addition, regarding the following-described processing, omission, replacement, and addition of actions can be appropriately performed according to the embodiment.

[0116] The processor 201 executes the example processing by the printer driver 2031. Figure 8 The user is set to make a print-related input by the input device 205 of the terminal 2. The print-related input includes input of designation of image data of a print target, input of print settings, and input of an instruction of start of printing. The print settings include various settings related to printing such as a color mode, a medium type, a print mode, a number of print sections, and a medium size.

[0117] The processor 201 transmits (ACT1) the MIB packet related to the print request to the image forming apparatus 1. In ACT1, for example, the processor 201 starts generation of the MIB packet related to the print request based on the instruction of start of printing input by the input device 205 of the terminal 2. The MIB packet related to the print request is a MIB packet in which an OID showing the print request is designated. The MIB packet related to the print request is one example of a packet related to printing. The processor 201 judges a print condition of a combination of the color mode, the medium type, and the print mode based on the print settings input by the input device 205 of the terminal 2. The processor 201 selects an index value corresponding to the judged print condition. The processor 201 generates the MIB packet related to the print request in which the OID showing the print request is designated. The OID showing the print request includes the selected index value. In this way, the MIB packet related to the print request includes the index value. For example, the MIB packet related to the print request includes the index value based on the print mode. For example, the MIB packet related to the print request includes the index value based on at least any one of the print mode and the color mode and the medium type.

[0118] The processor 201 transmits the generated MIB packet related to the print request to the image forming apparatus 1 separately from the print data before transmitting the print data. The print data is data of a task related to printing requested from the terminal 2 to the image forming apparatus 1. The print data includes the print settings input by the user by the input device 205 of the terminal 2. The print data includes the image data of the print target designated by the user by the input device 205 of the terminal 2.

[0119] The transmission of the MIB packet related to the print request is one example of transmission of print information. For example, the processor 201 transmits the MIB packet related to the print request including the index value based on the print mode to the image forming apparatus 1. The transmission of the MIB packet related to the print request including the index value based on the print mode is one example of transmission of print information including the print mode. The same applies to the color mode and the medium type.

[0120] The processor 201 transmits the print data to the image forming apparatus 1 after transmitting the MIB packet related to the print request (ACT2). In ACT2, for example, the processor 201 generates the print data based on the print setting input by the input device 205 of the terminal 2 and the image data of the designated print object. The processor 201 transmits the generated print data to the image forming apparatus 1. The processor 201 can repeat the transmission of the print data until a response to the transmission of the print data is received from the image forming apparatus 1.

[0121] The processing of the NIC 12 of the image forming apparatus 1 is described.

[0122] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the NIC 12 of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0123] Note that the processing described below is merely an example, and each processing can be changed as much as possible. In addition, regarding the processing described below, omission, replacement, and addition of actions can be appropriately performed depending on the embodiment.

[0124] The image forming apparatus 1 is assumed to be an image forming apparatus in a power saving mode. The NIC 12 is an example of a first processor or a first control circuit.

[0125] The NIC 12 receives a packet related to the processing in the image forming apparatus 1 from the terminal 2 in the power saving mode (ACT11). Receiving a packet related to the processing in the image forming apparatus 1 is an example of receiving information related to the processing in the image forming apparatus 1. In ACT11, for example, the NIC 12 receives a MIB packet related to a print request from the terminal 2 in the power saving mode. Receiving a MIB packet related to a print request is an example of receiving print information.

[0126] The NIC 12 analyzes the received packet (ACT12). In ACT12, for example, the NIC 12 analyzes the received packet and determines the processing in the image forming apparatus 1 related to the received packet. In a case where the received MIB packet includes an OID indicating a print request, the NIC 12 determines the processing in the image forming apparatus 1 as a print. In a case where the received packet is a packet related to a file transfer, the NIC 12 determines the processing in the image forming apparatus 1 as a file transfer.

[0127] The NIC 12 determines whether the process in the image forming apparatus 1 is printing based on the resolution result (ACT 13). In a case where the process in the image forming apparatus 1 is printing (ACT 13: YES), the process shifts from ACT 13 to ACT 14. In a case where the process in the image forming apparatus 1 is not printing (ACT 13: NO), the process shifts from ACT 13 to ACT 16. Here, the case where the process in the image forming apparatus 1 is not printing is assumed to be the case where the process in the image forming apparatus 1 is file transfer. As described later, the NIC 12 transmits a signal via a signal line associated with the process in the image forming apparatus 1 indicated by the received packet based on the received packet.

[0128] The NIC 12 stores the index value included in the MIB packet related to the printing request to the register 1203 (ACT 14). The NIC 12 transmits a signal via the printing request call signal line 171 among the plurality of signal lines based on the MIB packet related to the printing request (ACT 15). In ACT 15, for example, the NIC 12 causes the processor 11 to start up with printing as a call element by transmitting a signal via the printing request call signal line 171. Transmission of a signal via the printing request call signal line 171 based on the MIB packet related to the printing request is an example of transmission of a signal via the printing request call signal line 171 based on printing information. Transmission of a signal via the printing request call signal line 171 based on the printing information is an example of control of start up of the processor 11 based on the printing information.

[0129] The NIC 12 transmits a signal via the network call signal line 172 among the plurality of signal lines based on the packet related to the file transfer (ACT 16). In ACT 16, for example, the NIC 12 causes the processor 11 to start up with file transfer as a call element by transmission of a signal via the network call signal line 172.

[0130] Note that in a case where the image forming apparatus 1 is in a mode other than a power saving mode such as a normal mode, the NIC 12 ignores the MIB packet related to the printing request received from the terminal 2.

[0131] The process of the processor 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 is described.

[0132] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating the process of the processor 11 of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0133] Note that the process described below is merely an example, and each process can be changed to the maximum extent. In addition, regarding the process described below, omission, replacement, and addition of actions can be appropriately performed depending on the embodiment.

[0134] The image forming apparatus 1 is set to be an image forming apparatus in a power saving mode. The processor 11 is an example of a second processor or a second control circuit.

[0135] The processor 11 receives a signal transmitted by any of the plurality of signal lines from the NIC 12 in the power saving mode (ACT 21). For example, in ACT 21, the startup is initiated based on the reception of the signal transmitted by any of the plurality of signal lines. The processor 11 controls the power supply to the entire processor 11 by the startup based on the reception of the signal from the NIC 12. The processor 11 shifts to a state capable of controlling each part of the image forming apparatus 1 based on the power supply to the entire processor 11 by the power supply circuit 70. The startup includes the power supply to the entire processor 11 based on the startup. As described later, the processor 11 controls the processing in the image forming apparatus 1 associated with the signal line from which the signal from the NIC 12 is transmitted based on the startup. In one example, the processor 11 is started based on the reception of the signal transmitted by the print request awakening signal line 171 from the NIC 12. In this example, the processor 11 performs the control associated with the printing based on the startup as described using ACT 24 to 28. In another example, the processor 11 is started based on the reception of the signal transmitted by the network awakening signal line 172 from the NIC 12. In this example, the processor 11 performs the control associated with the file transfer based on the startup as described using ACT 29.

[0136] The processor 11 identifies the GPIO to which the signal is input based on the reception of the signal from the NIC 12 (ACT 22). In ACT 22, for example, the processor 11 identifies the GPIO to which the signal from the NIC 12 is input among the print request awakening GPIO 1101 and the network awakening GPIO 1102. The identification of the GPIO to which the signal from the NIC 12 is input corresponds to the identification of the signal line from which the signal from the NIC 12 is transmitted. The processor 11 determines the processing in the image forming apparatus 1 that becomes the awakening element based on the identification of the GPIO to which the signal from the NIC 12 is input. In one example, the processor 11 determines the awakening element to be the printing based on the input of the signal from the NIC 12 to the print request awakening GPIO 1101. In another example, the processor 11 determines the awakening element to be the file transfer based on the input of the signal from the NIC 12 to the network awakening GPIO 1102. Thus, the processor 11 can determine the awakening element based on the signal from the NIC 12 without parsing the packet.

[0137] The processor 11 determines whether the arousing element is printing (ACT23). In a case where the arousing element is printing (ACT23: YES), the process shifts from ACT23 to ACT24. In a case where the arousing element is not printing (ACT23: NO), the process shifts from ACT23 to ACT29. Here, the case where the arousing element is not printing is set as the case where the arousing element is file transmission.

[0138] The processor 11 acquires the index value stored in the register 1203 from the NIC 12 (ACT24). In ACT24, for example, the processor 11 acquires the index value from the NIC 12 by reading the register 1203.

[0139] The processor 11 controls power supply to the printer unit 100 (ACT25). In ACT25, for example, the processor 11 supplies power to each section of the printer unit 100 such as the processor 101 based on the start-up control implemented by the NIC 12. The printer unit 100 starts up based on the start of the power supply.

[0140] The processor 11 transmits a warm-up start instruction of the printer unit 100 based on the index value acquired from the NIC 12 to the processor 101 (ACT26). In ACT26, for example, the processor 11 generates a warm-up start instruction based on the index value acquired from the NIC 12. The warm-up start instruction is an instruction that causes the processor 101 to control the start of warm-up based on the printing condition. The warm-up start instruction includes information of the printing condition corresponding to the index value. For example, in a case where the index value is 1, the warm-up start instruction includes information of the printing condition including color printing, normal paper, and non-bleaching printing corresponding to the index value "1". The processor 11 can attach information of the printing condition corresponding to the index value as a parameter to the format of the packet of the warm-up start instruction. The processor 11 transmits the warm-up start instruction to the processor 101 after becoming capable of communication with the processor 101. The processor 11 can cause the operation mode of the image forming apparatus 1 to shift from the power saving mode to the warm-up state of the normal mode by transmitting the warm-up start instruction.

[0141] The processor 11 receives printing data from the terminal 2 (ACT27). The processor 11 transmits a printing instruction based on the printing data to the processor 101 (ACT27). In ACT27, for example, after shifting from the warm-up state of the normal mode to the ready state, the processor 11 transmits a printing instruction based on the printing data to the processor 101. The printing instruction can include information required for a printing process based on a task related to printing such as printing setting and image data implemented by the printer unit 100.

[0142] In a case where the arousing element is the file transmission, the processor 11 controls the process of the file transmission (ACT 29). In the ACT 29, for example, the processor 11 does not control the start of the supply of power to the printer unit 100, but controls the process of the file transmission.

[0143] The process of the processor 101 of the image forming apparatus 1 is described.

[0144] Figure 11 is a flowchart illustrating the process of the processor 101 of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0145] Note that the processes described below are merely examples, and each process can be changed to the maximum extent. In addition, regarding the processes described below, omission, replacement, and addition of actions can be appropriately performed depending on the embodiment.

[0146] The printer unit 100 is a printer unit that is started by the control of the supply of power by the processor 11. The processor 101 is an example of a third processor or a third control circuit.

[0147] The processor 101 receives a preheating start instruction from the processor 11 (ACT 31). The processor 101 controls preheating on the basis of the preheating start instruction (ACT 32). In the ACT 32, for example, the processor 101 sets a target temperature corresponding to a print condition on the basis of information of the print condition included in the preheating start instruction. The processor 101 controls the supply of power to the coil 1407 so that the temperature of the fuser 140 becomes the target temperature corresponding to the print condition. The image forming apparatus 1 shifts from the preheating state to the ready state on the basis of the completion of the preheating.

[0148] The processor 101 receives a print instruction from the processor 11 (ACT 33). The processor 101 controls a print process based on a task related to printing on the basis of the print instruction (ACT 34). In the ACT 34, for example, the processor 101 controls each part of the printer unit 100, and controls the print process in compliance with a color mode, a medium type, and a print mode indicated by the print condition.

[0149] According to the present embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 can control, in the first control circuit, the activation of the second control circuit based on the print information received from the terminal 2 in the power saving mode. The image forming apparatus 1 can control, in the second control circuit, the power supply to the third control circuit based on the activation control implemented by the first control circuit and transmit a preheat start instruction based on the print information to the third control circuit. Thereby, for example, the image forming apparatus 1 can set the target temperature of the fuser 140 based on the print information. The image forming apparatus 1 can start the operation of the preheat appropriate for the print processing before receiving the print data by the setting of the target temperature of the fuser 140 based on the print information. The image forming apparatus 1 can shorten the time from the preheat state to the ready state after the preheat start by performing the operation of the preheat appropriate for the print processing. Thus, the image forming apparatus 1 can shorten the time from the power saving mode to the ready state in which the print is possible.

[0150] The terminal 2 can transmit the print information to the image forming apparatus 1 before transmitting the print data. Thereby, the terminal 2 can assist in shortening the time from the power saving mode to the ready state in which the print is possible in the image forming apparatus 1.

[0151] The print information can include a print mode showing either of the non-bleed print and the bleed print. As described above, the fixing temperature differs depending on the non-bleed print or the bleed print. Thereby, for example, the image forming apparatus 1 can set the target temperature of the fuser 140 based on the print mode by receiving the print information including the print mode. The image forming apparatus 1 can perform the operation of the preheat appropriate for the print processing by the setting of the target temperature of the fuser 140 based on the print mode. Thus, the image forming apparatus 1 can shorten the time from the power saving mode to the ready state in which the print is possible. The terminal 2 can assist in shortening the time from the power saving mode to the ready state in which the print is possible in the image forming apparatus 1 by transmitting the print information including the print mode.

[0152] The image forming apparatus 1 can transmit a signal by means of a signal line associated with the print among a plurality of signal lines based on the print information in the first control circuit. The image forming apparatus 1 can activate based on the signal transmitted by means of the signal line associated with the print in the second control circuit and perform the control associated with the print based on the activation control. Thereby, for example, the image forming apparatus 1 can determine the wake-up element based on the signal from the first control circuit in the second control circuit. The image forming apparatus 1 can perform the control of the processing in the image forming apparatus 1 corresponding to the wake-up element immediately after the activation in the second control circuit. For example, the image forming apparatus 1 can perform the control associated with the print immediately after the activation in the second control circuit. Thus, the image forming apparatus 1 can shorten the time from the power saving mode to the ready state in which the print is possible.

[0153] In the above example, the NIC 12 is exemplified, but the wireless LAN section 16 can also act similarly to the NIC 12. In this example, the wireless LAN section 16 is an example of the first processor or the first control circuit.

[0154] Note that the transfer of the device is generally performed in a state where the program is stored in the main memory or the storage. However, it is not limited thereto, and the transfer can also be performed in a state where the program is not stored in the main memory or the storage. Also, in this case, the program separately transferred from the device is written in a writable storage device possessed by the device according to the operation of the user or the like. The transfer of the program can be performed in a manner that the program is recorded on a removable recording medium or by communication via a network. The recording medium can store the program like a CD-ROM, a memory card, or the like, and is not limited to the manner as long as it can be read by the device. In addition, the function obtained by the installation or the download of the program can be a function that cooperates with the OS (Operating System) or the like inside the device to realize the function.

[0155] In addition, although several embodiments of the present application have been described, these embodiments are presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the application. These new embodiments can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, and changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the application. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included within the scope and spirit of the application, and are also included within the scope of the application and equivalents thereof as recited in the claims.

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus characterized by comprising: Possessing: a first control circuit that communicates with an information processing device; a second control circuit that communicates with the first control circuit; and a third control circuit that is a control circuit that communicates with the second control circuit and controls a printer unit, the first control circuit receives print information from the information processing device in a power saving mode and controls activation of the second control circuit based on the print information, the second control circuit supplies power to the third control circuit based on activation control achieved by the first control circuit, and after becoming able to perform communication with the third control circuit, transmits a warm-up start instruction of the printer unit based on the print information acquired from the first control circuit to the third control circuit.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the image forming apparatus possesses a plurality of signal lines that are provided between the first control circuit and the second control circuit and with which each process in the image forming apparatus is associated, the first control circuit transmits a signal via a signal line associated with printing among the plurality of signal lines based on the print information.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the print information includes a print mode that shows either of achromatic printing and color printing.

4. An image forming apparatus characterized by comprising: Possessing: a first control circuit that communicates with an information processing device; a second control circuit that communicates with the first control circuit; and a plurality of signal lines that are provided between the first control circuit and the second control circuit and with which each process in the image forming apparatus is associated, the first control circuit receives print information from the information processing device in a power saving mode and transmits a signal via a signal line associated with printing among the plurality of signal lines based on the print information, the second control circuit activates based on reception of the signal transmitted via the signal line associated with the print, and performs control associated with the print based on activation.

Images