Printer

Abstract

To provide a technique in which prohibition setting in a printer can be flexibly solved by the printer.SOLUTION: A printer 1 can perform printing on the basis of a printing job received from a terminal device 3 in accordance with a plurality of set values associated with the printing job. The printer 1 notifies the terminal device 3 of solution information in which items of a paper feed tray and a paper discharge tray are made "automatic selection" as solution information for solving prohibition setting to be combinations of set values which must not be simultaneously associated with each other according to a response request from the terminal device 3. When the printer 1 receives a printing job in which "automatic selection" is set to the items of the paper feed tray and the paper discharge tray from the terminal device 3 after causing the solution information to be notified of, the printer selects one tray according to the situation of the printer 1 of a plurality of selectable trays and performs printing on the basis of the printing job using the selected tray.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The technical field disclosed in this specification relates to a printer having a combination of setting values ​​that must not be related to each other at the same time. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, printers have multiple setting items such as paper type settings, paper feed tray or output tray settings, double-sided printing settings, and post-processing settings, but some settings may have combinations of setting values ​​that must not be associated at the same time. Such combinations of settings are called "prohibited character settings." If the printer driver is provided by the printer vendor, it is possible to store the above-mentioned prohibited character setting information in the program in advance, and the client side that generates the print job can restrict the input of prohibited character settings for each printer to be controlled.

[0003] In recent years, print application programs and cloud print services have made it possible to control printers according to the IPP (Internet Printing Protocol) standard. Printing according to this IPP standard does not use the printer driver described above, and an IPP client that generates print jobs according to the IPP standard may not know the prohibited character settings for each printer described above.

[0004] In response to the above-mentioned problem, non-patent document 1 discloses a procedure for transmitting prohibition setting information from a printer to an IPP client, and a procedure for transmitting information on alternative settings that are alternative settings to solve the prohibition setting problem. [Prior art documents] [Non-patent literature]

[0005] [Non-Patent Document 1] PWG5100.13 Job and Printer Extensions https: / / ftp.pwg.org / pub / pwg / candidates / cs-ippjobprinterext3v10-20120727-5100.13.pdf Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] As described above, the printer can transmit information on predetermined alternative settings to the client, and when the printer transmits the information on the alternative settings to the client, the client sends a print job to the printer according to the alternative settings. As a result, the printer performs control according to the predetermined alternative settings. The inventors have considered that it would be preferable to avoid prohibited settings by controlling the printer according to the printer's status when the print job is executed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A printer made for the purpose of solving this problem is a printer that is capable of printing based on a print job received from an external device in accordance with multiple setting values ​​associated with the received print job, and in response to a first request from the external device, the printer notifies the external device of solution information that sets a specified setting item to a specific setting value as solution information that resolves a combination of setting values ​​that should not be associated simultaneously, the specific setting value being a setting value that indicates that the printer can replace it with another setting value, and the printer is further configured to, after notifying the solution information in response to the first request from the external device, when it receives a print job from the external device that is associated with the specific setting value, select one setting value that corresponds to the printer's status from among the multiple setting values ​​that can be replaced from the specific setting value, and print based on the print job in accordance with the selected one setting value.

[0008] When a first request is received from an external device, the printer disclosed in this specification notifies the external device of solution information that sets a specific setting value indicating that a specific setting item can be replaced with another setting value by the printer as solution information for resolving the setting of a combination of setting values ​​that must not be associated at the same time. Then, when the printer receives a print job from the external device to which the specific setting value is associated, the printer selects a setting value to replace the specific setting value from multiple setting values ​​according to the printer's status. This allows the printer to print according to a setting value that is appropriate for the status when the print job is received. Therefore, even when printing without using a printer driver, the printer is more likely to be able to flexibly resolve prohibited character settings.

[0009] A control method for implementing the functions of the printer, a computer program, and a computer-readable storage medium storing the computer program are also novel and useful. Effect of the Invention

[0010] The technology disclosed in this specification realizes a technology that allows a printer to flexibly resolve prohibition settings on that printer. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a printer according to an embodiment; [Diagram 2] 13 is a flowchart showing a procedure for a prohibition notification process. [Diagram 3] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a prohibition table; [Figure 4] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a solution table. [Diagram 5] 10 is a flowchart showing a procedure of a printing process. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing a procedure for a paper feed tray selection process. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing a procedure for a paper discharge tray selection process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a printer will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. This embodiment discloses a printer capable of executing printing based on a print command conforming to the IPP (Internet Printing Protocol) standard.

[0013] 1, the printer 1 of this embodiment includes a controller 10 including a CPU 11 and a memory 12. The printer 1 also includes an operation panel 13, a communication interface (hereinafter referred to as "communication IF") 14, a print engine 15, a transport mechanism 16, and a finisher 19, which are electrically connected to the controller 10.

[0014] The CPU 11 executes various processes according to the programs read from the memory 12 and based on the user's operations. Note that the controller 10 in FIG. 1 is a collective term for the hardware and software used to control the printer 1, and does not necessarily represent a single piece of hardware that actually exists in the printer 1.

[0015] The memory 12 of the printer 1 of this embodiment stores various programs and various data, including an IPP response program 21, an IPP print program 22, and notification information 23. The notification information 23 includes a prohibition table 24 and a resolution table 25. The IPP response program 21 and the IPP print program 22 may be configured as one program. Details of each program and data will be described later. The memory 12 is also used as a work area when various processes are executed.

[0016] Note that an example of the memory 12 is not limited to a ROM, RAM, HDD, etc. built into the printer 1, but may be a storage medium that is readable and writable by the CPU 11. For example, an external memory such as a USB memory or HDD connected to the printer 1 via the communication IF 14, or a memory or HDD provided in a device connected to the printer 1 via the communication IF 14 are also examples of the memory 12. A buffer provided in the CPU 11 is also an example of the memory 12.

[0017] It should be noted that computer-readable storage media are non-transitory media. In addition to the above examples, non-transitory media also include storage media such as CD-ROMs and DVD-ROMs. Non-transitory media are also tangible media. On the other hand, electrical signals that carry programs downloaded from servers on the Internet are computer-readable signal media, which is a type of computer-readable medium, but are not included in non-transitory computer-readable storage media.

[0018] The operation panel 13 includes hardware for displaying a screen for notifying the user of information and hardware for accepting operations by the user. The operation panel 13 may include a touch panel having a notification function and an operation acceptance function. The operation panel 13 may include an indicator lamp, various buttons, and a numeric keypad.

[0019] The communication IF 14 includes hardware for communicating with an external device such as the terminal device 3. The communication standards of the communication IF 14 include Ethernet (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), USB, etc. The printer 1 may include a plurality of communication IFs 14 compatible with a plurality of communication standards.

[0020] Print engine 15 includes a configuration for printing an image based on image data onto a print medium such as a sheet. The printing method of print engine 15 is, for example, an electrophotographic method or an inkjet method. Print engine 15 may be configured to be capable of color printing, or may be configured to perform monochrome printing.

[0021] The transport mechanism 16 is a mechanism for transporting print media such as sheets via the print engine 15. The transport mechanism 16 includes a paper feed tray 17 that stores sheets before printing, a paper discharge tray 18 that stores sheets after printing, and a plurality of transport rollers. The printer 1 has a plurality of trays as the paper feed tray 17 and the paper discharge tray 18. Specifically, the printer 1 includes, as the paper feed tray 17, a standard tray 171, a manual feed tray 172, and an additional tray 173, for example. The printer 1 also includes, as the paper discharge tray 18, a first tray 181, and a second tray 182, for example.

[0022] The finisher 19 is configured to be attached to the printer 1 in order to perform post-processing on printed sheets and eject the sheets. The printer 1 includes the finisher 19 including, for example, a stapler 191 and a finisher tray 192.

[0023] The printer 1 of this embodiment is capable of communicating with the terminal device 3 via the communication IF 14. The terminal device 3 is, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a personal computer, and is provided with an application program (hereinafter, referred to as an "IPP client application") 31 that can execute various processes in accordance with the IPP standard. By executing the IPP client application 31, the terminal device 3 can send printing instructions to the printer 1 as an IPP client. The terminal device 3 is an example of an external device.

[0024] Next, the operation of the printer 1 regarding IPP printing will be described with reference to a flowchart. The following process basically indicates the processing of the CPU 11 according to the instructions written in the program. That is, the processes such as "judgment", "extraction", "selection", "calculation", "decision", "identification", "acquisition", "acceptance", and "control" in the following description indicate the processing of the CPU 11. The processing by the CPU 11 also includes hardware control using the API of the OS. In this specification, the description of the OS will be omitted to describe the operation of each program. That is, in the following description, a description to the effect that "program B controls hardware C" may also mean that "program B controls hardware C using the API of the OS". In addition, the processing of the CPU 11 according to the instructions written in the program may be described in abbreviated terms. For example, it may be described as "performed by the CPU". In addition, the processing of the CPU 11 according to the instructions written in the program may be described in abbreviated terms such as "performed by program A".

[0025] Note that "obtaining" is used as a concept that does not require a request. In other words, the process of receiving data without the CPU 11 making a request is also included in the concept of "the CPU obtaining data." In addition, "data" in this specification is represented as a bit string that can be read by a computer. Data that has the same substantial meaning but different formats is treated as the same data. The same applies to "information" in this specification. In addition, "requesting" and "instructing" are concepts that indicate outputting information indicating a request or information indicating an instruction to the other party. In addition, information indicating a request or information indicating an instruction is also simply referred to as "request" and "instruction."

[0026] Furthermore, the process by CPU 11 to determine whether information A indicates event B may be conceptually described as "determining whether event B is determined from information A." The process by CPU 11 to determine whether information A indicates event B or event C may be conceptually described as "determining whether event B or event C is determined from information A."

[0027] The procedure of the prohibition notification process executed by the printer 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 2. This prohibition notification process is executed by the CPU 11 of the printer 1 based on the IPP response program 21 when an information response request is received from an external device such as the terminal device 3.

[0028] The IPP client application 31 has a function of communicating with the printer to be controlled and requesting the printer to send information. For example, the IPP client application 31 may request the printer to send information before sending a print command, and generate a print job using the information received in response. For example, when the printer 1 receives a response request from the terminal device 3, the printer 1 can generate the requested information based on the command included in the response request and respond to the terminal device 3.

[0029] The CPU 11 determines whether the received response request includes a prohibition information request (S101). The prohibition information is information on a combination of setting values ​​that the printer 1 responds to the IPP client application 31 as a combination of setting values ​​that must not be associated at the same time. A prohibition information request based on the IPP standard is, for example, a "job-constraints-supported" command. The prohibition information request is an example of a second request.

[0030] If it is determined that a request for prohibition information is included (S101: YES), the CPU 11 sequentially reads out each record of the prohibition table 24 included in the notification information 23 stored in the memory 12 (S103). As shown in FIG. 1, the prohibition table 24 and the solution table 25 are prepared in advance in the memory 12 of the printer 1. The prohibition table 24 is a table that stores combinations of setting values ​​that may be responded as prohibition information, as shown in FIG. 3, for example. Note that the prohibition table 24 shown in FIG. 3 is a part of the prohibition table 24 stored in the printer 1. The prohibition table 24 includes many records other than those shown in FIG. 3.

[0031] Each record of the prohibition table 24 includes an information ID 241, a solution name 242, and a combination of a first setting 243 and a second setting 244, which is a combination of setting values. The information ID 241 is an identification code that identifies each record included in the prohibition table 24. The solution name 242 is a name corresponding to one of the solution names 252 included in the solution table 25. The solution table 25 is a table that is stored in the notification information 23 in association with the prohibition table 24. The first setting 243 and the second setting 244 are each information consisting of a setting item and a setting value set for that item.

[0032] The solution table 25 is a table that stores solution information corresponding to each prohibition information, for example, as shown in Fig. 4. The solution table 25 shown in Fig. 4 is a part of the solution table 25 stored in the printer 1. The solution table 25 includes many records other than those shown in Fig. 4.

[0033] Each record in the solution table 25 includes an information ID 251, a solution name 252, and a solution setting 253. The information ID 251 is an identification code that identifies each record included in the solution table 25. One of the solution names 252 is the solution name 242 of each record in the prohibition table 24. The solution setting 253 is information that indicates a setting value that is recommended as a setting value to be changed to. The solution setting 253 is information that is made up of a combination of a setting item and a setting value for that item.

[0034] Although details will be described later, in response to a request from the IPP client application 31, the printer 1 responds to the IPP client application 31 with information indicating each record of the prohibition table 24 and information indicating each record of the resolution table 25. When the IPP client application 31 receives an instruction to set a prohibition setting stored in a record of the prohibition table 24, it identifies a record from the resolution table 25 that includes the same resolution name as the resolution name 242 included in that record, and can use the resolution setting included in the identified record as the setting value to be changed to. Details of each record in the prohibition table 24 and the resolution table 25 will be described later.

[0035] Then, the CPU 11 judges whether the record of the prohibition table 24 that has been read out is information that requires notification (S104). If both the first setting 243 and the second setting 244 are setting values ​​that are valid in the printer 1, the CPU 11 judges that the record is information that requires notification. For example, if the printer 1 is not equipped with a finisher 19, the CPU 11 judges that a record in which either the first setting 243 or the second setting 244 is a setting related to post-processing using the finisher 19 is information that does not require notification.

[0036] When it is determined that the information requires notification (S104: YES), the CPU 11 associates the combination of the first setting 243 and the second setting 244, which are prohibition settings included in that record in the prohibition table 24, with the solution name 242, and stores the association in the memory 12 as response information to the prohibition information request (S105). The combination of the first setting 243 and the second setting 244 is information indicating a combination of setting values ​​to be responded as prohibition information.

[0037] After S105, or when it is determined that the information does not require notification (S104: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether or not reading of all records in the prohibition table 24 is completed (S107). When it is determined that reading of all records is not completed (S107: NO), the CPU 11 proceeds to S103 and reads the next record in the prohibition table 24.

[0038] When it is determined that all records have been read (S107: YES), the CPU 11 determines whether or not the response request received from the terminal device 3 includes a request for solution information (S111). The solution information is information on setting values ​​that are recommended as a solution method when a setting of a combination of setting values ​​that has been responded to as prohibition information is accepted. When the response request includes a request for solution information, the printer 1 can respond to the IPP client application 31 with the solution information in association with the combination of setting values ​​that has been responded to as prohibition information. A request for solution information based on the IPP standard is, for example, a "job-resolvers-supported" command. The request for solution information is an example of a first request. Note that, in the IPP standard, the solution information is to be requested together with the request for prohibition information.

[0039] If it is determined that a request for solution information is included (S111: YES), the CPU 11 reads information corresponding to the solution name 242 included in each record of the prohibition information stored in S105 from the solution table 25 stored in the memory 12 (S113).

[0040] In S113, the CPU 11 identifies a record in the solution table 25 that includes a solution name 252 that corresponds to the solution name 242 of the prohibition information stored in S105, and reads out the solution setting 253 of that record. The CPU 11 then associates the solution name 252 with the solution setting 253 read out in S113 and stores them as response information to the request for solution information (S114). The CPU 11 then determines whether or not the solution settings 253 have been stored for all the solution names 242 of the response information stored in S105 (S117).

[0041] When it is determined that there remains a solution name 242 for which a solution setting 253 is not stored (S117: NO), the CPU 11 proceeds to S113 and reads out the solution setting 253 corresponding to the next solution name 242.

[0042] When it is determined that the response request received from the terminal device 3 does not include a request for solution information (S111: NO), or when it is determined that the solution settings 253 have been stored for all the solution names 242 of the response information stored in S105 (S117: YES), the CPU 11 notifies the terminal device 3 of the response information stored in the memory 12 (S121). The CPU 11 can compile various pieces of information requested by the response requests and transmit the information to the terminal device 3 via the communication IF 14 by communication based on the IPP standard.

[0043] After S121, or when it is determined that the received response request does not include a request for prohibition information (S101: NO), the CPU 11 ends the prohibition notification process.

[0044] When the terminal device 3 receives response information in response to the transmitted response request, it passes the received information to the IPP client application 31. The IPP client application 31 can use the information when generating a print job. For example, after receiving prohibition information as response information to the response request, the IPP client application 31 can warn the user when it accepts an instruction for print settings that includes a combination of setting values ​​included in the prohibition information.

[0045] Also, for example, after the IPP client application 31 receives prohibition information and solution information as response information to a response request, if the IPP client application 31 receives an instruction for print settings that includes a combination of setting values ​​included in the prohibition information, it can suggest a change to the setting values ​​indicated in the solution information. Also, for example, after the IPP client application 31 receives prohibition information and solution information as response information to a response request, if the IPP client application 31 receives an instruction for print settings that includes a combination of setting values ​​included in the prohibition information, it can automatically change to the setting values ​​indicated in the solution information. However, how the information is used is up to the IPP client application 31.

[0046] In the prohibition notification process, the solution name 242 and the prohibition setting are sent as prohibition information, and the solution name 252 and the solution setting are sent as solution information, but information IDs 241 and 251 may be sent instead of the solution names 242 and 252. In this case, the information IDs 241 and 251 are examples of first identification information or second identification information. The solution name or information ID is information for associating each record of the prohibition information with each record of the solution information, and common information may be used for the prohibition information and the solution information.

[0047] The printer 1 can notify, as prohibition information, information indicating a combination of setting values ​​such that, when set simultaneously, at least one of the setting values ​​is not reflected in the print. For example, if there is a limit to the paper size on which the printer 1 can perform double-sided printing, the printer 1 cannot simultaneously satisfy and print a setting value indicating a paper size on which double-sided printing is not possible and a setting value indicating double-sided printing. Therefore, the printer 1 notifies, as prohibition information, the combination of setting values ​​that cannot be satisfied simultaneously, for example, as shown in the record with ID 241 of "6" in FIG. 3. In addition, as solution information associated with the prohibition information in this example, the printer 1 notifies, for example, a setting value indicating single-sided printing, as shown in the record with ID 251 of "6" in FIG. 4.

[0048] By the printer 1 notifying this prohibition information and resolution information, the IPP client application 31 can prompt the printer 1 to change to single-sided printing if a setting value indicating a paper size that does not support double-sided printing and a setting value indicating double-sided printing are set at the same time.

[0049] The printer 1 of this embodiment may not only notify combinations of setting values ​​that cannot be satisfied simultaneously, but also, for example, combinations of setting values ​​that may not be satisfied simultaneously depending on the setting values ​​of other items as prohibition information. Furthermore, as solution information corresponding to such prohibition information, the printer 1 may notify setting values ​​that are likely to be satisfied simultaneously regardless of the setting values ​​of other items.

[0050] Specifically, the printer 1 of this embodiment notifies solution information indicating that the setting value of the output tray or feed tray item is set to "auto select" as a solution setting corresponding to a predetermined prohibition setting, for example, as shown in FIG. 4. "Auto select" is a setting value indicating that the printer 1 will replace it with a setting value indicating an individual tray. For example, when a print job is received in which the feed tray item is set to "auto select", the printer 1 replaces it with a setting value indicating one of the three setting values ​​of the standard tray 171, the manual feed tray 172, and the additional tray 173. The process of the printer 1 when printing will be described later.

[0051] In other words, when "Auto Select" is set for the output tray or input tray item of the print job for which an execution instruction has been received, the printer 1 can select an appropriate tray from among the multiple trays equipped in the printer 1 and use it for printing, depending on other setting values ​​set in the print job and the status of each tray.

[0052] Next, a specific example of a combination of prohibition information and resolution information notified by the printer 1 will be described with reference to the prohibition table 24 shown in Fig. 3 and the resolution table 25 shown in Fig. 4. In the prohibition table 24 shown in Fig. 3, the prohibition setting with information ID 241 of "1" is a combination of a first setting 243 in which the item of paper size is a setting value indicating a size that cannot be discharged to the finisher tray 192, such as an envelope, #10 size, or DL ​​size, and a second setting 244 in which the item of paper discharge tray is a setting value indicating the finisher tray 192. This combination of the first setting 243 and the second setting 244 is an example of a first combination and an example of a first specific combination.

[0053] Then, when notifying the prohibition setting with information ID 241 of "1" as the prohibition information and notifying the solution setting as the solution information, CPU 11 notifies solution setting 253 whose solution name 252 is the same as solution name 242, that is, information that sets the output tray item to "automatic selection", based on solution table 25 shown in Fig. 4. The setting value indicating "automatic selection" in this case is an example of the first setting value.

[0054] 3, only two or three types of setting values ​​are shown as the first setting 243 and the second setting 244, but the printer 1 is compatible with the IPP standard, and notifies all setting values ​​when there are multiple setting values ​​that meet the conditions. For example, as the prohibited character setting with information ID 241 of "1", the printer 1 notifies each setting value of paper sizes that cannot be discharged to the finisher tray 192, such as various envelope sizes, as the paper size setting value.

[0055] By notifying the prohibition setting of information ID 241 "1", printer 1 may receive, for example, a print job from terminal device 3 including print settings in which envelope is set in the paper size item and automatic selection is set in the paper output tray item. Based on the received print job, printer 1 executes printing using the print settings set in the print job. Details will be described later, but the following description will be given with reference to the reference numerals in Figs. 5 to 7, which will be described later.

[0056] When a print job in which "auto select" is set for the paper output tray is received, the printer 1 judges YES in S221 of the print process (FIG. 5) and executes the paper output tray selection process (FIG. 7). Then, if the paper size setting is a size that cannot be output to the finisher tray 192, such as an envelope (NO in S401 in FIG. 7), the printer 1 turns off the stapling and offset output settings (S441), selects the default tray as the paper output tray (S442), and performs printing. Note that the default tray for the paper output tray is the first tray 181 or the second tray 182, not the finisher tray 192.

[0057] The printer 1 may be provided with, for example, a second tray 182 with an opening provided on a path along which a printed sheet is transported to the first tray 181. In this configuration, the printed sheet is discharged to the first tray 181 when the opening is closed, and is discharged to the second tray 182 when the opening is open. The first tray 181 and the second tray 182 may be two independent paper discharge trays, in which case the printer 1 selects the first tray 181 as the paper discharge tray if the first tray 181 is set as the default tray, and selects the second tray 182 as the paper discharge tray if the second tray 182 is set as the default tray.

[0058] When a paper size that cannot be output to the finisher tray 192 is selected, the printer 1 cannot output the paper to the finisher tray 192. By notifying the combination of a paper size that cannot be output to the finisher tray 192 and a setting value that indicates the finisher tray 192 as the output tray as prohibition information, there is a possibility that a print job in which print settings in which one of the combinations has been changed will be accepted. In other words, the possibility of accepting a print job in which a combination of setting values ​​that cannot be satisfied simultaneously is set is reduced.

[0059] By notifying information that sets the output tray to "automatic selection" as the solution to this prohibition information, the printer 1 is more likely to accept a print job for which the output tray is set to "automatic selection." If the output tray is set to "automatic selection," the printer 1 is more likely to be able to select an appropriate output tray according to the paper size and output the paper appropriately.

[0060] 3, the prohibition setting with information ID 241 of "2" is a combination of a first setting 243 in which the item of paper size is set to a setting value indicating a size that cannot be used for stapling, such as A5 size, A6 size, or envelope, and a second setting 244 in which the item of finishing is set to a setting value indicating stapling. The combination of the first setting 243 and the second setting 244 is an example of a first combination and an example of a second specific combination. Stapling is a process in which printed sheets are stapled using a stapler 191 included in the finisher 19.

[0061] Then, when notifying the prohibition setting with information ID 241 of "2" as the prohibition information and notifying the solution setting as the solution information, CPU 11 notifies solution setting 253 whose solution name 252 is the same as solution name 242, that is, information that sets the output tray item to "automatic selection", based on solution table 25 shown in Fig. 4. The setting value indicating "automatic selection" in this case is an example of the second setting value.

[0062] 3, the prohibition setting with information ID 241 of "3" is a combination of a first setting 243 in which the paper size item is set to a setting value indicating a size that cannot be used for offset paper ejection processing, such as for envelopes, and a second setting 244 in which the finishing item is set to a setting value indicating offset paper ejection processing. The combination of the first setting 243 and the second setting 244 is an example of a first combination, and an example of a third specific combination. The offset paper ejection processing is a process in which the finisher tray 192 is moved to shift the paper ejection position of printed sheets by copy unit and eject them.

[0063] Then, when notifying the prohibition setting with information ID 241 of "3" as the prohibition information and notifying the solution setting as the solution information, CPU 11 notifies solution setting 253 whose solution name 252 is the same as solution name 242, that is, information that sets the output tray item to "automatic selection", based on solution table 25 shown in Fig. 4. The setting value indicating "automatic selection" in this case is an example of the third setting value.

[0064] If a paper size that is not compatible with stapling or offset paper output is selected, the printer 1 cannot perform stapling or offset paper output. By notifying a combination of a paper size that is not compatible with stapling or offset paper output and a setting value that indicates stapling or offset paper output as prohibition information, there is a possibility that a print job in which print settings in which one of the combinations has been changed may be accepted. The output tray to be used differs between when the setting value of the paper size is changed to a setting value suitable for stapling or offset paper output and when the setting value of the paper size is not changed and stapling or offset paper output is turned off.

[0065] By notifying information that sets the output tray to "automatic selection" as the solution information for this prohibition information, the printer 1 is more likely to accept a print job in which the output tray is set to "automatic selection." If a print job in which the output tray is set to "automatic selection" is accepted, the printer 1 determines YES in S221 of the print process (FIG. 5) and executes the output tray selection process (FIG. 7).

[0066] Then, if the paper size is A5 or the like and can be discharged to the finisher tray 192 (YES in S401 in FIG. 7), the printer 1 proceeds to S441. Furthermore, if the paper size is not compatible with stapling or offset discharge, the printer 1 determines NO in both S412 and S422 and turns off both the stapling setting and the offset discharge setting (S413, S423). As a result, the printer 1 determines NO in S431, so selects the default tray as the discharge tray (S442) and prints.

[0067] On the other hand, if the paper size is compatible with stapling and offset paper ejection, the printer 1 determines YES in S401, and then determines YES in S412 if stapling is set, and determines YES in S422 if offset paper ejection is set. Then, since the printer 1 determines YES in S431, it selects the finisher tray 192 as the paper ejection tray. As a result, the printer 1 can perform the set finishing process and eject the paper to the finisher tray 192. Therefore, the printer 1 is highly likely to be able to select an appropriate paper ejection tray according to the paper size, stapling, and offset paper ejection settings, and eject the paper appropriately.

[0068] 3, the prohibition setting with information ID 241 of "4" is a combination of a first setting 243 in which the paper size item is set to a setting value indicating a small size such as A6 size, and a second setting 244 in which the paper feed tray item is set to a setting value indicating additional tray 173. The combination of the first setting 243 and the second setting 244 is an example of the second combination, and an example of the fourth specific combination. The additional tray 173 of the printer 1 is provided below the standard tray 171, and is a paper feed tray that cannot feed small sized paper. The additional tray 173 is an example of a specific paper feed tray.

[0069] Then, when notifying the prohibition setting with information ID 241 of "4" as the prohibition information and notifying the solution setting as the solution information, CPU 11 notifies solution setting 253 with solution name 252 being the same as solution name 242, that is, information that sets the paper feed tray item to "automatic selection", based on solution table 25 shown in FIG. 4. The setting value indicating "automatic selection" in this case is an example of the fourth setting value. By notifying solution information that sets the paper feed tray setting value to "automatic selection", printer 1 is more likely to accept a print job in which "automatic selection" is set for the paper feed tray.

[0070] When a print job is received for which the paper feed tray is set to "auto select," the printer 1 determines YES in S211 of the print process (FIG. 5) and executes the paper feed tray selection process (FIG. 6). In the paper feed tray selection process, if the paper size in the print settings is, for example, A5 size, paper can be fed from the standard tray 171 or manual feed tray 172 even if it cannot be fed from the additional tray 173, and since the printer 1 determines YES in S311, it can select the top-priority paper feed tray based on the priority order and double-sided printing settings (S321) and print. In other words, if the paper feed tray is set to "auto select," the printer 1 is highly likely to be able to select an appropriate paper feed tray according to the paper size and feed paper appropriately.

[0071] In addition, in the prohibition table 24 shown in Figure 3, the prohibition setting with information ID 241 of "5" is a combination of a first setting 243 in which the paper type item is set to a setting value indicating special paper such as thick paper, and a second setting 244 in which the paper feed tray item is set to a setting value indicating each paper feed tray other than the manual feed tray 172.

[0072] Then, when notifying the prohibition setting with information ID 241 of "5" as the prohibition information and notifying the solution setting as the solution information, CPU 11 notifies solution setting 253 in which solution name 252 is the same as solution name 242, that is, the setting in which the paper feed tray item is set to "manual feed tray", based on solution table 25 shown in Fig. 4. Even if the paper type is special paper, printer 1 can feed paper properly as long as "manual feed tray" is set as the paper feed tray.

[0073] 3, the prohibition setting with information ID 241 of "7" is a combination of a first setting 243 in which the paper size item is set to a setting value indicating a special size such as an envelope, and a second setting 244 in which the paper feed tray item is set to a setting value indicating the standard tray 171. The combination of the first setting 243 and the second setting 244 is an example of the second combination. Note that the standard tray 171 of the printer 1 is a paper feed tray that cannot feed paper of a special size.

[0074] Then, when notifying the prohibition setting with information ID 241 of "7" as the prohibition information and notifying the solution setting as the solution information, CPU 11 notifies solution setting 253 whose solution name 252 is the same as solution name 242, that is, information that sets the paper feed tray item to "automatic selection", based on the solution table 25 shown in FIG. 4.

[0075] By notifying the solution information that sets the setting value of the paper feed tray to "auto select", the printer 1 is more likely to accept a print job with "auto select" set for the paper feed tray. When a print job with "auto select" set for the paper feed tray is accepted, the printer 1 judges YES in S211 of the print process (FIG. 5) and executes the paper feed tray selection process (FIG. 6). In the paper feed tray selection process, if the paper size in the print setting is a special size, for example, if paper can be fed from the manual feed tray 172, the printer 1 judges YES in S311, and therefore can select the top-priority paper feed tray based on the priority order and double-sided printing settings (S321) and print. In other words, if "auto select" is set for the paper feed tray, the printer 1 is more likely to be able to select an appropriate paper feed tray and feed the paper appropriately, even if the paper is a special size.

[0076] 3, the prohibition setting with information ID 241 of "8" is a combination of a first setting 243 in which the finishing item is set to a setting value indicating stapling, and a second setting 244 in which the output tray item is set to a setting value indicating each output tray other than the finisher tray 192. The combination of the first setting 243 and the second setting 244 is an example of a first combination and an example of a fifth specific combination. Stapling is an example of a specific process, and the finisher tray 192 is an example of a specific output tray.

[0077] 3, the prohibition setting with information ID 241 of "9" is a combination of a first setting 243 in which the finishing item is set to a setting value indicating offset paper discharge, and a second setting 244 in which the paper discharge tray item is set to a setting value indicating each paper discharge tray other than the finisher tray 192. The combination of the first setting 243 and the second setting 244 is an example of a first combination, and an example of a fifth specific combination. Offset paper discharge is an example of a specific process, and the finisher tray 192 is an example of a specific paper discharge tray.

[0078] Then, when notifying a prohibition setting with information ID 241 of "8" or "9" as prohibition information and notifying its solution setting as solution information, CPU 11 notifies solution setting 253 whose solution name 252 is the same as solution name 242, that is, information that sets the output tray item to "automatic selection", based on solution table 25 shown in Fig. 4. The setting value indicating "automatic selection" in this case is an example of the fifth setting value.

[0079] The printer 1 of this embodiment notifies the combination of a stapling or offset output setting as a finishing setting and an output tray other than the finisher tray 192 as prohibition information, and notifies information to set the output tray to "automatic selection" as solution information. This increases the likelihood that the printer 1 will accept a print job with the output tray set to "automatic selection" regardless of whether a finishing setting is present. When a print job with the output tray set to "automatic selection" is accepted, the printer 1 executes the output tray selection process as described above, and can select an appropriate output tray based on the paper size and finishing settings.

[0080] Note that even if the printer 1 does not perform finishing processing on the printed sheets, the printer 1 can discharge the sheets to the finisher tray 192. Also, if the printer 1 is configured to be unable to perform stapling processing or offset discharge, for example, if the printer 1 is not equipped with a finisher 19, the determination in S104 of the prohibition notification processing is NO, and the CPU 11 does not notify the combinations of the information IDs 241 "2", "3", "8", and "9" as prohibition information.

[0081] 4, different solution names 252 are provided for the same solution setting, and a record is stored for each solution name 252, but the same solution setting may be provided with the same solution name 252 and stored as one record. For example, a solution setting in which the output tray is set to "automatic selection" may be stored as one record with the solution name 252 "automatic output tray", and each solution name 242 corresponding to the prohibition settings with information IDs 241 of "1" to "3" in the prohibition table 24 shown in FIG. 3 may be set to "automatic output tray".

[0082] In this way, there are multiple combinations of prohibition settings notified by the printer 1, and the printer 1 can notify solution information related to different setting items for each combination. In other words, the printer 1 can notify information indicating "automatic selection" for both the output tray item and the paper feed tray item as solution information. The output tray item and the paper feed tray item are examples of predetermined setting items and are examples of first and second setting items. The setting values ​​indicating "automatic selection" set for the output tray item and the paper feed tray item are examples of specific setting values ​​and are examples of first and second specific setting values. Being able to notify setting values ​​indicating "automatic selection" for multiple setting items increases the degree of freedom of the setting values ​​to be resolved. This increases the possibility of flexible resolution for multiple prohibition settings.

[0083] Next, the procedure of the print process executed by the printer 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 5. This print process is executed by the CPU 11 of the printer 1 based on the IPP print program 22 when a print instruction for a print job based on the IPP standard is accepted from an external device such as the terminal device 3.

[0084] For example, by executing the IPP client application 31, the terminal device 3 can send an information response request to the printer 1 and receive information notified from the printer 1, as described above. Then, after receiving the information notified from the printer 1, the terminal device 3 can send a print job to the printer 1.

[0085] The CPU 11 acquires the print settings of the received print job (S201). The print settings include multiple items. In S201, the CPU 11 acquires the setting values ​​specified for all items set in the print job to be executed. If the print settings acquired in S201 include print settings that cannot be executed by the printer 1, the CPU 11 may report an error and not print. For example, if the print settings include execution of a staple process and the finisher 19 is not installed in the printer 1 or the stapler 191 is not built into the finisher 19 of the printer 1, the CPU 11 may report an error.

[0086] The CPU 11 determines whether the automatic selection is set in the paper feed tray item of the print setting (S211). If it is determined that the automatic selection is set in the paper feed tray item (S211: YES), the CPU 11 executes a paper feed tray selection process (S212).

[0087] The procedure of the paper feed tray selection process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 6. The CPU 11 acquires information on available paper feed trays and information on the priority order that has been set (S301). The printer 1 stores the priority order information in the memory 12. The printer 1 can receive a designation of the priority order of the paper feed trays by a user's operation on the operation panel 13, for example, and store the received priority order information in the memory 12. In S301, the CPU 11 arranges the available paper feed trays in the order of priority to create a temporary list. The CPU 11 can also exclude, for example, paper feed trays that do not contain paper or paper feed trays that are not permitted to be used from the list.

[0088] The CPU 11 determines whether or not there is a paper feed tray that can accommodate the paper size set in the print settings among the paper feed trays that were made available in S301 (S311). If it is determined that there is a paper feed tray that can accommodate the paper size (S311: YES), the CPU 11 adjusts the priority order of the list created in S301 based on the paper size and paper type of the print settings (S312). Specifically, the CPU 11 prioritizes the paper feed trays whose paper size and paper type both match the print settings, followed by paper feed trays whose paper size only matches, paper feed trays whose paper type only matches, and paper feed trays whose paper size and paper type do not match.

[0089] Furthermore, the CPU 11 determines whether or not double-sided printing is set in the print settings (S315). If it is determined that double-sided printing is set (S315: YES), the CPU 11 removes the paper feed trays that cannot perform double-sided printing from the list adjusted in S312 (S316). After S316, the CPU 11 determines whether or not a compatible paper feed tray remains in the paper feed tray list (S317).

[0090] If it is determined that a compatible paper feed tray remains (S317: YES), or if it is determined that double-sided printing is not set (S315: NO), the CPU 11 selects the paper feed tray with the highest priority based on the priority order of the list as the paper feed tray to be used (S321). In other words, the CPU 11 replaces the setting value of the paper feed tray item of the print job with the setting value indicating the paper feed tray selected in S321.

[0091] On the other hand, if it is determined in S316 that there is no compatible paper feed tray (S317: NO), the CPU 11 changes the print settings from double-sided printing to single-sided printing (S318). By not performing double-sided printing when there is no paper feed tray compatible with double-sided printing, the printer 1 can reduce the possibility of being unable to print.

[0092] After S318, or if it is determined that there is no paper feed tray that is compatible with the paper size in the print settings (S311: NO), the CPU 11 selects the paper feed tray that is set as the default in the printer 1 as the paper feed tray to be used (S322). After S321 or S322, the CPU 11 ends the paper feed tray selection process and returns to the print process.

[0093] Note that the printer 1 may prioritize printing and, for example, use paper different from the print settings of the print job. For example, in S312 of the paper feed tray selection process, the CPU 11 prioritizes and selects a paper feed tray that contains paper that matches the paper size and paper type set in the print settings. However, if there is no matching paper feed tray, the CPU 11 may select, in S321 or S322, a paper feed tray that contains paper different from the paper size and paper type set in the print settings.

[0094] When a paper feed tray selection process selects a paper feed tray that contains paper different from the paper size or paper type specified in the print settings, the CPU 11 changes the paper size and paper type in the print settings to match the paper feed tray selected in the paper feed tray selection process and performs subsequent processes. For example, if the paper size specified in the print settings is A5 size, there is no paper feed tray that contains A5 size paper, and a paper feed tray that contains A4 size paper is selected, the CPU 11 changes the setting value of the paper size to A4 size and performs subsequent processes.

[0095] Furthermore, if there is no paper feed tray containing paper that matches the print settings in S321 or S322, the printer 1 may report an error and not print. Alternatively, the printer 1 may report that there is no paper that matches the print settings and to change the print settings and print. The printer 1 may also inquire of the user via the operation panel 13 as to whether or not to change the print settings and print, and may print if an instruction to print is received.

[0096] Returning to the description of the print processing in Fig. 5, if it is determined that automatic selection is not set for the paper feed tray item (S211: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether or not the paper feed tray set in the print settings can be used (S213). The setting value for the paper feed tray item not being automatic selection means that a specific paper feed tray is specified as the paper feed tray to be used in the print settings. Thus, the CPU 11 obtains the status of the paper feed tray specified in the print settings, and if it is available, selects the paper feed tray specified in the print settings as the paper feed tray to be used.

[0097] In S213, CPU 11 may not take into account any items in the print settings other than the paper feed tray item. CPU 11 may select the specified paper feed tray if it is available, regardless of the paper size or paper type in the print settings. Alternatively, CPU 11 may report an error if the paper size or paper type of the paper stored in the specified paper feed tray does not match the paper size or paper type specified in the print settings.

[0098] After the paper feed tray selection process in S212, or when it is determined that the paper feed tray set in the print settings is available (S213: YES), the CPU 11 determines whether or not automatic selection is set in the output tray item in the print settings (S221). If it is determined that automatic selection is set in the output tray item (S221: YES), the CPU 11 executes output tray selection process (S222).

[0099] The procedure for the paper output tray selection process will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 7. CPU 11 determines whether the size of the paper to be printed is a size that can be output to finisher tray 192 (S401). CPU 11 makes the determination in S401 based on, for example, the paper size specified in the print job and the paper size contained in the paper feed tray selected in the paper feed tray selection process.

[0100] If it is determined that the paper size can be discharged to the finisher tray 192 (S401: YES), the CPU 11 determines whether the print settings include a setting indicating that stapling processing is to be performed (S411).

[0101] If it is determined that the setting for stapling is included (S411: YES), the CPU 11 determines whether the paper size is a paper size that can be stapled (S412). If it is determined that the paper size is not a paper size that can be stapled (S412: NO), the CPU 11 turns off stapling (S413). In other words, the CPU 11 applies the setting value for the paper size in priority over stapling. The CPU 11 may also notify that stapling will not be performed.

[0102] After S413, or if it is determined that the setting for stapling is not included (S411: NO), or if it is determined that the paper size is a paper size that can be stapled (S412: YES), the CPU 11 determines whether the print settings include a setting indicating that offset paper discharge processing is to be performed (S421).

[0103] If it is determined that the setting for offset paper ejection processing is included (S421: YES), the CPU 11 determines whether the paper size is compatible with offset paper ejection processing (S422). If it is determined that the paper size is not compatible with offset paper ejection processing (S422: NO), the CPU 11 turns off offset paper ejection processing (S423). In other words, the CPU 11 applies the setting value of the paper size with priority over offset paper ejection processing. The CPU 11 may also notify that offset paper ejection processing will not be performed.

[0104] After S423, or if it is determined that the setting for performing offset paper ejection processing is not included (S421: NO), or if it is determined that the paper size is compatible with offset paper ejection processing (S422: YES), the CPU 11 determines whether at least one of the stapling processing and the offset paper ejection processing is on (S431).

[0105] When it is determined that at least one of the stapling process and the offset paper discharge process is ON (S431: YES), the CPU 11 selects the finisher tray 192 as the paper discharge tray (S432).

[0106] On the other hand, if the CPU 11 determines that the size of the paper to be printed is not a size that can be discharged to the finisher tray 192 (S401: NO), the CPU 11 turns off stapling and offset discharge processes (S441). After S441, or if the CPU 11 determines that both stapling and offset discharge processes are off (S431: NO), the CPU 11 selects the discharge tray set as the default in the printer 1 as the discharge tray to be used for printing (S442).

[0107] The CPU 11 replaces the setting value of the output tray item of the print job with the setting value indicating the output tray selected in S432 or S442. After S432 or S442, the CPU 11 ends the output tray selection process and returns to the print process.

[0108] Returning to the description of the print processing in Fig. 5, if it is determined that automatic selection is not set for the output tray item (S221: NO), the CPU 11 determines whether or not the output tray set in the print settings can be used (S223). The setting value for the output tray item is not automatic selection means that a specific output tray is specified as the output tray to be used in the print settings. Therefore, the CPU 11 obtains the status of the output tray specified in the print settings, and if it is available, selects the output tray specified in the print settings as the paper feed tray to be used.

[0109] After the paper output tray selection process in S222, or when it is determined that the paper output tray set in the print settings is available (S223: YES), the CPU 11 causes the print engine 15 to execute printing (S231). The CPU 11 feeds paper from the selected paper feed tray, and ejects the paper after printing by the print engine 15 to the selected paper output tray. If the staple process or offset paper output process is on, the CPU 11 executes the process and ejects the paper to the finisher tray 192.

[0110] On the other hand, if it is determined that the paper feed tray is not automatically selected and the paper feed tray set in the print settings is unavailable (S213: NO), or if it is determined that the paper output tray is not automatically selected and the paper output tray set in the print settings is unavailable (S223: NO), the CPU 11 notifies an error and does not execute printing (S232). For example, if the specified paper feed tray does not contain paper or the specified paper output tray is full, the CPU 11 does not execute printing until the situation is improved. After S231 or S232, the CPU 11 ends the print process.

[0111] As described above in detail, the printer 1 of this embodiment can respond to a response request from the terminal device 3 with prohibition information, which is a setting of a combination of setting values ​​that must not be associated at the same time, and solution information that resolves the prohibition information. The printer 1 may notify a setting value indicating "automatic selection" in the item of the paper feed tray or the paper output tray as the solution information. The setting value indicating "automatic selection" is a setting value that indicates that the printer 1 can replace the setting value indicating an individual tray. Furthermore, after notifying the setting value indicating "automatic selection" in the item of the paper feed tray or the paper output tray, when the printer 1 receives a print job from the terminal device 3 in which the setting value indicating "automatic selection" is set in the item of the paper feed tray or the paper output tray, the printer 1 selects a tray that is suitable for the situation when printing based on the print job is executed from among the trays that can be selected as the paper feed tray or the paper output tray, and performs printing. Therefore, even in printing without using a printer driver, the printer 1 is highly likely to be able to flexibly resolve the prohibition setting.

[0112] It should be noted that this embodiment is merely an example and does not limit the present invention in any way. Therefore, the present invention can be improved and modified in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, the printer 1 is not limited to a dedicated printer, but may be a multifunction machine, a copier, a fax machine, etc. Furthermore, the printing method of the printer 1 may be a thermal transfer method, a thermal method, etc.

[0113] In the embodiment, the printer 1 has three trays each as the paper feed tray and the paper discharge tray, but the number of trays is not limited to this. However, in order to effectively notify the setting value indicating "automatic selection" as the solution information, it is desirable for the printer 1 to have multiple paper feed trays and paper discharge trays.

[0114] In the embodiment, an example was shown in which a setting value indicating "automatic selection" was notified as the solution information, but the solution information to be notified may be any setting value indicating a tray selection in the printer 1, and may not be a setting value indicating "automatic selection." For example, it may be a setting value indicating a tray that the printer 1 cannot have.

[0115] In the embodiment, the printer 1 responds to a request for information according to the IPP standard, but it does not have to be the IPP standard. The printer 1 may respond to a request according to, for example, a standard defined by the OS of the terminal device, a standard defined by the vendor of the printer 1, or a standard defined by a platform provider on the Internet.

[0116] In the embodiment, the request for solution information is received together with the request for prohibition information, but there may be a request for only solution information, or a single request that combines a request for prohibition information and a request for solution information. In that case, the printer 1 may be able to respond to the request by providing both prohibition information and solution information. Also, for example, there may be a request that distinguishes between information on a combination of setting values ​​that cannot be satisfied simultaneously and information on a combination of setting values ​​that may not be satisfied simultaneously depending on the setting values ​​of other items, and in that case, the printer 1 may be able to respond by distinguishing between each piece of prohibition information in response to the received request.

[0117] Also, for example, the printer 1 may have information on trays set as defaults and information on tray priority order in advance, or may be able to accept such information through user operation.

[0118] In addition, in any of the flowcharts disclosed in the embodiments, the execution order of multiple processes in any of the steps can be changed as desired or the processes can be executed in parallel, as long as no contradiction occurs in the process content.

[0119] The processes disclosed in the embodiments may be executed by a single CPU, multiple CPUs, hardware such as ASIC, or a combination of these. The processes disclosed in the embodiments may be realized in various forms, such as a recording medium having a program for executing the processes recorded thereon, or a method. [Explanation of symbols]

[0120] 1. Printer 3 Terminal Equipment

Claims

1. A printer capable of performing printing based on a print job received from an external device in accordance with a plurality of setting values ​​associated with the received print job, The printer includes: in response to a first request from the external device, notifying the external device of solution information that resolves a combination of setting values ​​that should not be associated at the same time, the solution information setting a specific setting value as a predetermined setting item, the specific setting value being a setting value that indicates that the printer can replace the specific setting value with another setting value; The printer further comprises: after notifying the solution information in response to the first request from the external device, when receiving a print job associated with the specific setting value from the external device, selecting one setting value according to a status of the printer from among a plurality of setting values ​​that can be replaced from the specific setting value; performing printing based on the print job in accordance with the one selected setting value; It is configured as follows.

2. 2. The printer according to claim 1, The specific setting values ​​include a first specific setting value corresponding to a first setting item and a second specific setting value corresponding to a second setting item, the first specific setting value is replaceable with one of a first plurality of setting values, and the second specific setting value is replaceable with one of a second plurality of setting values; The printer includes: When the print job associated with at least one of the first specific setting value and the second specific setting value is received from the external device after the solution information is notified in response to the first request from the external device, If the first specific setting value is associated with the received print job, one setting value corresponding to a status of the printer is selected from the first plurality of setting values ​​that can be replaced from the first specific setting value; If the second specific setting value is associated with the received print job, one setting value corresponding to a status of the printer is selected from the second plurality of setting values ​​that can be replaced from the second specific setting value; performing printing based on the print job in accordance with the one selected setting value; It is configured as follows.

3. 3. The printer according to claim 2, The combinations of setting values ​​that should not be associated at the same time include a first combination and a second combination; The printer includes: in response to the first request from the external device, notifying the external device of the solution information for the first combination, the solution information setting the first setting item to the first specific setting value; notifying the external device of the solution information for the second combination, the solution information setting the second setting item to the second specific setting value; It is configured as follows.

4. 4. The printer according to claim 3, The printer includes: when a second request is received from the external device, prohibition information indicating a combination of setting values ​​that must not be associated at the same time is notified to the external device, the prohibition information associating the first combination with first identification information and associating the second combination with second identification information; The printer further comprises: in response to the first request from the external device, notifying the external device of the solution information for the first combination, the solution information in which the first setting item is set to the first specific setting value, in association with the first identification information; notifying the external device of the solution information for the second combination, the solution information for which the second setting item is set to the second specific setting value, in association with the second identification information; It is configured as follows.

5. 4. The printer according to claim 3, The printer includes: when a job-resolvers-supported request is received as the first request from the external device in accordance with an Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) standard, notifying the external device of the resolution information; It is configured as follows.

6. 4. The printer according to claim 3, The combinations of setting values ​​that must not be associated at the same time include a first specific combination in which the paper size is a size that cannot be accommodated in a specific paper output tray and the paper output tray is the specific paper output tray, The printer includes: notifying the external device of the solution information for resolving the first specific combination in response to the first request from the external device, the solution information including the predetermined setting item being a paper output tray and a setting value thereof being a first setting value which is the specific setting value; It is configured as follows.

7. 4. The printer according to claim 3, The combination of setting values ​​that must not be associated at the same time includes a second specific combination of a paper size that cannot be used for stapling and execution of stapling, the stapling being a process for stapling printed sheets; The printer includes: notifying the external device of the solution information for resolving the second specific combination in response to the first request from the external device, the solution information including the predetermined setting item being a paper output tray and the setting value of the paper output tray being a second setting value which is the specific setting value; It is configured as follows.

8. 4. The printer according to claim 3, The combination of setting values ​​that must not be associated at the same time includes a third specific combination of a paper size that cannot be used for offset paper ejection processing and execution of offset paper ejection processing, the offset paper ejection processing being a process of shifting the paper ejection position of printed sheets by the number of copies, The printer includes: notifying the external device of the solution information for resolving the third specific combination in response to the first request from the external device, the solution information including the predetermined setting item being a paper output tray and the setting value of the paper output tray being a third setting value which is the specific setting value; It is configured as follows.

9. 4. The printer according to claim 3, The combination of setting values ​​that must not be associated at the same time includes a fourth specific combination in which the paper size is a size that cannot be accommodated in a specific paper feed tray and the specific paper feed tray is used as the paper feed tray. The printer includes: notifying the external device of the solution information for resolving the fourth specific combination in response to the first request from the external device, the solution information including the predetermined setting item being a paper feed tray and the setting value of the paper feed tray being a fourth setting value which is the specific setting value; It is configured as follows.

10. 4. The printer according to claim 3, The combinations of setting values ​​that must not be associated at the same time include a fifth specific combination in which a setting for performing a specific process that requires the use of a specific paper output tray and the paper output tray is a paper output tray other than the specific paper output tray, The printer includes: notifying the external device of the solution information for resolving the fifth specific combination, in which the predetermined setting item is a paper output tray and the setting value of the paper output tray is set to a fifth setting value, which is the specific setting value, in response to the first request from the external device; It is configured as follows.

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