Information processing apparatus, control method of information processing apparatus, and program

Abstract

To provide an information processing apparatus, a control method of an information processing apparatus, and a program that can reduce power consumption in the information processing apparatus according to the use state of the information processing apparatus.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus 101 comprises: power control means (CPU 340) capable of performing switching control for switching between a first power state and a second power state; and determination means (CPU 340) for determining whether the apparatus is in a connected state of being connected to a network or a disconnected state of not being connected to the network. The determination means determines whether the apparatus is in the connected state or the disconnected state after switching from the first power state to the second power state is complete. When it is determined that the apparatus is in the disconnected state, the power control means can perform cut-off control of forcibly cutting off power supply.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device, a control method for an information processing device, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Image forming devices can be in multiple standby states. Examples of standby states include a ready state, a sleep state, and an off state. The ready state warms up the image forming device while waiting for input of commands for the copy or print function. The sleep state is a standby state in which the image forming device is not in use by the user, reducing power consumption (standby power). The off state is a state in which the image forming device cannot be used immediately but consumes the least amount of power. Image forming devices also have a power-saving function that transitions from each standby state to a state with lower power consumption. This power-saving function enables each component of the image forming device to operate while in standby mode with low power consumption. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a device that displays a predetermined message if no operation is performed for a predetermined automatic shutdown time, and then automatically shuts down the device if no operation is received. The device described in Patent Document 1 can reduce power consumption through automatic shutdown. Furthermore, the device described in Patent Document 1 records automatic shutdown events and allows the automatic shutdown time to be changed (managed). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-133636 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In a known image forming apparatus, when it is not connected to a network and is not remotely operated from the outside, it is determined that the image forming apparatus will not be used until, for example, a user approaches the image forming apparatus. Even though it is determined that the image forming apparatus will not be used, the power of this image forming apparatus continues to be turned on, thereby wasting power.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide an information processing device, a control method for the information processing device, and a program that can reduce power consumption of the information processing device depending on the usage state of the information processing device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, the information processing device of the present invention is an information processing device that can be connected to a network and can take a first power state in which it operates when power is supplied, and a second power state that consumes less power than the first power state, and is equipped with a power control means that is capable of switching control to switch between the first power state and the second power state, and a judgment means that judges whether the information processing device is in a connected state in which it is connected to the network or a non-connected state in which it is not connected to the network, wherein the judgment means judges whether the information processing device is in the connected state or the non-connected state while the power control means is switching from the first power state to the second power state, or after the power control means has completed switching from the first power state to the second power state, and the power control means is capable of performing cut-off control to forcibly cut off the power supply to the information processing device as a result of the judgment by the judgment means, and when the timer times out, [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to reduce power consumption in an information processing device depending on the state of use of the information processing device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of an image forming system having an image forming apparatus when an information processing apparatus according to a first embodiment is applied. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a controller included in the image forming apparatus. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration for power control of an image forming apparatus. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a UI screen displayed on an operation unit of the image forming apparatus. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an auto-off process executed in the image forming apparatus. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing an auto-off process executed in an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing an auto-off process executed in an image forming apparatus according to a third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Each embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, the configurations described in each of the following embodiments are merely examples, and the scope of the present invention is not limited to the configurations described in each embodiment. For example, each component constituting the present invention can be replaced with any configuration that can perform the same function. Also, any component may be added. Furthermore, any two or more configurations (features) of each embodiment can be combined.

[0010] <<First Embodiment>> The first embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0011] <Configuration of image forming system> FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of an image forming system including an image forming apparatus when an information processing apparatus according to a first embodiment is applied. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the image forming system 1000 includes an image forming apparatus 101, a computer 109, an access point 112, and a finisher apparatus 150. In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 101 is an MFP (Multi-Function Peripheral) having functions such as printing, scanning, and data communication, but is not limited thereto. The image forming apparatus 101 is configured to be capable of operating in a first power state in which it receives power and a second power state in which it consumes less power than the first power state. The power states of the image forming apparatus 101 include, for example, a normal state, a ready state, a sleep state, an off state, and a shutdown state. The "normal state" refers to a state in which desired functions such as printing, scanning, and data communication can be quickly executed. The "ready state" refers to a state in which the image forming apparatus 101 is warming up and waiting for input of commands for functions such as copying and printing. The "sleep state" refers to a state in which the image forming apparatus 101 is not being used by the user and is on standby while reducing power consumption (standby power). The "off state" refers to a state in which the image forming apparatus 101 cannot be used immediately but consumes the least power compared to the ready state and sleep state. The "shutdown state" refers to a state in which the power supply 301 (see FIG. 3) of the image forming apparatus 101 is turned off, i.e., the power supply from the power supply 301 is cut off. In this embodiment, for example, the first power state is the normal state and the second power state is the sleep state, but this is not limiting. In this embodiment, the CPU 340, which will be described later, is responsible for switching the power state of the image forming apparatus 101 between the first power state and the second power state (power control process).

[0012] The image forming apparatus 101 includes a scanner device 102, a controller (control device) 103, a printer device 104, an operation unit (display means) 105, a hard disk (HDD) 106, a FAX device 107, and a wireless LAN 111. The scanner device 102 optically reads an image from an original document and converts it into a digital image. In this embodiment, the scanner device 102 includes a document feed unit (DF unit) 121 and a scanner unit 122. The document feed unit 121 can automatically and sequentially feed a stack of original documents. The scanner unit 122 optically scans the original document and converts it into image data (digital image) of the original document. This image data is sent to the controller 103. The printer device 104 prints the image data on paper. In this embodiment, the printer device 104 includes a marking unit 141, a paper feed unit 142, and a paper discharge unit 143. The paper feed unit 142 sequentially supplies paper sheets from a stack of paper to the marking unit 141. Marking unit 141 prints image data on paper supplied from paper feed unit 142. Paper discharge unit 143 discharges the printed matter on which the image data has been printed.

[0013] The operation unit 105 has a touch panel, hard keys, and the like for accepting settings for the image forming apparatus 101 from a user and displaying the processing status of the image forming apparatus 101. The operation unit 105 may also be provided with, for example, setting switches for enabling or disabling suspend (standby), hibernation, and hybrid sleep, as a function for accepting settings for the image forming apparatus 101 from a user. The operation unit 105 also allows an application to reference set flags. The hard disk 106 is a non-volatile storage device, such as an SSD or eMMC, that stores image data, control programs, and the like. The control programs include, for example, programs for causing the controller 103 (computer) to execute each unit and each means (control method of an information processing apparatus) of the image forming apparatus 101. The FAX machine 107 can transmit various information to and receive various information from a telephone line 160, etc. The controller 103 is a computer that is communicably connected to the scanner device 102, printer device 104, operation unit 105, hard disk 106, and FAX device 107, and controls the operation of each of these units. The controller 103 controls the operation of each unit, thereby executing various jobs such as print jobs.

[0014] Examples of jobs (functions) that the image forming apparatus 101 can execute include a copy function, an image transmission function, an image storage function, and an image printing function. The "copy function" is a function for recording image data read by the scanner apparatus 102 on the hard disk 106 and printing the image data on the printer apparatus 104. The "image transmission function" is a function for transmitting image data read by the scanner apparatus 102 to the computer 109 via the LAN 108. The "image storage function" is a function for recording image data read by the scanner apparatus 102 on the hard disk 106 and transmitting or printing the image data as needed. The "image printing function" is a function for analyzing language data (e.g., a page description language) sent from the computer 109 and printing the language data on the printer apparatus 104.

[0015] The image forming apparatus 101 is communicably connected to a computer 109 via a LAN 108. This allows the image forming apparatus 101 to receive, from the computer 109, an execution instruction that instructs the image forming apparatus 101 to execute a predetermined process. That is, the image forming apparatus 101 can receive various jobs from the computer 109 and send and receive image data to and from the computer 109. Note that, although the number of computers connected to the image forming apparatus 101 is one in the configuration shown in FIG. 1 , this is not limited to this and may be, for example, two or more. The image forming apparatus 101 and the computer 109 can also be communicably connected via a USB 110. In this case, the image forming apparatus 101 functions as a USB device. The image forming apparatus 101 and the computer 109 can also be communicably connected via an access point 112 and a wireless LAN 111. The finisher device 150 performs various processes, such as sorting, stapling, punching, and cutting, on the printed matter output from the paper discharge unit 143 of the printer device 104 of the image forming apparatus 101 .

[0016] <Controller hardware configuration> Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a controller included in an image forming apparatus. As shown in Fig. 2, the controller 103 includes a main board 200 and a sub-board 220. The main board 200 is a general-purpose CPU system and includes a boot ROM 202, a bus controller 204, a non-volatile memory 205, a disk controller 206, and a flash disk 207. The main board 200 also includes a USB host controller 208, a USB device controller 210, a network controller 211, an RTC 212, a watchdog timer (WDT) 230, a CPU 340, and a memory 341. These modules included in the main board 200 are connected to each other so that they can communicate with each other.

[0017] A boot program is stored in the boot ROM 202. The bus controller 204 has a bridge function with an external bus. The nonvolatile memory 205 is a memory that retains data even when power is interrupted. The disk controller 206 controls a storage device. The flash disk 207 is a relatively small-capacity storage device configured with a semiconductor device, such as an SSD or eMMC. The USB host controller 208 has a function for controlling a USB host. In this embodiment, the USB host is the computer 109 or the USB memory 209 connectable via the USB 110, but is not limited thereto and may be, for example, a USB device configured to be connectable via a USB cable or the like. The USB device controller 210 enables the image forming apparatus 101 to function as a USB device. The network controller 211 transmits and receives data to and from the computer 109 via the access point 112. The network controller 211 and the wireless LAN 111 represent the same functional module. The network controller 211 may be connected to the CPU 340 via an IO bus or to the USB host controller 208 via USB. The network controller 211 is connected to a wired / wireless network via the IO bus, and to a USB wired / wireless network via the USB host controller 208. The RTC 212 sets the current time and the recovery time. The watchdog timer 230 resets the controller 103. The CPU 340 controls modules such as the boot ROM 202, i.e., controls the entire main board 200. The CPU 340 includes a number of hardware components, such as a chipset, a bus bridge, and a clock generator. The memory 341 is used as a work memory for the CPU 340. The USB memory 209, the operation unit 105, the hard disk 106, and the like are communicatively connected to the main board 200.

[0018] The sub-board 220 is composed of a relatively small general-purpose CPU system and image processing hardware. The sub-board 220 includes a CPU 221, a memory 223, a bus controller 224, a nonvolatile memory 225, a device controller 226, and an image processor 227, all of which are communicatively connected. The CPU 221 controls modules such as the memory 223, i.e., the entire sub-board 220, as well as the FAX device 107. Like the CPU 340, the CPU 221 includes numerous hardware components, such as a chipset, bus bridge, and clock generator. The memory 223 is used as a work memory for the CPU 221, and the bus controller 224 has a bridge function with an external bus. The nonvolatile memory 225 is a memory that retains data even when power is interrupted. In this embodiment, two device controllers 226 are provided. One of the two device controllers 226 is communicatively connected to the scanner device 102. This allows image data to be transmitted from the scanner device 102 to the sub-board 220. The printer device 104 is communicably connected to the other device controller 226. This allows image data to be transmitted from the sub-board 220 to the printer device 104. The image processor 227 performs digital image processing in real time.

[0019] The operation of the controller 103 will now be described using image copying (copying function) as an example. When an image copying instruction is received from the operation unit 105, the CPU 340 transmits an image reading instruction to the scanner device 102 via the CPU 221. The scanner device 102 optically scans an original and converts it into image data of the original. The scanner device 102 inputs this image data to the image processing processor 227 via the device controller 226. The image processing processor 227 performs DMA (Direct Memory Access) transfer to the memory 223 via the CPU 221 and temporarily stores the image data. When the CPU 340 determines that a certain amount or all of the image data has been stored in the memory 223, it transmits an image output instruction to the printer device 104 via the CPU 221.

[0020] Furthermore, the CPU 221 transmits the address of the image data in the memory 223 to the image processor 227. The image data in the memory 223 is transmitted to the printer 104 via the image processor 227 and the device controller 226 in accordance with a synchronization signal from the printer 104. The printer 104 prints the image data on paper. When printing multiple copies, the CPU 340 stores the image data in the memory 223 on the hard disk 106. Then, for the second and subsequent copies, even if transmission of image data from the scanner 102 is omitted, the image data can be transmitted to the printer 104 from the hard disk 106 or the memory 223.

[0021] <Power control configuration> FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration for power control of an image forming apparatus. As shown in FIG. 3, the image forming apparatus 101 has, as a power control configuration, a power supply 301, a power supply control unit 303, a first power switch 310, a second power switch 311, a third power switch 312, a fourth power switch 313, and a power switch 110. The power supply 301, the first power switch 310 to the fourth power switch 313, and the power switch 110 are connected to the power supply control unit 303. As described above, the image forming apparatus 101 also has a scanner device 102, a controller 103, a printer device 104, and an operation unit 105. The scanner device 102 is connected to the power supply 301 and the power supply control unit 303 via the third power switch 312. The controller 103 is connected to the power supply 301 and the power supply control unit 303 via the first power switch 310. The printer device 104 is connected to the power supply 301 and the power supply control unit 303 via the fourth power switch 313. The operation unit 105 is connected to the power supply 301 and the power supply control unit 303 via a second power switch 311. The controller 103 has a built-in CPU 340. The printer device 104 has a built-in CPU 307. The operation unit 105 has a built-in CPU 305.

[0022] The power supply control unit 303 is constantly supplied with power from the power supply 301 via the power line. When the power is off, only the power supply control unit 303 is energized and power control is performed. This minimizes power consumption. In the image forming apparatus 101, when the power switch 110, which serves as the main power switch, is operated, i.e., pressed down, the power supply control unit 303 detects the operation. The power supply control unit 303 then controls the first power switch 310 to supply power to the CPU 340 of the controller 103, i.e., supplies power from the power supply 301. Similarly, the power supply control unit 303 controls the second power switch 311 to supply power to the CPU 305 of the operation unit 105, the third power switch 312 to supply power to the scanner device 102, and the fourth power switch 313 to supply power to the CPU 307 of the printer device 104.

[0023] The CPU 340 of the controller 103 can control the second power switch 311 to individually supply power to the CPU 305 of the operation unit 105 by notifying the power control unit 303. Similarly, the CPU 340 can control the third power switch 312 to individually supply power to the scanner device 102 or the fourth power switch 313 to individually supply power to the printer device 104 by notifying the power control unit 303. The power control unit 303 or the CPU 340 can also control the power supply to the marking unit 141, paper feed unit 142, and paper discharge unit 143 of the printer device 104. Power supply for each block can be achieved, for example, by configuring the first power switch 310 with two systems, and in the sleep state, turning off only the relay switch connected to the block that turns off the power supply 301 and leaving the other on. In the shutdown state, the relay switches of both systems are turned off. In this case, the power control signal is not a binary signal but a multi-value control signal corresponding to the power supply state. Power is supplied by such control in each power state such as sleep state, shutdown state, etc. In this control, the power supply control unit 303 may perform multi-value control of the first power switch 310 to supply power to each block connected to the controller 103. In this control, the CPU 340 of the controller 103 may perform multi-value control of the first power switch 310 in response to a notification to the power supply control unit 303 to supply power to each block connected to the controller 103.

[0024] <Restart process on the image forming device> The reboot process (power supply when the power supply control unit is rebooted) in the image forming apparatus 101 will be described. The CPU 340 of the controller 103 receives a reboot event while the image forming apparatus 101 is in a standby state after startup. The reboot event is issued, for example, from an application running on the CPU 340 or from the computer 109 via the LAN 108. After receiving the reboot event, the CPU 340 performs application termination processing and processing to save information in the memory 341 to the HDD 106. The CPU 340 also performs termination processing for the scanner device 102, the printer device 104, the FAX device 107, the finisher device 150, peripherals (peripheral devices), etc. After each process is completed, the CPU 340 notifies the power supply control unit 303 of the completion and transitions to a power-off state. In the power-off state, the power supply control unit 303 turns off the first power switch 310 to the fourth power switch 313. This cuts off power to the controller 103, printer device 104, scanner device 102, FAX device 107, finisher device 150, etc. It is preferable that the power supply control unit 303 waits until the analog signal from the power supply 301 drops completely. Also, the image forming apparatus 101 may be in a reset state instead of a power-off state to shorten the signal waiting time.

[0025] Then, after the power is turned off, the power control unit 303 turns on the first power switch 310 to the fourth power switch 313. This causes power to be supplied to the controller 103, the printer device 104, the scanner device 102, the FAX device 107, the finisher device 150, etc. The CPU 340 also performs initialization processing of the peripherals and starts up processing of the scanner device 102, the printer device 104, the FAX device 107, the finisher device 150, the peripherals (peripheral devices), etc.

[0026] <Sleep transition process in image forming device> The following describes the sleep transition process in the image forming apparatus 101 (controller 103). The "sleep transition process" refers to a process in which the image forming apparatus 101 transitions (makes a transition) to a sleep state when an auto-sleep timer indicates that the image forming apparatus 101 has been in an active state, in which it is not being used, for a certain period of time. The CPU 340 of the controller 103 notifies the power supply control unit 303 of the transition to the sleep state. This notification changes the power supply to the controller 103. As described above, power supply for each block can be realized, for example, by configuring the first power switch 310 with two systems, and in the sleep state, turning off only the relay switch connected to the block that turns off the power supply 301 while leaving the other on. In this case, the CPU 340 can also transition to the sleep state by notifying the power supply control unit 303 to turn off the second power switch 311, which causes the power supply control unit 303 to stop supplying power from the power supply 301 to the operation unit 105. The CPU 340 can also transition to a sleep state when the CPU 305 of the operation unit 105 issues a notification via serial communication or the like that the operation panel and peripherals are to be put into a power-saving state. Similarly, the scanner device 102 and the printer device 104 can also transition to a sleep state.

[0027] <Sleep state of the image forming device> The sleep state of the image forming apparatus 101 will now be described. The "sleep state" refers to a state in which power consumption can be reduced while the startup time can be made shorter than during normal startup. For example, the image forming apparatus 101 enters the sleep state when it is not in use, i.e., when a certain period of time has passed without the user operating the image forming apparatus 101, when the touch panel or power-saving key on the operation unit 105 is pressed, or when a preset time has arrived. In the sleep state, power is supplied to, for example, the memory 341 of the controller 103, the interrupt controller (not shown), the USB host controller 208, the USB device controller 210, the network controller 211, the RTC 212, etc. In addition, power is supplied to the power-saving key on the operation unit 105, part of the FAX machine 107, various sensors, etc.

[0028] <Sleep wake-up process in image forming devices> First, we will explain how the image forming apparatus 101 supplies power when waking up from a sleep mode. The factors that cause the image forming apparatus 101 to return from a sleep mode vary depending on the system configuration of the image forming system 100, so we will use only one example here. The power supply control unit 303 starts supplying power during a sleep mode upon receiving one or more interrupts, such as from the RTC 212 (which detects network, timer, and alarm signals) or the FAX machine 107 (which detects incoming calls and off-hook signals). Other interrupts include software switches, various sensors, and USBs (which detect communications). Specific examples of other interrupts include opening and closing the front door cover of the printer 104, inserting and removing printing paper from the multi-manual paper feed unit of the printer 104, opening and closing the pressure plate of the scanner 102, and document detection by the automatic document feeder of the scanner 102. Other examples include card detection by an NFC card reader, human presence sensor detection, off-hooking of a FAX handset, and incoming FAX signals. The power supply control unit 303 notifies the CPU 340 of the cause of the interrupt. Upon receiving the notification from the power supply control unit 303, the CPU 340 performs a process of returning the software to the normal state, that is, a sleep return process of returning from the sleep state.

[0029] Next, the sleep recovery process in the image forming apparatus 101 will be described. The power supply control unit 303 receives an event handler for pressing the power-saving key, which is one of the sleep recovery factors, while in sleep mode. As a result, the power supply control unit 303 turns on the first power switch 310 to recover the CPU 340 from sleep mode. At this time, for example, the power supply control unit 303 controls the first power switch 310 in a multi-value manner to supply power to each block of the controller 103. The power supply control unit 303 can also recover the CPU 340 from sleep mode by issuing an interrupt signal to the CPU 340. The CPU 340 notifies the power supply control unit 303 to turn on the second power switch 311 to the fourth power switch 313. As a result, power is supplied to the scanner device 102, the printer device 104, and the operation unit 105. Although power is supplied to devices such as the FAX machine 107 (not shown), this can also be provided as a signal (not shown).

[0030] Furthermore, while the wake-up trigger described above was the pressing of the power-saving key, it can also be a network packet. In this case, when the power supply control unit 303 receives a network packet during sleep mode, it turns on the first power switch 310 and wakes up the CPU 340. Furthermore, if the power supply control unit 303 interprets the network packet and finds that it is a print job, the CPU 340 notifies the power supply control unit 303 to turn on the fourth power switch 313. This causes power to be supplied to the printer device 104. In this case, processing can be performed without supplying power to the operation unit 105 or the scanner device 102. In other words, if the user does not use a touch panel or the like, power does not need to be supplied to the operation unit 105. Furthermore, if a print job is not generated or if device information does not need to be acquired, power does not need to be supplied to the printer device 104 or the scanner device 102.

[0031] <Power supply when image forming device goes back into sleep mode> For example, when a copy job or a print job via a network is completed, the CPU 340 transitions back to the sleep state. At this time, the CPU 340 notifies the power supply control unit 303 of the transition to sleep. The power supply control unit 303 turns off the second power switch 311 to the fourth power switch 313 to stop power supply to components other than the controller 103. At this time, for example, the power supply control unit 303 can also place the CPU 340 in a state waiting for an interrupt signal, and perform multi-value control of the first power switch 310 to turn off each block of the controller 103, thereby placing the CPU 340 in the sleep state.

[0032] <Power supply during fast startup mode in image forming devices> When the power switch 110 is turned OFF, the power supply control unit 303 notifies the CPU 340 of this. The power supply control unit 303 performs multi-value control of the first power switch 310 to power off the CPU 221 and memory 223 of the sub-board 220. The power supply control unit 303 also places the memory 341 of the main board 200 in a self-refresh state, which reduces the refresh rate to save power. This allows the controller 103 to enter a suspended state. The "suspended state" is a power-saving state in which power is supplied to the memory to maintain its state, and can be used in a sleep state or a fast startup mode. When the power switch 110 is turned ON, the power supply control unit 303 releases the memory 341 of the main board 200 from the self-refresh state and powers on and starts up the CPU 221 and memory 223 of the sub-board 220. This allows the controller 103 to return from the suspended state. Note that the trigger for transitioning to or returning from the suspended state is not limited to the on / off of the power switch 110 and may be, for example, a software event.

[0033] <UI screen displayed on the operation panel> Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a UI screen displayed on an operation unit of the image forming apparatus. The UI screen (operation screen) 400 shown in Fig. 4 is displayed on the operation unit 105 of the image forming apparatus 101. The UI screen 400 is displayed in response to a notification from the CPU 340 of the controller 103 to the CPU 305 of the operation unit 105. The UI screen 400 includes a label field 410, an ON key 420, an OFF key 430, a user notification field 440, a cancel key 450, and an OK key 460. The label field 410 displays functions such as auto-off when offline.

[0034] Here, "offline" and "auto-off" will be explained. As described above, the image forming apparatus 101 is configured to be connectable to networks such as a wired LAN, a wireless LAN, a USB host (USB device), and the fax machine 107. When the image forming apparatus 101 is communicably connected to at least one of the wired LAN, the wireless LAN, the USB host (USB device), the fax machine 107, etc., it is determined that the image forming apparatus 101 is in a connected state, i.e., connected to a network. This connected state is sometimes referred to as "online (online state)." On the other hand, when the image forming apparatus 101 is not communicably connected to any of the wired LAN, the wireless LAN, the USB host (USB device), the fax machine 107, etc., it is determined that the image forming apparatus 101 is in a non-connected state, i.e., not connected to a network. This non-connected state is sometimes referred to as "offline (offline state)." In this way, the image forming apparatus 101 determines whether it is online, i.e., in a connected state, or offline, i.e., in a non-connected state (determination step). This determination is made by the CPU 340 of the main board 200. In this embodiment, the CPU 340 functions as a determination unit that determines whether the device is in a connected state or a disconnected state, but is not limited to this. For example, a unit that functions as a determination unit may be provided separately from the CPU 340. Furthermore, if the CPU 340 determines that the device is in a disconnected state, it can perform shutdown control to forcibly shut off the power to the image forming apparatus 101. This shutdown control is sometimes referred to as "auto-off" or "shutdown." This shutdown control is performed by the CPU 340 of the main board 200. In this embodiment, the CPU 340 functions as a power control unit that performs the shutdown control, but is not limited to this. For example, a unit that functions as a power control unit may be provided separately from the CPU 340.

[0035] The ON key 420 enables the function displayed in the label field 410. The OFF key 430 disables the function displayed in the label field 410. In this way, the ON key 420 and the OFF key 430 function as an operation means capable of selecting whether to enable or disable the function displayed in the label field 410, and a switching control means for switching between enabling and disabling the function. The user notification field 440 displays a warning, such as "Setting it OFF will increase power consumption." The user notification field 440 may also be configured to allow selection of a number from "1" to "10." In this case, the user notification field 440 may display a message such as "Increasing the value will increase power consumption" or "Decreasing the value will increase power consumption." The number may also include "0," displaying a message such as "0 or a higher value will increase power consumption." Furthermore, when one option is selected, sub-options associated with that option may be displayed. A warning may also be displayed when the sub-option is displayed.

[0036] A cancel key 450 can cancel the setting state on the UI screen 400. An OK key 460 can confirm the setting state on the UI screen 400. The CPU 340 can save the setting state on the UI screen 400 in a storage device (storage means), such as the HDD 106, the nonvolatile memory 205, or the flash disk 207. The CPU 340 can also change the setting state on the UI screen 400 in response to an operation by a user or an administrator, or in response to a notification from the computer 109 via the LAN 108.

[0037] <Auto-off execution process> When the image forming apparatus 101 is not connected to a network and is not being remotely operated from the outside, it may be determined that the image forming apparatus 101 will not be used until, for example, a user approaches the image forming apparatus 101. Even though it is determined that the image forming apparatus 101 will not be used, the power supply 301 remains on, resulting in a corresponding waste of power consumption. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 101 is configured to be able to suppress such wasted power consumption. The configuration and operation of this configuration will be described below.

[0038] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the auto-off process executed by the image forming apparatus. The program based on the flowchart shown in FIG. 5 starts when the CPU 340 of the main board 200 is in a standby state where it can receive a print job or a sleep state transition event. The CPU 340 activates a sleep transition timer when the user last operates the image forming apparatus 101. The CPU 340 then issues a transition event to the CPU 340 when the user has not performed any operation on the operation unit 105 for a certain period of time since the sleep transition timer was activated. The CPU 340 also issues a sleep transition event to the CPU 340 when the power-saving button on the operation unit 105 is operated. The CPU 340 also issues a transition event to the CPU 340 when it receives a sleep event or a job event from the computer 109 via the LAN 108 or the like.

[0039] 5, in step S501, CPU 340 confirms that use of image forming apparatus 101 has been completed and determines whether a transition event from the normal state to the sleep state has been received. An example of a transition event to the sleep state is an operation of the auto sleep key or the power saving key. If it is determined in step S501 that a transition event has been received, the process proceeds to step S502. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S501 that a transition event has not been received, the process remains in standby at step S501.

[0040] In step S502, the CPU 340 starts transition to a sleep state, and the process proceeds to step S503.

[0041] In step S503, the CPU 340 determines whether a predetermined process (for example, a job such as copying) based on an execution instruction from the computer 109 is currently being executed. If it is determined in step S503 that a job is currently being executed, the process remains in step S503 and waits. This causes the CPU 340 to enter a standby state until job execution is completed. Note that if the CPU 340 receives an event other than a job, such as a sleep wake-up event, it is also possible to transition to a state in which waiting for job execution completion is canceled. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S503 that a job is not currently being executed, the process proceeds to step S504.

[0042] In step S504, CPU 340 determines whether the network is in a disconnected state. If the determination in step S504 determines that the network is in a disconnected state, the process proceeds to step S505. On the other hand, if the determination in step S504 determines that the network is not in a disconnected state, that is, in a connected state, the process ends. This completes the transition to the sleep state.

[0043] In step S505, the CPU 340 starts the operation of an offline timer (timer), and the process proceeds to step S506. The offline timer is built into the main board 200, for example.

[0044] In step S506, CPU 340 determines whether a sleep wake-up event for waking up from a sleep state has been received. Examples of sleep wake-up events include a print job, sensor recovery, and power-saving key operation. If it is determined in step S506 that a sleep wake-up event has been received, processing proceeds to step S507. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S506 that a sleep wake-up event has not been received, processing proceeds to step S508.

[0045] In step S507, the CPU 340 resets the offline timer, that is, returns the operation of the offline timer to the initial state, and the process ends.

[0046] In step S508, CPU 340 determines whether the network is in a disconnected state. If the determination in step S508 determines that the network is in a disconnected state, the process proceeds to step S509. On the other hand, if the determination in step S508 determines that the network is not in a disconnected state, the process proceeds to step S507.

[0047] In step S509, CPU 340 determines whether the offline timer has expired, i.e., whether the offline timer has timed out. If the determination in step S509 indicates that the offline timer has expired, the process proceeds to step S511. On the other hand, if the determination in step S509 indicates that the offline timer has not expired, the process proceeds to step S510.

[0048] In step S510, CPU 340 waits for a certain period of time (for example, one second), and then executes step S506 and subsequent steps in sequence.

[0049] In step S511, CPU 340 determines whether the network is in a disconnected state. If the determination in step S511 determines that the network is in a disconnected state, the process proceeds to step S512. On the other hand, if the determination in step S511 determines that the network is not in a disconnected state, the process ends.

[0050] In step S512, the CPU 340 performs auto-off.

[0051] As described above, in the image forming apparatus 101, after job execution is completed (step S503; No) during the switch to the sleep state (step S502), it is determined whether the network is in a disconnected state (step S504). Note that this determination is not limited to being made during the switch to the sleep state, but may be made after the switch to the sleep state is completed. If it is determined to be in a disconnected state (step S504; Yes), the offline timer is activated and when the timer expires (step S509; Yes), it is determined again whether the network is in a disconnected state (step S511; Yes). If this re-determination determines that the network is in a disconnected state (step S511; Yes), auto-off is performed (step S512). Note that if both determinations of whether the network is in a disconnected state or not determine that the network is in a connected state (step S504; No, step S511; No), auto-off is not performed.

[0052] As described above, when the image forming apparatus 101 is not connected to a network and is not being remotely operated from the outside, it may be determined that the image forming apparatus will not be used until a user or the like approaches the image forming apparatus 101. In such a usage state, the auto-off execution process can prevent the power supply 301 of the image forming apparatus 101 from remaining on. This reduces wasteful power consumption in the image forming apparatus 101. Furthermore, if it is determined that the image forming apparatus 101 is not in a disconnected state, i.e., is in a connected state (step S508; No), before the offline timer times out (step S509; No), the offline timer is reset (step S507). This reduces unnecessary operation of the offline timer, i.e., countdown. If the switch from the sleep state to the normal state is completed before the offline timer times out, the offline timer may be reset. Note that instead of resetting the offline timer, for example, the operation of the offline timer may be canceled or stopped.

[0053] <<Second embodiment>> A second embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. 6. Differences from the previous embodiment will be mainly described, and similar points will not be described again. Incidentally, the image forming apparatus 101 may be installed in a library, for example. In this case, if the image forming apparatus 101 becomes disconnected from the network, users of the image forming apparatus 101 in the library may experience an unexpected auto-off. Furthermore, an unexpected auto-off may occur after updating firmware for an image forming apparatus 101 that is already in operation. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 101 of this embodiment is configured to be able to suppress this phenomenon. The configuration and operation will be described below.

[0054] If the offline timer is always enabled, a problem occurs in which the image forming apparatus 101 suddenly turns off automatically in a non-network environment such as a library where the image forming apparatus 101 is used by an unspecified number of people. Therefore, if the CPU 340 finds it inconvenient to have the image forming apparatus 101 turn off automatically in a non-network environment, the CPU 340 can disable the offline timer setting from the local UI or remote UI. This prevents the image forming apparatus 101 from turning off suddenly. Furthermore, if the offline timer is always enabled, a problem occurs in which the image forming apparatus 101 suddenly turns off automatically even when the firmware of the image forming apparatus 101 that is not connected to a network is updated in a public place such as a library. Therefore, the CPU 340 stores information about the installation date when the image forming apparatus 101 was installed in the library, and if the image forming apparatus 101 was installed before the reference date, the CPU 340 does not start the offline timer and prevents the image forming apparatus 101 from turning off automatically even if the firmware is updated.

[0055] Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing the auto-off process executed in the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment. In the flowchart shown in Fig. 6, steps S501 to S504 are executed in sequence, similar to the flowchart shown in Fig. 5. Then, if it is determined in step S504 that the network is not connected, the process proceeds to step S601.

[0056] In step S601, the CPU 340 determines whether the offline timer is disabled. The setting of the offline timer to disabled is performed, for example, on a screen (not shown) displayed on the operation unit 105, and is stored in a storage device (storage means) such as the HDD 106, the nonvolatile memory 205, or the flash disk 207. The CPU 340 can change the setting of the offline timer to disabled, i.e., enable it, in response to, for example, an operation by a user or administrator or a notification from the computer 109 via the LAN 108. If it is determined in step S601 that the offline timer is disabled, the process ends, similar to when it is determined in step S504 that the network is not disconnected. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S601 that the offline timer is not disabled, the process proceeds to step S602.

[0057] In step S602, CPU 340 determines whether the installation date (date) of image forming apparatus 101 in the library (predetermined location) is before a predetermined reference date. The installation date is stored in, for example, the storage device. Alternatively, at least one of the production date of image forming apparatus 101 and the setup date of image forming apparatus 101's operating conditions can be used instead of the installation date. If the determination in step S602 determines that the installation date is before the reference date, the process ends. As a result, the offline timer does not operate, auto-off is disabled, and execution of auto-off is suppressed. On the other hand, if the determination in step S602 determines that the installation date is not before the reference date, i.e., that the installation date is after the reference date, the process sequentially executes steps from step S505 onward. As a result, the offline timer starts operating, auto-off is enabled, and auto-off can be executed. This control can prevent unexpected auto-off from occurring when unexpected auto-off would be inconvenient.

[0058] <<Third Embodiment>> A third embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. 7. Differences from the previous embodiment will be mainly described, and similar aspects will not be described again. In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 101 can be in a third power state, which consumes less power than the second power state, in addition to the first and second power states. The third power state is a deep sleep state, i.e., a suspended state, in which the CPU 340 is not operating. The CPU 340 is also configured to be capable of switching between the first, second, and third power states. This embodiment can also be used in cases where it is difficult to accurately determine that the network is disconnected in the third power state.

[0059] When the image forming apparatus 101 transitions to the sleep state, the wireless LAN 111, which is one of the networks, is stopped. As a result, immediately after returning from sleep, it takes time to connect to the access point 112 of the wireless LAN 111, which may result in the network being determined to be in a disconnected state. For this reason, the image forming apparatus 101 returns from the third power state (deep sleep state) a certain time before auto-off, thereby changing the timing for determining whether the network is in a disconnected state. Furthermore, the CPU 340 stops operating while in the third power state, and if it were to return at regular intervals, power consumption would increase, which may make it difficult to periodically determine whether the network is in a disconnected state. For this reason, the CPU 340 does not periodically determine whether the network is in a disconnected state while in the third power state, but resumes the periodic determination after returning from the third power state due to an event or the like.

[0060] Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing the auto-off process executed in the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment. In the flowchart shown in Fig. 7, steps S501 to S504, step S601, and step S602 are executed in sequence, similar to the flowchart shown in Fig. 6. Then, if it is determined in step S602 that the set date is not earlier than the reference date, the process proceeds to step S701.

[0061] In step S701, CPU 340 starts the operation of an offline timer set to a time a certain time before (for example, one minute before) the auto-off start time. After step S701 is executed, the process sequentially executes steps S506 and S508. If it is determined in step S508 that the network is not connected, the process proceeds to step S702. In this embodiment, for example, by operating operation unit (setting means) 105, the operation start time of the offline timer can be set to a desired certain time before (predetermined time before) the auto-off start time.

[0062] In step S702, CPU 340 determines whether or not a condition for prohibiting suspend exists in order to transition to a deep sleep state, which is the third power state. If it is determined in step S702 that a condition for prohibiting suspend exists, the process proceeds to step S509, and subsequent steps are executed sequentially. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S702 that a condition for prohibiting suspend does not exist, the process proceeds to step S703. Note that the standby state from which power can be saved and quickly restored is not limited to suspend, and may be, for example, hibernation.

[0063] In step S703, the CPU 340 stops the operation of the timer for checking the network connection status by polling until the offline timer expires, and the process proceeds to step S704. There are two methods for checking the network connection status. The first method is a pull-type method in which the device checking the network connection status notifies the CPU 340 by a signal or the like. The second method is a push-type method in which the CPU 340 polls the device. In this embodiment, it is preferable to use the push-type method, which can prevent the CPU 340 from stopping.

[0064] In step S704, the CPU 340 transitions to a suspended state, which puts the image forming apparatus 101 into a suspended state. After step S704 is executed, the process proceeds to step S705.

[0065] In step S705, CPU 340 determines whether a return signal for returning from the suspended state has been received while the system is in the suspended state. If the determination in step S705 indicates that a return signal has been received, the process proceeds to step S706. On the other hand, if the determination in step S705 indicates that a return signal has not been received, the process remains in standby at step S705.

[0066] In step S706, the CPU 340 resumes from the suspended state, and the process proceeds to step S707.

[0067] In step S707, CPU 340 starts the operation of a timer for checking the network connection status by polling until the offline timer expires, and the process proceeds to step S509. If it is determined in step S509 that the offline timer has expired, the process proceeds to step S708.

[0068] In step S708, CPU 340 waits for a specified time (for example, one minute) that is set earlier than the auto-off start time before determining the non-connected state in step S511. After step S708 is executed, the process proceeds to step S511, and the subsequent steps are executed sequentially.

[0069] As described above, in this embodiment, if it is determined that the device is in a disconnected state (step S504; Yes), switching to the third power state (deep sleep state) is completed before the offline timer expires (step S704). Then, when the offline timer expires (step S509; Yes), auto-off can be executed (step S512). This control allows for the confirmation of the connection between the wireless LAN 111 and the access point 112, which requires time to determine the network disconnection state, to be performed between the specified time before the auto-off start time and the auto-off start time. This allows this embodiment to deal with cases where it is difficult to accurately determine that the device is in a disconnected state in the third power state, thereby enabling stable auto-off execution. Furthermore, the time required to determine the network disconnection state can be set to a shorter specified time before returning to normal operation. Furthermore, if it is difficult to guarantee the auto-off completion time, the time required for the transition from the start of auto-off to the auto-off state (shutdown or transition to fast startup mode) can be set to a shorter specified time. For example, let us consider a case where the transition to the auto-off state takes 10 minutes, so it takes 1 minute to determine whether the device is in a disconnected state from the network, and a maximum of 1 minute 30 seconds to transition to the auto-off state. The CPU 340 sets the offline timer to 7 minutes 30 seconds. As a result, the CPU 340 resumes operation after 7 minutes 30 seconds, and determines whether the device is in a disconnected state from the network between 7 minutes 30 seconds and 8 minutes. The CPU 340 then starts auto-off after 8 minutes 30 seconds, and shuts down between 8 minutes 30 seconds and 10 minutes. This allows the device to transition to the auto-off state within 10 minutes.

[0070] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention. The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program. The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., an ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0071] The disclosure of each embodiment includes the following configurations, methods, and programs. (Configuration 1) An information processing device that can be connected to a network and can assume a first power state in which it operates by receiving power and a second power state in which power consumption is lower than that of the first power state, a power control means capable of switching between the first power state and the second power state; a determination means for determining whether the device is in a connected state connected to the network or in a non-connected state not connected to the network, the determination means determines whether the device is in the connected state or the unconnected state during switching from the first power state to the second power state by the power control means or after switching from the first power state to the second power state is completed, The information processing device is characterized in that, when the judgment means determines that the device is in the disconnected state, the power control means activates a timer, and when the timer times out, performs shutdown control to forcibly shut off the power supply to the information processing device. (Configuration 2) The information processing device is a device capable of receiving an execution instruction to instruct the information processing device to execute a predetermined process, The information processing device described in configuration 1 is characterized in that the determination means determines whether the device is in the connected state or the non-connected state while switching to the second power state, or after switching to the second power state is completed and execution of the specified processing based on the execution instruction is completed. (Configuration 3) When the timer times out, the determining means determines again whether the device is in the connected state or the non-connected state, 3. The information processing device according to configuration 1 or 2, wherein the power control means is capable of performing the cut-off control when the determination means determines again that the device is in the disconnected state. (Configuration 4) The information processing device can be connected to a wired LAN, a wireless LAN, a USB device, and a FAX machine, The information processing device described in any one of configurations 1 to 3, characterized in that the determination means determines that the information processing device is in the connected state when it is communicatively connected to at least one of the wired LAN, the wireless LAN, the USB device, and the FAX, and determines that it is in the unconnected state when it is communicatively connected to none of the wired LAN, the wireless LAN, the USB device, and the FAX. (Configuration 5) An information processing device described in any one of configurations 1 to 4, characterized in that the power control means activates the timer, and if the power control means completes switching from the second power state to the first power state before the timer times out, controls the operation of the timer to either cancel, stop, or return to its initial state. (Configuration 6) The information processing device described in any one of configurations 1 to 5, characterized in that the power control means activates the timer, and if the judgment means determines that the device is in the connected state before the timer times out, controls the operation of the timer to be canceled, stopped, or returned to an initial state. (Configuration 7) A storage means for storing at least one of an installation date when the information processing device is installed at a predetermined location, a production date when the information processing device is produced, and a setting date when an operating condition of the information processing device is set; a switching control means for performing switching control on the power control means to switch between enabling and disabling the cutoff control, The information processing device described in any one of configurations 1 to 6, characterized in that the switching control means enables the shutdown control if the date is after a predetermined reference date, and disables the shutdown control if the date is before the reference date. (Configuration 8) An information processing device connectable to a network, which can assume a first power state in which it operates by receiving power, a second power state in which it consumes less power than the first power state, and a third power state in which it consumes less power than the second power state, a power control means capable of switching between the first power state, the second power state, and the third power state; a determination means for determining whether the device is in a connected state connected to the network or in a non-connected state not connected to the network, the determination means determines whether the device is in the connected state or the unconnected state during switching from the first power state to the second power state by the power control means or after switching from the first power state to the second power state is completed, When the determination by the determination means determines that the information processing device is in the disconnected state, the power control means activates a timer, and when the timer times out, the switch from the second power state to the third power state is completed, and when the timer times out, a shutdown control is performed to forcibly shut off the power supply to the information processing device. (Configuration 9) The information processing device according to configuration 8, further comprising a setting means for setting the operation start time of the timer to a predetermined time before the time when the cutoff control is performed. (Configuration 10) An information processing device described in any one of configurations 1 to 9, characterized in that the power control means does not perform the shutdown control when the judgment means judges that the device is in the connected state. (Configuration 11) The information processing device according to any one of configurations 1 to 10, further comprising an operation means for selecting whether to enable or disable the cutoff control. (Configuration 12) The information processing device according to any one of configurations 1 to 11, which is an image forming device. (Method 1) A method for controlling an information processing device that can be connected to a network and can be in a first power state in which it operates by being supplied with power and a second power state in which power consumption is lower than that of the first power state, comprising: a power control step capable of switching between the first power state and the second power state; a determination step of determining whether the device is in a connected state connected to the network or in a non-connected state not connected to the network, in the determining step, during switching from the first power state to the second power state by the power control step, or after switching from the first power state to the second power state is completed, determining whether the power state is the connected state or the unconnected state; In the power control process, if the result of the judgment in the judgment process indicates that the device is in the disconnected state, a timer is activated, and when the timer times out, a cut-off control is performed to forcibly cut off the power supply to the information processing device. (Method 2) A method for controlling an information processing device connectable to a network, which can be in a first power state in which power is supplied and the information processing device operates, a second power state in which power consumption is lower than the first power state, and a third power state in which power consumption is lower than the second power state, comprising: a power control step capable of switching control between the first power state, the second power state, and the third power state; a determination step of determining whether the device is in a connected state connected to the network or in a non-connected state not connected to the network, in the determining step, during switching from the first power state to the second power state by the power control step, or after switching from the first power state to the second power state is completed, determining whether the power state is the connected state or the unconnected state; In the power control process, if the result of the judgment in the judgment process is that the information processing device is in the unconnected state, a timer is activated, and the switch from the second power state to the third power state is completed before the timer times out, and when the timer times out, the third power state is switched to the second power state, and power-off control is performed to forcibly cut off the power supply to the information processing device. (Program 1) A program for causing a computer to execute each means of the information processing device according to any one of configurations 1 to 12. [Explanation of symbols]

[0072] 101 Image forming device 211 Network Controller 340 CPU 301 Power supply 303 Power supply control unit

Claims

1. An information processing device that can be connected to a network and can assume a first power state in which it operates by receiving power and a second power state in which power consumption is lower than that of the first power state, a power control unit capable of switching between the first power state and the second power state; a determination means for determining whether the device is in a connected state connected to the network or in a non-connected state not connected to the network, the determination means determines whether the device is in the connected state or the unconnected state during switching from the first power state to the second power state by the power control means or after switching from the first power state to the second power state is completed, The information processing device is characterized in that, when the judgment means determines that the device is in the disconnected state, the power control means activates a timer, and when the timer times out, performs shutdown control to forcibly shut off the power supply to the information processing device.

2. the information processing device is a device capable of receiving an execution instruction for instructing the information processing device to execute a predetermined process, The information processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the determination means determines whether the device is in the connected state or the non-connected state during switching to the second power state, or after switching to the second power state is completed and execution of the specified processing based on the execution instruction is completed.

3. When the timer times out, the determination means determines again whether the device is in the connected state or the non-connected state, 2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the power control means is capable of performing the cutoff control when the determination means determines again that the device is in the disconnected state.

4. the information processing device is connectable to a wired LAN, a wireless LAN, a USB device, and a FAX; The information processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the determination means determines that the information processing device is in the connected state when it is communicatively connected to at least one of the wired LAN, the wireless LAN, the USB device, and the FAX, and determines that it is in the unconnected state when it is not communicatively connected to any of the wired LAN, the wireless LAN, the USB device, and the FAX.

5. 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the power control means operates the timer, and if the power control means completes switching from the second power state to the first power state before the timer times out, the power control means controls whether to cancel, stop, or return the operation of the timer to its initial state.

6. The information processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the power control means operates the timer, and if the judgment means judges that the device is in the connected state before the timer times out, controls whether to cancel, stop, or return the operation of the timer to an initial state.

7. a storage means for storing at least one of an installation date when the information processing device is installed at a predetermined location, a production date when the information processing device is produced, and a setting date when operating conditions of the information processing device are set; a switching control means for performing switching control on the power control means to switch between enabling and disabling the cutoff control, 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the switching control means enables the blocking control when the date is after a predetermined reference date, and disables the blocking control when the date is before the reference date.

8. An information processing device connectable to a network, the information processing device being capable of assuming a first power state in which the information processing device operates by receiving power, a second power state in which the power consumption is lower than that of the first power state, and a third power state in which the power consumption is lower than that of the second power state, a power control unit capable of switching between the first power state, the second power state, and the third power state; a determination means for determining whether the device is in a connected state connected to the network or in a non-connected state not connected to the network, the determination means determines whether the device is in the connected state or the unconnected state during switching from the first power state to the second power state by the power control means or after switching from the first power state to the second power state is completed, The information processing device is characterized in that, when the judgment means determines that the device is in the disconnected state as a result of the judgment, the power control means activates a timer, and when the timer times out, the switch from the second power state to the third power state is completed, and when the timer times out, a shutdown control is performed to forcibly shut off the power supply to the information processing device.

9. 9. The information processing apparatus according to claim 8, further comprising a setting unit for setting the timer to start operation a predetermined time before the cutoff control is performed.

10. 9. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the power control means does not perform the cutoff control when the determination means determines that the power supply is in the connected state.

11. 9. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an operation unit for selecting whether to enable or disable the cut-off control.

12. 10. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information processing apparatus is an image forming apparatus.

13. 1. A method for controlling an information processing device connectable to a network, which can assume a first power state in which it operates by being supplied with power and a second power state in which power consumption is lower than that of the first power state, comprising: a power control step for controlling switching between the first power state and the second power state; a determination step of determining whether the device is in a connected state connected to the network or in a non-connected state not connected to the network, the determining step determines whether the power state is the connected state or the unconnected state during switching from the first power state to the second power state by the power control step or after switching from the first power state to the second power state is completed; In the power control process, if the result of the judgment in the judgment process indicates that the device is in the disconnected state, a timer is activated, and when the timer times out, a cut-off control is performed to forcibly cut off the power supply to the information processing device.

14. A method for controlling an information processing device connectable to a network, which can assume a first power state in which the device operates by receiving power, a second power state in which power consumption is lower than that of the first power state, and a third power state in which power consumption is lower than that of the second power state, comprising: a power control step capable of switching between the first power state, the second power state, and the third power state; a determination step of determining whether the device is in a connected state connected to the network or in a non-connected state not connected to the network, the determining step determines whether the power state is the connected state or the unconnected state during switching from the first power state to the second power state by the power control step or after switching from the first power state to the second power state is completed; In the power control process, if the result of the judgment in the judgment process is that the information processing device is in the unconnected state, a timer is activated, and the switch from the second power state to the third power state is completed before the timer times out, and when the timer times out, the third power state is switched to the second power state, and cut-off control is performed to forcibly cut off the power supply to the information processing device.

15. 10. A program for causing a computer to execute each means of the information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

Images