Information processor, control method, program

Abstract

To provide an information processor for preventing the deterioration of convenience when a frequency band used as an access point during operation is changed.SOLUTION: An information processor includes: a communication means for performing radio communication with the information processor not via an external access point as a result of the information processor operating as an access point; a setting means for setting a frequency band to be used when the information processor operates as the access point; and a controller for performing control such that, when the settings of the frequency band by the setting means is changed while the information processor is operating as the access point, the operating frequency band is not changed during that operation, and when the information processor newly starts operating as the access point after stopping operation as the access point, the information processor operates on the basis of the changed frequency band settings.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] With the recent increase in data traffic, development of communication technologies such as wireless local area networks (WLANs) is progressing. The IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) 802.11 standard series is known as the main WLAN communication standard. The IEEE 802.11 standard series includes standards such as IEEE 802.11a / b / g / n / ac / ax. IEEE 802.11n / ac / ax allows the use of the 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz frequency bands for WLANs. Communication quality may vary between multiple frequency bands. Compared to the 2.4 GHz band, the 5 GHz band is less susceptible to radio interference, and when communication quality is stable, it generally offers faster communication speeds, so users tend to choose the 5 GHz band.

[0003] There are two types of wireless LAN connection technologies: infrastructure mode, in which wireless communication devices connect to an access point, and ad-hoc mode, in which wireless communication devices connect peer-to-peer. Examples of ad-hoc mode include a method that complies with the Wi-Fi Direct standard (hereinafter, Wi-Fi Direct will be referred to as WFD), and a method in which a wireless communication device becomes an access point and establishes a connection (hereinafter, this method will be referred to as AP mode).

[0004] Patent document 1 describes a technology in which a wireless communication device switches the frequency band in AP mode, in which when a print job is received from a wireless terminal, if the device is operating in a frequency band with slow communication speeds, the device switches the connection to a frequency band with fast communication speeds. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2018-50163 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] In Patent Document 1, the frequency band for control communication of a print job is changed between the wireless terminal that submitted the print job. However, changing the frequency band may result in disconnection of communication between the device operating as an access point and devices connected to that device, reducing convenience.

[0007] An object of the present invention is to provide an information processing device, a control method, and a program that prevent a decrease in convenience when the frequency band used during operation as an access point is changed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to solve the above problem, the information processing device of the present invention is an information processing device that includes: a communication means for operating the information processing device as an access point, thereby performing wireless communication between a partner device and the information processing device without going through an external access point; a setting means for setting a frequency band to be used when the information processing device operates as the access point; and a control means for, when the frequency band setting by the setting means is changed while the information processing device is operating as the access point, not changing the operating frequency band during said operation, and controlling the information processing device to operate based on the changed frequency band setting when it starts operating as the access point again after stopping its operation as the access point. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent a decrease in convenience when the frequency band used during operation as an access point is changed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a communication system. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a sequence when a STA connects to an external AP. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of an STA. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the functional block configuration of an STA. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a setting screen for the AP mode. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a setting screen for the AP mode. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a setting screen for the AP mode. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a setting screen for the AP mode. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing a process performed when a change in frequency band setting is received. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing a process performed when a change in frequency band setting is received. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 illustrates a specific example of a communication system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention claimed. Although multiple features are described in the embodiments, not all of these multiple features are necessarily essential to the invention, and multiple features may be combined arbitrarily. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used to designate the same or similar components, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0012] [First embodiment] Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a communication system of wireless communication devices according to this embodiment. Fig. 1 shows a configuration including access points AP101 and AP201, which are wireless communication devices, and STA301 and STA350, which are wireless communication devices.

[0013] The wireless communication device in the communication system shown in FIG. 1 can operate in wireless direct mode and wireless infrastructure mode. Wireless direct mode is a mode in which wireless communication devices communicate directly with each other wirelessly without going through an external access point. Communication in wireless direct mode includes, for example, soft AP mode and Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) mode. Note that communication in wireless direct mode is sometimes called "wireless direct communication" or "P2P communication." Even a wireless communication device capable of wireless direct communication does not have to support all of these modes, and may be configured to support only some of them. Note that the wireless communication device can also support wireless infrastructure mode in addition to wireless direct mode.

[0014] For example, a wireless communication device having a communication function in WFD mode calls an application for realizing that communication function by accepting user operations via its operation unit. Then, communication in WFD mode is performed based on the user operations accepted on a user interface screen provided by the application. Note that a wireless communication device operating in P2P mode acts as a parent device (master) in connection and communication with other devices. Note that this does not apply to WFD mode; a wireless communication device may also act as a child device by executing group owner negotiation.

[0015] In contrast to Wireless Direct mode, Wireless Infrastructure mode connects wireless communication devices that communicate with each other to an external access point that manages the network, and communication between the wireless communication devices is performed via the external access point. In other words, communication between the wireless communication devices is performed via a network established by the external access point. A wireless communication device operating in Wireless Infrastructure mode acts as a client station (STA) in connection and communication with the external access point. In Wireless Infrastructure mode, each communication device searches for an external access point by transmitting a device discovery request (Probe Request). Upon receiving a device discovery response (Probe Response) from the external access point, each communication device displays the SSID included in the Probe Response. Each wireless communication device may also be connected to a separate external access point. In this case, data transfer between the access points enables communication between the wireless communication devices. The commands and parameters transmitted and received during communication between the wireless communication devices via the external access point are specified in the Wi-Fi standard. In the above configuration, the external access point determines the frequency band and frequency channel. For example, an external access point selects which frequency band to use from 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz, and which frequency channel to use within that frequency band.

[0016] 1, network 100 is a network formed by AP 101, which is an access point. Network 200 is a network formed by AP 201, which is also an access point. STA 301, which operates as a client device, can transmit and receive signals communicated by AP 101 and AP 201. When its own access point function is enabled, STA 301 operates as an access point to form network 300 and can perform peer-to-peer (P2P) communication with STA 350.

[0017] STA301 can join a network formed by AP101 and AP201, and AP101, AP201, and STA301 can perform wireless communication compliant with the IEEE 802.11n / ac / ax standard. IEEE stands for Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. Each communication device can communicate using frequencies in the 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz bands, for example. The frequency bands used by each communication device are not limited to these, and other frequency bands, such as the 60 GHz band, may also be used. AP101, AP201, STA301, and STA350 can communicate using bandwidths of 20 GHz, 40 MHz, 80 MHz, 160 MHz, and 320 MHz. The bandwidths used by each communication device are not limited to these, and other bandwidths, such as 240 MHz and 4 MHz, may also be used.

[0018] It has been described that the AP 101, AP 201, STA 301, and STA 350 are capable of performing wireless communication compliant with the IEEE 802.11n / ac / ax standard. However, they may also be capable of performing wireless communication compliant with legacy standards that predate the IEEE 802.11n / ac / ax standard. Specifically, for example, the AP 101, AP 201, STA 301, and STA 350 may be capable of performing wireless communication compliant with at least one of the IEEE 802.11a / b / g / n / ac / ax standards. Furthermore, in addition to the IEEE 802.11 series standards, they may also be capable of performing wireless communication compliant with other communication standards such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC, UWB, ZigBee, and MBOA. Note that UWB stands for Ultra Wide Band, and MBOA stands for Multi-Band OFDM Alliance. NFC stands for Near Field Communication. UWB includes Wireless USB, Wireless 1394, WiNET, and the like. The AP 101, AP 201, STA 301, and STA 350 may be capable of performing communication in accordance with a communication standard for wired communication, such as a wired LAN. Specific examples of the AP 101 and AP 201 include, but are not limited to, a wireless LAN router and a personal computer (PC). The AP 101 may be an information processing device, such as a wireless chip, capable of performing wireless communication in accordance with the IEEE 802.11n / ac / ax standard. Specific examples of the STA 301 and STA 350 include, but are not limited to, a printer, a multifunction peripheral, a camera, a tablet, a smartphone, a PC, a mobile phone, a video camera, and a headset. The STA 301 and STA 350 may be an information processing device, such as a wireless chip, capable of performing wireless communication in accordance with the IEEE 802.11n / ac / ax standard.

[0019] AP101, AP201, STA301, and STA350 select one of a plurality of frequency bands to establish a connection and perform communication. For example, AP101 has link 103 in a first frequency band, which is the 5 GHz band, and link 104 in a second frequency band, which is the 2.4 GHz band. Also, for example, AP201 has link 203 in a first frequency band, which is the 5 GHz band, and link 204 in a second frequency band, which is the 2.4 GHz band. STA301 then establishes a connection using information such as the SSID assigned to the links of each AP. AP101 and AP201 can set the same SSID for the links of each frequency band, and STA301 can identify each link from the frequency band and the BSSID (MAC address) included in packets transmitted from the AP.

[0020] The STA301 can establish a link in Wireless Direct mode for P2P connection with a wireless communication device. The STA301 can switch the frequency band used in Wireless Direct mode between the 5 GHz band and the 2.4 GHz band. The STA301 is an example of a wireless communication device that is compatible with both Wireless Direct mode and Wireless Infrastructure mode.

[0021] FIG. 2 shows an example of a sequence for a STA to establish a link with an external AP, in other words, for a STA to connect to an external AP (an STA that has activated AP mode). STA1 activates access point mode (hereinafter referred to as AP mode) and transmits a beacon. This allows STA2 and STA3 to recognize the presence of STA1 that has activated AP mode. STA2 and STA3 send probe requests to STA1 and determine that link establishment can begin upon receiving a probe response from STA1. STA1, STA2, and STA3 establish a link by performing authentication communication. The authentication communication includes the steps of authentication, association request, association response, and 4-way handshake. Similarly, when a wireless communication device STA1 operating in wireless infrastructure mode connects to an external access point, the link is established using the same sequence, except that STA1 in FIG. 2 is replaced with the external access point and STA2 and STA3 are replaced with STA1 operating in wireless infrastructure mode.

[0022] 3 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the STA 301. The STA 301 has a storage unit 371, a control unit 372, a function unit 373, an input unit 374, an output unit 375, a communication unit 376, and an antenna 377. Note that the STA 301 may have multiple antennas.

[0023] The storage unit 371 is configured with one or more memories such as ROM, RAM, etc., and stores various information such as computer programs for performing various operations described below and communication parameters for wireless communication. ROM stands for Read Only Memory, and RAM stands for Random Access Memory. In addition to memories such as ROM and RAM, storage media such as flexible disks, hard disks, optical disks, magneto-optical disks, CD-ROMs, CD-Rs, magnetic tapes, non-volatile memory cards, and DVDs may also be used as the storage unit 371. Furthermore, the storage unit 371 may include multiple memories, etc.

[0024] The control unit 372 is configured with one or more processors, such as a CPU or MPU, and controls the entire STA 301 by executing a computer program stored in the storage unit 371. For example, the operation of the STA 301 in this embodiment is realized by the CPU of the control unit 372 executing a program. Note that the control unit 372 may control the entire STA 301 in cooperation with the computer program stored in the storage unit 371 and an OS (Operating System). The control unit 372 also generates data and signals (wireless frames) to be transmitted in communication with other wireless communication devices. Note that the CPU stands for Central Processing Unit, and the MPU stands for Micro Processing Unit. The control unit 372 may also include multiple processors, such as multi-core processors, and may control the entire STA 301 using the multiple processors. The control unit 372 also controls the function unit 373 to perform wireless communication and other processes. The other processes are processes corresponding to functions executable by the device configured as the STA 1. For example, if the STA 1 is configured as an MFP, these processes include image capture, printing, projection, and the like. The functional unit 373 is hardware for executing processes according to the functions that the device configured as the STA 301 can execute.

[0025] The input unit 374 receives various operations from the user. The output unit 375 outputs various types of information to the user via a monitor screen or a speaker. Here, the output by the output unit 375 may be a display on a monitor screen, an audio output by a speaker, a vibration output, or the like. Note that both the input unit 374 and the output unit 375 may be implemented by a single module, such as a touch panel. Also, the input unit 374 and the output unit 375 may be integrated with the STA 301 or may be separate units. Hereinafter, the input unit 374 and the output unit 375 are collectively referred to as a user interface (UI) unit.

[0026] The communication unit 376 controls wireless communication in accordance with the IEEE 802.11 series standard. The communication unit 376 controls the antenna 377 to transmit and receive data for wireless communication generated by the control unit 372. If the STA 301 supports standards such as the NFC standard and Bluetooth in addition to the IEEE 802.11 series standard, the STA 301 may control wireless communication in accordance with these standards. If the STA 301 can perform wireless communication in accordance with multiple communication standards, the STA 301 may be configured to have separate communication units and antennas compatible with each communication standard. For example, the STA 301 communicates data such as image data, document data, and video data with the STA 350 via the communication unit 376. The antenna 377 may be configured separately from the communication unit 376 or may be configured together with the communication unit 376 as a single module. The antenna 377 is an antenna capable of communication in the 2.4 GHz band and the 5 GHz band. In the present embodiment, as an example, the STA 301 has one antenna.

[0027] AP 101, AP 201, and STA 350 have the same hardware configuration as STA 301 in Fig. 3. AP 101 and AP 201 may have a different configuration from STA 301. For example, STA 301 has one antenna 377, but AP 101 and AP 201 may have different antennas for each frequency band. If AP 101 or 201 has multiple antennas, it may have a communication unit 376 corresponding to each antenna.

[0028] Here, a specific example of the configuration of the STA in FIG. 1 will be described.

[0029] 11 is a diagram showing the hardware configuration of a communication system according to this embodiment, including a PC 1350 and a printer 1301. The PC 1350 corresponds to the STA 350 in Fig. 1, and the printer 1301 corresponds to the STA 301 in Fig. 1. An access point 1302 corresponds to the AP 101 or AP 201 in Fig. 1.

[0030] The PC 1350 has a CPU 1101, a ROM 1102, a RAM 1106, an external storage device 1107, a display device 1108, and an input interface 1109. The CPU 1101, the ROM 1102, the RAM 1106, etc. form a computer, the PC 1350, that executes a program. The PC 1350 also has a USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface 1105, a wired LAN interface 1110, and a wireless LAN interface 1111. The PC 1350 is not limited to the configuration shown in Fig. 11, and may have appropriate functional blocks that can be executed by a device applied as the PC 1350.

[0031] The CPU 1101 is a processor that reads and executes a control program stored in the ROM 1102, and controls the entire PC 1350 according to the control program. As a result of the execution of the control program, various functions of the PC 1350 are realized, such as controlling communications with external devices such as the printer 1301, generating print jobs to be output to the printer 1301, and issuing network setup instructions. The RAM 1106 is composed of a DRAM or SRAM that requires a backup power source, and is used as a memory area for temporarily storing setting information, management data, and the like when the PC 1350 is operating. The RAM 1106 is also used as a temporary storage area such as the main memory and work area of ​​the CPU 1101, and as a transmission buffer for temporarily storing print jobs generated to be sent to the printer 1301.

[0032] The ROM 1102 stores programs 1103 corresponding to various processes, including a network setup process program for transmitting setting information of an external AP to the printer, and wireless profiles 1104. The external storage device 1107 stores an operating system (OS), a printer driver, and various other data. The display device 1108 is composed of an LED (light-emitting diode) and an LCD (liquid crystal display), and displays various user interface screens for the OS and the program 1103 and notifies the status of the PC 1350. The input interface 1109 is an interface for accepting data input and user instructions from the user by operating an operation unit such as a keyboard. The operation unit may be a physical keyboard, physical buttons, or the like, or may be a soft keyboard, soft buttons, or the like displayed on the display device 1108. In other words, the input interface 1109 may accept input from the user via the display device 1108.

[0033] The network setup processing program is an application program for performing connection settings with an AP to which the printer 1301 is connected, and may have functions other than the network setup function. The network setup processing program is also referred to as a setup application. For example, the setup application may have a function for causing the printer 1301 to print, a function for causing the printer 1301 to scan a document set in the printer 1301, a function for checking the status of the printer 1301, and the like. The setup application may also have a function for transmitting information acquired from the printer 1301 and personal user information acquired by the PC 1350 to a service management server (not shown). The setup application is stored in the ROM 1102 by being installed from an external server via Internet communication via the wireless LAN interface 1111, for example. The setup application is an application program provided by the vendor of the printer 1301.

[0034] The ROM 1102 also stores network information. The network information stores IP addresses assigned to the wireless LAN interface 1111 and wired LAN interface 1110 of the PC 1350, as well as the IP address and subnet mask of the AP to which the PC 1350 is currently connected. The network information also stores wireless profiles of APs to which the PC 1350 has previously connected. In other words, the ROM 1102 stores history information of APs to which the PC 1350 has previously connected. The wireless profile information includes the SSID, security settings, and password of the AP to which the PC 1350 is connected.

[0035] The wired LAN interface 1110 and the wireless LAN interface 1111 are configured to connect to external devices such as the printer 1301 and the AP 1302 and perform data communication. For example, the wireless LAN interface 1111 can be connected to an access point (not shown) within the printer 1301. The wireless LAN interface 1111 controls the transmission and reception of data in accordance with the communication standard defined by IEEE 802.11 in accordance with instructions from the CPU 1101. The wireless communication method used in this case is, for example, Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) (registered trademark) defined by the industry group Wi-Fi Alliance, which is defined as a wireless LAN standard. The wireless LAN interface 1111 also has an access point within the PC 1350 for connecting to devices such as the printer 1301. This access point is generally called tethering. The wireless LAN interface 1156 of the printer 1301 can be connected to this access point. When the wireless LAN interface 1111 enables the access point, the PC 1350 operates as an access point. When the wireless LAN interface 1156 is connected to the access point in the wireless LAN interface 1111, the PC 1350 and the printer 1301 can communicate with each other. Furthermore, when the wireless LAN interface 1111 of the PC 1350 is connected to the Internet, the printer 1301 can also connect to the Internet via the wireless LAN interface 1111.

[0036] The PC 1350 can establish a P2P connection (direct connection) with the printer 1301 via a USB cable 1121 or via a wireless direct connection 1124 using the wireless LAN interface 1111. The PC 1350 can also be connected to the LAN 1122 via an Ethernet cable 1125, and if the printer 1301 can also be connected to the LAN 1122, the PC 1350 and the printer 1301 can communicate with each other in the same LAN 1122 environment. Furthermore, the PC 1350 can connect to the AP 1302 via the wireless LAN interface 1111, and the AP 1302 can connect to the LAN 1122 via an Ethernet cable 1126, thereby enabling the PC 1350 to connect to the LAN 1122. If the printer 1301 can also be connected to the AP 1302, the PC 1350 and the printer 1301 can communicate with each other via the AP 1302.

[0037] The printer 1301 has a CPU 1152, a ROM 1153, a RAM 1158, a display device 1159, an input interface 1160, a USB interface 1151, a wireless LAN interface 1156, and a wired LAN interface 1157. The CPU 1152, the ROM 1153, the RAM 1158, etc. form a computer of the printer 1301 that executes programs. The printer 1301 is not limited to the configuration shown in Fig. 11, and may have appropriate functional blocks that can be executed by a device (for example, a multifunction peripheral (MFP)) that is used as the printer 1301.

[0038] The CPU 1152 is a processor that reads and executes a control program stored in the ROM 1153. The control program controls the entire printer 1301 and executes the processes shown in the flowcharts described below. As a result of executing the control program, various functions of the printer 1301, such as communication control with external devices such as the PC 1350, are realized. The RAM 1158 is composed of a DRAM or SRAM that requires a backup power source, and is used as a memory area for storing temporary setting information, management data, and the like when the printer 1301 is operating. The RAM 1158 is also used as a temporary storage area such as the main memory or work area of ​​the CPU 1152, and may also function as a receive buffer for temporarily holding print information received from the PC 1350 or the like.

[0039] The ROM 1153 is a non-volatile flash memory that stores fixed data such as control programs and data tables executed by the CPU 1152, the embedded OS, etc. In this embodiment, each control program stored in the ROM 1153 performs software execution control such as scheduling, task switching, and interrupt processing under the management of the embedded OS stored in the ROM 1153.

[0040] The ROM 1153 stores a program 1154, a wireless profile 1155, and the like. Here, the wireless profile 1155 is information including the SSID and authentication information (password, etc.) of the AP connected to the wireless LAN interface 1156. The wireless profile 1155 is stored and managed by the CPU 1152 executing the program 1154 included in the ROM 1153. For example, when the printer 1301 is turned on, the printer 1301 can reconnect to the previous network by using the wireless profile 1155. Furthermore, for example, the printer 1301 may be configured to manage multiple wireless profiles, like the OS of the PC 1350.

[0041] The ROM 1153 also stores a unique SSID that is uniquely set for the printer 1301. Here, the unique SSID is uniquely determined for the printer manufacturer and printer model, and the wireless LAN interface 1156 of the printer 1301 can operate as an AP corresponding to this unique SSID. Therefore, the PC 1301 can connect to the printer 1350 operating as an AP corresponding to the unique SSID via the wireless direct connection 1124, just like when connecting to the AP 1302.

[0042] The display device 1159 is composed of an LED (light emitting diode), an LCD (liquid crystal display), etc., and displays various menus and notifies the status of the printer 1301. The input interface 1160 is an interface for accepting data input from the user and user instruction operations by operating an operation unit such as a keyboard. The operation unit may be a physical keyboard, physical buttons, etc., or a soft keyboard, soft buttons, etc. displayed on the display device 1159. In other words, the input interface 1160 may accept input from the user via the display device 1159.

[0043] The printing unit 1161 forms an image on a recording medium, such as cut paper, by ejecting a recording agent such as ink onto the recording medium based on image data, and outputs the print result. Furthermore, if the printing unit 1161 determines that the power-on is due to arrival, it is configured to perform initial setup processing, including cleaning the print head and adjusting the registration to adjust the ink ejection position. The printing unit 1161 may be configured to use not only inkjet printing, but also other printing methods, such as electrophotography.

[0044] The printer 1301 is capable of P2P communication with the PC 1350 via a USB cable 1121 or via a wireless direct connection 1124. The printer 1301 is also connected to the AP 1302 via a wireless LAN interface 1156, and the AP 1302 is connected to the LAN 1122 via an Ethernet cable 1126, thereby enabling the printer 1301 to connect to the LAN 1122. In the description of Fig. 11, the processing load between the PC 1350 and the printer 1301 is as described above as an example, but other allocations may also be configured.

[0045] The following describes the modes and connection methods for performing wireless communication using a wireless LAN interface.

[0046] <Direct connection method> A direct connection refers to a form in which devices are directly and wirelessly connected to each other without going through an external device such as the AP 1302. The printer 1301 can operate in a mode (direct connection mode) for communication via a direct connection as one of its connection modes. As described above, in Wi-Fi communication, there are multiple modes for communication via a direct connection, such as software AP mode and Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) mode.

[0047] The mode in which a direct connection is established using WFD is called WFD mode. WFD is a standard established by the Wi-Fi Alliance and is included in the IEEE 802.11 series of communication standards. In WFD mode, after a device discovery command is used to discover a communication partner, the roles of P2P group owner (GO) and P2P client are determined, and the remaining wireless connection processing is carried out. The group owner corresponds to a Wi-Fi parent station (parent device), and the client corresponds to a Wi-Fi child station (child device). This role determination is called GO Negotiation. Note that in WFD mode, before the role determination is made, the printer 1301 is neither a parent station nor a child station. Specifically, one device issues a device discovery command to search for a device to connect to in WFD mode. Once the other device is discovered, the two devices confirm information about the services and functions that each device can provide. Note that this device provisioning information confirmation is optional and not required. This device provisioning information confirmation phase corresponds, for example, to P2P Provision Discovery. Next, by mutually confirming this device provision information, they decide which will be the P2P client and which will be the P2P group owner. Once the client and group owner are decided, they exchange parameters for WFD communication. Based on the exchanged parameters, the remaining wireless connection processing and IP connection processing are performed between the client and group owner. Note that in WFD mode, the printer 1301 may always operate as the GO without executing the above-mentioned GO Negotiation. In other words, the printer 1301 may operate in WFD mode, which is an autonomous GO mode. Furthermore, the state in which the printer 1301 operates in WFD mode refers to, for example, a state in which a WFD connection has not been established but the printer 1301 is operating as the GO, or a state in which a WFD connection has been established and the printer 1301 is operating as the GO.

[0048] In software AP mode, between devices communicating (e.g., PC 1350 and printer 1301), one device (e.g., PC 1301) acts as a client that requests various services. The other device realizes the function of a Wi-Fi access point through software configuration. These roles are determined without negotiation, as in WFD mode, to determine which device will operate as an AP. Instead, the device operating in software AP mode operates as an AP. A software AP corresponds to a Wi-Fi parent station, and a client corresponds to a Wi-Fi child station. In software AP mode, the client searches for a device that will become the software AP using a device discovery command. Once the software AP is discovered, the remaining wireless connection processing (such as establishing a wireless connection) between the client and software AP is performed, and then IP connection processing (such as assigning an IP address) is performed. Note that the commands and parameters transmitted and received when establishing a wireless connection between the client and software AP can be those specified in the Wi-Fi standard, and therefore will not be described here.

[0049] In this embodiment, when the printer 1301 establishes and maintains a direct connection, it operates as a master station in the network to which the printer 1301 belongs. The master station is a device that builds a wireless network and provides parameters used for connecting to the wireless network to the slave stations. The parameters used for connecting to the wireless network are, for example, parameters related to the channel used by the master station. By receiving the parameters, the slave stations connect to the wireless network built by the master station using the channel used by the master station. Because the printer 1301 operates as a master station in the direct connection mode, it can determine which frequency band and which channel to use for communication in the direct connection mode. In this embodiment, the printer 1301 is capable of using channels corresponding to the 2.4 GHz frequency band and the 5 GHz frequency band for communication in the direct connection mode.

[0050] <About infrastructure connection methods> An infrastructure connection is a connection mode in which devices (for example, a PC 1350 and a printer 1301) connect to an access point (for example, an AP 1302) that manages a network of communicating devices, and the devices communicate with each other via the access point. The printer 1301 can also operate in a mode for communicating via an infrastructure connection (infrastructure connection mode) as one of the connection modes.

[0051] In an infrastructure connection, each device searches for an access point using a device search command. Once an access point is found, the remaining wireless connection processing (establishing a wireless connection, etc.) is carried out between the device and the access point, and then the IP connection processing (assigning an IP address, etc.) is carried out. Note that the commands and parameters sent and received when establishing a wireless connection between a device and an access point can be those specified in the Wi-Fi standard, and so a description of them will be omitted here.

[0052] In this embodiment, when the printer 1301 operates via an infrastructure connection, the AP 1302 serves as a master station, and the printer 1301 serves as a slave station. That is, in this embodiment, the infrastructure connection refers to a connection between the printer 1301 operating as a slave station and the AP 1302 operating as a master station. When the printer 1301 has established an infrastructure connection and the PC 1350 has also established an infrastructure connection with the AP 1302, communication between the printer 1301 and the PC 1350 is possible via the AP 1302. The channel used for communication in the infrastructure connection is determined by the AP 1302, and the printer 1301 performs communication in the infrastructure connection using the channel determined by the AP 1302. In this embodiment, the printer 1301 is capable of using a channel corresponding to the 2.4 GHz frequency band and a channel corresponding to the 5 GHz frequency band for communication in the infrastructure connection. Note that the printer 1301 can also use a channel corresponding to the DFS (Dynamic Frequency Selection) band within the 5 GHz frequency band for communication in the infrastructure connection. In order for the PC 1350 to communicate with the printer 1301 via the AP 1302, the PC 1350 must recognize (search and discover) that the printer 1301 belongs to the network formed by the AP 1302 and to which the PC 1350 belongs.

[0053] <About Network Setup Mode> The printer 1301 can operate in network setup mode. The trigger for the printer 1301 to start operating in network setup mode may be, for example, a user pressing a network setup mode button, or the printer 1301 starting up (powering on) for the first time after arrival. The network setup mode button may be a hardware (physical) button provided on the printer 1301, or may be a software button that the printer 1301 displays on the display device 1159.

[0054] When the printer 1301 starts operating in the network setup mode, it enables Wi-Fi communication. Specifically, as part of the Wi-Fi communication enablement process, the printer 1301 enables an internal AP (setup AP) dedicated to the network setup mode. The SSID of the setup AP corresponds to the unique SSID described above. This enables the printer 1301 to establish a direct Wi-Fi connection with the PC 1350. Connection information (SSID and password) for connecting to the setup AP is stored in advance in a setup application (program 1103) installed in the PC 1350, and the PC 1350 is assumed to recognize the connection information for connecting to the setup AP in advance. Therefore, unlike the connection information of the AP enabled in the direct connection mode, the connection information for connecting to the setup AP cannot be arbitrarily changed by the user. Note that in the network setup mode, the printer 1301 may connect to the PC 1350 via Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) instead of regular Wi-Fi. That is, the printer 1301 may operate as a group owner and receive network information from the PC 1350 through WFD communication. Also, in the network setup mode, the printer 1301 may connect to the PC 1350 through Bluetooth. Here, Bluetooth includes Bluetooth Classic and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). That is, for example, the printer 1301 may operate as a BLE slave device in the network setup mode and receive network information from the PC 1350 through BLE communication. Also, in the network setup mode, the printer 1301 may be capable of performing both network setup through Wi-Fi and network setup through BLE. That is, when the printer 1301 starts operating in the network setup mode, it may enable both Wi-Fi communication and BLE communication.Specifically, when the printer 1301 starts operation in the network setup mode, the printer 1301 may execute both the activation of the setup AP and the activation of the advertising state in which advertising information is transmitted via BLE and BLE connection is enabled. The printer 1301 may also receive network information from the PC 1350 via a wired LAN or USB.

[0055] As described above, the printer 1301 operates in a network setup mode for executing network setup of the printer 1301 in response to certain conditions, including when the user presses a button or during initial installation. When operating in the network setup mode, the printer 1301 controls the wireless LAN interface 1156 to operate as a setup AP that is valid only while operating in the network setup mode. This setup AP is an access point that is different from the access point that is enabled in the soft AP mode described above. The SSID of this setup AP includes a predetermined character string that can be recognized by the setup application (program 1103) of the PC 1350.

[0056] The printer 1301 operating in the network setup mode uses a predetermined communication protocol (setup communication protocol) in communication with the PC 1350 connected to the setup AP. A specific example of the setup communication protocol is the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP).

[0057] After starting operation in network setup mode, the printer 1301 stops operation in network setup mode and disables the setup AP when a predetermined time has elapsed. Also, if the printer 1301 receives connection information for connecting to an external AP and an instruction to change the wireless communication operation mode from the PC 1350 while in network setup mode, the printer 1301 disables the setup AP.

[0058] Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a functional block configuration of STA 301. The functional blocks in Fig. 4 are realized, for example, by the CPU of the control unit 372 executing a program or by operating in cooperation with hardware within STA 301. Note that STA 350 also has a configuration similar to that shown in Fig. 4. Hereinafter, the direct connection mode will be referred to as AP mode. This is not limited to the above-mentioned software AP mode, but refers to a direct connection mode for communication via a direct connection.

[0059] The STA 301 includes a connection information setting unit 401, an AP search unit 402, a wireless infrastructure connection control unit 403, an AP mode control unit 404, and an AP mode start / stop control unit 405. The connection information setting unit 401 is a block that controls the setting of connection information for connecting to the AP 101 and the AP 201, which is input via the UI unit. Specifically, for example, the connection information setting unit 401 accepts input of information required for connection, such as an SSID and a password, from the UI unit and stores the information in the storage unit 371. The AP search unit 402 is a block that discovers external APs by receiving beacons from APs surrounding the STA 301. The AP search unit 402 provides the connection information setting unit 401 with a list of SSIDs of discovered APs. The connection information setting unit 401 displays the SSID list on the UI unit, accepts selection of an SSID and information required for connection, such as a password, from the user via the UI unit, and stores the information in the storage unit 371.

[0060] The wireless infrastructure connection control unit 403 is a block that receives connection information for connecting to the AP101 and AP201 from the connection information setting unit 401 and controls the processing for establishing a link. Specifically, the link establishment is performed by, for example, Probe, Authentication, Association, and 4-Way Hand Shake (4WHS) shown in Fig. 2. The wireless infrastructure connection control unit 403 transmits a Probe Request in each of the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands.

[0061] The AP mode control unit 404 is a block that controls the process in which the STA 301 becomes an access point, transmits beacons, and accepts probe requests and connection requests from other STAs. The 5 GHz band and the 2.4 GHz band can be set by the UI unit as the frequency band to be used, and communication is performed in the set frequency band. The AP mode control unit 404 can establish links with multiple STAs.

[0062] AP mode start / stop control unit 405 is a block that instructs AP mode control unit 404 to start and stop AP mode. Furthermore, AP mode start / stop control unit 405 controls the timing of switching the frequency band used in AP mode. As will be described later, when a change in the AP mode frequency setting is accepted via the UI unit, the switching is not performed immediately (i.e., the setting content is reflected in the operation), but AP mode start / stop control unit 405 determines the switching conditions and, based on the determination result, instructs AP mode control unit 404 to start and stop AP mode.

[0063] The wireless infrastructure connection control unit 403 and the AP mode control unit 404 can operate simultaneously. When the wireless infrastructure connection control unit 403 and the AP mode control unit 404 operate simultaneously using the same frequency band, the AP mode control unit 404 monitors the channel being used by the wireless infrastructure connection control unit 403 to prevent it from becoming the same channel as the channel being used for the wireless infrastructure connection. If the channel becomes the same as the channel being used for the wireless infrastructure connection, the AP mode start / stop control unit 405 switches to another channel. Furthermore, when the status of the wireless infrastructure connection changes from "not connected" to "connected," the AP mode start / stop control unit 405 checks whether the same frequency is being used for the wireless infrastructure connection. If the same frequency is being used and the AP mode is activated, the AP mode start / stop control unit 405 temporarily stops the AP mode and activates the AP mode after the channel for the wireless infrastructure connection is determined.

[0064] 5 to 7 are diagrams showing examples of setting screens related to the AP mode in this embodiment. The screens in Fig. 5 to 7 are displayed, for example, when a setting item related to the AP mode is selected from a menu screen displayed on the UI unit.

[0065] The AP mode setting screen 500 in FIG. 5(a) is a screen for setting whether AP mode is enabled or disabled on the STA 301. On the AP mode setting screen 500, the user can exclusively select either button 501 for setting AP mode to enabled or button 502 for setting AP mode to disabled. An OK button 503 is used to confirm the setting made using button 501 or 502. The confirmed setting is saved in the storage unit 371. If a cancel button 504 is pressed, the setting for whether AP mode is enabled or disabled is not confirmed, and the display of the AP mode setting screen 500 is terminated. For example, if the user changes from button 501 to button 502 and presses OK button 503 while AP mode is active, the setting on the AP mode setting screen 500 is confirmed, and then AP mode is stopped. The timing for stopping AP mode will be described later.

[0066] The AP mode frequency setting screen 510 in FIG. 5(b) is a screen for setting the frequency band to be used when AP mode is activated in the STA 301. On the AP mode frequency setting screen 510, the user can exclusively select either button 511 for setting the frequency band to be used in AP mode to the 5 GHz band or button 512 for setting the frequency band to be used in AP mode to the 2.4 GHz band. An OK button 513 confirms the setting made using button 511 or 512. The confirmed setting is saved in the storage unit 371. When a cancel button 514 is pressed, the frequency band setting is not confirmed and the display of the AP mode frequency setting screen 510 is closed. The AP mode start / stop control unit 405 can detect that the setting has been changed on the AP mode frequency setting screen 510. For example, if the user changes the frequency band to be used in AP mode and presses the OK button 514 while AP mode is activated, the AP mode start / stop control unit 405 displays a pop-up message 515 shown in FIG. 5(c). Pop-up message 515 notifies the user that the change in frequency band setting will be reflected in operation the next time AP mode is started. When OK button 516 is pressed, the display of pop-up message 515 is terminated and the screen returns to AP mode frequency setting screen 510 in FIG. 5(b).

[0067] The AP mode always-on setting screen 600 in FIG. 6 is a screen for setting whether to enable or disable the AP mode always-on in the STA 301. In other words, it is a screen for setting whether to enable or disable the AP mode always-on. On the AP mode always-on setting screen 600, the user can exclusively select a button 601 for enabling the AP mode always-on and a button 602 for disabling the AP mode always-on. An OK button 603 confirms the setting made by the button 601 or 602. The confirmed setting is saved in the storage unit 371. When a cancel button 604 is pressed, the AP mode always-on setting screen 600 is closed without confirming the AP mode always-on setting. When the user enables the AP mode always-on and presses the OK button 603, the AP mode start / stop control unit 405 starts the AP mode when the setting is confirmed or when the STA 301 starts up. When the user disables AP mode constant activation and presses OK button 603, AP mode activation / deactivation control unit 405 deactivates AP mode when the setting is confirmed if there is no other connected wireless communication device. On the other hand, if there is another connected wireless communication device, AP mode deactivates when the connection with that wireless connection device is lost.

[0068] Fig. 7(a) is a screen displayed when the AP mode is stopped in the STA 301, and Fig. 7(b) is a screen displayed when the AP mode is activated in the STA 301. Specifically, for example, the screens in Fig. 7(a) and 7(b) are screens displayed when a menu item indicating the AP mode status of the STA 301 is selected.

[0069] When AP mode is enabled on the AP mode setting screen 500 and AP mode is stopped, the AP mode start / stop control unit 405 displays an AP mode stopped screen 700 on the UI unit. The AP mode stopped screen 700 displays connection information 701. The connection information 701 is connection information for enabling connection from other wireless communication devices operating as STAs, and includes, for example, the SSID and password of an access point. When the AP mode start / stop control unit 405 detects that the start button 702 has been pressed, it instructs the AP mode control unit 404 to start AP mode. The STA 301 then starts AP mode. Specifically, for example, the STA 301 starts transmitting a beacon including information about the SSID of the access point in the connection information 701. In other words, the AP mode stopped screen 700 can also be considered a screen for receiving an instruction to start AP mode.

[0070] When AP mode is enabled on the AP mode setting screen 500 and AP mode is active, the AP mode activation / stop control unit 405 displays an AP mode activation screen 710 on the UI unit. The AP mode activation screen 710 displays connection information 711. The connection information 711 is connection information for enabling connections from other wireless communication devices operating as STAs, and includes, for example, the SSID and password of an access point. The AP mode activation screen 710 displays the number of connections to other wireless communication devices operating as STAs. When the AP mode activation / stop control unit 405 detects that the end button 712 has been pressed, it instructs the AP mode control unit 404 to stop the AP mode. The AP mode is then terminated in the STA 301. Note that, if the AP mode is set to be always active on the AP mode always-active setting screen 600, the AP mode activation / stop button 712 on the AP mode activation screen 710 may be displayed in gray, or otherwise disabled for user operation. In other words, the AP mode activation screen 710 can be said to be a screen for receiving an instruction to stop the AP mode.

[0071] 9 is a flowchart showing the process of starting and stopping AP mode and changing the setting of the frequency band used in AP mode in STA 301. The process in FIG. 9 is realized, for example, by the CPU of control unit 372 executing a program. The process in FIG. 9 is started when STA 301 starts up. At that time, it is assumed that AP mode is set to enabled on AP mode setting screen 500 and that STA 301 is in AP mode disabled. It is also assumed that AP mode always-on setting screen 600 is set to disabled.

[0072] In S901, the control unit 372 determines whether or not an instruction to activate the AP mode has been received. Specifically, for example, the control unit 372 determines whether or not the start button 702 on the AP mode stop screen 700 has been pressed. If it is determined that the button has not been pressed, the process proceeds to S902, and if it is determined that the button has been pressed, the process proceeds to S905.

[0073] In S902, the control unit 372 determines whether the AP mode constant activation setting has been changed from disabled to enabled on the AP mode constant activation setting screen 600. If it is determined that the setting has not been changed from disabled to enabled, that is, if it remains disabled, the process proceeds to S903, and if it is determined that the setting has been changed from disabled to enabled, the process proceeds to S905.

[0074] In S903, the control unit 372 determines whether the frequency band setting on the AP mode frequency setting screen 510 has been changed. If it is determined that the frequency band setting has not been changed, the process repeats from S901. If it is determined that the frequency band setting has been changed, the process proceeds to S904. In S904, the control unit 372 saves the setting details on the AP mode frequency setting screen 510 in the storage unit 371, and then repeats the process from S901. Note that the changed setting details are not yet reflected in the AP mode at this timing.

[0075] That is, when the AP mode is stopped and the constant activation of the AP mode is set to disabled, if the frequency band setting is changed, the changed setting content is saved and the device waits for an instruction to activate the AP mode.

[0076] If it is determined in S901 that an instruction to activate the AP mode has been received, or if constant activation of the AP mode has been changed to enabled in S902 while the AP mode was stopped, the process proceeds to S905. In S905, the control unit 372 determines whether the 2.4 GHz band or the 5 GHz band is set as the frequency band to be used in the AP mode, based on the settings on the AP mode frequency setting screen 510. If it is determined that the 2.4 GHz band is set, the control unit 372 activates the AP mode in the 2.4 GHz band in S906, and then proceeds to S908. On the other hand, if it is determined that the 5 GHz band is set, the control unit 372 activates the AP mode in the 5 GHz band in S907, and then proceeds to S908.

[0077] In S908, the control unit 372 determines whether or not the frequency band setting has been changed on the AP mode frequency setting screen 510. If it is determined that the frequency band setting has been changed, the process proceeds to S909, and if it is determined that the frequency band setting has not been changed, the process proceeds to S914.

[0078] In S909, control unit 372 saves the settings on AP mode frequency setting screen 510 in storage unit 371, and proceeds to S910. Specifically, for example, if AP mode is activated in the 2.4 GHz band and then the user changes the frequency band setting to the 5 GHz band on AP mode frequency setting screen 510, in S909 the settings are saved in storage unit 371, and the process proceeds to S910. Note that in order to reflect the change in frequency band setting in AP mode, it is necessary to stop AP mode once and then start it again, but AP mode is not stopped yet at this timing.

[0079] In S910, the control unit 372 determines whether or not there is a wireless communication device (e.g., STA 350) connected to the AP mode STA 301. If it is determined that there is no wireless communication device connected, the process proceeds to S911, and if it is determined that there is, the process proceeds to S912.

[0080] In S911, the control unit 372 temporarily stops the AP mode, and then returns to S905, and starts the AP mode in S906 or S907.

[0081] In this way, in this embodiment, when the frequency band setting is changed, if there are no other wireless communication devices currently connected, the change in frequency band setting can be immediately reflected in the AP mode. Here, the configuration in which the AP mode is immediately stopped in step S911 if there are no other wireless communication devices currently connected has been shown, but this is not limiting. For example, the AP mode may be stopped after a predetermined time has elapsed with no other wireless communication devices currently connected.

[0082] In S912, the control unit 372 determines whether or not an instruction to stop AP mode has been issued. Specifically, for example, it determines whether or not the end button 712 on the AP mode activation screen 710 has been pressed, or whether or not AP mode has been changed to disabled (button 502) on the AP mode setting screen 500. If it is determined that an instruction to stop AP mode has been issued, the process proceeds to S916, where the control unit 372 stops AP mode and repeats the process from S901. If it is determined that an instruction to stop AP mode has not been issued, the process proceeds to S913.

[0083] In S913, the control unit 372 determines whether the AP mode constant activation setting has been changed from enabled to disabled on the AP mode constant activation setting screen 600. If it is determined that the setting has been changed, the process proceeds to S916, where the control unit 372 stops the AP mode and repeats the processing from S901. If it is determined that the setting has not been changed, the process repeats the processing from S910 without stopping the AP mode.

[0084] In this way, in this embodiment, even if the frequency band setting is changed, if there is another wireless communication terminal currently connected, after the connection with that wireless communication terminal is lost, the AP mode is temporarily stopped and the AP mode is activated in the changed frequency band, thereby preventing communication with the other wireless communication terminal currently connected from being disconnected.

[0085] In S914, the control unit 372 determines whether or not an instruction to stop AP mode has been issued. Specifically, for example, it determines whether or not the end button 712 on the AP mode activation screen 710 has been pressed, or whether or not AP mode has been changed to disabled (button 502) on the AP mode setting screen 500. If it is determined that an instruction to stop AP mode has been issued, the process proceeds to S916, where the control unit 372 stops AP mode and repeats the process from S901. If it is determined that an instruction to stop AP mode has not been issued, the process proceeds to S915.

[0086] In S915, the control unit 372 determines whether the AP mode constant activation setting has been changed from enabled to disabled on the AP mode constant activation setting screen 600. If it is determined that the setting has been changed, the process proceeds to S916, where the control unit 372 stops the AP mode and repeats the processing from S901. If it is determined that the setting has not been changed, the process repeats the processing from S908 without stopping the AP mode.

[0087] In this embodiment, in S910, it is determined whether or not there is another wireless communication device currently connected, and whether or not to immediately terminate the AP mode is controlled based on the determination result. However, other control may be performed. For example, regardless of the connection status of another wireless communication device, S909 may skip S910 and proceed to the determination in S912. In this case, if it is determined in S913 that the AP mode constant activation setting has not been changed from enabled to disabled, the process returns to S910. In other words, if the setting of the frequency band used in AP mode is changed, the AP mode is not terminated unless a clear instruction to terminate the AP mode is received from the user. Furthermore, if the process proceeds from S912 or S913 to S916 and the process from S901 is repeated, the AP mode is activated based on the changed frequency band setting.

[0088] As described above, according to this embodiment, the changed frequency band setting can be reflected in the AP mode in consideration of the connection state with other wireless communication devices. Furthermore, the frequency band can be changed at a timing different from the timing when the user intentionally stops the AP mode, thereby improving convenience.

[0089] [Second embodiment] The second embodiment will be described below focusing on the differences from the first embodiment. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of an AP mode frequency setting screen displayed while the AP mode is activated.

[0090] In this embodiment, when an instruction to display the AP mode frequency setting screen is given, connection information setting unit 401 inquires of AP mode activation / deactivation control unit 405 about the activation state of AP mode. If the result of the activation state inquiry shows that AP mode is activated, AP mode frequency setting screen 800 is displayed as shown in FIG. 8. That is, as shown in FIG. 8, AP mode frequency setting screen 800 displays a message indicating that AP mode is activated, and is displayed under control so that the user cannot change the frequency band setting (so that instructions cannot be accepted). On the other hand, if the result of the activation state inquiry shows that AP mode is deactivated, AP mode frequency setting screen 510 shown in FIG. 5(b) is displayed.

[0091] As described above, according to this embodiment, if the STA 301 is activated in AP mode, it is possible to notify the user that the frequency band setting cannot be changed. Furthermore, by displaying the AP mode frequency setting screen 800, the process proceeds from S908 to S914, and it is possible to suppress changes to the frequency band setting while the AP mode is activated.

[0092] [Third embodiment] The third embodiment will be described below focusing on the differences from the first and second embodiments. Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing the process of starting and stopping AP mode and changing the setting of the frequency band used in AP mode in STA 301. The process in Fig. 10 is realized, for example, by the CPU of the control unit 372 executing a program. The process in Fig. 10 is started when STA 301 is started. At that time, STA 301 is in AP mode.

[0093] In S1001, the control unit 372 determines whether the frequency band setting on the AP mode frequency setting screen 510 has been changed. If it is determined that the frequency band setting has been changed, the process proceeds to S1002, and if it is determined that the frequency band setting has not been changed, the process repeats from S1001. In S1002, the control unit 372 saves the setting details on the AP mode frequency setting screen 510 in the storage unit 371, and proceeds to S1003. Note that the changed setting details are not yet reflected in the AP mode at this timing.

[0094] In S1003, the control unit 372 determines whether or not there is a wireless communication device (e.g., STA 350) connected to the AP mode STA 301. If it is determined that there is no wireless communication device connected, the process proceeds to S1004, and if it is determined that there is, the process proceeds to S1008.

[0095] In S1004, the control unit 372 temporarily stops the AP mode and proceeds to S1005. In S1005, the control unit 372 determines whether the 2.4 GHz band or the 5 GHz band is set as the frequency band to be used in the AP mode, based on the settings on the AP mode frequency setting screen 510. If it is determined that the 2.4 GHz band is set, in S1006 the control unit 372 activates the AP mode in the 2.4 GHz band and repeats the processing from S1001. On the other hand, if it is determined that the 5 GHz band is set, in S1007 the control unit 372 activates the AP mode in the 5 GHz band and repeats the processing from S1001.

[0096] In this way, in this embodiment, when the frequency band setting is changed, the change in the frequency band setting can be reflected immediately if there are no other connected wireless communication devices. Here, the configuration in which the AP mode is immediately stopped in S1004 if there are no other connected wireless communication devices has been shown, but this is not limiting. For example, the AP mode may be stopped after a predetermined time has elapsed in a state in which there are no other connected wireless communication devices.

[0097] In S1008, the control unit 372 transmits an AP mode frequency change instruction to the currently connected wireless communication device to change the frequency band used in communication with the currently connected STA. For example, the control unit 372 transmits a wireless frame including an element called a Channel Switch Announcement, which is defined in the IEEE 802.11 standard series, to the currently connected wireless communication device. Among the fields of this element, the New channel number stores a value indicating the number of the wireless frequency channel to be used after the frequency band is changed. The control unit 372 stores a value in the New Channel Number based on the settings on the AP mode frequency setting screen 510, and transmits a wireless frame including the element to the currently connected wireless communication device. As a result, the other wireless communication device currently connected to the STA 301 changes the frequency channel it uses to the frequency band indicated by the value stored in the New channel number, and as a result, it becomes possible to continue communication with the STA 301.

[0098] In S1009, the control unit 372 determines whether the 2.4 GHz band or the 5 GHz band is set as the frequency band to be used in AP mode, based on the settings on the AP mode frequency setting screen 510. If it is determined that the 2.4 GHz band is set, in S1010 the control unit 372 changes the frequency band to be used in AP mode to the 2.4 GHz band and repeats the processing from S1001. On the other hand, if it is determined that the 5 GHz band is set, in S1011 the control unit 372 changes the frequency band to be used in AP mode to the 5 GHz band and repeats the processing from S1001. That is, in S1010 and S1011, the frequency band is changed without stopping the AP mode, so communication with the currently connected wireless communication device can be continued.

[0099] As described above, according to this embodiment, the changed frequency band setting can be reflected in AP mode, taking into account the connection status of other wireless communication devices. Furthermore, the frequency band used in AP mode is changed after notifying the currently connected wireless communication device of the change in frequency band. With this configuration, it is possible to change the frequency band used in AP mode while maintaining communication with the currently connected wireless communication device, thereby improving convenience. While the above describes an example of the operation of changing the frequency band in AP mode, a similar operation may also be performed in WFD mode. In other words, if a user instructs to change the frequency band while operating as a GO in WFD mode, the frequency band is not changed at the time of acceptance. The change in frequency band is then reflected when WFD mode is reactivated.

[0100] 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 a 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., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0101] The disclosure of the present embodiment includes the following information processing device, control method, and program. (Item 1) An information processing device, a communication means for performing wireless communication between a partner device and the information processing device without going through an external access point by the information processing device operating as an access point; a setting means for setting a frequency band to be used when the information processing device operates as the access point; When the setting of the frequency band by the setting means is changed while the information processing device is operating as the access point, a control means for controlling the access point so that the operating frequency band is not changed during the operation, and when the access point starts operating again after the operation as the access point is stopped, the access point operates based on the changed setting of the frequency band; An information processing device comprising: (Item 2) The information processing device described in item 1, characterized in that the control means controls the information processing device to operate in the frequency band that was set before the frequency band setting was changed by the setting means until the information processing device stops operating as the access point. (Item 3) The information processing device described in item 1 or 2, characterized in that the control means stops operating as the access point based on the fact that there is no other device connected to the information processing device operating as the access point. (Item 4) 4. The information processing device according to item 3, wherein the control means stops the operation as the access point without accepting a user instruction. (Item 5) The information processing device described in item 1 or 2, characterized in that the control means stops operation as the access point based on the fact that there is a partner device connected to the information processing device operating as the access point. (Item 6) 6. The information processing device according to item 5, wherein the control means stops the operation as the access point based on receipt of a user instruction. (Item 7) 7. The information processing device according to item 6, wherein the user instruction is an instruction to disable the operation as the access point. (Item 8) 8. The information processing device according to item 6 or 7, wherein the user instruction is an instruction to disable continuous activation of the access point. (Item 9) The information processing device described in any one of items 6 to 8, characterized in that when there is a remote device connected to the information processing device operating as the access point, the control means controls so as not to stop operating as the access point unless the user instruction is received. (Item 10) 10. The information processing device according to any one of items 1 to 9, wherein the setting means is a user interface screen. (Item 11) Item 11. The information processing device according to item 10, wherein when the frequency band setting is changed, the user interface screen displays that the information processing device is operating as an access point. (Item 12) The information processing device described in item 11 is characterized in that the user interface screen displays that the change in the frequency band setting will be reflected in operation when the device stops operating as an access point and then starts operating as a new access point. (Item 13) Item 11. The information processing device described in item 10, further comprising a display control means for controlling the user interface screen so that the frequency band setting cannot be changed when an instruction to start operating the information processing device as the access point is received. (Item 14) a transmitting means for transmitting, when a counterpart device is connected to the information processing device operating as the access point, information on the frequency band after the setting by the setting means has been changed to the counterpart device; a second control means for controlling the information processing device to operate based on the changed setting of the frequency band without stopping the operation as the access point after the information of the frequency band is transmitted by the transmission means; 5. The information processing device according to item 3 or 4, further comprising: (Item 15) The information processing device described in item 14, characterized in that the transmitting means transmits information about the frequency band after the setting by the setting means is changed in the Channel Switch Announcement of the wireless frame defined in the IEEE 802.11 standard series. (Item 16) 16. The information processing device according to item 14 or 15, wherein when control is performed by the second control means, control by the control means is not performed. (Item 17) 17. The information processing device according to any one of items 1 to 16, wherein the setting unit sets the frequency band to 2.4 GHz band or 5 GHz band. (Item 18) 18. The information processing apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 17, wherein the information processing apparatus is an image forming apparatus including an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium using a recording agent. (Item 19) A control method executed in an information processing device, a communication step in which the information processing device operates as an access point to perform wireless communication between a partner device and the information processing device without going through an external access point; a setting step of setting a frequency band to be used when the information processing device operates as the access point; When the setting of the frequency band in the setting step is changed while the information processing device is operating as the access point, a control step of controlling the access point so that the operating frequency band is not changed during the operation, and when the access point starts operating again after the operation as the access point is stopped, the access point operates based on the changed setting of the frequency band; A control method comprising: (Item 20) 19. A program for causing a computer to function as each means of the information processing device according to any one of items 1 to 18.

[0102] The invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the following claims are appended to apprise the public of the scope of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0103] 101, 201 AP: 301, 350 STA: 371 Memory unit: 372 Control unit

Claims

1. An information processing device, a communication means for performing wireless communication between a partner device and the information processing device without going through an external access point by the information processing device operating as an access point; a setting means for setting a frequency band to be used when the information processing device operates as the access point; When the setting of the frequency band by the setting means is changed while the information processing device is operating as the access point, a control means for controlling the access point so that the operating frequency band is not changed during the operation, and when the access point starts operating again after the operation as the access point is stopped, the access point operates based on the changed setting of the frequency band; An information processing device comprising:

2. 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the control means controls the information processing device to operate in the frequency band that was set before the frequency band setting was changed by the setting means until the information processing device stops operating as the access point.

3. 2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means stops the operation as the access point when there is no other device connected to the information processing apparatus operating as the access point.

4. 4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control means stops the operation as the access point without accepting a user instruction.

5. 2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means stops the operation as the access point when there is a remote device connected to the information processing apparatus operating as the access point.

6. 6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the control means stops the operation as the access point based on a user instruction received.

7. 7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the user instruction is an instruction to disable the operation as the access point.

8. 7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the user instruction is an instruction to disable continuous activation of the access point.

9. The information processing device according to claim 6, characterized in that the control means controls the information processing device operating as the access point so as not to stop operating as the access point unless the user instruction is received when there is a remote device connected to the information processing device operating as the access point.

10. 2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the setting means is a user interface screen.

11. 11. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein when the setting of the frequency band is changed, the user interface screen displays a message that the information processing apparatus is operating as an access point.

12. 12. The information processing device according to claim 11, wherein the user interface screen displays a message indicating that the change in the frequency band setting will be reflected in operation when the device stops operating as the access point and then starts operating as a new access point.

13. 11. The information processing device according to claim 10, further comprising a display control means for controlling the user interface screen so that the setting of the frequency band cannot be changed when an instruction to start operating the information processing device as the access point is received.

14. a transmitting means for transmitting, when a counterpart device is connected to the information processing device operating as the access point, information on the frequency band after the setting by the setting means has been changed to the counterpart device; a second control means for controlling the information processing device to operate based on the changed setting of the frequency band without stopping the operation as the access point after the information of the frequency band is transmitted by the transmission means; 4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising:

15. 15. The information processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the transmitting means transmits a Channel Switch Announcement of a wireless frame defined in the IEEE 802.11 standard series, including information on the frequency band after the setting by the setting means has been changed.

16. 15. The information processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein when the control by the second control means is performed, the control by the control means is not performed.

17. 2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the setting means sets the frequency band to a 2.4 GHz band or a 5 GHz band.

18. 2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information processing apparatus is an image forming apparatus having an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium using a recording agent.

19. A control method executed in an information processing device, a communication step in which the information processing device operates as an access point to perform wireless communication between a partner device and the information processing device without going through an external access point; a setting step of setting a frequency band to be used when the information processing device operates as the access point; When the setting of the frequency band in the setting step is changed while the information processing device is operating as the access point, a control step of controlling the access point so that the operating frequency band is not changed during the operation, and when the access point starts operating again after the operation as the access point is stopped, the access point operates based on the changed setting of the frequency band; A control method comprising:

20. 19. A program for causing a computer to function as each of the means of the information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

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