Application Program

Abstract

This application program enhances the usability of printers when using them from an information processing device. [Solution] The information processing device 1 comprises a management program 43 and a print server program 44. The management program 43 determines whether or not an incompatible printer 3 is connected to the information processing device 1, and if it is connected, determines whether or not the print server program 44 is running, and if it is not running, starts the print server program 44 and registers the print server configured by the print server program 44 with the OS 41. The server program 44 accepts print jobs that specify the corresponding print server as the output destination, and based on the accepted print jobs, it obtains individual print data that can be printed on the incompatible printer 3, and sends the obtained individual print data to the incompatible printer 3.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technical field disclosed in this specification relates to an application program for controlling a printer. It relates.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, driverless printing technology that performs printing using the printing function of an operating system (hereinafter referred to as "OS") without installing a printer driver has become widespread. Here, printers that do not support driverless printing technology, such as low-cost models, cannot execute printing in an OS environment where a printer driver cannot be installed. On the other hand, for example, In Patent Document 1, when a printer driver is not incorporated in an information processing apparatus, a printer driver is transmitted from the printer, and the information processing apparatus installs the printer driver. There is a disclosed configuration that operates as a print server.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Even in a configuration where an information processing apparatus operates as a print server as in Patent Document 1, printers that do not support driverless printing technology such as AirPrint (registered trademark) cannot use the printing function of the OS in an OS environment where a printer driver cannot be installed. Since the printer cannot be selected, printing cannot be executed. ​​

[0005] The technology disclosed herein is intended to solve the problems of the aforementioned prior art. This was done. In other words, the challenge is to use a printer from an information processing device. The objective is to provide technology that enhances the usability of printers in such cases. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The application program created to solve this problem is for the information processing device. An application program that can be executed by the control unit, and which includes a management program and a pre-program. The management program includes a server program, and the control unit has the information processing equipment The system determines whether a specific printer is connected via the communication interface of the device. 1. Connection determination process, and the connection of the specific printer determined by the first connection determination process. If this determination is made, the print server program corresponding to the specific printer is started. A startup determination process that determines whether or not the print server is running, and the startup determination process that determines whether or not the print server is running. If it is determined that the program is not running, the print server program is started. The startup process, and when the print server program is started in the startup process, the startup process The print server configured by the print server program is operated by the information processing device operator The print server registration process, which registers the printer in the rating system, is executed. The print server program communicates to the control unit via the operating system. The system accepts print jobs that specify the registered print server as the output destination. In the attachment process, and when the print job is received in the acceptance process, based on the print job Then, print data acquisition to obtain print data in a specific format that the aforementioned specific printer can print. The print data obtained in the print data acquisition process is sent to the specific printer. It is characterized by the execution of a transmission process that sends data to a destination.

[0007] The application programs disclosed herein are configured to work with a specific printer. If it determines that this is the case, it will start the print server program corresponding to that specific printer. The print server configured by the print server program that starts up is configured by the operating system Register it as a printer in the system. This will allow the operating system to recognize it as a specific printer. The printer becomes selectable. Furthermore, the print server program will process the registered prints. The system accepts print jobs specifying the server as the output destination and, based on the print job, performs specific tasks. The printer retrieves print data in a specific format that can be printed and sends it to a specific printer. Because certain printers receive print data in a specific format, this print data can be used You can then perform the print operation.

[0008] Control methods for realizing the above functions, and a computer for storing application programs A new and useful storage medium is one that can be read by a computer. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the application programs disclosed herein, information processing equipment can print This technology will improve the usability of printers when using a computer. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] It is an explanatory diagram showing the printing procedures by a compatible printer and an incompatible printer. [Figure 3] It is a sequence diagram showing the procedures for starting up and registering a print server. [Figure 4] It is a sequence diagram showing the procedure for executing printing. [Figure 5] It is a sequence diagram showing the procedure for ending the print server. [Figure 6] It is a flowchart showing the procedure for server startup processing. [Figure 7] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of using a print server program of another information processing device. [Figure 8] It is a flowchart showing the procedure for print server processing. [Figure 9] It is a flowchart showing the procedure for printing processing.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, an application program (hereinafter referred to as "app") according to the present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. This embodiment is an app for causing a printer to execute printing in an information processing device.

[0012] As shown in FIG. 1, the app of this embodiment is executed in the information processing device 1 to which a printer is connected. The information processing device 1 is, for example, a personal computer, a smartphone, or a tablet computer, and is a device that generates and edits image data to be printed on a printer and transmits a print execution instruction to each printer. etc.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1, the information processing device 1 of this embodiment includes a controller 10 including a CPU 11, a ROM 12, a RAM 13, and a non-volatile memory 14. Further, a user Interface (hereinafter referred to as "User IF") 15 and network interface 16 (hereinafter referred to as "Network IF") and USB interface (hereinafter referred to as "U It includes SB-IF (17) and these are electrically connected to the controller 10. It is present. CPU11 is an example of a control unit. CPU11's buffer, ROM12, RAM 13. Non-volatile memory 14 is an example of memory. Network IF 16 and USB-I F17 is an example of a communication interface.

[0014] ROM12 stores the startup program and other files necessary to start the information processing device 1. RAM13 is used as a workspace when various processes are executed, or to temporarily store data. It is used as a memory area for storing data. Non-volatile memory 14 is used, for example, in HDDs and flash drives. It is a storage memory that stores various programs, image data, and various settings. It is used as a region.

[0015] The CPU 11, according to the program read from the ROM 12 or non-volatile memory 14, Furthermore, it executes various processes based on user input. Note that Controller 1 in Figure 1 0 is a collective term for the hardware and software used to control the information processing device 1. This doesn't necessarily represent a single piece of hardware actually present in the information processing device 1.

[0016] User interface 15 is hardware that accepts user input and displays information. It is a user interface. User IF15 has both input and output functions, such as a touch panel. It can be a physical object, or it can be a combination of a display, keyboard, and mouse. It's fine if it's something that is done to it.

[0017] Network IF16 communicates with external devices via a network such as the Internet. This includes the hardware required to perform the task. The communication standard for network IF16 is, for example, Ethernet. These include USB-IF17, Wi-Fi, and other registered trademarks. Includes hardware for communication based on the network interface (IF16) and USB. -IF17 communication can be either wired or wireless.

[0018] This information processing device 1 has a function that allows printing without installing a printer driver. It has a driverless printing function. The driverless printing function is for the content to be printed. Based on this, it includes standard print data, which is general-purpose print data that is independent of the printer model. This is a printing function that creates a print job and sends it to a printer, for example, AirPrint (registered trademark). There are trademarks such as Mopria (registered trademark).

[0019] As shown in Figure 1, two printers 2 and 3 are connected to the information processing device 1. Printers 2 and 3 are both capable of forming images on the printing medium. These are devices, such as page printers, copiers, multifunction printers, and fax machines.

[0020] Printer 2 is connected to information processing device 1 via network IF16, and information processing device Printer 1 is a printer that supports driverless printing. Hereafter, Printer 2 will be referred to as "compatible". This will be referred to as "Printer 2". Compatible Printer 2 is the printer that receives print jobs sent from Information Processing Unit 1. A program that creates print image data for use in printing on its own machine, based on the print data. It has the following: The compatible printer 2 generates print image data based on the received standard print data. Create a print image file, and then use that image data to print.

[0021] Meanwhile, printer 3 processes information via network IF16 or USB-IF17. A printer connected to device 1 that is not compatible with the driverless printing function of information processing device 1. Hereafter, printer 3 will be referred to as "incompatible printer 3". Incompatible printer 3 is a standard printer. It does not have a configuration to create printable image data from the data. Therefore, it is not compatible with certain printers. Printer 3 cannot execute printing even if it receives standard print data. When compatible print data is received, the received print data is used as printable image data. Rui converts the received print data into printable image data and then executes the print job. Compatible printer 3 does not respond to the printer search signal based on the driverless printing function. Therefore, the driverless printing function of the information processing device 1 does not recognize the incompatible printer 3 as a printing device. I am not aware of this. Incompatible printer 3 is just one example of a specific printer.

[0022] This information processing device 1 is equipped with an application for performing printing on an incompatible printer 3. The non-volatile memory 14 of the information processing device 1 contains OS41 and, as shown in Figure 1, Content creation application 42, management program 43, print server program 44, Various programs, including those mentioned above, are stored. Note that some of the OS41 is included in ROM12. It's okay if they're born.

[0023] The OS41 of the information processing device 1 in this configuration is equipped with a driverless printing function, and the individual model This is a version that does not accept the installation of the printer driver compatible with the printer. Therefore, the non-volatile memory 14 of the information processing device 1 contains, for example, the data of the incompatible printer 3. The printer driver program is not stored.

[0024] The content creation app 42 creates content for printing, such as documents, images, and charts. It is an app that accomplishes this. And the content creation app 42 includes printing based on user operation. The information processing device 1 includes a function to receive instructions. It may also have a creation application 42.

[0025] The management program 43 and the print server program 44 are content creation application 42. Printing based on content created in [location] is performed by an incompatible [device] connected to the information processing device 1. This is the program used when running on Linter 3. It involves management program 43 and print. The server program 44 is an example of an application program.

[0026] The management program 43 provides the print server program 44 for the incompatible printer 3. Start up the print server configured by the print server program 44, and use the virtual machine. This program registers as a linter in OS41. It also virtualizes the print server in OS41. By registering as a printer, content creation applications such as 42 will use that virtual printer. The output destination can be selected. The print server program 44 is a driverless printer. The print job output by the function is converted to a format that can be supported by the incompatible printer 3, This is a program to send to compatible printer 3.

[0027] Note that there is one management program 43 in the information processing device 1, and the print server program There is one M44 for each incompatible printer 3. If multiple incompatible printers 3 are connected... In the information processing device 1, a print server is started for each incompatible printer 3, Each will be registered as a virtual printer.

[0028] In this configuration, the information processing device 1 executes printing to the corresponding printer 2, for example, as shown in Figure 2. Different processes are executed depending on whether printing is performed to the incompatible printer 3 or to the unsupported printer 3. The OS 41 of the information processing device 1 receives a print command, for example, from the content creation application 42. If the printer specified in the accepted print command is compatible printer 2, then dry The standard print data created using the print function is sent to compatible printer 2. Ta2 performs printing based on standard print data.

[0029] On the other hand, the printer specified in the print command is a virtual printer that corresponds to unsupported printer 3. In some cases, the information processing device 1 outputs standard print data created using the driverless printing function. The data is then passed to the print server program 44. The print server program 44 then processes the standard print data. Based on the data, the individual print data is a format that can be supported by the incompatible printer 3. The data is retrieved and sent to the unsupported printer 3. Individual print data is print data in a specific format. This is one example.

[0030] Next, we will explain the operation of the information processing device 1 to perform printing on the incompatible printer 3. The following explanation and each processing step in the flowchart are basically The instructions written in programs such as the management program 43 and the print server program 44 This shows the processing performed by CPU 11 in accordance with the regulations. The processing by CPU 11 is performed by OS4 of the information processing device 1. Hardware using an interface (also called an API) for exchanging data with other modules. This also includes wear control. Note that in this specification, the description of OS41 is omitted, and the operation of each program is described. Explain.

[0031] First, we will explain the overview of the operation by referring to the sequence diagrams in Figures 3 to 5. Management Program The print preparation operation by 43 will be explained with reference to the sequence diagram in Figure 3. RAM 43 is started, for example, when the information processing device 1 starts up, and when it starts up, the information processing device 1 Search for connected printers. The search by management program 43 is driverless. Unlike searching using the print function, the information processing device 1 can respond even if the printer 3 is not compatible. Multicast search signals.

[0032] Then, the management program 43 determines that the incompatible printer 3 connected to the information processing device 1 is Determine whether it exists or not (Step 51). For example, if the connected printer has a driverless mark If only compatible printer 2 supports the printing function, then information processing device 1 will be a print server pro There is no need to perform Gram 44.

[0033] If an unsupported printer 3 is detected, the management program 43 will print on unsupported printer 3. Obtain printer information to execute the print job (step 52). Specifically, the management program Unit M43 retrieves the model information, version information, etc., of the searched incompatible printer 3.

[0034] Then, the management program 43 will print the print server corresponding to the found incompatible printer 3. If program 44 is not running, start the print server program 44. Step 53). If multiple incompatible printers 3 are detected, the management program 43 will: Perform steps 52 and 53 for each unit.

[0035] Furthermore, the management program 43 is configured by the print server program 44 on the OS 41. Determine whether the print server to be used is registered or not. In other words, management program 4 Step 3 searches for printers registered in OS41 (step 54), and then retrieves the printer from OS41. Obtain a list of (step 55). Among the obtained list of printers, print server program If a print server configured by RAM 44 is not included, then the management program 43 The print server, which is configured by the print server program 44, is searched for by non Register it as a virtual printer compatible with compatible printer 3 in OS41 (step 56).

[0036] Next, the sequence diagram of the printing operation using the print server program 44 is shown in Figure 4. See the explanation below. The information processing device 1, in the running content creation application 42, The content creation app 42 accepts print instructions from the user (step 61). Based on the received print instructions, a print job is created and registered in OS41 (step 62). OS41 processes accepted print jobs using the driverless printing function and prints according to the standard print data. Generate a print job that includes the letter "T".

[0037] OS41 has a virtual printer designated as the output destination that corresponds to unsupported printer 3. The print job is passed to the print server program 44 that supports the unsupported printer 3 (Procedure) 63) The print server program 44 searches for the unsupported printer 3, which is the output destination, and prints Determine whether or not it is in a printable state (step 64).

[0038] If the unsupported printer 3 is in a printable state, the printer information will be sent to the print server program. Send to RAM 44 (step 65). The print server program 44 uses the printer information as a basis. Therefore, individual print data in a format compatible with the incompatible printer 3 is generated from the standard print data. Furthermore, the print server program 44 performs the print job based on the printer information. The print settings included in the file will be inherited, and the information will be in a format that can be supported by the unsupported printer 3. Step 66).

[0039] Then, the print server program 44 combines the generated individual print data and print settings. Send to compatible printer 3 (step 67). Incompatible printer 3 receives the individual print data. Perform printing based on the instructions (step 68), and send status information such as print completion to the print server. Send to program 44 (step 69). The print server program 44 receives the message. Pass the status information to OS41 (step 70).

[0040] On the other hand, the print server program 44, through the printer search by procedure 64, If compatible printer 3 could not be found, it means that incompatible printer 3 is offline. The OS41 receives status information indicating the status (step 71). The OS41 then receives status information from step 70 or step The status information received in 71 is transmitted via, for example, the content creation application 42. Notify the server (step 72).

[0041] Next, refer to the sequence diagram in Figure 5 for the termination operation of the print server program 44. Let me explain. The print server program 44 is not executing the processing of the print job. At a set time, search for incompatible printer 3 (step 81). Then, the incompatible printer If there is no response from 3 and the search fails, the print server program 44 will reject the unsupported program. The system notifies the user of an error indicating that Linter 3 is not connected (Step 82).

[0042] And, for example, if the server receives a command to shut down via user operation, the print server The user program 44 is configured to use a print server that is already registered with OS41. If present, remove the registration of the corresponding virtual printer from OS41 (step 83). Furthermore, The lint server program 44 terminates itself (step 84). Unnecessary print server Terminating program 44 reduces the processing load on information processing device 1.

[0043] Next, the operation of each program will be explained in detail with reference to the flowcharts in Figures 6 to 9. To clarify, the procedure numbers mentioned in the following explanation correspond to those shown in the sequence diagrams in Figures 3 to 5. Corresponds to the procedure number.

[0044] First, regarding the procedure for server startup by management program 43, see the flowchart in Figure 6. This will be explained by referring to the documentation. This server startup process involves, for example, starting up the information processing device 1, and printing. This process is executed by CPU11 upon connection of the printer and acceptance of a print command.

[0045] During the server startup process, CPU11 first determines whether or not it is a driverless printing environment. (S101). The CPU 11, for example, receives the version information of the OS 41 of the information processing device 1. It was obtained, and OS41 has a driverless printing function, and printer driver installation is It determines whether the operating environment is unacceptable. Also, CPU11 determines the printer driver. You can also determine whether it is installed or not. If the connection is lost (S101:NO), CPU11 terminates the server startup process.

[0046] If your environment allows for printer driver installation, install the printer driver. By doing so, the processing load can be reduced. Also, check the version of OS41. For example, the OS41 version upgrade changes the operating environment for driverless printing. In that case, the management program 43 and the print server program 44 can be made to function. Yes, it is possible. Therefore, we can continue to provide users with a printing environment that offers the same ease of use as before.

[0047] If it is determined that it is a driverless printing environment (S101:YES), CPU11 will... The printers connected to the information processing unit 1 are searched for one by one (S102). Then, CPU 1 1. Is the searched printer an incompatible printer (3) that does not support driverless printing? Determine whether or not (S103, step 51). S103 is an example of the first connection determination process.

[0048] For example, CPU11 asks each printer connected via network IF16 In addition, we will determine whether or not it has the capability to support driverless printing. For example, if the information processing device 1 has a list of external devices to which it is connected, then the CPU 11 Alternatively, you can check the connection of the unsupported printer 3 in the list using S103.

[0049] If it is determined that an unsupported printer 3 has been found (S103:YES), CPU11 will: Get printer information (S104, step 52). CPU11 receives the printer information as follows: For example, printer model information, version information, and print data supported by the printer. The data format is obtained. CPU11 queries the found unsupported printer 3 and prints You can obtain printer information directly, or you can obtain printer information from a list of external devices, etc.

[0050] Furthermore, CPU11 searches for a print server program that corresponds to the unsupported printer 3. Determine whether or not RAM44 is running (S105). S105 is part of the startup determination process. For example, if it is determined that the print server program 44 is not running (S105: NO), CPU 11 is another device that can communicate with the information processing device 1, and is not compatible with the printer 3. It is determined whether the corresponding print server program 44 is running (S106). 106 is also an example of a startup decision process.

[0051] For example, as shown in Figure 7, multiple information processing devices 1, 100, and 200 can communicate with each other. In systems connected to and where the same incompatible printer 3 is available, other information processing devices 100 If the print server program 44 is running, the information processing device 1 will process other information processing The print server program 44 of the processing device 100 can be used. In this case, other information processing devices A print server configured by print server program 44 of location 100 is a virtual print server By registering as a terminal in OS41, the information processing device 1 uses its print server program. Mu 44 can be used. In this case, the print server running on another information processing device 100 The print server configured in Program 44 is an example of an existing print server.

[0052] Information processing device 1, for example, as shown in Figure 7, sends standard print data to other information processing device 1 The data is passed to 00, and individual print data is sent to the print server program 44 of another information processing device 100. It is also possible to create a file and send it from another information processing device 100 to the incompatible printer 3. In this way, there is no need to start the print server program 44 on the device itself, The processing load on the device is reduced.

[0053] It was determined that the print server program 44 was not running on either the local device or other devices. In case (S106:NO), CPU11 will find a printer that corresponds to the unsupported printer 3 that was found. Start the server program 44 (S107, step 53). S107 is part of the startup process. This is an example.

[0054] Furthermore, the print server program 44 that corresponds to the searched incompatible printer 3 is also available for other devices. If it is determined that the system is running in the specified location (S106:YES), CPU11 will start the print server. Whether or not the print server configured by program 44 is registered with OS41 This is determined (S108). Specifically, CPU11 queries OS41, for example. Obtain a list of printers registered in OS41 (steps 54, 55), and in that list, This includes a print server that is registered as a virtual printer compatible with unsupported printer 3. Determine whether or not it is present.

[0055] And then, after S107, or the print server compatible with the incompatible printer 3 is OS4 If it is determined that it is not registered in 1 (S108:NO), CPU11 will perform the print service Register the print server configured by program 44 as a printer in OS41. (S109, step 56). S109, which is executed after S107, is for print server registration. This is an example of the process. Also, S109, which is executed after determining NO in S108, is an existing This is an example of the print server registration process.

[0056] In S109, the CPU 11 is configured by the print server program 44. Register the user server using the model name or nickname of the unsupported printer 3 that was found. The name may be specified by the printer. It is composed of print server program 44. By registering the print server as an unsupported printer 3 in OS41, the unsupported printer When Ta3 issues a print command using the content creation application 42, etc., it is selected as the printing device. This is the result.

[0057] On the other hand, if it is determined that it is not an incompatible printer 3 (S103:NO), or if the printer If it is determined that the toserver program 44 is running (S105:YES), other devices The print server, which is configured by the print server program 44, is registered with the OS 41. If it is determined that the printer is not working (S108:YES), then after S109, CPU11 will... Determine whether the search has finished (S110). If it is determined that the search has not finished, (S110:NO), CPU11 returns to S102 and performs a further printer search. On the other hand, if it determines that the search is complete (S110:YES), CPU11 starts the server. Processing will now be terminated.

[0058] Next, Figure 8 shows the procedure for print server processing by the print server program 44. Refer to the flowchart for explanation. This print server process is part of the server startup process. The print server program 44 was started on 107, which triggered the actual execution on CPU 11. It will be carried out.

[0059] In print server processing, CPU11 creates a virtual printer that corresponds to the unsupported printer 3. Determine whether or not there is a print job specified as the output destination (S201). The print job is: For example, it is generated when a print command is received in the content creation application 42, O It is registered in S41 (step 62 in Figure 4). CPU11, in S201, for example, OS4 By periodically querying 1, or by monitoring the spooler for OS41 printing The CPU 11 then determines whether or not there is a matching print job. Furthermore, the CPU 11 then informs the information processing device 1. Output a virtual printer that corresponds to the unsupported printer 3 from another connected information processing device. You may accept the print job you specified first.

[0060] If CPU11 determines that there is a print job (S201:YES), then this print Search for the unsupported printer 3 corresponding to server program 44 (S202, step 64), Determine whether or not incompatible printer 3 was found (S203). Incompatible printer 3 was found. If it is determined that (S203:YES), CPU11 executes the print process (S2 04) The print process is performed by the print server program 44, which prints to the unsupported printer 3. This is a process that causes something to happen.

[0061] The printing process will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 9. In the printing process, CPU11 first retrieves the print job (S301). S301 is an example of the acceptance process. Furthermore, CPU11 retrieves the print data included in the acquired print job. S302). The print data included in the print job is created by the driverless printing function. It is data in a specified format, for example, standard print data. Print data included in a print job The data shown is an example of the original print data.

[0062] Then, CPU11 determines that the print data included in the print job is not compatible with printer 3. Determine whether the data is in a portable format (S303). S303 is format determination. This is an example of processing. The only formats supported by the unsupported printer 3 are individual print data. This is not always the case. Furthermore, print data created using the driverless printing function is not necessarily standard print data. Not necessarily the only option. In other words, incompatible printer 3 is created using the driverless printing function. Even if the data is for printing, it may still be printable.

[0063] The print data included in the print job is in a format that is not supported by the incompatible printer 3. If it determines that the data is incompatible (S303:NO), CPU11 will print the data to an incompatible format. Convert to individual print data, which is a print data format supported by Linta 3 (S304 (Step 66).

[0064] The conversion of print data may also be performed by the print server program 44, or managed This can also be done in other programs such as program 43. For example, CPU 11 prints Information on the print data included in the job and the print data formats that can be supported by the incompatible printer 3. You may pass this to the management program 43 and request the management program 43 to convert the print data. In that case, S304 is an example of a conversion process.

[0065] The management program 43 performs the conversion of the print data, and the print server program 44 This eliminates the need for conversion processing and reduces the size of individual print server programs 44. In particular, even if multiple print server programs 44 are started, one program Since this can be handled in this way, the size of the program running on the information processing device 1 can be reduced. On the other hand, if individual print server programs 44 perform the conversion of print data, the management program The process of transferring data with Gram43 is eliminated, resulting in faster conversion of print data.

[0066] Then, CPU11 obtains the individual print data after conversion (S305). S305 is This is an example of the process for acquiring print data. And the print data included in the print job is unmatched. If the printer determines that the data is in a format that can be supported by printer 3 (S303:YES) ), or after S305, CPU11 takes over the print settings (S306, step 66) If YES is determined in S303, then S302 is an example of the print data acquisition process. ru.

[0067] Print settings include, for example, the number of copies and the setting for double-sided printing. (Incompatible printers) 3. Can it properly handle the print settings commands added by the driverless printing function? Not necessarily. CPU11 will not accept the command for print settings via driverless printing. By changing the print settings command for printer 3, it becomes possible to print on unsupported printer 3. Create a print job with the specified settings.

[0068] CPU11 controls either network IF16 or USB-IF17, and S306 Printing that includes the inherited print settings and the print data obtained in S302 or S305. Send the job to the unsupported printer 3 (S307). S307 is an example of a sending process. Yes. Furthermore, CPU 11 determines whether or not the transmission has been completed (S308).

[0069] If the CPU determines that transmission is complete (S308:YES), the CPU 11 displays a status indicating transmission is complete. The data information is passed to OS41 (S309). On the other hand, if an error occurs during transmission, If it is determined that the transmission was not completed (S308:NO), CPU11 will determine that an error occurred. Status information is passed to OS41 (S310). After S309 or S310, CPU1 1. The printing process ends and returns to the print server. Note that if the print job is on another device... If received, S309 or S310 will print the status information. It is best to send it to the device that sent it.

[0070] Returning to the explanation of Figure 8, after the completion of the printing process in S204, CPU 11 returns to S201, Furthermore, it determines whether or not there are any print jobs. And if it determines that there are no print jobs ( S201: NO), CPU 11 determines whether it is the predetermined timing (S205 ). CPU 11, for example, is in the process of starting the print server program 44, and The system determines that the predetermined timing has arrived when a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the previous printing process. Furthermore, the designated timing can be just once, or it can be determined that the designated timing occurs periodically. You can refuse.

[0071] If the CPU determines that the timing is predetermined (S205:YES), the CPU 11 will print the pudding. Search for incompatible printer 3 that is compatible with the server program 44 (S206, step 81) S206 performs the same processing as S202. And CPU11 is for unsupported printer 3 Determine whether or not it was searched (S207). S207 is an example of the second connection determination process. ru.

[0072] The search for S202 or S206 determined that no incompatible printer 3 was found. If this occurs (S203:NO, or S207:NO), CPU11 will report an error. (S208). CPU11 controls, for example, user IF15, and the incompatible printer 3 Display error information indicating that it is offline. Unsupported printer 3 is offline. If it exists, printing cannot be performed. Printing process is disabled in S203 and S207 if NO. By not executing it, the processing load on CPU11 can be reduced.

[0073] The CPU 11 then decides whether or not to terminate the print server program 44. (S209). CPU11 controls, for example, user IF15, and print server program The system displays a message asking the user whether or not to terminate Gram44, and then receives the user's instructions. Alternatively, the CPU 11 will check if the incompatible printer 3 has been offline for a specified period of time or longer. If conditions such as continuing are met, the print server program 44 will be terminated. You can refuse.

[0074] If it is determined that the timing is not as specified (S205:NO), or if the printer is not compatible... If Ta3 is found (S207:YES), or print server program 44 If it is determined not to terminate (S209:NO), CPU11 returns to S201 and prints Determine whether or not there is a printing job.

[0075] On the other hand, if it is decided to terminate the print server program 44 (S209:YES) ), CPU11 is configured by this print server program 44 Determine whether or not the device is registered in OS41 (S210). If it is determined that it is registered, If (S210:YES), CPU11 deletes the registration (S211).

[0076] Delete the print server registration configured by the print server program 44. As a result, it is no longer possible to select a virtual printer that supports unsupported printer 3 from the regular app. This prevents users from accidentally entering print commands. The print server configured by the print server program 44 is registered with other devices. In such cases, it is advisable to notify other devices to delete the registration.

[0077] After S211, or if it is determined that it is not registered (S210: NO), the CPU 11 terminates the print server program 44 (S212) and ends the print server processing. The process is complete. S212 is an example of termination processing. Note that the print server program 44 is terminated. When the process is complete, the user may be notified. Printing will fail if unsupported printer 3 is offline. This cannot be done. Therefore, the print server program 44 is terminated. This reduces the processing load on the information processing device 1.

[0078] As explained in detail above, in this configuration, the management program 43 is driverless. If an unsupported printer 3 that does not support printing is connected, the unsupported printer 3 The corresponding print server program 44 is launched. Then, the print server program Mu44 accepts print jobs via OS41 and the accepted print jobs are printed according to the specifications of the print data. Based on the data, individual print data that can be printed on the incompatible printer 3 is obtained, and the incompatible printer Send to printer 3. This will install the printer driver for the unsupported printer 3. Even in environments where printing is not possible, it is possible to print to the unsupported printer 3.

[0079] This embodiment is merely illustrative and does not limit the present invention in any way. Therefore, the technologies disclosed herein may be improved in various ways without departing from their essence. It is transformable. For example, the number of information processing devices and printers that make up this configuration can be seen in Figure 1 or The example shown in Figure 7 is not the only one. For example, the compatible printer 2 does not need to be connected.

[0080] Furthermore, for example, the use of the print server program 44 running on another device will not be performed. You can do that. For example, delete S106 in the server startup process and determine NO in S105. If that happens, you may proceed to S107. However, if the print server program of another device By using RAM 44, the processing load on information processing device 1 is reduced.

[0081] Also, for example, print data from a print job created using the driverless printing function, You do not need to determine whether the format is supported by the unsupported printer 3. Alternatively, you could delete the S303 print process and perform the print data conversion each time. Furthermore, since it may be print data in a supported format, the S303 decision was made. This could potentially reduce the processing load.

[0082] Furthermore, for example, the printer search could be performed when the print data is sent. In other words, Even if the unsupported printer 3 is offline, it is acceptable to proceed with the conversion of the print data. For example, instead of S202 and S203 for print server processing, before S307 for printing processing... You can also search for "Incompatible Printer 3".

[0083] Furthermore, even if the incompatible printer 3 is offline, the print server program 44 will continue to run. It is not necessary to terminate the program. Also, when terminating the print server program 44, the user will be informed You do not need to send a notification.

[0084] Furthermore, the processing disclosed in the embodiments can be performed using a single CPU, multiple CPUs, ASICs, etc. It may be run on any hardware, or a combination thereof. Also, in the embodiment The disclosed process is recorded on a recording medium containing a program for performing that process, and This can be realized in various ways, such as by different methods. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0085] 1. Information Processing Device 3. Incompatible printers 11 CPU 14 Non-volatile memory 16 Network Interfaces 17 USB-IF 41 OS 43 Management Programs 44 Print Server Program

Claims

1. An application program that can be executed by the control unit of an information processing device, and management Includes a program and a print server program, The management program controls the control unit, A specific printer is connected via the communication interface of the aforementioned information processing device. A first connection determination process that determines whether or not, If the first connection determination process determines that the specific printer is connected Whether or not the print server program corresponding to the specific printer is running. A startup determination process that makes a determination, If the aforementioned startup determination process determines that the print server program is not running, In addition, a startup process to start the print server program, When the print server program is started in the aforementioned startup process, the program that starts The print server configured by the print server program is operated by the information processing device. The print server registration process registers the printer in the printing system, Make it run, The print server program includes the control unit, The registered print server is set as the output destination via the aforementioned operating system. The reception process accepts the specified print job, When the print job is received in the aforementioned reception process, based on the print job, Print data acquisition process that acquires print data in a specific format that can be printed by the aforementioned specific printer. and, The print data acquired in the print data acquisition process is transmitted to the specific printer. The transmission process, To execute An application program characterized by the following features.

2. In the application program described in claim 1, In the print data acquisition process of the print server program, The print server program informs the management program that the print job includes When the original print data is passed in a format different from the aforementioned specific format, the print data is in the aforementioned specific format. Requesting conversion to Ta, The management program controls the control unit, From the original print data passed in the print data acquisition process, print in the specified format Perform a conversion process to convert the data, In the print data acquisition process of the print server program, After requesting conversion to the specified format of print data, the management program performs the conversion The print server program acquires the print data converted by the processing. An application program characterized by the following features.

3. In the application program described in claim 1, In the print data acquisition process of the print server program, The print server program is different from the specific format included in the print job. Convert the original print data in a certain format into print data in the aforementioned specific format. An application program characterized by the following features.

4. In an application program according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The print server program includes the control unit, The original print data included in the print job received in the aforementioned reception process is the specific The printer performs a format determination process to determine whether the print data is in a format that it can print. 、 If the format determination process determines that the format is printable by the specific printer: 、 In the print data acquisition process of the print server program, the original print data The print server program acquires the above-mentioned specific format of print data. An application program characterized by the following features.

5. In an application program according to any one of claims 1 to 4, In the startup determination process of the management program, The print server program is connected to another information processing device that is connected to the aforementioned information processing device. Even if RAM is running, it is determined that the print server program is running. Decline, The management program controls the control unit, If the aforementioned startup determination process determines that the print server program is running: Even if the print server program of the other information processing device is configured If the print server is not registered with the operating system, the existing print The existing print server registers the print server as a printer in the operating system. Perform the user registration process. An application program characterized by the following features.

6. In an application program according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The print server program includes the control unit, At a predetermined timing while the print server program is running, the communication interface A second connection determination process that determines whether the specific printer is connected via the face. and, If the second connection determination process determines that the specific printer is not connected, In addition, a termination process is performed to terminate the print server program, To execute An application program characterized by the following features.

7. In the application program described in claim 6, In the termination process of the print server program, Remove the registration of the print server from the operating system. An application program characterized by the following features.

8. In an application program according to any one of claims 1 to 7, In the print data acquisition process of the print server program, When the print job is received in the aforementioned acceptance process, the communication interface is It is determined whether the specific printer is connected via this method, and if the specific printer is connected On the condition that it is determined that the above-mentioned specific format of print data is obtained, An application program characterized by the following features.

9. In an application program according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The aforementioned management program, If the first connection determination process determines that the specific printer is connected, However, the information processing device's memory contains a printer driver corresponding to the specific printer. If a program is stored, the startup determination process and the startup process shall be executed. stomach, An application program characterized by the following features.

10. In an application program according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The aforementioned management program, If the first connection determination process determines that the specific printer is connected, However, if the version of the operating system is a predetermined version This means that the startup determination process and the startup process are not executed. An application program characterized by the following features.

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