Program, storage medium, information processing device, and method

Abstract

This technology provides an improved usability when connecting a communication device to an information processing device. [Solution] A program that causes the computer of an information processing device to function as a detection means for detecting a communication device connected to the information processing device, and a display means for displaying a guidance screen for accepting the specification of an external interface used to connect the communication device to the information processing device when the communication device detected is connected to the information processing device only via a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a program, a storage medium, an information processing apparatus, and a method.

Background Art

[0002] As a method for connecting between an information processing apparatus and a communication apparatus, there is a method in which the communication apparatus is connected to a network and the information processing apparatus and the communication apparatus are connected via the network. Also, as the above connection method, there is a method in which the information processing apparatus and the communication apparatus are connected without connecting the communication apparatus to the network. When the communication apparatus is connected to the network, connection between a plurality of information processing apparatuses and the communication apparatus and use of services via the Internet become possible.

[0003] In Patent Document 1, it is described that the information processing apparatus determines whether it is necessary to connect an image processing apparatus to a predetermined network connected to the Internet. And when it is determined that it is necessary to connect to the predetermined network, the information processing apparatus executes a process for connecting the image processing apparatus to the network.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the conventional technology, when it is determined that it is not necessary to connect the communication apparatus to the network, the process for connecting the communication apparatus to the network is not executed. In such a case, even when the communication apparatus can be connected to the network and the information processing apparatus and the communication apparatus can be connected, the user cannot recognize the connection method. Thus, there has been room for improvement in the usability when connecting the communication apparatus to the information processing apparatus.

[0006] The present invention aims to provide a technology that improves usability when connecting a communication device to an information processing device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to the present invention, a program is provided that causes the computer of an information processing device to function as a detection means for detecting a communication device connected to the information processing device, and, when the communication device is detected to be connected to the information processing device only via a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface, a display means for displaying a guidance screen for accepting the specification of an external interface used to connect the communication device to the information processing device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a technology that improves the usability when connecting a communication device to an information processing device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This diagram shows the system configuration. [Figure 2] This is a diagram showing the configuration of the device. [Figure 3] This is an example of a connection screen displayed by an information processing device. [Figure 4] This is a flowchart showing the processing in an information processing device. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart showing the processing in an information processing device. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart showing the processing in an information processing device. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart showing the processing in an information processing device. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart showing the processing in an information processing device. [Figure 9]This is a flowchart showing the processing in a communication device. [Figure 10] This diagram shows the files to be downloaded from the server. [Figure 11] This is a diagram showing the user interface screen. [Figure 12] This is a diagram showing the user interface screen. [Figure 13] This is a diagram showing the user interface screen. [Figure 14] This is a diagram showing the user interface screen. [Figure 15] This is a flowchart showing the processing in an information processing device. [Figure 16] This is a flowchart showing the processing in an information processing device. [Figure 17] This is a diagram showing the user interface screen. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the invention to the claims. While the embodiments describe multiple features, not all of these features are essential to the invention, and the features may be combined in any way. Furthermore, in the attached drawings, the same or similar configurations are given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted. <First Embodiment> An information processing apparatus and a communication apparatus included in the communication system of the present embodiment will be described. The information processing apparatus is also referred to as a terminal device. In the present embodiment, a personal computer (PC) is exemplified as the information processing apparatus, but it is not limited thereto. As the information processing apparatus, for example, various devices such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a digital camera, etc. can be applied. Also, in the present embodiment, a printer is exemplified as the communication apparatus. The printer may be an inkjet printer that performs printing with ink, or a laser beam printer that performs printing with toner. Also, the printer may be a full-color printer capable of color printing, or a monochrome printer capable of monochrome printing but not color printing. Note that in the present embodiment, the communication apparatus is not limited to a printer, and any apparatus capable of performing wireless communication with the information processing apparatus can be applied as the communication apparatus. The communication apparatus can be applied to, for example, a copier, a facsimile apparatus, a scanner, a smartphone, a PC, a tablet terminal, a PDA, a digital camera, a music playback device, a television, a smart speaker, a robot vacuum cleaner, an automatic rice cooker, a refrigerator, etc. In addition, the communication apparatus can also be applied to a multifunction device having a plurality of functions such as a copying function, a FAX function, a printing function, etc.

[0011] First, the system configuration for realizing the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the communication system of the present embodiment. This system is assumed to include a communication apparatus 151, an information processing apparatus 101, an access point (AP) 131, and an external server 171.

[0012] The information processing apparatus 101 is the information processing apparatus of the present embodiment. The communication apparatus 151 is the communication apparatus of the present embodiment. The AP 131 is an access point activated by an external device existing outside the information processing apparatus 101 and outside the communication apparatus 151. The external device is, for example, a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) router. The external server 171 is a server capable of providing services to a device connected to the AP 131 via the Internet.

[0013] In the situation where the communication device 151 and the information processing device 101 are connected to the AP131, the LAN formed by the AP131 includes the AP131, the communication device 151, and the information processing device 101. On the other hand, the WAN (Wide Area Network) includes the AP131 and the external server 171.

[0014] In the present embodiment, when the infrastructure connection described later is established, the information processing device 101 can communicate with the communication device 151 via the AP131. Further, when the direct connection described later is established, the information processing device 101 can communicate directly with the communication device 151 without going through the AP131. Hereinafter, the connection with the AP corresponds to the connection with the network formed by the AP. Note that the AP may be able to form a plurality of networks simultaneously, and in that case, the connection with the AP may be a connection with any one of the plurality of networks formed by the AP.

[0015] In this embodiment, the connection 141 between the information processing device 101 and AP131, and the connection 142 between the communication device 151 and AP131, are assumed to be connections based on the IEEE 802.11 series standard. Specifically, the communication method based on the IEEE 802.11 series standard is Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) (registered trademark). The connection 143 between the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151 is also assumed to be a connection based on the IEEE 802.11 series standard. However, the communication method used for connection 143 is not limited to this form, and may be, for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy (BLE), Bluetooth Classic, Wi-Fi Aware, Near Field Communication (NFC), etc. AP131 and the external server 171 can communicate via the Internet, and when AP131 is connected to the Internet, devices connected to AP131 (information processing device 101 and communication device 151) can also use the Internet. The connection 141 between the information processing device 101 and AP131, and the connection 142 between the communication device 151 and AP131, may also be a wired LAN connection.

[0016] Next, the configuration of the information processing device of this embodiment and the communication device capable of communicating with the information processing device of this embodiment will be described with reference to the block diagram in Figure 2. In addition, the following configuration is described as an example in this embodiment, but this embodiment is applicable to devices that can communicate with a communication device and does not particularly limit the functions as shown in this figure.

[0017] The information processing device 101 includes an input interface 102, a CPU 103, a ROM 104, a RAM 105, an external storage device 106, an output interface 107, a display unit 108, a wireless communication unit 109, a short-range wireless communication unit 110, a camera 111, a wired communication unit 112, a USB communication unit 113, etc. The CPU 103, ROM 104, RAM 105, etc. form the computer of the information processing device 101. The information processing device 101 is envisioned as a device like a smartphone, but is not limited to smartphones.

[0018] The input interface 102 is an interface capable of receiving data input and operation instructions from the user, and is composed of a physical keyboard, buttons, touch panel, etc. Alternatively, the output interface 107 (described later) and the input interface 102 may have the same configuration, allowing for screen output and acceptance of user operations to be performed using the same configuration.

[0019] The CPU 103 is a system control unit and controls the entire information processing device 101. In this embodiment, the CPU 103 performs control of the display content (display control) in the display unit 108.

[0020] ROM 104 stores fixed data such as control programs executed by CPU 103, data tables, and operating system (hereinafter referred to as OS) programs. In this embodiment, each control program stored in ROM 104 performs software execution control such as scheduling, task switching, and interrupt processing under the management of the embedded OS stored in ROM 104. In this embodiment, the OS of the information processing device 101 is described using Microsoft's Windows® OS as an example. However, the OS of the information processing device 101 is not limited to this and may be other OSs such as Google's Android® OS or Google's Chrome® OS, or Apple's Mac® OS. In this embodiment, ROM 104 stores a setup application program (hereinafter referred to as a setup app). The setup app is installed on the information processing device 101 from an external source, for example, by a store application program. The setup app is an app provided by the vendor of the communication device 151. The setup app may have functions other than the function of performing network setup (connection settings described later) of the communication device 151. Other functions specifically include, for example, a function to send a print job to the communication device 151 to perform printing (print job sending function), and a function to send a scan job to the communication device 151 to perform scanning (scan job sending function). In this embodiment, the processes described as being performed by the OS are, more precisely, processes that the CPU 103 performs according to a program within the OS. Similarly, the processes described as being performed by the application are, more precisely, processes that the CPU 103 performs according to a program within the application.

[0021] RAM 105 consists of SRAM (Static Random Access Memory) and other components that require a backup power supply. Since RAM 105's data is held by a primary battery (not shown) for data backup, important data such as program control variables can be stored without being lost. RAM 105 also includes a memory area for storing configuration information and management data for the information processing device 101. Furthermore, RAM 105 is used as both the main memory and work memory for the CPU 103.

[0022] The external storage device 106 contains various programs, such as a print information generation program that generates print information that can be interpreted by the communication device 151, and an information transmission and reception control program that transmits and receives information with the communication device 151 connected via the wireless communication unit 109. The external storage device 106 also stores various information used by these programs, as well as image data obtained from other information processing devices and the Internet.

[0023] The output interface 107 is an interface that controls the display unit 108 to display data and notify the status of the information processing device 101.

[0024] The display unit 108 is composed of LEDs (light-emitting diodes) and LCDs (liquid crystal displays), and displays data and notifies the status of the information processing device 101. Alternatively, a soft keyboard with keys such as numerical input keys, mode setting keys, confirm keys, cancel keys, and power keys may be installed on the display unit 108 to accept user input via the display unit 108. In this embodiment, the display unit 108 is a touch panel and can accept user input using fingers, pens, etc.

[0025] The wireless communication unit 109 is configured to wirelessly connect to devices such as the communication device 151 and AP 131 to perform data communication, and includes a wireless LAN interface. For example, the wireless communication unit 109 may communicate directly with the communication device 151 wirelessly, or it may communicate via AP 131 located outside the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151. In this embodiment, the wireless communication method used by the wireless communication unit 109 is Wi-Fi, which is a communication method based on the IEEE 802.11 standard, but Bluetooth Classic or the like may also be used. In this embodiment, the wireless LAN is defined as a Wi-Fi network. In this embodiment, a connection method in which the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151 are directly connected without going through an external AP is called a direct connection. A connection method in which the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151 are connected via an external AP is called an infrastructure connection.

[0026] The short-range wireless communication unit 110 is configured to perform data communication with devices such as the communication device 151 using a short-range wireless communication method, and communicates using a different communication method than the wireless communication unit 109. The short-range wireless communication unit 110 can connect to the short-range wireless communication unit 157 within the communication device 151. Examples of communication methods for the short-range wireless communication unit 110 include BLE, Bluetooth Classic, Wi-Fi Aware, and NFC.

[0027] The imaging device 111 is a device that converts images captured by the image sensor into digital data. The digital data is first stored in the RAM 105. Then, a program executed by the CPU 103 converts it into a predetermined image format and saves it as image data to the external storage device 106.

[0028] The wired communication unit 112 is configured to perform data communication by connecting to devices such as the communication device 151 and AP131 via a wired connection, and includes a wired LAN interface. For example, the wired communication unit 112 includes a wired LAN communication unit (wired LAN cable connection part) for communication via a wired LAN. The information processing device 101 can connect to AP131 via the wired LAN interface using the wired LAN communication unit. In this embodiment, the wired LAN communication is assumed to conform to the Ethernet standard. The information processing device 101 also includes a USB communication unit 113 (USB cable connection part (USB port)) for communication with the communication device 151 via a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable. The USB communication unit 113 includes a USB interface. The information processing device 101 can connect to the communication device 151 via the USB interface using the USB communication unit 113.

[0029] The communication device 151 includes a ROM 152, RAM 153, CPU 154, print engine 155, wireless communication unit 156, short-range wireless communication unit 157, input interface 158, output interface 159, function control unit 160, display unit 161, wired communication unit 162, USB communication unit 163, etc. The computer of the communication device 151 is formed by the ROM 152, RAM 153, CPU 154, etc. In this embodiment, the communication device 151 completes its initial setup by receiving an initial setup operation from the user. After completing the initial setup, the communication device 151 becomes capable of executing various functions it possesses. The initial setup operation for the communication device 151 is an operation performed when the communication device 151 is first powered on (upon arrival). In this embodiment, the initial setup operation includes, for example, removing the orange tape from the communication device 151, attaching the print head to the communication device 151, replenishing the recording material (ink or toner) to the communication device 151, replenishing the paper to the communication device 151, and setting the date and time for the communication device 151. In addition, the initial setup process, which is a process performed by the communication device 151 in conjunction with the initial setup operation, includes, for example, a print head cleaning process, paper detection, a registration process (register adjustment process) to adjust the ink placement on the paper during printing, and starting operation in connection setting mode. The initial setup of the communication device 151 is completed when all initial setup processes are completed.

[0030] The wireless communication unit 156 is configured to wirelessly connect to devices such as the information processing device 101 and AP131 to perform data communication, and includes a wireless LAN interface. In this embodiment, the wireless communication method used by the wireless communication unit 156 is Wi-Fi, which is a communication method based on the IEEE 802.11 standard, but Bluetooth Classic or the like may also be used. The AP can connect to the wireless communication unit 109 of the information processing device 101. The wireless communication unit 156 may communicate directly with the information processing device 101 via AP156-a, or it may communicate with the information processing device 101 via AP131. Furthermore, AP156-a may be hardware that functions as an AP, or the wireless communication unit 156 may operate as AP156-a through software that functions as an AP. In addition, the communication device 151 may be able to start up multiple APs internally with different SSIDs (Service Set Identifiers) and passwords. In this embodiment, the APs inside the communication device 151 include at least the connection setting AP described later.

[0031] RAM153 consists of DRAM and other components that require a backup power supply. Since RAM153 retains data through a data backup power supply (not shown), it can store important data such as program control variables without losing them. RAM153 is also used as the main memory and work memory of the CPU154, and serves as a receive buffer for temporarily storing print information received from the information processing device 101, etc., storing various types of information.

[0032] ROM 152 stores fixed data such as control programs, data tables, and OS programs executed by the CPU 154. In this embodiment, each control program stored in ROM 152 performs software execution control such as scheduling, task switching, and interrupt handling under the management of the embedded OS stored in ROM 152. ROM 152 also includes a memory area for storing data that needs to be retained even when power is not supplied, such as configuration information and management data for the communication device 151.

[0033] The CPU 154 is the system control unit and controls the entire communication device 151.

[0034] The print engine 155 forms an image on a recording medium such as paper using a recording material such as ink, based on the information stored in the RAM 153 and the print job received from the information processing device 101, etc., and outputs the print result. At this time, the print job transmitted from the information processing device 101, etc. has a large amount of data to transmit and requires high-speed communication, so it is received via the wireless communication unit 156, which can communicate at a higher speed than the short-range wireless communication unit 157.

[0035] The short-range wireless communication unit 157 is configured to communicate with devices such as the information processing device 101 using a short-range wireless communication method. Examples of communication methods for the short-range wireless communication unit 157 include BLE, Bluetooth Classic, and Wi-Fi Aware.

[0036] The input interface 158 is an interface that can receive data input and operation instructions from the user, and is composed of a physical keyboard, buttons, touch panel, etc. Alternatively, the output interface 159 (described later) and the input interface 158 may have the same configuration, allowing for screen output and acceptance of user operations using the same configuration. The output interface 159 is an interface that controls the display unit 161 for displaying data and notifying the status of the communication device 151.

[0037] The function control unit 160 manages the operation of each function of the communication device 151, determining whether or not to activate them.

[0038] The display unit 161 consists of LEDs (light-emitting diodes) and LCDs (liquid crystal displays), and displays data and notifies the status of the communication device 151. Alternatively, a soft keyboard with keys such as numerical input keys, mode setting keys, confirm keys, cancel keys, and power keys may be installed on the display unit 161 to accept user input via the display unit 161.

[0039] The wired communication unit 162 is configured to connect to devices such as the information processing device 101 and AP131 via a wired connection and perform data communication, and includes a wired LAN interface. For example, the wired communication unit 162 includes a wired LAN communication unit (wired LAN cable connection part) for communication via a wired LAN. The communication device 151 can connect to AP131 via the wired LAN interface using the wired LAN communication unit. In this embodiment, the wired LAN communication is assumed to conform to the Ethernet standard. The communication device 151 also includes a USB communication unit 163 (USB cable connection part (USB port)) for communication with the information processing device 101 via a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable. The USB communication unit 163 includes a USB interface. The communication device 151 can connect to the information processing device 101 via the USB interface using the USB communication unit 163.

[0040] <About the direct connection method> Direct connection refers to a configuration in which devices connect wirelessly directly (i.e., peer-to-peer) without the need for external devices such as AP131. Direct connection is also called peer-to-peer connection (P2P connection). The communication device 151 can operate in a mode for communication via direct connection (direct connection mode) as one of its connection modes. In Wi-Fi communication, there are multiple modes for communication via direct connection, such as software AP mode and Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) mode.

[0041] The mode in which a direct connection is performed using WFD is called WFD mode. WFD is a standard developed by the Wi-Fi Alliance and is included in the IEEE 802.11 series of communication standards. In WFD mode, after the device to be communicated with is discovered using a device discovery command, the roles of the P2P group owner (GO) and the P2P client are determined, and then the remaining wireless connection processing is performed. The group owner corresponds to the Wi-Fi base station (access point), and the client corresponds to the Wi-Fi slave station (slave device). This role determination corresponds to GO Negotiation in P2P, for example. In WFD mode, before the role determination is performed, the communication device 151 is neither a base station nor a slave station. Specifically, first, one device issues a device discovery command to the other device to search for a device to connect to in WFD mode. Once the other device to be communicated with is discovered, the two devices confirm information about the services and functions that can be supplied by each other. This confirmation of device supply information is optional and not mandatory. This equipment supply information confirmation phase corresponds, for example, to P2P Provision Discovery. Next, by confirming this equipment supply information with each other, it is determined which will be the P2P client and which will be the P2P group owner. Once the client and group owner are determined, they exchange parameters for communication using WFD. Based on the exchanged parameters, the remaining wireless connection processing and IP connection processing are carried out between the P2P client and group owner. In WFD mode, the communication device 151 may always operate as GO without performing the GO Negotiation described above. That is, the communication device 151 may operate in WFD mode, which is Autonomous GO mode. Furthermore, the state in which the communication device 151 is operating in WFD mode means, for example, a state in which the WFD connection has not been established but the communication device 151 is operating as GO, or a state in which the WFD connection has been established and the communication device 151 is operating as GO.

[0042] In software AP mode, one device (e.g., information processing device 101) acts as a client, requesting various services from the communicating devices (e.g., information processing device 101 and communication device 151). The other device then implements the functions of an AP in Wi-Fi through software configuration. The software AP corresponds to a Wi-Fi base station, and the client corresponds to a Wi-Fi slave station. In software AP mode, the client searches for a device that will become a software AP using a device discovery command. Once a software AP is found, the remaining wireless connection processing (such as establishing a wireless connection) takes place between the client and the software AP, followed by IP connection processing (such as assigning an IP address). The commands and parameters sent and received when establishing a wireless connection between the client and the software AP can be those specified in the Wi-Fi standard, and are therefore omitted from this explanation.

[0043] In this embodiment, when the communication device 151 establishes and maintains a direct connection, it operates as a master station within the network to which it belongs. A master station is a device that constructs a wireless network and provides slave stations with parameters used to connect to the wireless network. Parameters used to connect to the wireless network include, for example, parameters related to the channel used by the master station. By receiving these parameters, the slave station connects to the wireless network constructed by the master station using the channel used by the master station. In direct connection mode, since the communication device 151 operates as a master station, it is possible for the communication device 151 to determine which frequency band and which channel to use for communication in direct connection mode. In this embodiment, the communication device 151 is capable of using channels corresponding to the 2.4 GHz frequency band and channels corresponding to the 5 GHz frequency band for communication in direct connection mode. The user can arbitrarily set which frequency band to use (i.e., which frequency band channel to use) by setting it on a predetermined screen (not shown) displayed by the communication device 151. In other words, if 2.4GHz is selected on the predetermined screen, the communication device 151 will use a channel corresponding to the 2.4GHz frequency band for communication in direct connection mode. On the other hand, if 5GHz is selected on the predetermined screen, the communication device 151 will use a channel corresponding to the 5GHz frequency band for communication in direct connection mode. However, in this embodiment, even if 5GHz is selected on the predetermined screen, the communication device 151 will not use a channel corresponding to the DFS (Dynamic Frequency Selection) band within the 5GHz frequency band for communication in direct connection mode. In other words, the communication device 151 will only use channels corresponding to frequency bands other than the DFS band within the 5GHz frequency band for communication in direct connection mode. If radar waves in the frequency band corresponding to a channel are detected while a channel corresponding to the DFS band is being used, the currently used channel must be changed.The frequency band in which channel changes can occur due to radar wave detection is called the DFS band. For example, if a wireless chip that supports the DFS function is used, it is possible that a channel corresponding to the DFS (Dynamic Frequency Selection) band within the 5GHz frequency band may be used for communication in direct connection mode. The channel determined to be used for direct connection mode is used for communication via the direct connection. Furthermore, this channel is also used for transmitting beacon signals as a master station and for sending responses to received commands. In other words, this channel is used not only for communication processing in direct connection mode when a direct connection is established, but also for communication processing in direct connection mode when a direct connection is not established.

[0044] In the above description, we have explained a configuration in which the user can set whether to use a channel corresponding to the 2.4GHz frequency band or a channel corresponding to the 5GHz frequency band for the direct connection mode, but this configuration is not limited to this. The configuration may also allow the user to specify which channel to use for the direct connection mode by accepting channel number specification from the user. Furthermore, the channel used for the direct connection mode may not be arbitrarily set by the user, but may be pre-set in the communication device 151.

[0045] Although the above description explains that the communication device 151 can use the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands, it is not limited to this configuration. Other frequency bands may also be usable, and in the processing where the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands are used in this embodiment, other frequency bands may also be used. For example, since the IEEE 802.11ad standard allows the use of the 60GHz frequency band, 60GHz may be used as one of the other frequency bands mentioned above.

[0046] <About infrastructure connection methods> Infrastructure connection is a connection configuration in which communication devices (for example, an information processing device 101 and a communication device 151) are connected to an AP (for example, AP131) that manages the network, allowing the devices to communicate with each other via the AP. The communication device 151 can also operate in an infrastructure connection mode (infrastructure connection mode) as one of its connection modes.

[0047] In infrastructure connectivity, each device searches for an access point (AP) using an AP discovery command. Once an AP is found, the remaining wireless connection processing (establishing the wireless connection, etc.) takes place between the device and the AP, followed by IP connection processing (assigning an IP address, etc.). The commands and parameters sent and received when establishing a wireless connection between the device and the AP should be those specified in the Wi-Fi standard, and will not be explained here.

[0048] In this embodiment, when the communication device 151 operates via an infrastructure connection, the AP 131 operates as the master station and the communication device 151 operates as the slave station. That is, in this embodiment, the infrastructure connection refers to the connection between the communication device 151 operating as a slave station and the device operating as the master station. If the communication device 151 has established an infrastructure connection and the information processing device 101 has also established an infrastructure connection with the AP 131, then communication between the communication device 151 and the information processing device 101 is possible via the AP 131. Since the channel used for communication in the infrastructure connection is determined by the AP 131, the communication device 151 performs communication in the infrastructure connection using the channel determined by the AP 131. In this embodiment, the communication device 151 is capable of using channels corresponding to the 2.4 GHz frequency band and channels corresponding to the 5 GHz frequency band for communication in the infrastructure connection. The communication device 151 can also use channels corresponding to the DFS band within the 5 GHz frequency band for communication in the infrastructure connection. Furthermore, the information processing device 101 communicates with the communication device 151 via the AP131, and recognizes and identifies that the communication device 151 belongs to the network formed by the AP131, to which the information processing device 101 belongs.

[0049] <About connection settings mode> The communication device 151 can operate in connection setting mode. The trigger for the communication device 151 to start operating in connection setting mode may be, for example, the user pressing a button for connection setting mode, or the communication device 151 being started (powered on) for the first time after arrival. The button for connection setting mode may be a hard button on the communication device 151, or a soft button displayed on the display unit 161 by the communication device 151.

[0050] When the communication device 151 starts operating in connection setting mode, it enables both Wi-Fi communication and BLE communication. Specifically, as part of the Wi-Fi communication activation process, the communication device 151 activates an internal AP (connection setting AP) dedicated to connection setting mode. This allows the communication device 151 to establish a direct Wi-Fi connection with the information processing device 101. Connection information (SSID and password) for connecting to the connection setting AP is pre-stored in a designated application (e.g., a setup application) installed on the information processing device 101. In other words, the information processing device 101 is assumed to have prior knowledge of the connection information for connecting to the connection setting AP. Therefore, unlike the connection information for the AP enabled in direct connection mode, the connection information for connecting to the connection setting AP cannot be arbitrarily changed by the user. When the communication device 151 operating in connection setting mode connects with the information processing device 101, the information processing device 101 sends a setting command to the communication device 151 via the setup application to set the connection mode of the communication device 151. The configuration command is, for example, a command to operate the communication device 151 in infrastructure connection mode, and more specifically, information including connection information (SSID, password, etc.) for connecting to AP131. In connection configuration mode, the communication device 151 may connect to the information processing device 101 via Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) instead of normal Wi-Fi. That is, the communication device 151 may operate as a Group Owner and receive configuration commands from the information processing device 101 via WFD communication.

[0051] <About Wireless Profiles> A wireless profile is information stored and managed by the operating system of the information processing device 101, and includes connection information of APs that the information processing device 101 has previously connected to. For example, the wireless profile is used in a reconnection function, which is a function in which the OS automatically re-establishes the connection when the connection between the information processing device 101 and the AP is lost.

[0052] Figure 3(a) shows a screen displayed by the OS, and is an example of a connection screen for the information processing device 101 to connect to an AP. The connection screen 300 is a screen for connecting to an AP 131 having the SSID displayed on the connection screen 300. The connection screen 300 includes a toggle button 301 for setting whether or not to enable the reconnection function when connecting to AP 131, an input box 302 for accepting the input of a password for connecting to AP 131, and a "Connect" button 303 for attempting to establish a connection between AP 131 and the information processing device 101 using the entered password. If the reconnection function is enabled by the toggle button 301, the OS will automatically re-establish the connection if the connection between the information processing device 101 and AP 131 is disconnected. On the other hand, if the reconnection function is disabled by the toggle button 301, the OS will not automatically re-establish the connection even if the connection between the information processing device 101 and AP 131 is disconnected. When the "Connect" button 303 is pressed, and the connection between AP131 and the information processing device 101 is successfully established, the OS saves the AP131's connection information (SSID and password) as a wireless profile. However, certain types of OS or certain versions of the OS will not save the AP131's connection information as a wireless profile even if the connection between AP131 and the information processing device 101 is successfully established, if the reconnection function is disabled.

[0053] Figure 3(b) shows an example of a wireless profile screen displayed by the OS, which shows the stored wireless profiles. Wireless profile screen 310 is an example of a screen when the OS has stored two wireless profiles. In wireless profile screen 310, the wireless profile with higher priority is displayed higher up. A wireless profile with higher priority is a wireless profile that is used with greater priority when a connection between the information processing device 101 and the AP has not been established. Area 311 is an area that represents the first wireless profile with higher priority by its SSID, and area 312 is an area that represents the second wireless profile with lower priority by its SSID. By performing a predetermined operation on area 311 or area 312, it is possible to delete the wireless profile corresponding to the area on which the predetermined operation was performed from the information processing device 101.

[0054] <Regarding the processing performed by the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151> In this embodiment, the setup application can perform network setup of the communication device 151 (hereinafter referred to as "first setup") via a wireless connection between the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151 operating in connection setting mode. In other words, the first setup is a setup method that connects the communication device 151 and the AP by transmitting setting information from the information processing device 101 to the communication device 151 via wireless communication using the setup application. The setting information includes a password for connecting to the AP. At this time, if a wireless profile corresponding to a predetermined AP to which the communication device 151 will connect is already stored in the information processing device 101 before the setup application receives a predetermined operation (predetermined instruction) for network setup from the user, the setup application can perform the first setup without receiving a password from the user.

[0055] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the communication device 151 can connect to the AP by methods other than the first setup. The second and third setups, which are methods other than the first setup, are network setups that are performed without transmitting configuration information from the information processing device 101 to the communication device 151 via wireless communication using a setup application. Specifically, for example, the second setup is a network setup using push-button type WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). The second setup may also be a network setup using PIN code type WPS. The second setup may also be a network setup other than WPS, such as AOSS or Rakuraku Wireless Start. The second setup may also be a network setup that is performed by establishing a connection between the communication device 151 and the AP selected by the user through an operation on the communication device 151 from among the APs that the communication device 151 has searched for, via wireless LAN. Furthermore, the third setup, which is a method other than the first and second setups, is a network setup that is performed by establishing a connection between the AP and the communication device 151 via wired LAN. Furthermore, a fourth setup method, other than the first, second, and third setup methods, is a setup method performed by establishing a connection between the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151 via USB. The fourth setup can be performed when there is no network nearby to which the communication device 151 can be connected. Note that the fourth setup may also be a setup performed by establishing a connection between the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151 via Bluetooth connection.

[0056] As described above, there are four methods for establishing a connection between the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151: the first setup to the fourth setup. When any of the first to third setups are performed between the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151, a connection is established between the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151 via the AP. In other words, the communication device 151 can be connected to the network formed by the AP. By connecting the communication device 151 to the network, it becomes possible to connect multiple information processing devices 101 and communication devices 151, and to use services via the Internet.

[0057] On the other hand, if the fourth setup is performed between the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151, for example, a USB connection is established between the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151 without going through the AP. In such a case, since the communication device 151 is not connected to the network formed by the AP, it is not possible to connect multiple information processing devices 101 and the communication device 151, nor is it possible to use services via the Internet. However, this does not apply if the communication device 151 has established a connection with the AP as a connection other than the USB connection between the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151.

[0058] Incidentally, even when the communication device 151 is connected to the information processing device 101 via USB, some users may want to connect multiple information processing devices 101 and communication devices 151, or use services via the internet. However, when the communication device 151 is connected to the information processing device 101 via USB, users may not be aware that there are connection methods other than USB connection between the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151. Therefore, there was room for improvement in the usability when connecting the communication device 151 to the information processing device 101.

[0059] Therefore, in this embodiment, the setup application causes the CPU 103 to execute the following process. When the CPU 103 detects a communication device 151 that is connected to the information processing device 101 only via a USB interface, it displays a network connection guidance screen 1211 (see Figure 12(b)) on the display unit 108. The guidance screen 1211 is a screen for accepting the specification of an external interface used for the connection between the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151. By displaying such a screen, when the communication device 151 is connected to the information processing device 101 via USB, the user can be made aware that other external interfaces can be used. In other words, the usability when connecting the communication device 151 to the information processing device 101 can be improved.

[0060] Furthermore, depending on the communication device 151, there are certain models that will terminate the connection setup mode when a connection is established between the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151 via USB while operating in connection setup mode. In addition, certain models of the communication device 151 need to accept an operation to operate in connection setup mode in order to operate again for the first setup. Such an operation is, for example, pressing a specific button on the communication device 151 or operating a specific menu on the screen displayed by the communication device 151. Also, certain models of the communication device 151 need to complete initial setup by accepting initial setup operations from the user in order to accept an operation to operate in connection setup mode. In other words, certain models of the communication device 151 cannot accept an operation to operate in connection setup mode unless the initial setup is completed. Or, certain models of the communication device 151 cannot operate in connection setup mode based on having accepted an operation to operate in connection setup mode unless the initial setup is completed. In this embodiment, the communication device 151 to be set up is assumed to be a specific model. Therefore, if the communication device 151 to be set up is connected to the information processing device 101 only via a USB interface, the communication device 151 must have completed its initial setup in order for the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151 to complete the first setup.

[0061] Therefore, in this embodiment, the setup application causes the CPU 103 to perform the following processing. When the CPU 103 detects a communication device 151 that is connected to the information processing device 101 only via a USB interface, it obtains information indicating whether or not the initial setup of the communication device 151 has been completed. Based on the information obtained, which indicates that the initial setup of the communication device 151 has been completed, the CPU 103 displays the guidance screen 1211. On the other hand, if the initial setup of the communication device 151 has not been completed, the CPU 103 notifies the user of the procedure for initial setup. In this configuration, even if the communication device 151 to be set up is a specific model, the guidance screen 1211 can be displayed when the communication device 151 is in a state where it can operate in connection setting mode.

[0062] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the process (hereinafter referred to as the setup process) performed by the information processing device 101 in this embodiment to make the communication device 151 usable from the information processing device 101. This flowchart is realized, for example, by the CPU 103 reading a program stored in the ROM 104 into the RAM 105 and executing it. The CPU 103 starts the process shown in Figure 4 based on the user operation performed to execute the setup application via the input interface 102 of the information processing device 101.

[0063] In S401, the CPU 103 searches for the communication device 151. Specifically, the CPU 103 uses the OS API (Application Program Interface) provided by the information processing device 101 to obtain information about the communication device 151 connected to the information processing device 101 from the OS. The CPU 103 then detects and identifies one or more communication devices indicated by this information as candidate communication devices 151 to be targeted for setup processing. This information includes information indicating the communication device 151 discovered by a search performed by the information processing device 101 using the wireless communication unit 109, information indicating the communication device 151 discovered by a search performed by the information processing device 101 using the wired communication unit 112, and information indicating the communication device 151 discovered by a search performed by the information processing device 101 using the USB communication unit 113. In other words, the communication device 151 discovered by a search performed by the information processing device 101 using the wireless communication unit 109 is the communication device 151 connected to the information processing device 101 via a wireless LAN interface. In other words, it is a communication device 151 that belongs to the network to which the information processing device 101 is connected via a wireless LAN interface. The search performed using the wireless communication unit 109 is performed, for example, by broadcast or multicast on the network to which the information processing device 101 is connected via a wireless LAN interface. In other words, a communication device 151 discovered by a search performed by the information processing device 101 using the wired communication unit 112 is a communication device 151 connected to the information processing device 101 via a wired LAN interface. In other words, a communication device 151 discovered by a search performed by the information processing device 101 using the USB communication unit 113 is a communication device 151 connected to the information processing device 101 via a USB interface. In the following description, a communication device 151 connected to the information processing device 101 via a USB interface may be referred to as a USB-connected communication device 151. In addition, in this process, the CPU 103 may further search for communication devices 151 operating in connection setting mode.Specifically, for example, the CPU 103 may use the wireless communication unit 109 to search for beacons containing a predetermined SSID (hereinafter referred to as the connection setting SSID) transmitted by a communication device 151 operating in connection setting mode. Multiple searches may be performed in this process. As a result, for example, a first search among the multiple searches may discover communication device 151A, and a second search, different from the first search, may discover communication device 151B, which is a different communication device 151 from communication device 151A. It is also possible that the same communication device 151A may be discovered in both the first and second searches.

[0064] In S402, the CPU 103 determines whether or not it has detected the USB-connected communication device 151. If the CPU 103 determines that it has not detected the USB-connected communication device 151, it repeats the process from S401. On the other hand, if the CPU 103 determines that it has detected the USB-connected communication device 151, it proceeds to S403. The CPU 103 may perform a different process if it determines that it has not detected the USB-connected communication device 151. Specifically, for example, if the CPU 103 has not detected the USB-connected communication device 151, but a communication device 151 discovered by a search performed using the wireless communication unit 109 is detected, the process of this flowchart may be terminated. Furthermore, even if CPU 103 has not detected a USB-connected communication device 151, it may proceed to S510 if a communication device 151 operating in connection setting mode is detected. Also, if CPU 103 detects a USB-connected communication device 151 AND a communication device 151 operating in connection setting mode is detected, it may proceed to S510 in order to prioritize the connection setting process for the communication device 151 operating in connection setting mode.

[0065] In S403, the CPU 103 identifies the detected USB-connected communication device 151 as the communication device 151 to be set up. Note that as a result of processing in S401, multiple USB-connected communication devices 151 may be detected. In that case, the CPU 103 may display a list of the multiple detected USB-connected communication devices 151 and identify the communication device 151 selected by the user from that list as the communication device 151 to be set up. Alternatively, the CPU 103 may identify the first communication device 151 detected among the multiple detected USB-connected communication devices 151 as the communication device 151 to be set up.

[0066] In S404, the CPU 103 obtains (downloads) a model information file containing the model information of the communication device 151 from the server 171, based on the model name of the communication device 151 identified in S403 as the target of the setup process. Alternatively, the CPU 103 may obtain the model information file from the communication device 151 via a USB interface.

[0067] Figure 10 shows an example of the model information file 1001 acquired in S404. The model information file 1001 contains information about the connection configuration supported by the communication device 151 and information about the software used by the communication device 151.

[0068] The information regarding the connection types supported by the communication device 151 specifically includes the types of external interfaces supported by the communication device 151 and information indicating the priority order of the connection types of the communication device 151. In the example in Figure 10, connection information 1002 to 1004 are included as information regarding the connection types supported by the communication device 151. "ORDER2" listed as connection information 1002 indicates that the communication device 151 supports a USB interface and that the USB connection type is the second priority for the communication device 151. "ORDER1" listed as connection information 1003 indicates that the communication device 151 supports a wireless LAN interface and that the wireless LAN connection type is the first priority for the communication device 151. "NONE" listed as connection information 1004 indicates that the communication device 151 does not support a wired LAN interface. In other words, connection information 1004 indicates that the communication device 151 does not support wired LAN connections.

[0069] The software information corresponding to the communication device 151 includes the software name 1005 and the download URL 1006. The software name 1005 is information indicating the name of each software, such as the driver installer, used by the communication device 151. The download URL 1006 is information indicating the URL for downloading the software indicated as software name 100.

[0070] In S405, the CPU 103 determines whether the model of the communication device 151 is a model that supports only the fourth setup, based on the information about the connection type supported by the communication device 151 obtained in S404. More specifically, the CPU 103 refers to the connection information 1002 to 1004 described in the model information file 1001 and determines whether the communication device 151 supports only USB connections. In other words, S405 is the process of determining whether the only external interface supported by the communication device 151 is the USB interface. If the CPU 103 determines that the communication device 151 is a model that supports only the fourth setup (i.e., the communication device 151 supports only the USB interface), the process proceeds to S406. On the other hand, if the CPU 103 determines that the communication device 151 is not a model that supports only the fourth setup (i.e., the communication device 151 is a model that also supports external interfaces other than the USB interface), the process proceeds to S410.

[0071] In S406, the CPU 103 displays the fourth setup success screen 1101 shown in Figure 11(a) on the display unit 108. The fourth setup success screen 1101 displays a message indicating that the information processing device 101 has successfully established a USB connection with the communication device 151 to be set up. In other words, S406 is a process that notifies the user that the communication device 151 has been connected to the information processing device 101 via the USB interface. The fourth setup success screen 1101 also includes a "Next" button 1102. If the "Next" button 1102 is pressed, the CPU 103 proceeds to S407. Note that the process is not limited to the display of the fourth setup success screen 1101; the CPU 103 may also notify the user of the above message audibly through a speaker (not shown) provided by the information processing device 101 and proceed with the process.

[0072] In S407, CPU103 refers to the download URLs 1006 for each software included in the model information file 1001 obtained in S404, and downloads each software, including the driver installer.

[0073] In S408, CPU103 executes the driver installer downloaded in S407 and installs the driver for communication device 151.

[0074] In S409, the CPU 103 generates a print queue associated with the USB port detected by the communication device 151 in S402, and terminates the setup process shown in Figure 4. Once S409 is executed and the setup process shown in Figure 4 is completed, the information processing device 101 can send image data and print instructions to the communication device 151, which is connected to the information processing device 101 via USB, through the print queue generated in S409.

[0075] In S410, the CPU 103 determines whether the communication device 151 identified in S403 is a communication device 151 that was detected (discovered) only through the search performed in S401 via the USB interface. If the CPU 103 determines that the communication device 151 identified in S403 is a communication device 151 that was detected only through the search performed via the USB interface, the process proceeds to S411. On the other hand, if the CPU 103 determines that the communication device 151 identified in S403 is not a communication device 151 that was discovered only through the search performed in S401 via the USB interface, the process proceeds to S425. That is, if the communication device 151 identified in S403 is a communication device 151 that was detected through the search performed in S401 via the USB interface, and was not detected through a search via an external interface other than the USB interface, the result in S411 is YES. On the other hand, if the communication device 151 identified in S403 is the same communication device 151 detected by both the search performed in S401 via the USB interface and the search performed via an external interface other than the USB interface, then the result is NO in S411. The search performed via an external interface other than the USB interface refers to the search performed by the information processing device 101 using the wireless communication unit 109 and the search performed by the information processing device 101 using the wired communication unit 112.

[0076] In S411, the CPU 103 obtains information about the communication device 151 from the communication device 151 via the USB interface. The information about the communication device 151 obtained in S411 includes information indicating whether the initial setup of the communication device 151 is complete or not. For example, if the initial setup of the communication device 151 is not complete, the CPU 103 obtains information indicating that the initial setup is not complete as part of the information about the communication device 151. On the other hand, for example, if the initial setup of the communication device 151 is complete, the CPU 103 obtains information indicating that the initial setup is complete as part of the information about the communication device 151.

[0077] In S412, CPU 103 determines whether or not it was able to obtain information about the communication device 151 in S411. If CPU 212 determines that it was able to obtain information about the communication device 151, it proceeds to S413. On the other hand, if CPU 212 determines that it was not able to obtain information about the communication device 151, it executes the processes in S406 to S409, and then terminates the setup process shown in Figure 4.

[0078] In S413, the CPU 103 determines whether the initial setup of the communication device 151 is incomplete based on the information of the communication device 151 obtained in S411. If the CPU 103 determines that the initial setup of the communication device 151 is incomplete, it proceeds to S414. On the other hand, if the CPU 103 determines that the initial setup of the communication device 151 is complete, it proceeds to S415.

[0079] In S414, the CPU 103 displays the initial setup operation guidance screen 1201 shown in Figure 12(a) on the display unit 108. In this embodiment, as will be described later, after the communication device 151 is discovered by searching via the USB interface, the process for the first setup may be executed in S417. For the first setup, the communication device 151 needs to operate in connection setting mode, but as mentioned above, the communication device 151 stops operating in connection setting mode when it detects a USB connection. The communication device 151 then needs to complete the initial setup in order to resume operation in connection setting mode. Therefore, in this embodiment, if the initial setup is not completed in the communication device 151, the CPU 103 executes the process in S414 as a process to complete the initial setup. The guidance screen 1201 displays a message prompting the user to install consumables used in the communication device 151 as part of the initial setup operation. In the example in Figure 12(a), an ink cartridge is shown as an example of a consumable used in the communication device 151. In other words, S414 is a process that notifies the user of the procedure for completing the initial setup. Note that the content displayed on the guidance screen 1201 is not limited to the example in Figure 12(a). For example, the guidance screen 1201 may display a message prompting the user to place a recording medium such as paper, which is a consumable used in the communication device 151, onto the communication device 151. Alternatively, the guidance screen 1201 may display messages to guide the user through various procedures as part of the initial setup operation, such as the procedure for test printing the communication device 151 and the communication settings of the communication device 151. In other words, the guidance screen 1201 may be a screen that guides the user through the operation procedures for each of the operations included in the initial setup operation described above. The guidance screen 1201 may also have a button (not shown) for displaying a manual that contains a detailed explanation of the initial setup operation. When that button (not shown) is pressed, the CPU 103 may display the web manual page on the display unit 108 as internet content using a web browser or the like.Furthermore, the process is not limited to the display of the guidance screen 1201. The CPU 103 may also use a speaker (not shown) provided by the information processing device 101 to notify the user of the procedure for completing the initial setup via voice and proceed with the process. After S414, the CPU 103 again acquires information from the communication device 151 via the USB interface and repeats the process from S413.

[0080] In S415, the CPU 103 displays the network connection guidance screen 1211 shown in Figure 12(b) on the display unit 108. The guidance screen 1211 includes a "Connect via USB" button 1212 and a "Network Connection" button 1213. The "Connect via USB" button 1212 is a button that can accept the specification of a USB interface as the external interface used to connect the communication device 151 to the information processing device 101. The "Network Connection" button 121 is a button that can accept the specification of an external interface other than the USB interface as the external interface used to connect the communication device 151 to the information processing device 101. If either button is pressed by the user, the CPU 103 proceeds to the process in S416. In other words, the guidance screen 1211 can also be said to be a screen for accepting the specification of an external interface used to connect the communication device 151 to the information processing device 101. Thus, even when the communication device 151 is connected to the information processing device 101 via USB, the guidance screen 1211 is displayed on the display unit 108. This allows the user to recognize that the communication device 151 can be connected to the information processing device 101 via another external interface. Therefore, the usability when connecting the communication device 151 to the information processing device 101 can be improved.

[0081] Furthermore, the guidance screen 1211 displays a message prompting the user to connect the communication device 151 to the network. This message can also be interpreted as prompting the user to specify an external interface different from the USB interface. By displaying such a message on the guidance screen 1211, even if the communication device 151 is connected to the information processing device 101 via USB, the user can be prompted to connect the communication device 151 to the information processing device 101 using another external interface.

[0082] Furthermore, the guidance screen 1211 displays messages explaining the benefits of connecting the communication device 151 to the network. In this example, messages are displayed stating that by connecting the communication device 151 to the network, it can also be connected to other information processing devices 101, and that by connecting the communication device 151 to the network, Web services will become available. In other words, the guidance screen 1211 displays the benefits of specifying an external interface other than the USB interface. By displaying such messages, the user can recognize the benefits of connecting the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151 using a different external interface.

[0083] In S416, the CPU 103 determines whether the button selected by the user in S415 is the "Connect via USB" button 1212. If the CPU 103 determines that the button selected by the user in S415 is the "Connect via USB" button 1212, it executes the processes in S406 to S409, and then terminates the setup process shown in Figure 4. On the other hand, if the CPU 103 determines that the button selected by the user in S415 is not the "Connect via USB" button 1212, it proceeds to S417. That is, if the button selected by the user in S415 is the "Connect to Network" button 1213, the process proceeds to S417.

[0084] In S417, the CPU 103 executes a predetermined process to cause the information processing device 101 to connect the communication device 151 via an external interface of a different type than the USB interface. Specifically, the external interface of a different type than the USB interface is, for example, a wireless LAN interface or a wired LAN interface. The predetermined process is a process that guides the method of establishing a network connection between the communication device 151 and the AP (hereinafter referred to as the network connection method guidance process). In this embodiment, as the network connection method guidance process in S417, the CPU 103 executes at least one of the wireless LAN guidance process and the wired LAN guidance process. The wireless LAN guidance process is a process that causes the information processing device 101 to connect the communication device 151 via the wireless LAN interface. The wireless LAN guidance process includes a first setup and a second setup. The wired LAN guidance process is a process that causes the information processing device 101 to connect the communication device 151 via the wired LAN interface. The wired LAN guidance process includes a third setup. Details of the network connection method guidance process in S417 will be described later with reference to Figure 5.

[0085] In S418, the CPU 103 searches for the communication device 151 on the network formed by the AP, which is the network to which the information processing device 101 belongs. This search is performed using either a wireless LAN interface or a wired LAN interface. In Figure 5, if a wireless LAN connection is selected, the wireless LAN interface may be used, and if a wired LAN connection is selected, the wired LAN interface may be used. If the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151 are connected to the same AP after any of the first, second, or third setups are performed, the communication device 151 will be found by this search.

[0086] In S419, the CPU 103 determines whether the communication device 151 was detected (discovered) by the search in S418. If the CPU 103 determines that the communication device 151 was detected, it proceeds to S420. On the other hand, if the CPU 103 determines that the communication device 151 was not detected, it proceeds to S424.

[0087] In S420, the CPU 103 displays the network connection success screen 1111 shown in Figure 11(b) on the display unit 108. The network connection success screen 1111 displays a message indicating that the network connection between the communication device 151 and AP 131 has been successfully established. In other words, S420 is a process that notifies the user that the network connection between the communication device 151 and AP 131 has been successfully established. The network success screen 1111 includes a "Next" button 1112. If the "Next" button 1112 is pressed, the CPU 103 proceeds to the process in S421. Note that the process is not limited to the display of the network connection success screen 1111; the CPU 103 may also notify the user of the above message by voice using a speaker (not shown) provided by the information processing device 101 and proceed with the process.

[0088] Since steps S421 and S422 are the same as steps S407 and S408, their explanations will be omitted.

[0089] In step S423, CPU 103 executes the print queue generation process and completes the setup process shown in Figure 4. The print queue generation process will be described later using Figure 6.

[0090] In S424, the CPU 103 displays the network connection failure screen 1121 shown in Figure 11(c) on the display unit 108. The network connection failure screen 1121 displays a message indicating that the communication device 151 could not be detected, or a message indicating that the connection with the communication device 151 failed. In other words, S424 is a process that notifies the user that the network connection between the communication device 151 and AP 131 has failed. If the "End" button 1122 included in the network connection failure screen 1121 is pressed, the CPU 103 terminates the setup process shown in Figure 4. Note that the process is not limited to the display of the network connection failure screen 1121; the CPU 103 may also notify the user of the above message by voice using a speaker (not shown) provided by the information processing device 101 and proceed with the process.

[0091] In S425, the CPU 103 displays a network connection method selection screen based on the model information file acquired in S404. Specifically, in S425, for example, if the model information acquired in S404 includes connection information indicating that the communication device 151 supports a wired LAN interface, the CPU 103 displays the selection screen 1701 shown in Figure 17(a). The selection screen 1701 includes an area 1702 that can accept the selection of a USB connection method, an area 1703 that can accept the selection of a wireless LAN connection method, an area 1704 that can accept the selection of a wired LAN connection method, and a "Next" button 1705. If the "Next" button 1705 is pressed, the CPU 103 proceeds to S426. On the other hand, in S425, if the model information acquired in S404 does not include connection information indicating that the communication device 151 supports a wired LAN interface, the CPU 103 displays the selection screen 1710 shown in Figure 17(b). The selection screen 1710 includes an area 1711 that accepts the selection of a USB connection type, an area 1711 that accepts the selection of a wireless LAN connection type, and a "Next" button 1713. If the "Next" button 1713 is pressed, the CPU 103 proceeds to S426. Thus, in S425, the CPU 103 displays a selection screen depending on whether the model information file acquired in S404 contains connection information indicating that the communication device 151 supports a wired LAN interface.

[0092] In S426, the CPU 103 determines the user operation on the selection screen displayed in S425. If the CPU 103 accepts the selection of the connection type via USB on the selection screen displayed in S425, it proceeds to S406. If the CPU 103 accepts the selection of the connection type via wireless LAN on the selection screen displayed in S425, it proceeds to S505, which will be described later. Also, if the CPU 103 accepts the selection of the connection type via wired LAN on the selection screen displayed in S425, it proceeds to S512, which will be described later.

[0093] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the network connection method guidance process executed by the information processing device 101. This flowchart is implemented, for example, by the CPU 103 reading a program stored in the ROM 104 into the RAM 105 and executing it. The process shown in this flowchart corresponds to the process in S417.

[0094] In S501, the CPU 103 determines whether the communication device 151 is a model that supports at least one of the first setup and the second setup, based on the information on the connection configuration supported by the communication device 151 obtained in S404. If the CPU 103 determines that the communication device 151 is a model that supports either the first setup or the second setup, it proceeds to S502. On the other hand, if the CPU 103 determines that the communication device 151 is a model that does not support either the first setup or the second setup, it proceeds to S512. More specifically, the CPU 103 refers to the wireless connection information 1003 described in the model information file 1001 and determines whether the communication device 151 supports a wireless LAN interface. If the connection information 1003 indicates that the communication device 151 supports a wireless LAN interface, the CPU 103 determines that the communication device 151 supports a wireless LAN interface and proceeds to S502. On the other hand, if the connection information 1003 indicates that the communication device 151 does not support a wireless LAN interface, the CPU 103 determines that the communication device 151 does not support a wireless LAN interface and proceeds to S512.

[0095] In S502, the CPU 103 determines whether the communication device 151 is a model that supports the third setup, based on the information about the connection type that the communication device 151 supports, obtained in S404. If the CPU 103 determines that the communication device 151 is a model that supports the third setup, it proceeds to S503. On the other hand, if the CPU 103 determines that the communication device 151 is not a model that supports the third setup, it proceeds to S505. More specifically, the CPU 103 refers to the wired connection information 1004 described in the model information file 1001 and determines whether the communication device 151 supports a wired LAN interface. If the connection information 1004 indicates that the communication device 151 supports a wired LAN interface, the CPU 103 determines that the communication device 151 supports a wired LAN interface and proceeds to S503. On the other hand, if the connection information 1004 indicates that the communication device 151 supports a wired LAN interface, the CPU 103 determines that the communication device 151 does not support a wired LAN interface and proceeds to S505.

[0096] In S503, the CPU 103 accepts the user's selection of the connection type between the communication device 151 and the AP 131. For example, the CPU 103 displays the network connection type selection screen 1221 shown in Figure 12(c) on the display unit 108. For example, the selection screen 1221 includes an area 1222 that can accept the selection of a wireless LAN connection type, an area 1223 that can accept the selection of a wired LAN connection type, and buttons 1224 that can accept operations to display the next screen. Area 1222 is, in other words, an area for establishing a connection between the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151 via the wireless LAN interface. Area 1223 is, in other words, an area for establishing a connection between the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151 via the wired LAN interface. The network setup (wireless LAN guidance processing) for establishing a connection between the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151 via the wireless LAN connection type includes a first setup and a second setup. Furthermore, the network setup (wired LAN guidance process) for establishing a connection between the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151 via a wired LAN connection includes a third setup. That is, the selection screen 1221 is a reception screen that accepts the selection of either wireless LAN guidance process or wired LAN guidance process. After either area 1222 or area 1223 is selected, if button 1224 is pressed by the user, the CPU 103 proceeds to S504.

[0097] In S504, the CPU 103 determines whether or not region 1222 was selected on the network connection type selection screen 1221. If the CPU 103 determines that region 1222 was selected, it proceeds to S505. That is, if region 1222 is selected, the CPU 103 executes the wireless LAN guidance process. On the other hand, if the CPU 103 determines that the wireless LAN connection type has not been selected, it proceeds to S512. That is, if region 1223 is selected, the CPU 103 executes the wired LAN guidance process.

[0098] In S505, the CPU 103 executes a first setup execution feasibility determination process to determine whether or not the first setup can be executed. Details of the first setup execution feasibility determination process will be described later with reference to Figure 7.

[0099] In S506, the CPU 103 determines whether or not the first setup can be executed. If the CPU 103 determines that the first setup can be executed, it proceeds to S507. On the other hand, if the CPU 103 determines that the first setup cannot be executed, it proceeds to S511.

[0100] In S507, the CPU 103 displays a guidance screen 1301 on the display unit 108 to guide the user through the procedure for operating the communication device 151 shown in Figure 13(a) in connection setting mode. For example, the guidance screen 1301 includes a "Manual" button 1302 for displaying a manual containing instructions on how to operate the communication device 151 in connection setting mode in the information processing device 101's web browser, and a "Next" button 1303 for displaying the next screen. Alternatively, the procedure itself for how the user operates the communication device 151 in connection setting mode may also be displayed on the guidance screen 1301. Specifically, for example, a message prompting the user to press the button for the connection setting mode of the communication device 151 may be displayed on the guidance screen 1301.

[0101] In S508, the CPU 103 searches for the communication device 151 operating in connection setting mode. Specifically, for example, the CPU 103 uses the wireless communication unit 109 to search for beacons containing the connection setting SSID transmitted by the communication device 151 operating in connection setting mode.

[0102] In S509, the CPU 103 determines whether or not it has detected the communication device 151 operating in connection setting mode. If the CPU 103 determines that it has detected the communication device 151 operating in connection setting mode (i.e., it has detected the SSID for connection setting), it proceeds to S510. On the other hand, if the CPU 103 determines that it has not detected the communication device 151 operating in connection setting mode (i.e., it has not detected the SSID for connection setting), it repeats the process from S508.

[0103] In S510, CPU 103 executes the first setup process, and then terminates the guidance process for the network connection method shown in Figure 5. The first setup process will be described later using Figure 8.

[0104] In S511, the CPU 103 displays a guidance screen 1311 on the display unit 108 to guide the user through the second setup procedure shown in Figure 13(b). For example, the guidance screen 1311 displays a message prompting the user to connect the communication device 151 to the AP via wireless LAN. In other words, S511 can be described as a process that notifies the user to connect the communication device 151 to the AP via the wireless LAN interface. The guidance screen 1311 also includes a "Manual" button 1312 for displaying a manual showing how to perform the second setup in the web browser of the information processing device 101, and a "Next" button 1313 for displaying the next screen. If button 1312 is pressed, the CPU 103 launches the web browser of the information processing device 101 and displays the manual on the web browser. Alternatively, the manual may be displayed directly on the setup application instead of the web browser. If button 1313 is pressed by the user, the CPU 103 terminates the guidance process for the network connection method shown in Figure 5. Furthermore, the system is not limited to displaying the guidance screen 1311; the CPU 103 may also notify the user of the above message and operating instructions via voice using a speaker (not shown) provided by the information processing device 101, and proceed with processing. In S512, the CPU 103 executes wired LAN guidance processing (third setup guidance processing). Specifically, the CPU 103 displays a guidance screen 1321 on the display unit 108 to guide the user through the third setup procedure shown in Figure 13(c). The guidance screen 1321 displays a message prompting the user to connect the communication device 151 to the AP via a wired LAN connection. In other words, S512 can be described as a process that notifies the user to connect the communication device 151 to the AP via a wired LAN interface (wired communication unit 162). The guidance screen 1321 also includes a "Manual" button 1322 for displaying a manual showing how the user can perform the third setup in the information processing device 101's web browser, and a "Next" button 1323 for displaying the next screen. When button 1322 is pressed, the CPU 103 launches the information processing device 101's web browser and displays the manual on the web browser. In addition to this configuration, the above manual may be displayed directly on a setup application rather than a web browser. Specifically, for example, the guidance screen 1321 may include an area prompting the user to connect AP131 and communication device 151 with a wired LAN (LAN cable). When button 1323 is pressed by the user, the guidance process for the network connection method shown in Figure 5 is terminated. In addition, the CPU 103 may notify the user of the above message and operation method by voice using a speaker (not shown) provided by the information processing device 101 and proceed with the processing.

[0105] In this embodiment, the CPU 103 proceeds to S502 if it determines YES in S501 (i.e., it determines that the communication device 151 corresponds to at least one of the first setup or the second setup), but it is not limited to this. For example, the CPU 103 may proceed to S505 if it determines YES in S501 (i.e., it omits the processing in S502 to S504). In this way, the CPU 103 can shorten the time required to complete either the first setup or the second setup by proceeding to S505 when it determines YES in S501, regardless of whether the communication device 151 corresponds to the third setup or not.

[0106] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the print queue generation process executed by the information processing device 101. This flowchart is implemented, for example, by the CPU 103 reading a program stored in the ROM 104 into the RAM 105 and executing it. The process shown in this flowchart corresponds to the process in S422.

[0107] In S601, the CPU 103 displays the USB print queue generation confirmation screen 1231 shown in Figure 12(d) on the display unit 108. The confirmation screen 1231 has a message asking the user whether or not to generate a print queue associated with the USB port detected in S402, and a "Yes" button 1233 and a "No" button 1232. The "Yes" button 1233 is a button that accepts the selection to generate a print queue. The "No" button 1232 is a button that accepts the selection not to generate a print queue. In other words, the confirmation screen 1231 can also be said to be a reception screen that accepts the selection of whether or not to generate a print queue associated with the USB port. If either the "Yes" button 1233 or the "No" button 1232 is pressed, the CPU 103 proceeds to S602.

[0108] In S602, the CPU 103 determines whether the button pressed by the user on the confirmation screen 1231 displayed in S601 is the "Yes" button 1233. If the CPU 103 determines that it is the "Yes" button 1233, it proceeds to S603. On the other hand, if the CPU 103 determines that it is not the "Yes" button 1233, it proceeds to S604.

[0109] In S603, the CPU 103 generates a print queue associated with the USB port detected by the communication device 151 in S402.

[0110] In S604, the CPU 103 generates a print queue associated with a network port based on the IP address or hostname of the communication device 151 detected in S418, and terminates the print queue generation process shown in Figure 6.

[0111] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the first setup execution feasibility determination process performed by the information processing device 101. This flowchart is implemented, for example, by the CPU 103 reading a program stored in the ROM 104 into the RAM 105 and executing it. The process shown in this flowchart corresponds to the process in S505.

[0112] In S701, the CPU 103 obtains information from the OS of the information processing device 101 indicating the connection status of the wireless communication unit 109 and the wired communication unit 112. The connection status of the wireless communication unit 109 is, in other words, the connection status of the information processing device 101 via wireless LAN. The connection status of the wired communication unit 112 is, in other words, the connection status of the information processing device 101 via wired LAN.

[0113] In S702, the CPU 103 determines whether the wireless communication unit 109 is enabled based on the connection status information obtained in S701. If the CPU 103 determines that the wireless communication unit 109 is enabled, the process proceeds to S703. On the other hand, if the CPU 103 determines that the wireless communication unit 109 is not enabled, the process proceeds to S711.

[0114] In S703, the CPU 103 determines, based on the connection status information obtained in S701, whether the information processing device 101 is connected to the AP 131 by at least one of the wireless communication unit 109 and the wired communication unit 112. If the CPU 103 determines that it is connected, it proceeds to S704. On the other hand, if the CPU 103 determines that it is not connected, it proceeds to S711.

[0115] In S704, the CPU 103 determines whether communication by the wireless communication unit 109 using IPv4 is enabled, based on the connection status information obtained in S701. If the CPU 103 determines that communication by the wireless communication unit 109 using IPv4 is enabled, it proceeds to S705. On the other hand, if the CPU 103 determines that communication by the wireless communication unit 109 using IPv4 is not enabled, it proceeds to S711.

[0116] In S705, the CPU 103 determines whether the information processing device 101 is connected to the AP 131 by the wireless communication unit 109, based on the connection status information obtained in S701. If the CPU 103 determines that the wireless communication unit 109 is connected to the AP 131, the process proceeds to S706. On the other hand, if the CPU 103 determines that the wireless communication unit 109 is not connected to the AP 131, the process proceeds to S711.

[0117] In S706, the CPU 103 identifies the SSID of AP131 to which the information processing device 101 is connected and the encryption method used by AP131 to which the information processing device 101 is connected.

[0118] In S707, the CPU 103 obtains a list of wireless profiles held by the information processing unit 101 from the OS of the information processing unit 101. The wireless profiles held by the information processing unit 101 are information about access points (APs) that the information processing unit 101 has connected to. Specifically, the wireless profiles held by the information processing unit 101 include the SSIDs of APs that the information processing unit 101 has connected to and the passwords for connecting to those APs.

[0119] In S708, the CPU 103 determines whether the list of wireless profiles obtained in S707 includes a wireless profile corresponding to AP131 to which the information processing device 101 is connected. If the CPU 103 determines that the list of wireless profiles includes a wireless profile corresponding to AP131 to which the information processing device 101 is connected, it proceeds to S709. On the other hand, if the CPU 103 determines that the list of wireless profiles does not include a wireless profile corresponding to AP131 to which the information processing device 101 is connected, it proceeds to S710.

[0120] In S709, the CPU 103 determines that the first setup can be executed and terminates the first setup execution feasibility determination process shown in Figure 7.

[0121] In S710, the CPU 103 determines from the encryption method obtained in S706 whether the AP 131 to which the information processing device 101 is connected is open authentication. If the CPU 103 determines that the AP 131 to which the information processing device 101 is connected is open authentication, it proceeds to S709 and then terminates the first setup execution feasibility determination process shown in Figure 7. On the other hand, if the CPU 103 determines that the AP 131 to which the information processing device 101 is connected is not open authentication, it proceeds to S711.

[0122] In S711, the CPU 103 determines that the first setup cannot be executed and terminates the first setup execution feasibility determination process shown in Figure 7.

[0123] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the first setup process executed by the information processing device 101. This flowchart is implemented, for example, by the CPU 103 reading a program stored in the ROM 104 into the RAM 105 and executing it. The process shown in this flowchart corresponds to the process in S510.

[0124] In S801, the CPU 103 establishes a wireless connection 143 between the information processing device 101 and the communication device 151 by setting a connection setting SSID to the SSID that indicates the destination of the information processing device 101. Specifically, for example, the CPU 103 connects the information processing device 101 to AP156-a corresponding to the connection setting SSID by executing an OS API.

[0125] In S802, the CPU 103 requests the communication device 151 to acquire APs and obtains a list of APs from the communication device 151. The list of APs is a list of surrounding APs detected by a search (AP search) performed by the communication device 151. In other words, the list of APs is a list of surrounding APs that the communication device 151 can connect to. Specifically, the list of APs includes, for example, the SSID of each AP detected by the search for surrounding beacons performed by the communication device 151, and information on the encryption method used by each AP detected by the search for surrounding beacons performed by the communication device 151. The processing performed by the communication device 151 in the S802 process will be described later with reference to Figure 9.

[0126] In S803, the CPU 103 determines whether the SSID of AP 131, which was connected to the information processing device 101, is included in the list of APs obtained in S802. If the CPU 103 determines that the SSID of AP 131, which was connected to the information processing device 101, is included, the process proceeds to S816. On the other hand, if the CPU 103 determines that the SSID of AP 131, which was connected to the information processing device 101, is not included, the process proceeds to S804.

[0127] In S804, the CPU 103 displays a list of APs acquired in S802 and accepts the selection of one of the APs. In other words, the selection of an AP is the selection of an SSID. Specifically, for example, the CPU 103 displays the SSID selection screen 1401 shown in Figure 14(a) on the display unit 108. The SSID selection screen 1401 displayed here has a pull-down menu 1402 and a "Next" button 1403. The SSID selection screen 1401 may also include a message indicating the reason why the SSID of AP 131, which was connected to the information processing device 101, was not included in the list of SSIDs shown by the APs acquired in S802. For example, this reason may be a message indicating that the communication device 151 does not support communication using the 5GHz frequency band. The pull-down menu is a menu that, when operated by the user, displays the SSIDs of the APs in the list acquired in S802. After selecting the pull-down menu 1402, the user selects one of the SSIDs from the list of APs. The "Next" button 1403 may be grayed out and unresponsive to user input until a user selects an SSID. Once a user selects an SSID, the selected SSID is displayed in the pull-down menu 1402. The SSID selection screen 1401 may also display the MAC address of the AP corresponding to the user-selected SSID and the encryption method used by the AP. After the user presses the "Next" button 1403, which has been enabled by the selection of an SSID, the process proceeds to S805.

[0128] In S805, the CPU 103 attempts to obtain the password for connecting to the AP corresponding to the SSID selected in S804 from the wireless profile stored by the OS of the information processing device 101. The CPU 103 obtains the password for connecting to the AP corresponding to the SSID selected in S804 from the wireless profile stored by the OS of the information processing device 101 by executing an API for obtaining the password from the wireless profile.

[0129] In S806, the CPU 103 determines whether it was able to obtain the password for connecting to the AP corresponding to the SSID selected in S804 from the wireless profile stored by the OS of the information processing device 101. If the AP corresponding to the SSID selected in S804 and the information processing device 101 have previously connected via wireless LAN to each other, and the wireless profile corresponding to the SSID selected in S804 is stored by the OS of the information processing device 101, then obtaining the password for connecting to the AP corresponding to the SSID selected in S804 is successful. On the other hand, if the AP corresponding to the SSID selected in S804 and the information processing device 101 have never connected via wireless LAN to each other, or if the AP corresponding to the SSID selected in S804 and the information processing device 101 have previously connected via wireless LAN to each other but the wireless profile corresponding to the SSID selected in S804 has been deleted, then obtaining the password for connecting to the AP corresponding to the SSID selected in S804 fails. If it is determined that the password was obtained successfully, the process proceeds to S807; if it is determined that the password was obtained unsuccessfully, the process proceeds to S809.

[0130] In S807, the CPU 103 disconnects the communication device 151 from the AP corresponding to the connection setting SSID and attempts to establish a wireless connection between the AP corresponding to the SSID selected in S804 and the information processing device 101 using the password obtained in S805. Specifically, for example, the CPU 103 performs the disconnection from the AP corresponding to the connection setting SSID and attempts to connect to the AP corresponding to the SSID selected in S804 by executing the OS API.

[0131] In S808, the CPU 103 determines whether the wireless connection between the AP corresponding to the SSID selected in S804 and the information processing device 101 was successfully established based on the connection attempt in S807. If it is determined that the wireless connection was successfully established, the process proceeds to S813. On the other hand, if it is determined that the wireless connection was not successfully established, the process proceeds to S809.

[0132] In S809, the CPU 103 disconnects the connection to the AP corresponding to the connection setting SSID and re-establishes the wireless connection 141 between AP 131 and the information processing device 101. Specifically, for example, the CPU 103 establishes the wireless connection 141 between AP 131 and the information processing device 101 by executing an OS API.

[0133] In S810, the CPU 103 displays a password input screen 1411, including the display content shown in Figure 14(b), on the display unit 108, and accepts the input of a password to connect to the AP corresponding to the SSID selected in S804. The password input screen 1411 includes information 1412 about the SSID selected in S804, a password input box 1413, a checkbox 1414, a "Manual" button 1415, and a "Next" button 1416. The password input box 1413 is a box for accepting input from the user of a password to connect to the AP corresponding to the SSID selected in S404. The checkbox 1414 is a box for switching between displaying the password string entered in the password input box 1413 as is, or displaying asterisks as masking. The "Manual" button 1415 is a button that can accept an operation that triggers the display of a web manual, which presents the user with a method for verifying the password, as internet content via a web browser or the like. The "Next" button 1416 is activated once a password is entered in the password input box 1413, and can then be pressed by the user. When the "Next" button 1416 is pressed, the process proceeds to S811.

[0134] In S811, the CPU 103 disconnects the wireless connection 141 established in S809 and attempts to establish a wireless connection between the AP corresponding to the SSID selected in S804 and the information processing device 101 using the password entered on the password input screen 1411. Specifically, for example, the CPU 103 disconnects the wireless connection 141 with AP 131 by executing an OS API and attempts to connect to the AP corresponding to the SSID selected in S804.

[0135] In S812, the CPU 103 determines whether the connection attempt performed in S811 successfully established a connection between the AP corresponding to the SSID selected in S804 and the information processing device 101. If it is determined that the connection was not established successfully, the process from S810 is repeated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the connection was established successfully, the process proceeds to S813.

[0136] In S813, the CPU 103 disconnects the wireless connection between the AP corresponding to the SSID selected in S804 and the information processing device 101, and then reconnects the information processing device 101 to the AP corresponding to the connection setting SSID transmitted by the communication device 151. Specifically, for example, the CPU 103 executes an OS API to disconnect the wireless connection with the AP corresponding to the SSID selected in S804, and to establish a connection between the information processing device 101 and the AP corresponding to the connection setting SSID.

[0137] In S814, the CPU 103 identifies the SSID selected in S804 and the password obtained in S805 or S810 as connection setting information to be sent to the communication device 151. In addition to the above information, the CPU 103 may also identify other information, such as the frequency band and encryption method used by the AP corresponding to the SSID selected in S804.

[0138] In S815, the CPU 103 transmits connection configuration information to the communication device 151, and then terminates the first setup process shown in Figure 8. The connection configuration information transmitted in S815 includes information such as the SSID and password identified in the S814 process, and a command to set the communication device 151 to infrastructure connection mode. Upon transmission of the connection configuration information to the communication device 151 in S815, the communication device 151 starts operating in infrastructure connection mode and connects to the AP based on the connection configuration information. In other words, in S815, the CPU 103 transmits connection configuration information to the communication device 151, which is information to connect the communication device 151 to the AP via the wireless LAN interface.

[0139] In S816, the CPU 103 identifies the SSID and password of the AP 131 that was connected to the information processing device 101 from the wireless profile held by the information processing device 101 as connection setting information to be transmitted to the communication device 151. In addition to the above information, the CPU 103 may also identify other information such as the frequency band and encryption method used by the AP 131 that was connected to the information processing device 101.

[0140] In S817, the CPU 103 sends connection setting information to the communication device 151 to set it to infrastructure connection mode, and then terminates the first setup process shown in Figure 8. The connection setting information sent in S817 includes information such as the SSID and password identified in the process of S816, and a command to set the communication device 151 to infrastructure connection mode. In S817, when the connection setting information is sent to the communication device 151, the communication device 151 starts operating in infrastructure connection mode and connects to the AP based on the connection setting information. In other words, in S817, the CPU 103 sends connection setting information to the communication device 151, which is information to connect the communication device 151 to the AP via the wireless LAN interface.

[0141] Figure 9 is a flowchart of the connection setup process performed by the communication device 151. This flowchart is implemented, for example, by the CPU 154 reading a program stored in the ROM 152 into the RAM 153 and executing it. This flowchart is also initiated, for example, when the communication device 151 receives a user operation to operate in connection setup mode. That is, the communication device 151 starts operating in connection setup mode based on the trigger described above.

[0142] When the information processing device 101 connects to an AP corresponding to the connection setting SSID and the wireless connection 143 is established, the CPU 154 in S901 checks whether there is a request from the information processing device 101 to obtain a list of APs.

[0143] In S902, the CPU 154 determines whether or not there is a request from the information processing device 101 to obtain a list of APs (whether or not a request to obtain a list of APs has been received). If the CPU 154 determines that there is a request to obtain a list of APs, it proceeds to S903. On the other hand, if the CPU 154 determines that there is no request to obtain a list of APs, it proceeds to S905. As mentioned above, if the information processing device 101 requested a list of APs in S802, it is determined in S902 that there is a request to obtain a list of APs.

[0144] In S903, the CPU 154 uses the wireless communication unit 156 to search for nearby beacons, obtains information on the SSIDs contained in the searched beacons, and generates a list of APs based on the obtained SSID information.

[0145] In S904, the CPU 154 sends the list of APs generated in S903 to the requesting information processing device 101. After S904, the processing from S901 is repeated.

[0146] In S905, the CPU 154 checks whether or not it has received connection setting information from the information processing device 101.

[0147] In S906, the CPU 154 determines whether or not it has received connection setting information from the information processing device 101. If the CPU 154 determines that it has not received connection setting information, it repeats the process from S901. On the other hand, if the CPU 154 determines that it has received connection setting information, it proceeds to S907.

[0148] In S907, the CPU 154 changes the operating mode of the communication device 151 from connection setting mode to infrastructure connection mode, and then terminates the connection setting process shown in Figure 9. Specifically, for example, the CPU 154 disables AP 156-a, which has a connection setting SSID, by terminating the connection setting mode. Subsequently, the CPU 154 obtains the SSID included in the connection setting information for setting to infrastructure connection mode transmitted from the information processing device 101, and connects to the AP corresponding to that SSID. The communication device 151 establishes a wireless LAN connection 142, thereby enabling infrastructure connection between the communication device 151 and the information processing device 101.

[0149] As described above, according to this embodiment, the setup application causes the CPU 103 to execute the following process. When the CPU 103 detects a communication device 151 connected to the information processing device 101 only via a USB interface, it displays the guidance screen 1211 based on the fact that the initial setup of the communication device 151 is complete. Even when the communication device 151 is connected to the information processing device 101 via USB, the user can recognize that the external interface is usable by the display of the guidance screen 1211. Furthermore, the guidance screen 1211 is displayed when the initial setup of the communication device 151 is complete. As a result, even if the communication device 151 to be set up is a specific model, the guidance screen 1211 can be displayed to the user when the communication device 151 is in a state where it can operate in connection setting mode. This configuration improves the usability when connecting the communication device 151 to the information processing device 101.

[0150] <Second Embodiment> The following describes the differences between the second embodiment and the first embodiment. In the first embodiment, if the CPU 103 determined that the initial setup was not yet complete in the communication device 151, it displayed the initial setup operation guidance screen 1201.

[0151] In this embodiment, a setup process in which the initial setup guidance screen 1201 is not displayed will be explained with reference to Figure 15.

[0152] Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the setup process performed by the information processing device 101 in this embodiment. The setup process in Figure 15 is realized, for example, by the CPU 103 reading a program stored in the ROM 104 into the RAM 105 and executing it. The CPU 103 starts the process in Figure 15 based on a user operation performed via the input interface 102 of the information processing device 101 to execute a setup application.

[0153] Since steps S1501 to S1512 in Figure 15 are the same processes as S401 to S412, their explanations will be omitted.

[0154] In S1513, the CPU 103 determines whether the initial setup of the communication device 151 is incomplete based on the information of the communication device 151 acquired in S1511. If the CPU 103 determines that the initial setup of the communication device 151 is incomplete, it proceeds to S1506. On the other hand, if the CPU 103 determines that the initial setup of the communication device 151 is complete, it proceeds to S1514. Thus, in this embodiment, if the initial setup of the communication device 151 is incomplete, the CPU 103 proceeds to S1506 and displays the fourth setup success screen 1101 on the display unit 108.

[0155] Since steps S1514 to S1525 are the same as steps S415 to S426, their explanations will be omitted.

[0156] As described above, in this embodiment, if the initial setup is not completed on the communication device 151, the fourth setup is performed without displaying the initial setup operation guidance screen 1201. This configuration is suitable for users who want to perform the initial setup operation at their own timing without being rushed.

[0157] <Third Embodiment> The third embodiment will now be described in terms of its differences from the first and second embodiments. In the embodiments described above, the setup process was described assuming that the communication device 151 to be set up is a model that terminates the connection setting mode when connected via USB and requires completion of initial settings in order to restart the connection setting mode. In the embodiments described above, when the CPU 103 detected the communication device 151 which is connected to the information processing device 101 only via a USB interface, it acquired information about the communication device 151. The CPU 103 then executed processing according to whether or not the initial settings of the communication device 151 were incomplete.

[0158] In this embodiment, the communication device 151 does not exit connection setting mode even when connected to the information processing device 101 via USB, and maintains operation in connection setting mode. In this embodiment, the setup process will be described assuming that the communication device 151 to be set up is a model that does not exit connection setting mode even when connected to the information processing device 101 via USB.

[0159] Figure 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the setup process performed by the information processing device 101 in this embodiment. The setup process in Figure 16 is realized, for example, by the CPU 103 reading a program stored in the ROM 104 into the RAM 105 and executing it. The CPU 103 starts the process in Figure 16 based on a user operation performed via the input interface 102 of the information processing device 101 to execute a setup application.

[0160] Since steps S1601 to S1609 in Figure 16 are the same processes as S401 to S409, their explanations will be omitted.

[0161] In S1610, the CPU 103 determines whether the communication device 151 identified in S1603 is the same communication device 151 that was only detected (discovered) through the USB interface search performed in S1601. If the CPU 103 determines that the communication device 151 identified in S1603 is the same communication device 151 that was only detected through the USB interface search, the process proceeds to S1611. On the other hand, if the CPU 103 determines that the communication device 151 identified in S1603 is not the same communication device 151 that was only discovered through the USB interface search, the process proceeds to S1621.

[0162] Since steps S1611 to S1622 are the same as steps S415 to S426, their explanations will be omitted.

[0163] The above describes the setup process assuming that the communication device 151 to be set up is a model that does not exit the connection setting mode even when connected via USB. In this embodiment, the CPU 103 displays the guidance screen 1211 when it determines that a communication device 151 connected to the information processing device 101 only via a USB interface has been detected. With this configuration, the guidance screen 1211 can be displayed immediately when the communication device 151 is connected to the information processing device 101 via USB, thereby improving usability.

[0164] (Other embodiments) The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that implements one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and by having one or more processors in the computer of that system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., an ASIC) that implements one or more functions.

[0165] <Summary of Embodiments> This embodiment includes the following programs, storage media, information processing devices, and methods. (Item 1) The computer of the information processing device, A detection means for detecting a communication device connected to the information processing device, When the communication device connected to the information processing device only via a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface is detected, the information processing device is configured to function as a display means that displays a guidance screen for accepting the specification of an external interface used to connect the communication device to the information processing device. A program characterized by the following features. (Item 2) If the guidance screen receives a specification for an external interface of a different type than the USB interface, the computer will further function as an execution means that executes a predetermined process to cause the information processing device to connect the communication device via an external interface of a different type than the USB interface. The program described in item 1, characterized by the features described herein. (Item 3) When the execution means performs the predetermined process and the communication device is connected to the information processing device via an external interface of a different type than the USB interface, the first receiving means is capable of receiving a selection of whether or not to generate a print queue associated with the USB interface. When the first receiving means receives a selection for generating the print queue, the computer is further made to function as a generation means for generating the print queue. The program described in item 2, characterized by the features described herein. (Item 4) The aforementioned execution means is The predetermined process involves performing either a first process to cause the information processing device to connect the communication device via a wireless LAN interface, or a second process to cause the information processing device to connect the communication device via a wired LAN interface. A program according to item 2 or 3, characterized by the above. (Item 5) The first process is, The process includes transmitting connection setting information to the communication device for connecting the communication device to an external access point via the wireless LAN interface. The program described in item 4, characterized by the features described herein. (Item 6) The first process is, This process includes notifying the user to connect the communication device to an external access point via the wireless LAN interface. The program described in item 4, characterized by the features described herein. (Item 7) The second process is, This process includes notifying the user to connect the communication device to an external access point via the wired LAN interface. The program described in item 4, characterized by the features described herein. (Item 8) When the communication device is detected by the detection means, the computer is further configured to function as a first acquisition means for acquiring information on the external interface corresponding to the communication device. The aforementioned execution means is Based on the information of the external interface corresponding to the communication device acquired by the first acquisition means, either the first process or the second process is executed. A program according to any one of items 4 to 7, characterized by the features described herein. (Item 9) If the information of the external interface supported by the communication device includes information indicating that the communication device supports both the wireless LAN interface and the wired LAN interface, the computer further functions as a second receiving means capable of accepting a selection of either the first process or the second process. The aforementioned execution means is When the selection of the first process is received by the second receiving means, the first process is executed. When the selection of the second process is received by the second receiving means, the second process is executed. The program described in item 8, characterized by the features described above. (Item 10) The aforementioned execution means is If the information of the external interface supported by the communication device includes information indicating that the communication device supports the wireless LAN interface, but does not include information indicating that the communication device supports the wired LAN interface, then the first process is executed. The program described in item 8, characterized by the features described above. (Item 11) The aforementioned execution means is If the information of the external interface supported by the communication device does not include information indicating that the communication device supports the wireless LAN interface, the second process is executed. The program described in item 8, characterized by the features described above. (Item 12) When the communication device connected to the information processing device solely via the USB interface is detected, the computer further functions as a second acquisition means for acquiring information indicating whether or not the initial setup of the communication device has been completed. The aforementioned display means is When the second acquisition means acquires information indicating that the initial setup has been completed, the guidance screen is displayed. A program according to any one of items 1 to 11, characterized by the features described herein. (Item 13) If the second acquisition means obtains information indicating that the initial setup is not complete, the computer further functions as a first notification means that notifies the user of the initial setup procedure. The program described in item 12, characterized by the features described herein. (Item 14) If the second acquisition means acquires information indicating that the initial setup is not complete, the computer further functions as a second notification means that notifies the user that the communication device has been connected to the information processing device via the USB interface. The program described in item 12, characterized by the features described herein. (Item 15) The aforementioned display means is The guidance screen displays the benefits of specifying an external interface of a different type than the USB interface. A program according to any one of items 1 to 14, characterized by the features described herein. (Item 16) The aforementioned display means is The guidance screen displays a message prompting the user to specify an external interface of a different type than the USB interface. A program according to any one of items 1 to 15, characterized by the features described herein. (Item 17) A computer-readable storage medium containing a program described in any one of items 1 through 16. (Item 18) An information processing device, A detection means for detecting a communication device connected to the information processing device, The system includes a display means for displaying a guidance screen for receiving a request to specify an external interface to be used to connect the communication device to the information processing device when the communication device is detected to be connected to the information processing device only via a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface. An information processing device characterized by the following: (Item 19) A method executed by an information processing device, A detection step for detecting a communication device connected to the information processing device, The process includes a display step of displaying a guidance screen for accepting the specification of an external interface to be used to connect the communication device to the information processing device when the communication device is detected to be connected to the information processing device only via a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface, A method characterized by the following:

[0166] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, claims are attached to disclose the scope of the invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0167] 101 Information Processing Unit: 103 CPU: 104 ROM: 105 RAM: 131 Access Point: 151 Communication Device: 171 External Server:

Claims

1. The computer of the information processing device, A detection means for detecting a communication device connected to the information processing device, When the communication device is detected to be connected to the information processing device only via a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface, the information processing device is configured to function as a display means that displays a guidance screen for receiving the specification of an external interface used to connect the communication device to the information processing device. A program characterized by the following features.

2. If the guidance screen receives a specification for an external interface of a different type than the USB interface, the computer will further function as an execution means that performs a predetermined process to connect the communication device to the information processing device via the external interface of a different type than the USB interface. The program according to feature 1.

3. When the execution means performs the predetermined process and the communication device is connected to the information processing device via an external interface of a different type than the USB interface, the first receiving means is capable of receiving a selection of whether or not to generate a print queue associated with the USB interface. When the first receiving means receives a selection for generating the print queue, the computer is further made to function as a generation means for generating the print queue. The program according to feature 2.

4. The aforementioned execution means is The predetermined process involves performing either a first process to connect the communication device to the information processing device via a wireless LAN interface, or a second process to connect the communication device to the information processing device via a wired LAN interface. The program according to feature 2.

5. The first process is, The process includes transmitting connection setting information to the communication device for connecting the communication device to an external access point via the wireless LAN interface. The program according to feature 4.

6. The first process is, This process includes notifying the user to connect the communication device to an external access point via the wireless LAN interface. The program according to feature 4.

7. The second process described above is: This process includes notifying the user to connect the communication device to an external access point via the wired LAN interface. The program according to feature 4.

8. When the communication device is detected by the detection means, the computer is further configured to function as a first acquisition means for acquiring information on the external interface corresponding to the communication device. The aforementioned execution means is Based on the information of the external interface corresponding to the communication device obtained by the first acquisition means, either the first process or the second process is executed. The program according to feature 4.

9. If the information of the external interface supported by the communication device includes information indicating that the communication device supports both the wireless LAN interface and the wired LAN interface, the computer further functions as a second receiving means capable of accepting a selection of either the first process or the second process. The aforementioned execution means is When the second receiving means receives a selection of the first process, the first process is executed. When the selection of the second process is received by the second receiving means, the second process is executed. The program according to feature 8.

10. The aforementioned execution means is If the information of the external interface supported by the communication device includes information indicating that the communication device supports the wireless LAN interface, but does not include information indicating that the communication device supports the wired LAN interface, then the first process is executed. The program according to feature 8.

11. The aforementioned execution means is If the information of the external interface supported by the communication device does not include information indicating that the communication device supports the wireless LAN interface, the second process is executed. The program according to feature 8.

12. When the communication device connected to the information processing device via only the USB interface is detected, the computer further functions as a second acquisition means for acquiring information indicating whether or not the initial setup of the communication device has been completed. The aforementioned display means is When the second acquisition means acquires information indicating that the initial setup has been completed, the guidance screen is displayed. The program according to feature 1.

13. If the second acquisition means acquires information indicating that the initial setup is not complete, the computer further functions as a first notification means that notifies the user of the initial setup procedure. The program according to feature 12.

14. If the second acquisition means acquires information indicating that the initial setup is not complete, the computer further functions as a second notification means that notifies the user that the communication device has been connected to the information processing device via the USB interface. The program according to feature 12.

15. The aforementioned display means is The guidance screen displays the benefits of specifying an external interface of a different type than the USB interface. The program according to feature 1.

16. The aforementioned display means is The guidance screen displays a message prompting the user to specify an external interface of a different type than the USB interface. The program according to feature 1.

17. A computer-readable storage medium storing a program described in any one of claims 1 to 16.

18. An information processing device, A detection means for detecting a communication device connected to the information processing device, The information processing device includes a display means for displaying a guidance screen for receiving a request to specify an external interface to be used to connect the communication device to the information processing device, when the communication device is detected to be connected to the information processing device only via a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface. An information processing device characterized by the following:

19. A method executed by an information processing device, A detection step for detecting a communication device connected to the information processing device, The process includes a display step of displaying a guidance screen for accepting the specification of an external interface used to connect the communication device to the information processing device when the communication device is detected to be connected to the information processing device only via a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface, A method characterized by the following:

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