Communication apparatus

Abstract

A portable facsimile apparatus in which, each recording paper (or each document to be transmitted) may be set in place by a manual operation. In a case where the portable facsimile apparatus needs additional recording paper (or an additional document) to be set by an operator during image reception or image transmission, the portable facsimile apparatus so informs the operator, while the apparatus delays shifting following image reception or image transmission. As a result, the operator can set additional recording paper (or an additional document) into the portable facsimile apparatus, during image reception, without terminating the image reception.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a portable facsimile apparatus into which a document or a recording sheet is manually set.

2. Related Background Art

Conventional portable facsimile apparatuses have one of two arrangements—one includes all functions of a facsimile apparatus, while the other has only minimum functions, such as transmission and reception. Along with the development of an information-oriented society, facsimile apparatuses are often used in places other than where originally installed. Accordingly, demand has arisen for development of a portable facsimile apparatus which is not limited to use at its original place of installation.

The assignee of the present invention has previously filed an application relating to a portable facsimile system which includes a portable facsimile unit having only the minimum functions described above (U.S. Pat. No. 5,825,505). The portable facsimile unit described in that co-pending application, however, does not provide an automatic document supply or an automatic recording paper supply.

In the case where that facsimile unit transmits plural pages of documents or receives plural pages of image data, each of the pages must be manually set in turn by an operator during image transmission or image reception, so as to prevent an image communication error.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In consideration of the foregoing, one object of the present invention is to provide an improvement over conventional types of portable facsimile apparatuses.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a portable facsimile apparatus which can easily be carried by an operator, and which is capable of continuously performing image communication of plural pages without a communication error.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a portable facsimile apparatus in which an operator can set plural pages of documents during image transmission without the ongoing image transmission being terminated.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a portable facsimile apparatus in which an operator can set recording sheets during image reception without terminating the image reception. These and other objects are accomplished by providing a portable facsimile apparatus, in which a document or a recording material is manually set, having means for advising that additional documents or additional material is being set, and means for performing the process of holding a communication link during the advising operation.

Still other objects of the present invention, and the advantages thereof, will become fully apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments to be taken in conjunction with the attached drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the arrangement of a main body of a portable facsimile apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 2 ( a ) and 2 ( b ) are perspective views of the portable facsimile apparatus.

FIGS. 3 ( a ) to 3 ( c ) are block diagrams showing the arrangements of a power source of the main body.

FIG. 4 is a detailed block diagram showing the arrangement of a NCU 1-9.

FIG. 5 is a view showing a condition of the signal JACK.

FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 are views showing a condition of the signal CMODE.

FIG. 8 is a view showing a connection condition between the main body and communication links.

FIG. 9 is a view showing a connecting condition of the main body, a telephone and a communication line through a parallel connector.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing a power-on operation.

FIGS. 11 and 12 together form a flow chart showing a standby operation.

FIG. 13 is a flow chart showing an operation of a copy key mode.

FIG. 14 is a flow chart showing an operation of a start key mode.

FIG. 15 is a flow chart showing an operation of a line start key mode.

FIG. 16 is a flow chart showing an operation of a mobile communication start key mode.

FIG. 17 is a flow chart showing an operation of a stop key mode.

FIG. 18 is a flow chart showing an operation of a monitor selecting mode.

FIG. 19 is a flow chart showing an operation of a standby feeding mode and a power-on feeding mode.

FIG. 20 is a flow chart showing a recording sheet feeding operation.

FIG. 21 is a flow chart showing a document feeding operation.

FIG. 22 is a flow chart showing a copy operation.

FIG. 23 is a flow chart showing an operation of a monitor selection A.

FIG. 24 is a flow chart showing an operation of a FAX monitor selection.

FIG. 25 through FIG. 27 , FIG. 29 and FIG. 30 together form a flow chart showing an operation of a receiving mode.

FIG. 28 is a flow chart showing an operation of an operator call A.

FIG. 31 is a flow chart showing an ECM binary receiving procedure.

FIG. 32 is a flow chart showing an operation of an operator call B.

FIG. 33 is a flow chart showing the end procedure of receiving.

FIG. 34 through FIG. 36 together form a flow chart showing an operation of a transmission mode.

FIG. 37 and FIG. 38 together form a flow chart showing an operation of an image transmission.

FIG. 39 ( a ) is a flow chart showing an image transmission B 1 .

FIG. 39 ( b ) is a flow chart showing an image transmission B 2 .

FIG. 40 ( a ) is a flow chart showing an image transmission A 1 .

FIG. 40 ( b ) is a flow chart showing an image transmission A 2 .

FIG. 41 is a flow chart showing an end procedure of transmitting.

FIG. 42 is a flow chart showing the operation of a requiring operation switching mode.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

An embodiment according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the arrangement of a main body of a portable facsimile apparatus according to this embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 1 , a CPU 1 - 1 controls the overall operation of the portable facsimile apparatus according to programs stored in ROM 1 - 2 , i.e., the function of controlling RAM 1 - 3 , console unit 1 - 4 , reader 1 - 5 , recorder 1 - 6 , driver 1 - 7 , modem 1 - 8 , NCU 1 - 9 , telephone line 1 - 10 , mobile communication unit 1 - 11 , sensor unit 1 - 12 , speaker unit 1 - 13 , buzzer 1 - 14 , power source 1 - 15 , and power source controller 1 - 16 .

RAM 1 - 3 stores binary image data read by reader 1 - 5 , binary image data to be recorded by the recorder 1 - 6 , and binary data to be modulated by modem 1 - 8 and transmitted through NCU 1 - 9 to telephone line 1 - 10 . A signal received through the telephone line 1 - 10 is demodulated by modem 1 - 8 through NCU 1 - 9 , and the demodulated binary data is stored in RAM 1 - 3 .

Console unit 1 - 4 includes a transmission/reception start key, a mode key for designating an image quality mode, such as fine or standard, of the image to be transmitted, a copy key for performing a copying operation, an economy key for designating an energy-saving mode in recording/printing by use of a battery, and a stop key for stopping the operation of the main body. The CPU 1 - 1 detects the states of each of the console unit keys and controls the respective components in accordance with the states of each of the keys.

Reader 1 - 5 includes a DMA controller, a CCD or contact image sensor (CS), a TTLIC, a binarizing circuit, etc. The reader 1 - 5 causes the CCD or CS to convert the read data into binary data, under the control of CPU 1 - 1 and sequentially sends the binary data to RAM 1 - 3 .

Recorder 1 - 6 includes a DMA controller, a B4/A4 size thermal head, a TTLIC, etc. The reader 1 - 6 reads out the recorded data from RAM 1 - 3 under the control of CPU 1 - 1 and prints out the recorded data as a hard copy.

Driver 1 - 7 includes a stepping motor for driving feed/discharge rollers in reader 1 - 5 and recorder 1 - 6 , gears for transmitting the driving force of the motor, a driver circuit for controlling the motor, etc.

Modem 1 - 8 includes any suitable modem, such as G 3 , G 2 , G 1 and old FM modems, a clock generator connected to the modems, etc. The modem 1 - 8 modulates the transmission data stored in RAM 1 - 3 under the control of CPU 1 - 1 and outputs the modulated data to telephone line 1 - 10 or mobile communication unit 1 - 11 through NCU 1 - 9 . In addition, modem 1 - 8 receives an analog signal from telephone line 1 - 10 or mobile communication unit 1 - 11 through NCU 1 - 9 , demodulates the analog signal, and stores it in RAM 1 - 3 . The modem 1 - 8 has a power-saving mode, which saves on the consumption of electric power and is operated by the CPU 1 - 1 . In the power-saving mode, the electric power consumption can be decreased to {fraction (1/10)} of the normal consumption. However, when the power-saving mode is utilized, the facsimile apparatus can not perform image transmission or image reception.

NCU 1 - 9 comprises a DC loop circuit, a 2-to-4 wire converter, a receiving circuit, a signal detecting circuit, a line switching circuit, etc. The NCU 1 - 9 connects telephone line 1 - 10 or mobile communication unit 1 - 11 to modem 1 - 8 .

The mobile communication unit 1 - 11 is defined as a radio communication unit, such as a portable telephone or a mobile telephone, and the mobile communication line is defined as a line used for the portable telephone and the mobile telephone.

Sensor unit 1 - 12 includes a recording paper width sensor, a recording paper presence sensor, a recording paper end-mark sensor, an original sheet width sensor, and an original sheet presence sensor. The sensor unit 1 - 12 detects the states of the original sheet and the recording paper under the control of CPU 1 - 1 .

Speaker unit 1 - 13 includes a speaker and a speaker driver, and is turned on/off in accordance with the control of CPU 1 - 1 . The speaker unit 1 - 13 outputs sounds of plural kinds of signals which are received through telephone line 1 - 10 , and outputs sounds of key-touch, voice signals, and communication signals from the mobile communication unit 1 - 11 .

Buzzer 1 - 14 includes a buzzer and a buzzer driver and generates a warning tone in accordance with the control of CPU 1 - 1 .

Power source 1 - 15 supplies power to the main body of the facsimile apparatus. The power source 1 - 15 supplies a DC voltage of +12V and a GND by means of a battery, an AC power source, or a car battery (as shown in FIGS. 3 ( a )- 3 ( c )).

Power source controller 1 - 16 includes a series regulator, a switching-regulator, a DC/DC convertor, a photovoltaic cell, and a MOSFET. The power source controller 1 - 16 converts the DC voltage of +12V from power source 1 - 15 into a DC voltage of +5V, and outputs the voltage of +5V. The power source controller 1 - 16 is controlled by CPU 1 - 1 . In an output sequence of the power source 1 - 15 and the power source controller 1 - 16 , the DC voltage of +12VCS is generated, then the DC voltage of +5V is generated, and then the DC voltage of +12V is generated. The voltage of +12V can be turned on/off in accordance with the control of CPU 1 - 1 .

FIGS. 2 ( a ) and 2 ( b ) are outline views of the facsimile apparatus. Numeral 2 - 1 denotes the main body of the facsimile apparatus. Numeral 2 - 2 denotes the console unit, and Numeral 2 - 3 denotes a display unit. Numeral 2 - 4 denotes a recording paper inserting unit which enables manual setting of recording paper, and numeral 2 - 5 denotes an original sheet inserting unit which enables manual setting of an original sheet. The original sheet inserting unit 2 - 5 is also used as a recorded paper discharging unit for discharging the recorded paper.

Numeral 2 - 6 denotes an original sheet discharging unit for discharging read original sheets. Numeral 2 - 7 denotes a connector for connecting the main body of the facsimile apparatus to telephone line 1 - 10 , and numeral 2 - 8 denotes a connector for connecting the main body to the mobile communication unit 1 - 11 .

Numeral 2 - 9 denotes a power switch for supplying the power to the main body. Numeral 2 - 10 denotes a holder which holds a roll of paper. FIG. 2 ( a ) shows a condition wherein the holder 2 - 10 is attached to main body 2 - 1 .

FIGS. 3 ( a ) to 3 ( c ) are block diagrams showing the structure of power source 1 - 15 . In FIG. 3 ( a ), power source 1 - 15 consists of a battery 3 - 2 having a DC voltage of +12V.

In FIG. 3 ( b ), power source 1 - 15 consists of an AC adapter 3 - 4 which converts the AC power source into a DC voltage of +12V. In FIG. 3 ( c ), power source 1 - 15 consists of a car battery adapter 3 - 6 which converts DC power from the car battery into a stabilized DC voltage of +12V.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a detailed structure of the NCU 1 - 9 . The NCU 1 - 9 consists of a filter unit 4 - 2 , an NCU 4 - 3 for a mobile telephone/acoustic coupler, a connector unit 4 - 4 for a mobile telephone/acoustic coupler, an NCU 4 - 5 for a telephone line, and a connector unit 4 - 6 for a telephone line.

Filter unit 4 - 2 is a low-pass filter which includes OP amplifiers and other components. The NCU 4 - 3 for a mobile telephone/acoustic coupler is composed of OP amplifiers, resistors, condensers, inductors, etc. A signal to be transmitted is amplified by filter unit 4 - 2 , is adjusted to a signal level corresponding to mobile communication unit 1 - 11 or to the acoustic coupler by the NCU 4 - 3 , and then is output as a transmission signal TXC. A receiving signal from the mobile communication unit 1 - 11 is amplified by an OP amplifier of the NCU 4 - 3 through inductors and condensers, and is then sent to the filter unit 4 - 2 through an adder circuit. The signal from the condenser microphone of the acoustic coupler is amplified by an OP amplifier through condensers, and is then supplied to filter unit 4 - 2 through the adder circuit. The NCU 4 - 3 includes a power source which supplies power to the condenser microphone of the acoustic coupler. The NCU 4 - 3 supplies both the receiving signal RXC from the mobile communication unit/acoustic coupler, and the receiving signal RXC from the telephone line, to the filter unit 4 - 2 through the adder circuit. The structure of NCU 4 - 3 may be modified so as to supply power selectively by using an analog switch, a relay, etc.

Connector unit 4 - 4 is a connector having a switch, and serves as an interface for the mobile communication unit and the acoustic coupler. Terminal C supplies a transmitting signal TX from the modem 1 - 8 to the mobile communication unit 1 - 11 . Terminal D supplies the receiving signal from the mobile communication unit 1 - 11 to the modem 1 - 8 . Terminal A supplies the transmitting signal from the modem 1 - 8 to the acoustic coupler. Terminal B supplies the receiving signal from the acoustic coupler to the modem 1 - 8 .

A signal JACK indicates whether a plug of the mobile communication unit 1 - 11 or the acoustic coupler is connected into the connector unit 4 - 4 . The signal JACK is applied to CPU 1 - 1 . FIG. 5 is a view showing a condition of the signal JACK. When the plug 5 - 1 of the mobile communication unit 1 - 11 , or the acoustic coupler, is connected into the connector unit 4 - 4 of the main body 5 - 2 , a switch in the connector unit 4 - 4 is turned off by the plug and the signal JACK is then switched from a LOW level to a HIGH level.

A signal CMODE (see FIG. 4 ) indicates whether the mobile communication unit 1 - 11 or the acoustic coupler is connected to the connector unit 4 - 4 . In the case where the mobile communication unit 1 - 11 is connected to the connector unit 4 - 4 of the main body 6 - 2 , the signal CMODE is at a HIGH level as shown in FIG. 6 . On the other hand, when the acoustic coupler is connected into the connector unit 4 - 4 of the main body 7 - 2 , the signal CMODE is at a LOW level as shown in FIG. 7 .

The connector unit 4 - 4 includes a GND for the signal JACK.

By using the above-described signals, the portable facsimile apparatus checks whether any plug (the mobile communication unit or the acoustic coupler) is inserted into the connector unit 4 - 4 or not. The CPU then changes the level of a transmitted signal and the speed of the signal in accordance with the signal JACK.

In a case where the plug of the mobile communication unit or the acoustic coupler is inserted into the connector unit 4 - 4 , CPU 1 - 1 sets a communication speed of 4800 bps. On the other hand, in a case where the telephone line is connected to the connector unit 4 - 6 , CPU 1 - 1 sets the communication speed to 9600 bps (bits per second). The portable facsimile apparatus selects either the receiving signal from the connector unit 4 - 4 or the receiving signal from the connector unit 4 - 6 , and switches the level of monitoring communication signals in accordance with the signal JACK.

Further, in accordance with the signal CMODE, the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether the mobile communication unit or the acoustic coupler is connected to the connector unit 4 - 4 , and then sets the transmitting level and the receiving level at adequate values corresponding to the mobile communication unit and the acoustic coupler.

The NCU 4 - 5 for the telephone line includes the DC loop circuit and the 2 to 4 wire converter and seizes the telephone line in accordance with the control of the CPU 1 - 1 .

The connector unit 4 - 6 is a jack unit for connecting a telephone line to this facsimile apparatus.

FIG. 8 is a view showing a condition in which the main body 8 - 1 of the portable facsimile apparatus is connected to the mobile communication unit 8 - 2 through a cable 8 - 3 . As shown in FIG. 6 , when the mobile communication unit is connected to the main body, the signal CMODE goes to the HIGH level.

FIG. 8 also shows a condition in which the main body 8 - 1 is connected to the acoustic coupler 8 - 4 and a telephone 8 - 5 . As shown in FIG. 7 , when the acoustic coupler 8 - 4 is connected to the main body, the signal CMODE goes to the LOW level.

FIG. 9 shows a condition in which the main body of the portable facsimile apparatus is connected to the telephone line 9 - 2 and a telephone 9 - 3 through a parallel connector 9 - 4 .

The operation of the portable facsimile apparatus will now be described as follows. The control programs which are performed by CPU 1 - 1 have been stored in ROM 1 - 2 .

When power is supplied to the portable facsimile apparatus, in step S 1 of FIG. 10 CPU 1 - 1 initializes each unit described above in the system of the portable facsimile apparatus. In step S 2 , CPU 1 - 1 performs a feeding operation when power is turned on. In the feeding operation, CPU 1 - 1 switches a pendulum, which is in a switching unit of a driver, from a recording sheet side to an original sheet side, by means of rotating a motor in the driver. The portable facsimile apparatus uses the driving power of the motor to transfer either an original document or a recording sheet by switching the pendulum setting. The feeding operation will be described in detail below. In step S 3 , CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether an original document is set in reader 1 - 5 when the power is turned on. In a case where an original document is present, in step S 4 CPU 1 - 1 turns on an error lamp and generates an alarm to inform an operator, and then shifts to a standby mode, as shown in FIG. 11 .

In step S 5 of FIG. 11 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether an original document has been set in reader 1 - 5 . In the case where an original document is present, CPU 1 - 1 feeds the original document to a reading position in the reader 1 - 5 in step S 6 . In step S 901 , CPU 1 - 1 sets the modem 1 - 8 into the power-saving mode. In step S 7 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether a recording sheet has been set in the recorder 1 - 6 . In a case where no recording sheet has been set, CPU 1 - 1 performs an operation of indicating that no recording sheet has been set, and again checks whether a recording sheet is set in step S 8 . If a recording sheet has been set, in step S 9 the CPU 1 - 1 performs the operation of feeding the recording sheet. Then, in step S 10 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether a line connected to the main body is the mobile communication unit 1 - 11 or the telephone line 1 - 10 . In a case where the connected line is the mobile communication unit 1 - 11 , in step S 11 the CPU 1 - 1 performs an operation ( FIG. 18 ) of setting a monitor mode which outputs a communication signal from the speaker unit 1 - 13 . On the other hand, in a case where the connected line is the telephone line 1 - 10 , in step S 12 the CPU 1 - 1 sets the monitor mode to off.

In step S 13 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether any key has been pushed. If any key is pushed, the CPU 1 - 1 shifts from step S 13 to step S 14 (FIG. 12 ). On the other hand, if no key has been pushed, the CPU 1 - 1 returns to step S 5 .

The CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether the pushed key is the copy key (step S 14 ), a transmission mode key (step S 15 ), an economy key (step S 17 ), or a stop key (step S 18 ). If the pushed key is the copy key, the CPU 1 - 1 performs an operation of a copy key mode ( FIG. 13 ) in step S 19 . If the pushed key is the start key, the CPU 1 - 1 performs an operation of a start key mode ( FIG. 14 ) in step S 20 . If the pushed key is the transmission key, the CPU 1 - 1 sets a line density of reading a document (standard mode: 3.85 lines/mm, or fine mode: 7.7 lines/mm) in step S 21 . If the pushed key is the economy key, the CPU 1 - 1 sets an economy mode, which prints image data intermittently so as to save printing energy, in step S 22 . If the pushed key is the stop key, the CPU 1 - 1 performs an operation of a stop key mode ( FIG. 17 ) in step S 23 . The CPU 1 - 1 then returns to the standby condition of FIG. 11 .

FIG. 13 is a flow chart showing the operation of the copy key mode of step S 19 (FIG. 12 ).

In step S 68 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether an original document has been set. In a case where an original document has been set, the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether a recording sheet is in the recorder 1 - 6 in step S 70 . If a recording sheet is present, the CPU 1 - 1 performs a feed operation of the recording sheet ( FIG. 20 ) so as to feed the recording sheet a fixed amount in step S 71 , and then discriminates whether the copy key is still activated in step S 72 . In a case where the copy key is still depressed, the CPU 1 - 1 returns to step S 70 and continues to perform the feed operation on the recording sheet. If a recording sheet is not in the recorder 1 - 6 in step S 70 , or if the copy key is not yet depressed in step S 72 , the CPU 1 - 1 performs a standby feed operation ( FIG. 19 ) in step S 73 , and then returns to the standby condition of step S 5 ( FIG. 11 ) In the standby feed operation, the CPU 1 - 1 puts the driver 1 - 7 back in the initial position. On the other hand, in a case where an original document is in the reader 1 - 5 in step S 68 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether a recording sheet has been set in step S 69 . If not, the CPU 1 - 1 shifts to the standby condition of step SS (FIG. 11 ). On the other hand, if a recording sheet has been set in step S 69 , the CPU 1 - 1 performs a copying operation ( FIG. 22 ) in step S 701 , and then shifts to the standby condition of step S 5 .

FIG. 14 is a flow chart showing an operation of the start key mode of step S 20 (FIG. 12 ).

In step S 24 of FIG. 14 , the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether an original document and a recording sheet have been set. If they have not been set, the CPU 1 - 1 returns to the standby condition of step 55 (FIG. 11 ). On the other hand, in a case where either has been set, the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether the telephone line 1 - 10 or the mobile communication unit 1 - 11 has been connected to the NCU 1 - 9 in step S 25 . If the telephone line 1 - 10 has been connected, the CPU 1 - 1 performs an operation of a line start key mode ( FIG. 15 ) in step S 26 . If the mobile communication unit 1 - 11 has been connected, the CPU 1 - 1 performs an operation of a mobile communication start key mode ( FIG. 16 ) in step S 27 .

Next, the CPU 1 - 1 performs an operation of a monitor select mode ( FIG. 18 ) in step S 28 , performs an operation of releasing a power-save mode of the modem 1 - 8 in step S 902 , and then performs a mode initializing operation in step S 903 . The CPU 1 - 1 then discriminates whether an original document has been set in step S 29 . If so, the CPU 1 - 1 performs operation for the transmission mode (FIG. 34 ˜ FIG. 36 ) in step S 30 , if no original document has been set, the CPU 1 - 1 performs operation for the reception mode (FIG. 25 ˜ FIG. 27 ) in step S 31 .

Next, the CPU 1 - 1 performs the operation of setting the modem 1 - 8 to power-save mode in step S 904 , stops the line-monitoring in step S 32 , and then returns to the standby condition.

FIG. 15 is a flow chart showing the operation of the line start key mode (step S 26 of FIG. 14 ).

In step S 34 of FIG. 15 , the CPU 1 - 1 causes the buzzer 1 - 14 to generate a confirmation sound (an ACK tone ) which indicates that the start key has been depressed, and in step S 35 , the CPU 1 - 1 initializes a timer (a software timer) to measure the time the start key remains depressed. While the start key is depressed the CPU 1 - 1 performs the processes of steps S 36 , S 37 and S 38 . In step S 37 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates if the timer has counted two seconds. If so, the CPU 1 - 1 causes the buzzer 1 - 14 to generate the ACK tone in step S 42 , and then returns to step S 36 . In step S 36 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates if the start key is still depressed. If not, the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether the value of the timer is less than two seconds in step S 43 . On the other hand, in step S 38 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether the value counted by the timer is less than four seconds.

In a case where the timer has timed less than two seconds, the CPU 1 - 1 shifts from step S 43 to step S 47 , sets a flag (ECM-MODE) to allow ECM communication in step S 47 , sets the communication speed at the start time to be 9600 bps in step S 48 , and then sets a level of transmitting a signal to be a predetermined value which is decided by bit switches (not shown) in step S 46 .

In a case where the value of the timer is greater than two seconds and less than four seconds, the CPU 1 - 1 shifts from step S 43 to step S 44 , clears the flag ECM-MODE to prohibit the ECM communication in step S 44 , sets the communication speed at the start time to be 9600 bps in step S 45 , and then shifts to step S 46 .

In a case where of the timer has counted to four or more seconds, the CPU 1 - 1 shifts from step S 38 to step S 39 , causes the buzzer 1 - 14 to generate the ACK tone in step S 39 , clears the flag ECM-MODE in step S 40 , sets the communication speed at the start time to be 4800 bps in step S 41 , sets the level at which the signal will be transmitted to be the predetermined value plus +7 dm in step S 702 , and then returns to step S 28 of FIG. 14 . An operator can thereby manually select the communication mode (G 3 or ECM) and the signal transmission level. In a case where an operator is aware that the communication is not good, he or she is able to select an appropriate communication mode and an appropriate level of transmission of the signal so that the time of the image communication will be shortened and the number of line errors will be decreased.

FIG. 16 is a flow chart showing the operation of the mobile communication start key mode of step S 27 in FIG. 14 .

In step S 49 of FIG. 16 , the CPU 1 - 1 causes the buzzer 1 - 14 to generate the ACK tone. The CPU 1 - 1 then initializes the timer so as to measure the time at which the start key is depressed in step S 50 . While the start key is depressed, the CPU 1 - 1 performs the processes of step S 51 and step S 52 .

In step S 51 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether the start key is continuously depressed, and in step S 52 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether the period measured by the timer is less than two seconds.

In a case where the time measured by the timer is two or more seconds, the CPU 1 - 1 causes the buzzer 1 - 14 to generate the ACK tone in step S 53 and then clears the flag ECM-MODE in step S 54 . On the other hand, in a case where the start key is not depressed, the CPU 1 - 1 sets the flag ECM-MODE in step S 58 . Consequently, as in the mobile communication, the operator is able manually to select the communication mode (G 3 or ECM).

In step S 55 , the CPU 1 - 1 sets the communication speed at the start time to be 4800 bps, and then, in step S 56 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether the mobile communication unit or the acoustic coupler is connected. to the NCU 1 - 9 .

In a case where the mobile communication unit is connected to the NCU 1 - 9 , the CPU 1 - 1 sets the level for transmission to be −30 dBm. On the other hand, in a case where the acoustic coupler is connected to the NCU 1 - 9 , the CPU 1 - 1 sets a level for transmission to be −10 dBm in step S 57 , and then returns to step S 28 of FIG. 14 .

As described above, the facsimile apparatus sets an appropriate communication mode in accordance with the type of communication line connected to the NCU 1 - 9 and the time of depression of the start key by an operator.

FIG. 17 is a flow chart showing the operation of the stop key mode of step S 23 (FIG. 12 ).

In step S 60 of FIG. 17 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether any local operation (i.e. copy operation) or any facsimile operation (i.e. facsimile transmission) is being performed. If an operation is being performed, the CPU 1 - 1 stops the operation in step S 67 , and then returns to the standby condition (step S 5 of FIG. 11 ). On the other hand, if an operation is not being performed, the CPU 1 - 1 turns off the error LED of the operation unit 1 - 4 is step S 61 , causes the buzzer 1 - 14 to generate the ACK tone in step S 62 , and initializes a timer to measure the time of depression of the step key in step S 63 . Then, while the stop key is depressed, the CPU 1 - 1 repeatedly performs step S 64 and step S 703 . In step S 64 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether the stop key has continuously remained depressed. In step S 703 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether the timer has counted less than two seconds. If so, the CPU 1 - 1 shifts from step S 64 to the standby condition. On the other hand, when the timer has measured two seconds or more, the CPU 1 - 1 shifts from step S 703 to step S 65 , causes the buzzer 1 - 14 to generate the ACK tone in step S 65 , performs the feeding operation of an original document in step S 66 , and then returns to the standby condition.

FIG. 18 is a flow chart showing the operation of the monitor select mode (step S 11 of FIG. 11 , step s 28 of FIG. 14 , step S 401 of FIG. 25 , or step S 602 of FIG. 34 ).

In step S 211 of FIG. 18 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether the monitor SW (switch) is turned on. If the monitor SW is not turned on, the CPU 1 - 1 sets the monitor to off in step S 214 . On the other hand, if the monitor SW is turned on, the CPU 1 - 1 sets an output level for the monitor in step S 212 , and turns the monitor on in step S 213 .

FIG. 19 is a flow chart showing the operation of the power-on feeding (step S 2 of FIG. 10 ) and the standby feeding (step S 310 of FIG. 20 , step S 311 of FIG. 21 , etc.)

This facsimile apparatus has a structure in which one motor drives a roller for printing and a roller for reading by means of switching the power of the motor using a pendulum. In this facsimile apparatus, the feeding of an original document is operated on the basis of a positive rotation of the motor, while the feeding of a recording sheet is operated on the basis of negative rotation of the motor. The facsimile apparatus has a pendulum (a gear wheel) which switches a route of transfer of the driving power as between positive rotation and negative rotation. For positive rotation, the pendulum is located on a document side, to drive the roller for reading, while for negative rotation, the pendulum is located on a recording sheet side, to drive the roller for printing. The initial position of the pendulum is the document side, and for negative rotation, the pendulum is shifted to the recording sheet side by a rotation of the motor (a feeding operation). Switching from the recording sheet side to the document side also is performed by the rotation of the motor. In addition, when a document or a recording sheet which has been inserted into the facsimile apparatus is removed by an operator, the pendulum is moved to an intermediate position between the document side and the recording sheet side. The structure of the pendulum prevents feeding of the recording sheet during image transmission.

In step S 301 of FIG. 19 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether the pendulum is positioned at the document side. If the pendulum is at the document side, the CPU 1 - 1 returns to the previous flow. On the other hand, if the pendulum is not at the document side, the CPU 1 - 1 operates the motor (e.g. a positive rotation) so as to move the pendulum to the document side in step S 302 . In step S 303 , the CPU 1 - 1 detects the position of the pendulum. The CPU 1 - 1 then repeatedly performs steps S 302 and S 303 until the CPU 1 - 1 detects that the position of the pendulum is at the document side.

In the standby mode, the CPU 1 - 1 starts from step S 301 . On the other hand, in the power-on mode, the CPU 1 - 1 starts from step S 302 because the position of the pendulum is uncertain when the power is turned on. Therefore, the CPU 1 - 1 drives the motor (step motor) by fixed steps so as to fix the position of the pendulum.

FIG. 20 is a flow chart showing the process of feeding of the recording sheet (e.g. step S 71 of FIG. 13 ).

In step S 304 , the CPU 1 - 1 checks the position of the pendulum. In a case where the pendulum is not at the recording sheet side, the CPU 1 - 1 drives the motor by one step in step S 305 , and again checks the pendulum position in step S 306 . The CPU 1 - 1 then repeatedly performs steps S 305 and S 306 until the CPU 1 - 1 detects that the pendulum is at the recording sheet side.

In a case where the position of the pendulum is at the recording sheet side, the CPU 1 - 1 drives the motor by one step in step S 307 , and checks if a fixed feeding operation is finished in accordance with the detection of a sensor in step S 308 . The CPU 1 - 1 then repeatedly performs steps S 307 and S 308 until the CPU 1 - 1 detects that the fixed feeding operation is finished. Then in step S 307 , the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether the pendulum should be on the document side or the recording sheet side after the feeding operation. In an initial feeding operation of a copy operation or a facsimile reception, the pendulum must be on the recording sheet side because the printing operation is performed after the feeding operation. In the feeding of the recording sheet with the copy key in the standby condition, the pendulum must be returned to the document side. In a case where the pendulum must be returned to the document side, the CPU 1 - 1 performs the operation of the standby feeding mode ( FIG. 19 ) in step S 310 , and then returns to the previous flow.

FIG. 21 is a flow chart showing the document feeding operation (e.g. step S 66 of FIG. 17 ).

In step S 311 of FIG. 21 , the CPU 1 - 1 performs the standby feeding operation, and thereby switches the pendulum to the document side. In step S 312 , the CPU 1 - 1 drives the motor for feeding by one step, thereby feeding the document. In step S 313 , the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether the document feeding operation is finished. In a case where the CPU 1 - 1 detects that the feeding operation is finished, the CPU 1 - 1 returns from step S 313 to the previous flow.

FIG. 22 is a flow chart showing the copy operation (step S 701 of FIG. 13 ). In step S 100 of FIG. 22 , the CPU 1 - 1 performs the recording sheet feeding operation (FIG. 20 ), thereby feeding the recording sheet to a predetermined position of the recorder 1 - 6 . In step S 101 , the CPU 1 - 1 checks the value of a signal BAT/AC which indicates an AC power or the battery power. When AC power is used, the signal BAT/AC becomes “0” because the signal BAT/AC which is pulled up +5V is connected to a ground line by the connecting terminal of the AC power unit. On the other hand, in a case where the battery power is used, the signal BAT/AC becomes “1”. In a case where a car battery is used, the signal BAT/AC depends on a switch of the car battery power unit. When the capacity of the car battery is large, the switch is turned on so that the signal BAT/AC becomes “0”. On the other hand, when the capacity of the car battery is small, the switch is turned off so that the signal BAT/AC becomes “1”.

If the value of the signal BAT/AC is “0” in step S 101 , the CPU 1 - 1 sets the full printing mode in step S 102 . If the value of the signal BAT/AC is “1”, the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether the economy mode is selected in step S 103 . When the economy mode is selected, the CPU 1 - 1 sets a partial printing mode (first partial printing mode) which is to print data partially in step S 109 . When the economy mode is not selected, the CPU 1 - 1 sets a different partial printing mode (second partial printing mode) which prints data partially when black ratio data to be printed is over fifty percent in step S 108 . The CPU 1 - 1 then performs the copying operation in step S 105 , performs the standby feeding operation in step S 106 , causes the buzzer 1 - 14 to generate an end tone which indicates that the copy operation is terminated in step S 107 , and then returns to the standby condition. The first partial printing mode and the second partial printing mode save energy when battery or a car battery is used. These two modes are also used when printing received image data.

FIG. 23 is a flow chart showing an operation of a monitor selecting mode A (step S 408 of FIG. 25 , step S 605 of FIG. 34 ).

In step S 201 of FIG. 23 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether the monitor has been turned on.

In a case where the monitor has been turned on, the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether a first page is being received in step S 905 . If the first page is being received, the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether the destination is a facsimile machine in step S 202 . If the destination is a facsimile machine, the CPU 1 - 1 turns the monitor off in step S 203 .

FIG. 24 is a flow chart showing the operation of a FAX monitor selecting mode which turns the monitor on and off by the copy key during facsimile communication.

In step S 204 of FIG. 24 , the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether facsimile communication is being performed. In a case where facsimile communication is being performed, the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether the copy key is being pushed in step S 207 . If the copy key is depressed, the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether a monitor operation is being performed in step S 208 . If so, the CPU 1 - 1 stops the monitor operation in step S 209 . On the other hand, in a case where the monitor operation is not being performed, the CPU 1 - 1 starts monitor operation in step S 210 .

FIGS. 25 through 33 together form a flow chart showing the operation of the reception mode (step S 31 of FIG. 14 ).

In step S 401 of FIG. 25 , the CPU 1 - 1 performs the monitor selecting mode (FIG. 18 ), sends to the destination a DIS which includes information on the communication speed and the ECM set in the start key mode in step S 402 , and checks whether a DCS has been received from the destination in step S 403 . If a DCS has not been received, the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether an initial identification time-out (e.g. 35 seconds) has occurred in step S 410 . If so, the CPU 1 - 1 performs an end procedure of the image reception in step S 412 , and then returns to the standby condition.

In a case where a DCS has been received from the destination before the initial identification timer has expired, in step S 404 the CPU 1 - 1 sets an image reception mode in accordance with information included in the received DCS. In step S 405 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether ECM communication is being performed. If so, the CPU 1 - 1 sets the flag ECM-MODE in step S 407 . On the other hand, in a case where ECM communication is not being performed, the CPU 1 - 1 clears the flag ECM-MODE in step S 406 . In step S 408 , the CPU 1 - 1 performs the operation of the monitor selecting mode A, and thereby decides if the monitor is operated. Then, in step S 413 of FIG. 26 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether ECM communication is being performed, in accordance with the flag ECM-MODE, if the flag ECM-MODE is on, the CPU 1 - 1 shifts from step S 413 to step S 4 33 of FIG. 29 , and performs ECM reception. On the other hand, if the flag ECM-MODE is not on, the CPU 1 - 1 performs normal facsimile reception in step S 414 , and checks whether a recording sheet is in the recorder 1 - 6 in step S 415 . If a recording sheer is in the recorder 1 - 6 , the CPU 1 - 1 causes the recorder 1 - 6 to print one line of received image data in step S 418 and checks whether the line of received image data has been printed in step S 419 . If the line of received image data has not yet been printed, the CPU 1 - 1 returns to step S 414 so as to continue to receive and print image data. On the other hand, if the line has been printed, the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether an RTC is detected or not in received data in step S 420 . If no RTC is detected, the CPU 1 - 1 returns to step S 414 so as to continue to monitor signals. In a case where the RTC is detected in step S 420 , the CPU 1 - 1 shifts from steps S 420 to step S 421 of FIG. 27 and then performs the next procedure.

On the other hand, in a case where the recording sheet is not in the recorder 1 - 6 in step S 415 , the CPU 1 - 1 performs an operation of an operator call A ( FIG. 28 ) so as to require an operator to set a recording sheet in step S 416 . In the operator call A operation, the CPU 1 - 1 stores received image data in an image memory (RAM 1 - 3 ) until a recording sheet is set by the operator. Then, in step S 417 , the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether the recording sheet is in the recorder 1 - 6 , and if so, the CPU 1 - 1 shifts to step S 418 so as to continue to print the received image data. If no recording sheet is in the recorder 1 - 6 , the CPU 1 - 1 shifts from step S 417 to step S 421 (FIG. 27 ).

In steps S 421 , S 422 and S 423 , the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether an MPS, an EOM or an EOP, respectively, is detected. When these signals are not detected, the CPU 1 - 1 sends a DCN to the line through the modem 1 - 8 and the NCU 1 - 9 in step S 429 , performs the end procedure of receiving ( FIG. 33 ) in step S 430 , and then returns to the standby condition.

If the EOP is detected in step S 423 , the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether the quality of the received image data is satisfactory in step S 424 . When the quality of the received image data is adequate, the CPU 1 - 1 sends an MCF to the line through the modem 1 - 8 and the NCU 1 - 9 in step S 425 . When the quality of the received image is unsatisfactory (i.e. the received image data has more errors than permitted by a predetermined standard), the CPU 1 - 1 sends an RTN to the line in step S 427 . The CPU 1 - 1 then performs the end procedure of receiving in step S 426 , and returns to the standby condition.

In a case where the MPS or the EOM is detected in step S 421 or step S 422 , the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether a recording sheet is in the recorder 1 - 6 in step S 428 . If so, the CPU 1 - 1 sends the MCF to the line in step S 431 , and then shifts to step S 402 , step S 403 or step S 413 . When the EOM is detected in step S 422 , the CPU 1 - 1 shifts from step S 431 to step S 402 or step S 403 . When the MPS is detected in step S 421 , the CPU 1 - 1 shifts from step S 431 to step S 413 .

On the other hand, in a case where no recording sheet is in the recorder 1 - 6 in step S 428 , the CPU 1 - 1 sends the DCN to the line in step S 429 , performs the end procedure of receiving in step S 430 , and then returns to the standby condition.

FIG. 28 is a flow chart showing the operation of the operator call A (step S 418 of FIG. 26 ).

In step S 459 of FIG. 28 , the CPU 1 - 1 starts a requiring operation which requires an operator to set a recording sheet in the recorder 1 - 6 , and which generates an alarm tone and/or displays an alarm.

In step S 460 the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether a recording sheet is set in the recorder 1 - 6 . In a case where a recording sheet is not set, in step S 461 the CPU 1 - 1 checks the capacity of the image memory which is available to store received image data. If the capacity of the image memory is above a predetermined quantity, the CPU 1 - 1 checks the time elapsed from the start of the requiring operation in step S 462 .

In a case where a recording sheet is not set in step S 460 , where there is image memory available in step S 461 , and where the time is not more than a predetermined time (e.g. 5 seconds) in step S 462 , the CPU 1 - 1 receives image signals and stores received image data in the image memory in step S 467 , performs a requiring operation switching mode ( FIG. 42 ) in step S 908 , and then returns to step S 460 .

If a recording sheet is set in the recorder 1 - 6 in step S 460 , the CPU 1 - 1 stops the requiring operation in step S 468 , checks stored image data to be printed in step S 469 and discriminates whether the stored image data must b e printed in step S 470 . If the printing operation must be performed, the CPU 1 - 1 returns from step S 470 to step S 417 of FIG. 26 . If printing does not need to be performed, the CPU 1 - 1 shifts from step S 470 to step S 421 of FIG. 27 . For example, when one page of image data has been received (the RTC has been received), or when the quantity of the stored image data is less than a predetermined amount, the CPU 1 - 1 determines not to print the stored image data.

In a case where image memory is not available in step S 461 , the CPU 1 - 1 performs the end procedure of receiving in step S 466 , and then returns to the standby condition.

In a case where the time elapsed from the start of the requiring operation is more than the predetermined time in step S 462 , the CPU 1 - 1 stops the requiring operation in step S 463 , checks the stored image data to be printed in step S 464 , and discriminates whether the stored image data must be printed in step S 465 , If the stored data must be printed, the CPU 1 - 1 performs the end procedure of receiving in step S 466 , and then returns to the standby condition. On the other hand, if the stored image data need not be printed, the CPU 1 - 1 shifts from step S 465 to step S 421 of FIG. 27 .

When the ECM reception is performed in step S 413 of FIG. 26 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether received frame data is capable of being printed in step S 433 of FIG. 29 . If the received frame data cannot be printed, the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether an RCP has been received in step S 442 . If no RCP is received, the CPU 1 - 1 receives image signals in step S 445 , and then returns to step S 433 . If the RCP is received in step S 442 , the CPU 1 - 1 shifts to step S 446 of FIG. 30 , and then performs a procedure of phase D.

On the other hand, if the received frame data can be printed in step S 433 , the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether the RCP has been received in step S 434 . If no RCP is received, the CPU 1 - 1 receives image signals in step S 435 . If an RCP is received, the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether all frame data has been printed in step S 443 , If less than all frame data has been printed, the CPU 1 - 1 shifts from step S 443 to step S 446 of FIG. 30 , if all frame data has been printed, in step S 444 the CPU 1 - 1 performs an ECM binary receiving procedure ( FIG. 31 ) which is to perform flow control.

Then, in step S 436 , the CPU 1 - 1 decodes the received image data, and checks whether one line of image data is decoded and whether the line of image data is able to be printed in step S 437 . If one line of image data has not been decoded in step S 437 , the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether the decoding of one frame of data is finished in step S 440 . If one frame of data is finished, the CPU 1 - 1 shifts from step S 440 to step S 433 . If the decoding of one frame of data is not finished, the CPU 1 - 1 returns to step S 434 .

In a case where one line of image data is decoded, and where the line of image data is able to be printed, the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether a recording sheet is in the recorder 1 - 6 in step S 438 . If so, the CPU 1 - 1 causes the recorder 1 - 6 to print the line of image data in step S 439 , and then returns to step S 434 . On the other had, if no recording sheet is in the recorder 1 - 6 , the CPU 1 - 1 performs an operation of an operator call B ( FIG. 32 ) in step S 441 . In a case where a recording sheet is set in the procedure operator call B, the CPU 1 - 1 shifts to step S 430 .

In step S 446 of FIG. 30 the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether a PPS-Q (Q is EOP, EOM, MPS or NULL) is received, and if the PPS-Q is not received, the CPU 1 - 1 receives a binary signal in step S 452 .

In step S 447 , the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether the received binary signal is the PPS-EOP.

In a case where the received binary signal is not the PPS-EOP, and where the received binary signal is the PPS-NULL, the PPS-MPS, or the PPS-EOM, the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether a recording sheet is in the recorder 1 - 6 in step S 452 . If no recording sheet is in the recorder 1 - 6 , the CPU 1 - 1 performs the end procedure of receiving in step S 454 and then returns to the standby condition.

On the other hand, in a case where the received binary signal is the PPS-EOP in step S 447 , or where a recording sheet is in the recorder 1 - 6 in steps S 452 , the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether any error frame is in the received data in step S 448 . If an error frame is in the received data, the CPU 1 - 1 sends a PPR to the line through the modem 1 - 8 and the NCU 1 - 9 in step S 453 , and returns to step S 413 ( FIG. 26 ) to receive a frame retransmitted from the destination. If no error frame is in the received data, the CPU 1 - 1 sends the MCF to the line in step S 449 , and checks whether the received binary signal is the PPS-EOP in step S 450 . If the received binary signal is the PPS-EOP, the CPU 1 - 1 performs the end procedure of receiving in step S 451 , and then returns to the standby condition. If the received binary signal is not the PPS-EOP, the CPU 1 - 1 shifts to step S 402 , step S 403 or step S 413 in accordance with the type of received binary signal.

FIG. 31 is a flow chart showing the operation of the ECM binary receiving procedure (e.g. step S 444 of FIG. 29 ).

This ECM binary receiving procedure is performed while the stored image data is being printed or the requiring operation for setting a recording sheet is being performed.

In step S 455 , the CPU 1 - 1 receives a binary:signal. In step S 456 , the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether the PPS-Q has been received. If the PPS-Q is not received, the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether an RR is received in step S 457 .

In a case where the PPS-Q is received in step S 456 , or where the RR is received in step S 457 , the CPU 1 - 1 sends an RNR to the line in step S 458 , and then returns to the previous flow.

FIG. 32 is a flow chart showing the operation of the operator call B (step S 441 of FIG. 29 ).

In step S 471 of FIG. 32 , the CPU 1 - 1 starts the requiring operation for setting a recording sheet, and checks whether a recording sheet is in the recorder 1 - 6 in step S 472 . If so, the CPU 1 - 1 stops the requiring operation in step S 481 , checks the stored image data to be printed in step S 482 , and discriminates whether the stored image data must be printed in step S 483 . If the stored image data must be printed, the CPU 1 - 1 returns to the previous flow. On the other hand, if the stored image data need not be printed, the CPU 1 - 1 shifts from step S 483 to step S 446 (FIG. 30 ).

In a case where a recording sheet is not in the recorder 1 - 6 in step S 472 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether the RCP has been received in step S 473 . If the RCP is not received, the CPU 1 - 1 performs the image reception in step S 472 . If the RCP is received, the CPU 1 - 1 performs the ECM binary receiving procedure in step S 704 .

In step S 475 , the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether the capacity of the image memory, which is available to store image data, is above a predetermined amount. If not, the CPU 1 - 1 performs the end procedure of receiving in step S 480 , and then returns to the standby condition. If the capacity of the image memory is above the predetermined amount, the CPU 1 - 1 checks the time elapsed from starting the requiring operation in step S 476 . In a case where the time is less than the predetermined time, the CPU 1 - 1 performs the operation of the requiring operation switching mode ( FIG. 42 ) in step S 909 , and then returns to step S 472 . On the other hand, in a case where the time is greater than the predetermined time, the CPU 1 - 1 stops the requiring operation in step S 477 , checks the stored image data to be printed in step S 478 , and discriminates whether the stored image data must be printed in step S 479 . If the stored image data must be printed, the CPU 1 - 1 performs the end procedure of receiving in step S 480 , and then returns to the standby condition. If the stored image data need not be printed, the CPU 1 - 1 shifts from step S 479 to step S 446 (FIG. 30 ).

FIG. 33 is a flow chart showing the end procedure of receiving (e.g. step S 412 of FIG. 25 , step S 426 of FIG. 27 ).

In step S 484 of FIG. 33 , the CPU 1 - 1 terminates the image reception in accordance with the procedure T. 30 which is the CCITT recommendation. The CPU 1 - 1 then stops the monitor operation of the line in step S 485 , and discriminates whether the recording sheet feeding operation is performed in step S 486 . In a case where no recording sheet is in the recorder 1 - 6 , or where no information has been printed on the recording sheet set in the recorder 1 - 6 , etc., the feeding operation is not performed. In a case where some information has been printed on the recording sheet set in the recording 1 - 6 , the CPU 1 - 1 performs the feeding operation in step S 487 .

In step S 488 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether the image reception was an error. If so, the CPU 1 - 1 causes the buzzer 1 - 14 to generate an error tone and turns on an error lamp of the console unit 1 - 4 in step S 490 . If the image reception was not an error, the CPU 1 - 1 causes the buzzer 1 - 14 to generate an end tone in step S 489 , and then returns to the standby condition.

FIG. 34 through FIG. 41 together form a flow chart showing the transmission mode operation (step S 30 of FIG. 14 ).

In step S 601 of FIG. 34 the CPU 1 - 1 initializes the transmission speed at the start time and the flag ECM-MODE, etc. In Step S 602 , the CPU 1 - 1 decides whether to operate the monitor operation of the line. The CPU 1 - 1 then checks whether a timer T1 (to time e.g. 35 seconds), which has started in step S 601 , has timed out in step S 603 , and checks whether the DIS has been received in step S 604 . In a case where the DIS is received before the timer T1 has expired, the CPU 1 - 1 performs the monitor selecting A ( FIG. 23 ) in step S 605 . On the other hand, in a case where the timer T1 has expired without the DIS being received, the CPU 1 - 1 performs an end procedure of transmitting ( FIG. 41 ) in step S 611 , and then returns to the standby condition.

In step S 606 , the CPU 1 - 1 discriminates whether ECM transmission is possible, in accordance with information as to reception of the DIS and information as to ECM communication set in the start key mode (i.e. ON/OFF). If ECM transmission is possible, the CPU 1 - 1 sets the flag ECM-MODE in step S 613 . If ECM transmission is not possible, the CPU 1 - 1 clears the flag ECM-MODE in step S 607 . Then, in step S 608 , the CPU 1 - 1 sends the DCS and a TCF to the line, and checks whether a result of the training is acceptable in step S 609 . If the result of the training is not adequate, the CPU 1 - 1 returns to step S 606 and sends the DCS and the TCF to the line again. In a case where the result of the training is satisfactory in step S 609 , the CPU 1 - 1 performs image transmission ( FIG. 39 ) in step S 610 , and checks whether the flag ECM-MODE is on in step S 614 of FIG. 35 . If the flag ECM-MODE is on, the CPU 1 - 1 shifts from step S 614 to step S 625 of FIG. 36 , and performs a phase D of the ECM transmission. If the flag ECM-MODE is not on, the CPU 1 - 1 performs a phase D of the normal G 3 transmission.

In step S 615 , the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether the next document has been set. If the next document has not been set, the CPU 1 - 1 sends the EOP to the line in step S 620 , performs the end procedure of transmitting (FIG. 41 ), and then returns to the standby condition. On the other hand, if the next document has been set, the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether the transmission mode is changed in step S 616 . If the transmission mode is changed, the CPU 1 - 1 sends the EOM to the line in step S 623 . If the transmission mode is not changed, the CPU 1 - 1 sends the MPS to the line in step S 617 . Then, the CPU 1 - 1 performs the end procedure of transmitting ( FIG. 41 ) in step S 618 , and checks whether the image transmission is able to be continued in step S 619 . If the image transmission can not be continued, the CPU 1 - 1 performs the end procedure of transmitting in step S 624 , and then returns to the standby condition. Otherwise, the CPU 1 - 1 shifts from step S 619 to step S 603 , step S 606 or step S 610 (FIG. 34 ). When the MPS is sent in step S 617 , the CPU 1 - 1 shifts to step S 610 . When the EOM is sent in step S 623 , the CPU 1 - 1 shifts to step S 603 or step S 606 .

In a case where the flag ECM-MODE is on in step S 614 , the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether a page of image data to be transmitted is less than one block ( 256 flags) in step S 625 (FIG. 36 ). If a page is not less than one block, the CPU 1 - 1 sends the PPS-NULL to the line in seep S 631 , and then shifts to step S 629 . If a page of image data is less than one block, the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether another page of documents is set in the reader 1 - 5 in responsive to a requiring operation for setting a document after the reading of the previous document has been finished in step S 626 . If no next page has been set, the CPU 1 - 1 sends the PPS-EOP to the line in step S 632 , performs the end procedure of transmitting in step S 633 , and then returns to the standby condition. If a next page is set in step S 626 , the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether the transmission mode is changed in step S 627 . If the transmission mode is changed, the CPU 1 - 1 sends the PPS-EOM to the line in step S 634 . On the other hand, if the transmission mode is not changed, the CPU 1 - 1 sends the PPS-MPS to the line in step S 628 .

In step S 629 , the CPU 1 - 1 performs a procedure for continuing the image transmission in step S 629 , and checks whether the image transmission is able to be continued in step S 630 . If the image transmission is not able to be continued, the CPU 1 - 1 performs the end procedure of transmitting in step S 635 , and then returns to the standby condition. If the image transmission is able to be continued, the CPU 1 - 1 shifts from step S 630 to either step S 603 , step S 606 , or step S 610 (FIG. 34 ).

FIG. 37 and FIG. 38 together form a flow chart showing image transmission (step S 610 of FIG. 34 ).

In step S 636 of FIG. 37 , the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether the flag ECM-MODE is on. If the flag ECM-MODE is on, the CPU 1 - 1 shifts from step S 636 to step S 656 of FIG. 38 . If the flag ECM-MODE is not on, the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether the document is finished in step S 637 . If the document is not finished, the CPU 1 - 1 sends image signals to the line in step S 642 , and then returns to step S 637 . In a case where the document is finished in step S 637 , the CPU 1 - 1 starts a requiring operation (e.g. generating an alarm tone, or displaying an alarm) for setting an additional document in step S 638 , and checks whether the additional document is set in the reader 1 - 5 in step S 639 . If no additional document is set the CPU 1 - 1 checks the time elapsed from the start the requiring operation for setting a document in step S 640 . In a case where the time elapsed is less than 5 seconds, the CPU 1 - 1 performs an image transmission B 1 (FIG. 39 ( a )) or an image transmission B 2 (FIG. 39 ( b )) in step S 641 , performs the requiring operation switching mode ( FIG. 42 ) in step S 906 , and then returns to step S 639 . On the other hand, in a case where the time elapsed is over 5 seconds, the CPU 1 - 1 shifts from step S 640 to step S 644 . In a case where an additional document is set before the time exceeds 5 seconds, the CPU 1 - 1 performs the feeding operation of the original document ( FIG. 21 ) in step S 643 , stops the requiring operation of setting the document in step S 644 , and checks whether a final line of image data has been sent to the line in step S 645 . If the final line of image data has not been sent, the CPU 1 - 1 sends image signals to the line in step S 646 . If the final line of image data is sent, the CPU 1 - 1 sends the RTC to the line in step S 647 , and then returns to the previous flow.

The image transmission B 1 and B 2 are processes to insert fill data between one line and the next line, or between a final line and the RTC, so as to hold the communication line.

In the image transmission B 2 (FIG. 39 ( a )), the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether the final line of image data has been sent in step S 648 , and if so, the CPU 1 - 1 sends fill data to the communication line in step S 649 . On the other hand, if the final line of image data has not been sent, the CPU 1 - 1 sends image signals to the communication line in step S 650 .

In the image transmission B 2 (FIG. 39 ( b )), the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether the final line of image data has been sent or not in step S 65 l, and if not, the CPU 1 - 1 sends one line of image data to the communication line and clears a timer T4 in step S 653 . The CPU 1 - 1 then checks whether the timer T4 is expired in step S 654 , and checks whether an additional document is set in the reader 1 - 5 in step S 655 . In a case where the timer T4 has expired, or where an additional document is set before the timer T4 has expired, the CPU 1 - 1 returns to step S 906 (FIG. 37 ). In a case where no additional document is set, the CPU 1 - 1 sends fill data to the communication line in step S 656 until timer T4 has expired. If the final line of image data has been sent in step S 651 , the CPU 1 - 1 sends fill data to the communication line in step S 652 and then returns to step S 906 (FIG. 37 ).

In a case where the flag ECM-MODE is on in step S 638 , in step S 656 the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether the sending of one block of data ( 256 frames) is finished (FIG. 38 ).

If one block of data is not finished being sent, the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether the document is finished in step S 657 . If not, the CPU 1 - 1 sends image signals to the communication line in step S 662 . If the document is finished, in step S 658 , the CPU 1 - 1 starts the requiring operation of setting a document in step S 658 , and checks whether a document is set in the reader 1 - 5 in step S 659 . If not, the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether the time elapsed since starting the requiring operation is over a predetermined time (e.g. 5 seconds) in step S 660 , and if the elapsed time is less than the predetermined time, the CPU 1 - 1 performs an image transmission A 1 (FIG. 40 ( a )) or an image transmission A 2 (FIG. 40 ( b )) in step S 661 . The CPU 1 - 1 then performs the requiring operation switching mode ( FIG. 42 ) in step S 907 , and returns to step S 659 . On the other hand, if the elapsed time is greater than the redetermined time in step S 660 , the CPU 1 - 1 shifts to step S 664 .

If a document is set in the reader 1 - 5 in step S 659 , the CPU 1 - 1 performs the document feeding operation ( FIG. 21 ) in step S 663 , stops the requiring operation for setting a document in step S 664 , and checks whether sending one block data (256 frames) is finished in step S 665 . In a case where sending one block data is finished in step S 656 or step S 665 , the CPU 1 - 1 sends the RCP to the communication line in step S 668 , and then returns to the previous flow.

If sending one block of data (256 frames) is not finished in step S 665 , the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether all frames have been sent in step S 666 , and if not, the CPU 1 - 1 sends image signals to the communication line in step S 667 . If all frames have been sent in step S 666 , the CPU 1 - 1 shifts to step S 668 .

The image transmission A 1 and A 2 are processes to insert flags between one frame and the next so as to hold the communication line.

In the image transmission A 1 (FIG. 40 ( a )), the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether all frames have been sent in step S 669 , and if not, the CPU 1 - 1 sends image signals to the communication line in step S 671 . On the other hand, if all frames have been sent, the CPU 1 - 1 sends flags to the communication line in step S 670 .

In the image transmission A 2 (FIG. 40 ( b )), the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether all frames have been sent in step S 672 , and if so, the CPU 1 - 1 sends flags to the communication line in step S 677 . If all frames have not been sent, the CPU 1 - 1 sends one frame of data to the communication line and clears a timer T3 in step S 673 .

In step S 674 the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether the timer T3 as expired. If so, the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether a document is set in the reader 1 - 5 in step S 675 . In a case where the timer T3 has expired, or where a document is set in the reader 1 - 5 before the timer T3 has expired, the CPU 1 - 1 returns to step S 907 (FIG. 38 ). In a case where no document is set, and where the timer T3 has not expired, the CPU 1 - 1 sends flags to the communication line in step S 695 .

FIG. 41 is a flow chart showing the end procedure of transmitting (step S 624 of FIG. 35 and steps S 633 and S 635 of FIG. 36 ).

In step S 678 of FIG. 41 , the CPU 1 - 1 performs a protocol which is to finish the image transmission and which accords with the recommendation T 30 by the CCITT. CPU 1 - 1 then stops the monitor operation in step S 679 , and checks if the document must be fed in step S 680 . If the document must be fed, the CPU 1 - 1 performs the document feeding operation in step S 681 .

In step S 682 , the CPU 1 - 1 checks whether the image transmission was an error, and if not, the CPU 1 - 1 causes the buzzer 1 - 14 to generate an end tone in step S 683 , and then returns to the standby condition. If the image transmission was an error, the CPU 1 - 1 causes the buzzer 1 - 14 to generate an error tone and turns on an error lamp in step S 684 , and then returns to the standby condition.

FIG. 42 is a flow chart showing the requiring operation switching mode (step S 906 of FIG. 37 , step S 907 of FIG. 38 , step S 908 of FIG. 28 , and step S 909 of FIG. 32 ).

In step S 910 of FIG. 42 , the CPU 1 - 1 checks the time elapsed from starting the requiring operation of setting a document (or a recording sheet). In a case where the elapsed time is not greater than predetermined time, in step S 911 the CPU 1 - 1 causes the buzzer 1 - 14 to generate an alarm tome intermittently and turns an LED on and off. If the elapsed time is greater than the predetermined time, the CPU 1 - 1 turns the LED on and off in step S 912 (the CPU 1 - 1 stops generating the alarm tone), and then returns to the previous flow.

As described above, this facsimile apparatus requires an operator to set a recording sheet or a document in the ECM and G 3 communication, and performs a procedure for holding the communication line during the requiring operation of setting a recording sheet or a document. In this fashion, the operator can set a recording sheet or a document without causing an error in the image communication.

Further, this facsimile apparatus changes the requiring operation of setting a recording sheet or a document in accordance with the time elapsed from starting the requiring operation. Consequently, the operator can recognize a condition of the facsimile apparatus appropriately, and this facsimile apparatus can provide a compact and an appropriate operation.

Although a particular embodiment of the present invention is disclosed herein for purposes of explanation, various modifications thereof, after study of this specification, will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains.

Claims

1. A communication apparatus comprising:a modem having a power save mode for saving power; actuation means to allow an operator to operate said communication apparatus, said actuation means including a first key and a second key, wherein said second key is not a telephone dialing key; determination means for determining which of said first key and said second key is actuated by the operator: and control means for setting and releasing the power save mode of said modem, wherein said control means sets the power save mode when said modem is not used for communication, releases the power save mode in accordance with the actuation of said first key, and does not release the power save mode in accordance with the actuation of said second key.

2. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said first key is a start key for starting communication.

3. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said second key is one of group comprising a copy key for starting copying, a communication mode setting key for setting a communication mode, an economy mode setting key for performing a low-power recording and a stop key for stopping the operation of said apparatus.

4. An method of operating a communication apparatus, the communication apparatus including a modem having a power save mode for saving power, comprising the steps of:setting the power save mode when the modem is not being used for communication; actuating a first key or a second key of the communication apparatus, wherein said second key is not a telephone dialing key; determining which of the first key and the second key is actuated in said actuating step; releasing the power save mode of the modem when it has been determined that the first key has been actuated; and not releasing the power save mode when it has been determined that the second key has been actuated.

5. A method according to claim 4, wherein the first key is a start key for starting communication.

6. A method according to claim 4, wherein the second key is one of group comprising a copy key for starting copying, a communication mode setting key for setting a communication mode, an economy mode setting key for performing a low-power recording and a stop key for stopping the operation of said apparatus.

7. A communication apparatus comprising:a modem having a power save mode for saving power; actuation means to allow an operator to operate said communication apparatus, said actuation means including a first key and a second key, wherein said second key is not a telephone dialing key; determination means for determining which of said first key and said second key is actuated by the operator; a recorder that performs a recording operation in accordance with the actuation of said second key; and a processor for setting and releasing the power save mode of said modem, wherein said processor sets the power save mode when said modem is not used for communication, releases the power save mode in accordance with the actuation of said first key, and does not release the power save mode in accordance with the actuation of said second key.

8. A communication apparatus comprising:a modem having a power save mode for saving power; actuation means to allow an operator to operate said communication apparatus, said actuation means including a first key and a second key, wherein said second key is not a telephone dialing key; determination means for determining which of said first key and said second key is actuated by the operator; a reader that performs a reading operation in accordance with the actuation of said second key; and a processor for setting and releasing the power save mode of said modem, wherein said processor sets the power save mode when said modem is not used for communication, releases the power save mode in accordance with the actuation of said first key, and does not release the power save mode in accordance with the actuation of said second key.

9. A method of operating a communication apparatus, the communication apparatus including a modem having a power save mode for saving power, comprising the steps of:setting the power save mode when the modem is not being used for communication; actuating a first key or a second key of the communication apparatus, wherein said second key is not a telephone dialing key; determining which of the first key and the second key is actuated in said actuating step; releasing the power save mode of the modem when it has been determined that the first key has been actuated; and performing a recording operation and not releasing the power save mode when it has been determined that the second key has been actuated.

10. A method of operating a communication apparatus, the communication apparatus including a modem having a power save mode for saving power, comprising the steps of:setting the power save mode when the modem is not being used for communication; actuating a first key or a second key of the communication apparatus, wherein said second key is not a telephone dialing key; determining which of the first key and the second key is actuated in said actuating step; releasing the power save mode of the modem when it has been determined that the first key has been actuated; and performing a reading operation and not releasing the power save mode when it has been determined that the second key has been actuated.