JP2001306170A - Image processing device, image processing system, method for restricting use of image processing device and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image processing device, an image processing system, a method for restricting use of the image processing device and a storage medium, which can prohibit copying illegally software, unauthorized use of software by the use of a dongle, help users easily improve the functions of the image processing device and bring about improvement in availability. SOLUTION: The image processing device 101 has CPU 101H which changes a setting menu, when an initial setting is executed after the installment of the image processing device, corresponding to the data recorded in the external memory unit 106 and makes the initial setting impossible when the external memory unit 106 is not connected.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus, an image processing system, a method of restricting use of an image processing apparatus, and a storage medium. Image processing apparatus, image processing system, and method of restricting use of an image processing apparatus that prohibit unauthorized duplication (cloning) and unauthorized use of software, and easily improve the functions of the image processing apparatus at the user level And a storage medium.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is an image processing apparatus for transferring data from a computer to an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine and instructing various functions. When the functions of the image processing apparatus are upgraded, software upgrades that may require additional hardware are generally performed. in this case,
In order to perform the above functions, a CD-ROM containing the system software must be inserted into the CD-ROM of the image processing apparatus each time.
-Installation must be performed after inserting it into the ROM drive. At present, installation of system software that has been upgraded to enhance the system functions cannot be performed by the user himself, but is performed by a service person.

[0003]

By the way, illegal copying and unauthorized use in an image processing apparatus composed of general-purpose hardware, general-purpose software, and utilities and software groups operating based on them are prohibited. There is a dongle as an application for this. In package application software, the method of using the above-mentioned dongle is generally used as a method of prohibiting illegal copying and unauthorized use.
The dongle is inserted between the keyboard of the computer on which the package application software runs and the CPU, and the dongle stores information corresponding to the symbol number of the application software on a one-to-one basis. Is inserted,
The system does not allow installation or operation.

To install the system software in the image processing apparatus, insert the CD-ROM containing the system software into a CD-ROM drive mounted on the image processing apparatus, and install the system software in the image processing apparatus. Data is being written to the hard disk. When the function is changed, it is necessary to write the system software from the CD-ROM each time. Also, if incorrect hardware components are detected,
If the installation of the system software is prohibited at that time or a special password is not entered, rewriting and overwriting of the system software are prohibited.

In the prior art, it is still insufficient to prohibit unauthorized duplication or unauthorized use of the software of the image processing apparatus, and the functions of the image processing apparatus must be upgraded every time from the CD-ROM to the system software. There is a problem that it is complicated because it is necessary to write the software.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and uses a dongle to prohibit unauthorized duplication and unauthorized use of software of an image processing apparatus. It is an object of the present invention to provide an image processing apparatus, an image processing system, an image processing apparatus use restriction method, and a storage medium, which are capable of improving the operation rate of the image processing apparatus so as to be able to increase the operation rate.

[0007]

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image processing apparatus connectable to an external data storage device, wherein an initial setting is performed after the image processing apparatus is installed. While changing the setting menu according to the data registered in the external data storage device,
When the external data storage device is not connected, a control unit that performs control for disabling the initial setting is provided.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 2 has a connection means for detecting the presence or absence of connection of the external data storage device and connecting the external data storage device to the external data storage device. The device is a storage device in which registration data cannot be rewritten.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 3 is characterized in that the control means restricts an instruction which can be written to a work instruction storage area built in the image processing device when the external data storage device is not connected. Is added.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 4 is characterized in that, when the external data storage device is not connected, the control means stores the work instruction in a normal operation after writing system software. It is characterized in that a command that can be read from the area is restricted.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 5 is characterized in that, when the external data storage device is not connected, the control means performs the image processing device in a normal operation after writing system software. The present invention is characterized in that the number of usable fonts of a font registered therein is changed.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 6 is characterized in that, when the external data storage device is not connected, the control means executes the image processing device in a normal operation after writing system software. It is characterized in that the clock speed of the internal arithmetic unit is changed.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 7, wherein the control means, when the external data storage device is not connected, executes the image processing device in a normal operation after writing system software. Is characterized in that the number of users who can simultaneously use is limited.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 8 is characterized in that, when the external data storage device is not connected, the control means executes the image processing device in a normal operation after writing system software. It is characterized in that a restriction is imposed on the electronic sorting function for the copying apparatus connected to the printer.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the external data storage device can be connected to an information processing device which is network-connected to the image processing device and which can operate the image processing device. There is a feature.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, when the external data storage device is connected, the control means includes a MAC address stored in the external data storage device and the connection means. It is characterized in that whether to permit the transition to the setup mode is determined based on whether or not the MAC address of the above hardware matches.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image processing apparatus connectable to an external data storage apparatus, a copying apparatus connectable to the image processing apparatus, and a network connection between the image processing apparatus and the image processing apparatus. An image processing system comprising: an information processing device capable of performing an initial setting after installation of the image processing device, wherein the setting menu is used to register data stored in the external data storage device. And a control unit that performs control to disable the initial setting when the external data storage device is not connected.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the image processing apparatus has connection means for detecting whether or not the external data storage device is connected and for connecting the external data storage device. The external data storage device is a storage device in which registered data cannot be rewritten.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 13, wherein the control means of the image processing apparatus includes a work instruction storage area built in the image processing apparatus when the external data storage device is not connected. It is characterized by adding restrictions to the instructions that can be written in the.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 14 is characterized in that the control means of the image processing apparatus performs the normal operation after writing the system software when the external data storage device is not connected. The present invention is characterized in that a command that can be read from the work command storage area is restricted.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, when the external data storage device is not connected, the control means of the image processing apparatus performs a normal operation after writing system software. The number of usable fonts of a font registered in the image processing apparatus is changed.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 16 is characterized in that, when the external data storage device is not connected, the control means of the image processing apparatus performs a normal operation after writing system software. The clock speed of an arithmetic unit inside the image processing apparatus is changed.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 17 is characterized in that the control means of the image processing apparatus performs the normal operation after writing the system software when the external data storage device is not connected. And limiting the number of users who can use the image processing apparatus at the same time.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 18 is characterized in that, when the external data storage device is not connected, the control means of the image processing apparatus performs a normal operation after writing system software. The electronic sorting function for the copying apparatus is limited.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 19 is characterized in that the external data storage device can be connected to the information processing device that can operate the image processing device.

According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, when the external data storage device is connected, the control means of the image processing device may be configured to control a MAC stored in the external data storage device. It is characterized in that it is determined whether or not the transition to the setup mode is permitted, based on whether or not the address matches the MAC address of the hardware on the connection means.

According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image processing apparatus use restriction method applied to an image processing apparatus connectable to an external data storage device, the method comprising: A control step of changing a setting menu at the time of setting according to the data registered in the external data storage device, and performing a control to disable the initial setting when the external data storage device is not connected. It is characterized by having.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 22 has a connection step of detecting whether or not the external data storage device is connected, wherein the external data storage device cannot rewrite registered data. Storage device.

According to a twenty-third aspect of the present invention, in the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, the command is limited to a command that can be written in a work command storage area built in the image processing device. Is added.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 24 is characterized in that in the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, the work instruction storage in the normal operation after writing of system software. It is characterized in that a command that can be read from the area is restricted.

According to a twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention, in the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, in the normal operation after writing of system software, the image processing device The present invention is characterized in that the number of usable fonts of a font registered therein is changed.

According to a twenty-sixth aspect of the present invention, in the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, in the normal operation after writing of system software, the image processing device It is characterized in that the clock speed of the internal arithmetic unit is changed.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 27 is characterized in that, in the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, the image processing device is operated in a normal operation after writing system software. Is characterized in that the number of users who can simultaneously use is limited.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 28, in the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, in the normal operation after writing system software, the image processing device It is characterized in that a restriction is imposed on the electronic sorting function for the copying apparatus connected to the printer.

In order to achieve the above object, an invention according to claim 29 is characterized in that the external data storage device is connectable to an information processing device which is network-connected to the image processing device and which can operate the image processing device. There is a feature.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 30 is characterized in that in the control step, when the external data storage device is connected, a MAC address stored in the external data storage device and the connection means It is characterized in that whether to permit the transition to the setup mode is determined based on whether or not the MAC address of the above hardware matches.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 31 is readable by a computer storing a program for executing an image processing device use restriction method applied to an image processing device connectable to an external data storage device. Storage medium, wherein the image processing device use restriction method,
A setting menu for performing initial setting after the image processing apparatus is installed is changed according to data registered in the external data storage device, and when the external data storage device is not connected, the initial setting is disabled. And a control step of performing control.

[0038] In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 32 has a connection step of controlling whether or not the external data storage device is connected, and the external data storage device stores the registered data. The storage device is not rewritable.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 33 is characterized in that, in the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, the command is limited to a command that can be written in a work command storage area built in the image processing device. Is controlled to be added.

According to a thirty-fourth aspect of the present invention, in the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, the work instruction storage is performed in a normal operation after writing system software. It is characterized in that control is performed so as to limit the commands that can be read from the area.

According to a thirty-fifth aspect of the present invention, in the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, in the normal operation after writing of system software, the image processing device The present invention is characterized in that the number of usable fonts of a font registered therein is controlled to be changed.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 36 is characterized in that in the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, in the normal operation after writing of system software, the image processing device It is characterized in that control is performed so as to change the clock speed of the internal arithmetic unit.

According to another aspect of the present invention, in the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, in the normal operation after writing system software, the image processing device Is controlled so as to limit the number of users that can be used simultaneously.

According to a thirty-eighth aspect of the present invention, in the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, in the normal operation after writing system software, It is characterized in that control is performed so as to limit the electronic sort function for the copying apparatus connected to the printer.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 39 is characterized in that the external data storage device can be connected to an information processing device which is network-connected to the image processing device and which can operate the image processing device. There is a feature.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 40 is characterized in that in the control step, when the external data storage device is connected, a MAC address stored in the external data storage device and the connection means It is characterized in that control is performed so as to determine whether or not to permit the transition to the setup mode based on whether or not the MAC address of the above hardware matches.

[0047]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS First, before describing the details of the embodiments of the present invention, the background and the essential points of the present invention will be described. For image processing devices, general-purpose software, from the viewpoint of shortening the development period, effectively utilizing development resources, reducing development costs, and sharing hardware and software,
A method of constructing a system by making full use of firmware, OS, and hardware has been adopted. In particular, the case of developing and designing from scratch is decreasing.

In an image processing apparatus having a basic configuration of a general-purpose personal computer (hardware, software, OS), a portion depending on an engine connected to the image processing apparatus is custom-developed. The part often uses general-purpose software and hardware, or adopts a method of preparing general-purpose hardware and utilities that run on the software and providing them to the user. The added value of the image processing system will be built by making the most of general-purpose technology.

The problem here is that if the above-mentioned general-purpose technology is utilized to the maximum, the hardware and software constituting the general-purpose technology must be versatile, and can be easily copied and cloned. The point is that it becomes possible to manufacture. In addition, such general-purpose hardware,
It is considered that how to protect the value-added portion operated by software from unauthorized copying and unauthorized use will be important in commercializing image processing apparatuses in the future.

According to the present invention, in order to protect these copyrights, when software is installed in an image processing apparatus or when an image processing apparatus is operated, illegal copying of system software and utilities is prohibited and illegal use is prohibited. The prohibition is realized.

According to the present invention, an interface with a general-purpose host computer is possible via an image processing apparatus, and under the control of the host computer, an interface function between an output device having scanner and printer functions and the host computer, a print function, and the like. A queue function, a spool function, a function of developing a vector image into a raster image by a page description language (PDL), an image processing function, and an output device control function are realized.

In an image processing system comprising an image processing device, an output device, a general-purpose host computer for controlling the image processing device and the output device, and control application software operating on the general-purpose host computer, In order to write instructions to the writable basic execution instruction storage area (PROM), work area (RAM), work instruction storage area (HDD-C), data storage area (HDD-D) and HDD as internal memories, (CD-ROM drive).
An external medium (CD) containing a series of codes for work instructions
-ROM) into a CD-ROM drive, and write a control command from the CD-ROM onto the HDD-C according to a predetermined basic execution command, thereby enabling software upgrade.

In order to guarantee software upgrade and system operation, the image processing apparatus is provided with an input / output port and a data storage device mounted on the input / output port. In the data storage device, number information unique to each image processing device determined at the time of shipment from the factory is stored. Further, the PROM on the image processing apparatus also stores the number information paired with the number information on a one-to-one basis. An image processing device that has limited functions provided by the system depending on the presence or absence of a data storage device connected to the input / output port of the image processing device when performing operations after system software installation or system software upgrade It is.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the image processing system according to the embodiment of the present invention. An image processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a digital copier 1
00, an image processing apparatus 101 to which an external monitor 104, an external operation unit 105, and an external data storage device (dongle) 106 can be connected, and a host computer 102. In the figure, reference numeral 103 denotes a general-purpose network.

More specifically, the digital copier 100 and the image processing apparatus 101 are connected via a dedicated interface, and the image processing apparatus 101 and the host computer 102 are connected to a network such as Ethernet (registered trademark). 103 or a general-purpose interface, transfer of images, text data, computer graphics data, and the like between the host computer 102 and the digital copier 100 and instructions of various functions are performed by the image processing apparatus 101. Via the Internet.

In the present embodiment, the digital copying machine 100 includes various copy functions such as original full-color copy function, monochrome color copy function, three-color copy function, twin-color copy function, enlargement / reduction ratio setting,
In addition to brightness adjustment, CRD selection, color mode (4 colors, monochrome) selection, image mode / character mode selection, sharpness setting, toner amount adjustment, and number of sheets specification, a double-sided printing function,
It has various extended functions such as sort function, staple function, paper feed function from paper deck, preview function, scan function from platen, color area specification function (copy mode area specification function). The host computer 102 is also configured to be able to specify the information via the image processing apparatus 101.

In this case, the preview function is to display an expected image on a display of the host computer 102 or a previewer connected to the image processing apparatus 101 to perform color adjustment and editing before printing out by the digital copying machine 100. , Layout and the like. Also,
The copy mode area designation function is a function for arbitrarily designating a print mode such as color printing, twin color printing, or monochrome printing for each document area.

The external monitor 104 is configured as a display device for displaying an error code, various messages, and the like described later. The external operation unit 105 includes, for example, a keyboard and the like. External data storage device (dongle) 10
Reference numeral 6 denotes a storage device whose registration data cannot be rewritten.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the image processing apparatus of the image processing system according to the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. An image processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an interface 101A, an interface 101B, a PDL processing unit / rasterizer 101C, an image processing unit 101D, a timer unit 101E, a spooler 101
F, CV soft counter 101G, CPU 101H, finishing memory 101I, job log memory 101
J, program memory 101K, CD-ROM drive 101L, general-purpose input / output port (Port D) 101
M, port for external monitor connection (Port M) 101
N, port for external operation unit connection (Port C) 101
O, local operation unit 101P, local display unit 101
Q, a RAM 101R, and an EEPROM 101S.

The above configuration will be described in detail.
01A exchanges data with the host computer 102 via the network 103. Interface 10
1B exchanges data with the digital copying machine 100 via a dedicated line. PDL processing unit / rasterizer 101C
Performs PDL data expansion and conversion processing. The image processing unit 101D performs gamma processing and color conversion processing on the bitmap image. The timer unit 101E is provided in the image processing device 10
A series of work times within 1 are managed. Spooler 101F
Temporarily stores the PDL data sent from the host computer 102 before starting the processing, and stores the processed data. The CV software counter 101G measures and manages the number of prints in communication with the digital copying machine 100.

The CPU 101H operates the spool, unfold,
A control unit that controls the entire image processing apparatus, such as image processing operations and communication, based on a program shown in FIG.
13 are executed. The finishing memory 101I is a memory that finishes an image. The job log memory 101J is a memory having an area for storing a history of a series of operations of the system. The program memory 101K is a memory having an area for storing instructions necessary for system operation. CD-R
The OM drive 101L is an external medium reading device for reading an instruction to write to the program memory 101K from an external medium (CD-ROM).

General-purpose input / output port (Port D) 101
M is a port to which the data storage device (dongle) 106 is connected. External monitor connection port (Port
M) 101N is a port to which an external monitor 104 is connected. External operation unit connection port (Port C) 1
“010” is a port to which the external operation unit 105 is connected. The local operation unit 101P is an operation unit provided on the image processing apparatus 101 for performing various operations. The local display unit 101Q is a display unit provided on the image processing apparatus 101 for performing various displays. RAM 101R is
This memory is used as a work area / volatile data storage area of the CPU 101H. EEPROM101S
Is a nonvolatile memory for storing an initial boot loader.

In this case, the job log memory 101J
Causes the digital copier 100 to execute various functions specified by the host computer 102, and keeps a record (log) of the job based on the specified function and the job specified in the image processing apparatus 101 itself. The spooler 101F has a print queue, a standby (Hold) queue,
There is a function of the processed queue. The print queue and the standby queue can be connected from the host computer 102. The job sent to the print queue enters the print waiting queue and is processed when the turn comes. On the other hand, the job sent to the waiting queue only stores the job received by the image processing apparatus 101 and does not perform any special processing. The job in the waiting queue is not subjected to any specific processing until the administrator of the image processing apparatus 101 moves to the print queue or gives an instruction to develop the job.

The host computer 102 reproduces image data and text data from a connected original scanner or digital camera (not shown), various data distributed via the network 103, and various media such as a CD-ROM. Various data are transferred to the image processing device 10
1. Copies (prints) can be made using the digital copier 100. Also, the host computer 10
2 also has a general purpose input / output port for dongle.

FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing a conceptual example in which a program and related data according to the embodiment of the present invention are supplied from a storage medium to an apparatus. The program and related data are stored in a storage medium 15 such as a floppy disk or a CD-ROM.
1 is the storage medium drive insertion slot 1 provided in the device 152
Supplied at 53. Thereafter, the program and the related data can be executed by temporarily installing the program and the related data from the storage medium 151 to the hard disk and then loading the program from the hard disk to the RAM, or by directly loading the program and the related data to the RAM without installing the program and the related data. Become.

In this case, when the program is executed in the image processing apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention, the program and the related data are supplied to the image processing apparatus according to the procedure shown in FIG. By storing a program and related data in the image processing apparatus in advance, the program can be executed.

FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of the storage contents of the storage medium storing the program and related data according to the embodiment of the present invention. The storage medium includes, for example, volume information 141, directory information 142, a program execution file 143, and a program-related data file 14.
4 and the like. The program is program-coded based on flowcharts shown in FIGS.

The correspondence between the claims of the present invention and the embodiments of the present invention is as follows. The control means corresponds to the CPU 101H of the image processing apparatus and the control program executed by the CPU 101H, the connection means corresponds to the general-purpose input / output port 101M of the image processing apparatus, the work instruction storage area corresponds to the program memory 101K, Corresponds to the CPU 101H of the image processing apparatus.

Next, various operations in the image processing apparatus of the image processing system according to the embodiment of the present invention configured as described above will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 2 and FIGS. I do.

First, an operation at the time of installing software in the image processing apparatus 101 will be described. Image processing device 1
01 when the system software is installed on the general-purpose input / output port 101 of the image processing apparatus 101.
An external data storage device (dongle) 106 must be connected to M. The contents of this dongle are EEPROM
And has an address bus, a data bus, and a control bus as shown in FIG.

At the time of shipment from the factory, the MAC address of an arbitrary image processing device: a unique 12-digit hexadecimal number and a single-digit hexadecimal number that depend on the installed network hardware are written into the dongle. Shipped with the processing unit. The 8 bits of the function extension field at address n + 8 indicating the memory allocation inside the dongle in FIGS. 3 and 4 are used to indicate function restriction and permission depending on the dongle to be mounted. Even if a dongle is connected to the input / output port of the image processing apparatus, it can be used as a general-purpose input / output port.

The procedure for installing the system software will be described with reference to FIGS. When the system software is first installed in the image processing apparatus 101, when the image processing apparatus 101 is powered on, an initial boot loader in an EEPROM 101S (non-volatile memory) of the image processing apparatus 101 starts up, and the EE is started.
The instruction code stored on the PROM 101S (volatile memory) is loaded on the RAM 101R (volatile memory) (steps S501 and S502). RAM1
The program loaded on the 01R polls the external monitor connection port (PortM) 101N (step S503). If the connection of the external monitor 104 is not detected (NO in step S504), the display output destination is locally displayed. Switching to the unit 101Q is performed automatically (step S506).

Next, an external operation unit connection port (Port)
C) Perform polling of 101O (step S50)
7) If the connection of the keyboard is not detected as the external operation unit 105 (NO in step S508), the input from the local operation unit 101P is automatically enabled as the operation unit input (step S510). Thereafter, the image processing apparatus 1
01 executes the self-diagnosis function by the program of the initial boot loader loaded on the RAM 101R (step S511). Here, the external monitor 10
4. Keyboard is Port M 101N, P respectively
A description will be given of a case in which the connection is made to the C.O.

Next, if no abnormality is found in the execution result of the self-diagnosis function (YES in step S512), the program loaded on the RAM 101R of the image processing apparatus 101 is transferred to the general-purpose input / output port ( Po
rt D) Polling the 101M (step S5)
15). If an abnormality is found (step S5)
If NO at step S12, an arbitrary error code is displayed on the external monitor 104 (step S513). Image processing device 10
1 until the power is turned off (step S514)
YES), and the state is continued.

Here, an external data storage device (dongle)
If the connection is not made (NO in step S516), a message "Please connect the correct dongle" is displayed on the external monitor 104 (step S516).
517). The image processing apparatus 101 continues its state until its power is turned off (YES in step S518).

Next, when the connection of the dongle is detected at the general-purpose input / output port (Port D) 101M of the image processing apparatus 101 (YES in step S516), the image processing apparatus 101 sets an arbitrary address of the EEPROM on the dongle. Is read out (step S519). The MAC address read from the dongle is compared with the MAC address stored as hardware information on the interface 101A for exchanging data with the host computer 102 (step S520).

The MAC address read from the dongle and the MAC address of the hardware on the interface 101A
If the address does not match (N in step S521)
O), a message "Please connect the correct dongle" is displayed on the external monitor 104 (step S5).
22). The image processing apparatus 101 continues that state until its power is turned off (YES in step S523).

Other than the above, that is, the dongle is
01 is connected to the general-purpose input / output port (Port D) 101M and the MAC address stored on the dongle matches the MAC address of the hardware on the interface 101A (YE in step S521).
S), a setup mode prompt is displayed on the monitor 104 connected to the external monitor connection port (Port M) 101N of the image processing apparatus 101 for a certain period of time (step S701). During this fixed time, the port for connecting the external operation unit of the image processing apparatus 101 (Port C)
When an arbitrary key is hit with the keyboard connected to 101O (YES in step S703), the mode is shifted to the setup mode (step S704). This fixed time can be selected from a plurality of prepared in advance.

When an arbitrary key is pressed from the keyboard, the image processing apparatus 101 enters a setup menu. There are the following three types of menus. A-Installation of system software A- (1) Rewriting contents of Boot ROM A- (2) Program memory area 1 on hard disk
01K initialization A- (3) Installation and execution of system software There are three types: (1) To execute (3),
It is not essential to perform (2). Normally, a series of system software execution processing is completed by selecting and executing only (3). To execute (3),
The CD-ROM drive 101 of the image processing apparatus 101 in advance
L-CD-RO as system software recording medium
M must be inserted.

B Initial setting B-1 Selection of action when the dongle is not connected during normal operation of the image processing apparatus 101 B-2 Time setting If the key is not arbitrarily pressed within a predetermined time, the next " The processing shifts to the processing of "Steps and timing setting when the dongle is not connected during normal operation."

Next, in the initial setting of the setup mode,
The processing for setting and timing setting when the dongle is not connected during the normal operation will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 8 and FIGS. 9 to 10. When first installing the system software in the image processing apparatus 101, the image processing apparatus 1
01 is turned on, the EE of the image processing apparatus 101 is turned on.
The initial boot loader in the PROM 101S (non-volatile memory) is activated, and the instruction code stored in the EEPROM 101S (non-volatile memory) is stored in the RAM 10
1R (volatile memory) (step S50)
1. Step S502). The program loaded on the RAM 101R is connected to an external monitor connection port (Port).
M) Polling the 101N (step S50)
3) If the connection of the external monitor 104 is not detected (NO in step S504), the display output destination is automatically switched to the local display unit 101Q (step S50).
6).

Next, an external operation unit connection port (Port
C) Perform polling of 101O (step S50)
7) If the connection of the keyboard is not detected as the external operation unit 105 (NO in step S508), the input from the local operation unit 101P is automatically enabled as the operation unit input (step S510). Thereafter, the image processing apparatus 1
01 executes the self-diagnosis function by the program of the initial boot loader loaded on the RAM 101R (step S511). Here, the external monitor 10
4. Keyboard is Port M 101N, P respectively
A description will be given of a case in which the connection is made to the C.O.

Next, if no abnormality is found in the execution result of the self-diagnosis function (YES in step S512), the program loaded on the RAM 101R of the image processing apparatus 101 is transmitted to the general-purpose input / output port ( Po
rt D) Polling the 101M (step S5)
15). If an abnormality is found (step S5)
If NO at step S12, an arbitrary error code is displayed on the external monitor 104 (step S513). Image processing device 10
1 until the power is turned off (step S514)
YES), and the state is continued.

Here, an external data storage device (dongle)
If the connection is not made (NO in step S516), a message "Please connect the correct dongle" is displayed on the external monitor 104 (step S516).
517). The image processing apparatus 101 continues its state until its power is turned off (YES in step S518).

Next, when the connection of the dongle is detected by the general-purpose input / output port (Port D) 101M of the image processing apparatus 101 (YES in step S516), the image processing apparatus 101 sets an arbitrary address of the EEPROM on the dongle. Is read out (step S519). The MAC address read from the dongle is compared with the MAC address stored as hardware information on the interface 101A for exchanging data with the host computer 102 (step S520).

The MAC address read from the dongle and the hardware MAC on the interface 101A
If the address does not match (N in step S521)
O), a message "Please connect the correct dongle" is displayed on the external monitor 104 (step S5).
22). The image processing apparatus 101 continues that state until its power is turned off (YES in step S523).

Other than the above, that is, the dongle is
01 is connected to the general-purpose input / output port (Port D) 101M and the MAC address stored on the dongle matches the MAC address of the hardware on the interface 101A (YE in step S521).
S), a setup mode prompt is displayed on the monitor 104 connected to the external monitor connection port (Port M) 101N of the image processing apparatus 101 for a certain period of time (step S701). During this fixed time, the port for connecting the external operation unit of the image processing apparatus 101 (Port C)
When an arbitrary key is hit with the keyboard connected to 101O (YES in step S703), the mode is shifted to the setup mode (step S704). This fixed time can be selected from a plurality of prepared in advance.

Here, when an arbitrary key is pressed from the keyboard, the image processing apparatus 101 enters a setup menu. As described above, the menu has the following three types.

A-Installation of system software A- (1) Rewriting contents of Boot ROM A- (2) Program memory area 1 on hard disk
Initialization of 01K A- (3) Installation and execution of system software B Initial setting B-1 Polling for whether or not a dongle is connected during normal operation of the image processing apparatus 101, and the dongle is not connected Settings for case actions. 3 and 4 above
The following setting menu is determined by the data written in the dongle indicated by. In the following (1) to (4), if the setting is not changed or if the setting menu does not appear due to the data written to the dongle, the default setting is set. (0) Restart after completing the process being executed. (1) Selection of treatment when the dongle is not connected during the normal operation of the image processing apparatus 101. The number of resident fonts that can be used is limited (steps S901 and S902). Apparently, fewer fonts can be used than the number of fonts actually installed. 2 typefaces (default). 5 fonts, 7 fonts, 12 fonts. (2) Selection of a clock speed for operating the CPU (steps S903 and S904). 400 MHz (default), 533 MHz (3) Selection of the number of network users that can be simultaneously connected to the image processing apparatus 101 via the network 103 (steps S905 and S90). 4 (default), 8 and 12 (4) Set the upper limit of the logically usable electronic sort area for the HDD capacity (step S907, step S90)
8). 4 GB (default), 8 GB, 12 GB (5) The same operation and function as when a correct dongle is connected.

B-2 Time Setting (1) General-purpose input / output port (Port) of the image processing apparatus 101
tD) Selection of a polling cycle for determining whether or not a dongle is connected to 101M (step S1001, step S1002). 100 ms, 200 ms, 300 ms (default) (2) After turning on the power of the image processing apparatus 101, select a time for receiving a shift to the setup mode (step S1)
004, step S1005). 1 second, 3 seconds (default), 5 seconds.

B-3 Setting Complete An arbitrary one or arbitrary plural items are selected from the above six options for the treatment when the dongle is not connected during the normal operation of the image processing apparatus 101. In particular, if the setting is not performed in B-1, the setting is (0), which is the initial setting, is restarted after completing the process being executed. Also, B-2
The time can be set, but if no setting is made, initial values are used for the polling cycle and the reception time for shifting to the setup mode.

When the above series of settings is completed and the setting completion is selected, the image processing apparatus 101 automatically restarts (step S1007).

Next, the normal operation will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 8 and FIGS. Image processing device 1
01 operates, the dongle must be connected to the general-purpose input / output port 101M of the dongle image processing apparatus. When the image processing apparatus 101 is powered on, the EEPROM 101S of the image processing apparatus 101
The initial boot loader on the (non-volatile memory) starts, and loads the instruction code stored on the EEPROM 101S (the non-volatile memory) onto the RAM 101R (the volatile memory) (steps S501 and S5).
02). The program loaded on the RAM 101R includes an external monitor connection port (Port M) 101N.
Is polled (step S503), and if the connection of the external monitor 104 is not detected (N in step S504)
O), the display output destination is automatically switched to the local display unit 101Q (step S506).

Next, an external operation unit connection port (Port)
C) Perform polling of 101O (step S50)
7) If the connection of the keyboard is not detected as the external operation unit 105 (NO in step S508), the input from the local operation unit 101P is automatically enabled as the operation unit input (step S510). Thereafter, the image processing apparatus 1
In step S511, the self-diagnosis function is executed by the initial boot loader loaded on the RAM 101R (step S511). Here, the external monitor 104 and the keyboard are Port M · 101N and Port C · 1, respectively.
The case where the connection is made to 01O will be described.

Next, if no abnormality is found in the execution result of the self-diagnosis function (YES in step S512), the program loaded on the RAM 101R of the image processing apparatus 101 is transferred to the general-purpose input / output port ( Po
rt D) Polling the 101M (step S5)
15). If an abnormality is found (step S5)
If NO at step S12, an arbitrary error code is displayed on the external monitor 104 (step S513). Image processing device 10
1 until the power is turned off (step S514)
YES), and the state is continued.

Here, an external data storage device (dongle)
If the connection is not made (NO in step S516), a message "Please connect the correct dongle" is displayed on the external monitor 104 (step S516).
517). The image processing apparatus 101 continues its state until its power is turned off (YES in step S518).

Next, when the connection of the dongle is detected at the general-purpose input / output port (Port D) 101M of the image processing apparatus 101 (YES in step S516), the image processing apparatus 101 sets an arbitrary address of the EEPROM on the dongle. Is read out (step S519). The MAC address read from the dongle is compared with the MAC address stored as hardware information on the interface 101A for exchanging data with the host computer 102 (step S520).

The MAC address read from the dongle and the MAC address of the hardware on the interface 101A
If the address does not match (N in step S521)
O), a message "Please connect the correct dongle" is displayed on the external monitor 104 (step S5).
22). The image processing apparatus 101 continues that state until its power is turned off (YES in step S523).

Other than the above, that is, when the dongle is
01 is connected to the general-purpose input / output port (Port D) 101M and the MAC address stored on the dongle matches the MAC address of the hardware on the interface 101A (YE in step S521).
S), a setup mode prompt is displayed on the monitor 104 connected to the external monitor connection port (Port M) 101N of the image processing apparatus 101 for a certain period of time (step S701). During this fixed time, the port for connecting the external operation unit of the image processing apparatus 101 (Port C)
If any key is not hit by the keyboard connected to 101O (NO in step S703), image processing apparatus 1
01 enters a normal operation mode, displays a “standby” state on the monitor 104, and enters a preparation state for receiving a job via the network 103.

Further, the image processing apparatus 101 transmits the timing setting to the general-purpose input / output port (Port D) 101M specified in the above-mentioned "treatment and timing setting when the dongle is not connected during normal operation". According to the polling cycle (step S1101), the dongle is checked for attachment, and if the dongle cannot be detected (NO in step S1102), a measure is taken in the case where the dongle is not connected according to the treatment set above.

[0102] The processing when the dongle is not detected by the polling during the normal operation of the image processing apparatus 101 is as follows. (0) Restart after completing the process being executed. (1) Regarding the number of resident fonts that can be used, apparently fewer fonts than the number of fonts actually installed can be used. These become any of the following font numbers specified in the B initial setting (step S1103, step S1105). 2 typefaces (default). 5 fonts, 7 fonts, 12 fonts. (2) Regarding the clock speed for operating the CPU, the CPU operates at one of the following clock speeds specified in the B initial setting (steps S1106 and S1108). 400 MHz (default), 533 MHz (3) Regarding the number of network users that can be simultaneously connected to the image processing apparatus 101 via the network 103,
It can be used by any of the following number of users defined in the B initial setting (step S1109, step S11)
11). 4 persons (default), 8 persons, 12 persons (4) The upper limit of the electronic sort area that can be logically used for the HDD capacity is that any of the following HDD capacities specified in the above B initial setting can be used. (Step S13
01, step S1302). 4 GB (default), 8 GB, 12 GB (5) The same operation and function as when a correct dongle is connected.

As described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the image processing apparatus 101 stores the setting menu for performing the initial setting after the image processing apparatus is installed in the data registered in the external data storage device 106. And performs control to disable initialization when the external data storage device 106 is not connected, and restricts commands that can be written to the program memory 101K (work command storage area) built in the image processing device. In the normal operation after the writing of the system software, the command that can be read from the work command storage area is restricted, the number of usable fonts of the font registered in the image processing apparatus is changed, and the CPU 101H in the image processing apparatus is changed. Change the clock speed of the For performing control to restrict the electronic sort function for the machine 100 exhibits the actions and effects as described below.

When the system software is installed when the image processing apparatus 101 is installed for the first time, the CP-file is read according to the data written in the external data storage device (dongle) 106 attached to the image processing apparatus 101.
Write software that can provide necessary functions from the ROM to the internal hard disk of the image processing apparatus 101,
Even if you have software to execute all functions on the hard disk, you can restrict or allow the functions on the image processing device according to the information written on the dongle attached to the image processing device 101. it can.

Further, a client workstation (W.W.) connected to the image processing apparatus 101 via a network.
S. By connecting the dongle to the (host computer 102) as well, it can be used for each user, but the functions of the image processing apparatus 101 can be restricted. To update the software for improving the function, the dongle purchased by the user, not the serviceman, is transferred to the image processing apparatus 101.
Can be easily used by connecting to the general-purpose input / output port 101M.

That is, in the embodiment of the present invention, the dongle can be applied to prohibit unauthorized duplication or use of the software of the image processing apparatus, and the user can easily upgrade the function of the image processing apparatus. And the operating rate of the image processing apparatus can be improved.

[Other Embodiments] In the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the case where the dongle is directly connected to the image processing apparatus 101 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the host The dongle is connected to the computer 102, and communication between the image processing apparatus 101 and the host computer 102 causes the host computer 10
The present invention is also applicable to a case where it is determined whether or not a dongle is connected to 2.

In the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the state of the dongle is not particularly mentioned. For example, if the dongle is damaged due to an accident and a new dongle has to be used, the condition of “correct "Please connect the dongle" is displayed on the image processing device 1.
When a special password is input from the local operation unit 101P of the image processing apparatus 101 when the image is displayed on the local display unit 101Q of the image processing apparatus 101, the M stored in the hardware of the interface 101A of the image processing apparatus 101 is displayed.
General-purpose input / output port (Port D) 10
The data can be written as predetermined address data of the EEPROM on the dongle via 1M.

Further, in the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the case where the image processing system has the configuration shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 has been described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this. The number of image processing apparatuses, host computers, and digital copying machines connected to the network can be arbitrary.

The present invention may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices or an apparatus composed of one device. A storage medium storing software program codes for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or apparatus, and a computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus is stored in a medium such as a storage medium. It goes without saying that this can also be achieved by reading and executing the program code.

In this case, the program code itself read from a medium such as a storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiment, and the medium such as a storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention. Will be. Examples of a medium such as a storage medium for supplying the program code include a floppy disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a CD-R, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, a ROM, and a download. Can be used.

The functions of the above-described embodiments are implemented when the computer executes the readout program codes, and the OS or the like running on the computer is actually executed based on the instructions of the program codes. It goes without saying that a part or all of the above-described processing is performed, and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.

Further, after the program code read from a medium such as a storage medium is written into a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the program code is read out. It is needless to say that a CPU or the like provided in the function expansion board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing based on the above, and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.

[0114]

As described above, according to the image processing apparatus of the first to tenth aspects, the setting menu for performing the initial setting after the installation of the image processing apparatus is stored in the data registered in the external data storage device. When the external data storage device is not connected, control is performed to disable the initial setting.Instructions that can be written to the work instruction storage area built in the image processing device are restricted, and system software In the normal operation after writing, restrict the instructions that can be read from the work instruction storage area, change the number of usable fonts of the fonts registered inside the image processing device, change the clock speed of the arithmetic unit inside the image processing device,
In order to limit the number of users who can use the image processing device at the same time and to limit the electronic sorting function for the copying device connected to the image processing device, an external data storage device is applied to the software of the image processing device. Unauthorized copying and unauthorized use can be prohibited, and the user can easily upgrade the functions of the image processing apparatus, thereby improving the operation rate of the image processing apparatus.

According to the image processing system of the present invention, the image processing system comprises the image processing apparatus, the information processing apparatus, and the copying apparatus according to the present invention. Unauthorized copying of the software,
Unauthorized use can be prohibited, and the user can easily upgrade the functions of the image processing apparatus, thereby improving the operation rate of the image processing apparatus.

According to the image processing apparatus use restriction method according to the present invention, the image processing apparatus use restriction method is executed by the image processing apparatus of the present invention, so that the image processing apparatus can be used in the same manner as described above. It is possible to prohibit unauthorized duplication and unauthorized use of software, and it is possible for a user to easily upgrade the functions of the image processing apparatus, thereby improving the operation rate of the image processing apparatus.

According to the storage medium of the present invention, the method for restricting use of an image processing apparatus is read from the storage medium and executed by the image processing apparatus of the present invention. Illegal copying and use of the software can be prohibited, the user can easily upgrade the functions of the image processing apparatus, and the operating rate of the image processing apparatus can be improved.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of an image processing device of an image processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing a dongle that is attached to the image processing apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention and that prohibits unauthorized duplication and unauthorized use.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a dongle that is attached to the image processing apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention and that prohibits unauthorized duplication and unauthorized use.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a procedure for installing system software in the image processing apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a procedure for installing system software in the image processing apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure for installing system software in the image processing apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a procedure for installing system software in the image processing apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure for setting a procedure and timing when a dongle is not connected when the image processing apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention performs a normal operation.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure for setting a procedure and timing when a dongle is not connected when the image processing apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention performs a normal operation.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure when the image processing apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention performs a normal operation.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure when the image processing apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention performs a normal operation.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure when the image processing apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention performs a normal operation.

FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of storage contents of a storage medium storing a program and related data according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing a conceptual example in which a program and related data according to an embodiment of the present invention are supplied to a device from a storage medium.

[Explanation of symbols]

 REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 100 digital copying machine 101 image processing device 101A, 101B interface 101H CPU 101K program memory 101M general-purpose input / output port 102 host computer 106 external data storage device

Claims (40)

[Claims] 1. An image processing apparatus connectable to an external data storage device, wherein a setting menu for performing initial setting after installation of the image processing device is changed according to data registered in the external data storage device. In addition, the image processing apparatus further comprises control means for performing control for disabling the initial setting when the external data storage device is not connected. 2. A storage device for detecting presence / absence of connection of the external data storage device and for connecting the external data storage device, wherein the external data storage device is a storage device in which registered data cannot be rewritten. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein 3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit limits a command that can be written to a work command storage area built in the image processing device when the external data storage device is not connected. Image processing device. 4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the control unit limits a command that can be read from the work command storage area in a normal operation after writing the system software when the external data storage device is not connected. The image processing device according to claim 1. 5. The control means, when the external data storage device is not connected, changes the number of usable fonts of the font registered in the image processing device in a normal operation after writing of system software. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: 6. The control means, when the external data storage device is not connected, changes a clock speed of an arithmetic unit in the image processing apparatus in a normal operation after writing of system software. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1. 7. The control means, when the external data storage device is not connected, limits a number of users who can simultaneously use the image processing device in a normal operation after writing of system software. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: 8. The control means, when the external data storage device is not connected, restricts an electronic sort function for a copying device connected to the image processing device in a normal operation after writing of system software. The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising: 9. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the external data storage device is network-connected to the image processing device and is connectable to an information processing device capable of operating the image processing device. An image processing device according to any one of the above. 10. The control means, when the external data storage device is connected, determines whether a MAC address stored in the external data storage device matches a MAC address of hardware on the connection means. The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein whether to permit transition to the setup mode is determined. 11. An image processing device connectable to an external data storage device, a copying device connectable to the image processing device,
An image processing system comprising an image processing apparatus and an information processing apparatus connectable to a network, wherein the image processing apparatus stores a setting menu for performing initial setting after the image processing apparatus is installed in the external data storage. An image processing system, comprising: a control unit that performs control according to data registered in the device and that disables the initial setting when the external data storage device is not connected. 12. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising connection means for detecting whether or not said external data storage device is connected and for connecting said external data storage device, wherein said external data storage device rewrites registered data. The image processing system according to claim 11, wherein the storage device is a storage device that is unable to perform the operation. 13. The image processing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein:
13. The image processing system according to claim 11, wherein when the external data storage device is not connected, a command that can be written in a work command storage area built in the image processing device is restricted. 14. The control unit of the image processing apparatus,
14. The method according to claim 11, wherein when the external data storage device is not connected, in a normal operation after writing of system software, a command that can be read from the work command storage area is restricted. The image processing system described in the above. 15. The control unit of the image processing apparatus,
15. The method according to claim 11, wherein when the external data storage device is not connected, the number of usable fonts of the font registered in the image processing device is changed in a normal operation after writing of system software. The image processing system according to any one of the above. 16. The control means of the image processing device,
16. The system according to claim 11, wherein when the external data storage device is not connected, a clock speed of an arithmetic unit in the image processing device is changed in a normal operation after writing of system software. The image processing system described in the above. 17. The image processing apparatus according to claim 17, wherein:
17. The system according to claim 11, wherein when the external data storage device is not connected, the number of users who can simultaneously use the image processing device is limited in a normal operation after writing of system software. An image processing system according to any one of the above. 18. The control unit of the image processing apparatus,
18. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein when the external data storage device is not connected, a restriction is imposed on an electronic sorting function for the copying device in a normal operation after writing of system software. Image processing system. 19. The image processing system according to claim 11, wherein said external data storage device is connectable to said information processing device capable of operating said image processing device. 20. The control means of the image processing device,
When the external data storage device is connected, the transition to the setup mode is permitted based on whether the MAC address stored in the external data storage device matches the MAC address of the hardware on the connection unit. 20. It is determined whether or not to perform.
The image processing system according to any one of the above. 21. A method for restricting use of an image processing apparatus applied to an image processing apparatus connectable to an external data storage apparatus, wherein a setting menu for performing an initial setting after the installation of the image processing apparatus is stored in the external data storage apparatus. And a control step of performing a control for disabling the initial setting when the external data storage device is not connected, in accordance with data registered in the image processing apparatus. 22. A connection step for detecting whether or not the external data storage device is connected, wherein the external data storage device is a storage device in which registered data cannot be rewritten. The use restriction method of the image processing apparatus described in the above. 23. The method according to claim 21, wherein in the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, a command that can be written in a work command storage area built in the image processing device is restricted. Method for restricting use of an image processing apparatus. 24. In the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, in a normal operation after writing of system software, restrictions are imposed on instructions that can be read from the work instruction storage area. 24. The method of restricting use of an image processing apparatus according to claim 21. 25. In the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, the number of usable fonts of a font registered in the image processing device is changed in a normal operation after writing of system software. The method according to any one of claims 21 to 24, wherein the use of the image processing apparatus is restricted. 26. In the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, a clock speed of an arithmetic unit in the image processing apparatus is changed in a normal operation after writing of system software. The method for restricting use of an image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 21 to 25. 27. In the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, in a normal operation after writing of system software, the number of users who can simultaneously use the image processing device is limited. The method for restricting use of an image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 21 to 26. 28. In the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, in a normal operation after writing of system software, a restriction is imposed on an electronic sort function for a copying device connected to the image processing device. The method according to any one of claims 21 to 27, further comprising: 29. The apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the external data storage device is network-connected to the image processing device and is connectable to an information processing device capable of operating the image processing device. A method for restricting use of an image processing apparatus according to any one of the above. 30. In the control step, when the external data storage device is connected, it is determined whether a MAC address stored in the external data storage device matches a MAC address of hardware on the connection means. The method according to any one of claims 21 to 29, wherein it is determined whether to permit the transition to the setup mode. 31. A storage medium readable by a computer storing a program for executing a method for restricting use of an image processing device applied to an image processing device connectable to an external data storage device, comprising: The method includes changing a setting menu for performing initial setting after the image processing apparatus is installed according to data registered in the external data storage device, and when the external data storage device is not connected,
A storage medium having a control step of performing control so as to disable the initial setting. 32. A connection step for performing control to detect whether or not the external data storage device is connected, wherein the external data storage device is a storage device in which registered data cannot be rewritten. 32. The storage medium according to claim 31, wherein 33. In the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, control is performed so as to limit a command that can be written in a work command storage area built in the image processing device. 31 or 32
The storage medium according to the above. 34. In the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, in a normal operation after writing of system software, control is performed so as to limit a command that can be read from the work command storage area. The storage medium according to any one of claims 31 to 33, wherein: 35. In the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, the number of usable fonts of a font registered in the image processing device is changed in a normal operation after writing of system software. 35. The storage medium according to claim 31, wherein the storage medium is controlled as described above. 36. In the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, in a normal operation after writing of system software, control is performed so as to change a clock speed of an arithmetic unit in the image processing apparatus. The storage medium according to any one of claims 31 to 35, wherein: 37. In the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, in a normal operation after writing of system software, the number of users who can simultaneously use the image processing device is limited. The storage medium according to any one of claims 31 to 36, wherein the storage medium is controlled. 38. In the control step, when the external data storage device is not connected, in a normal operation after writing of system software, a restriction is imposed on an electronic sort function for a copying device connected to the image processing device. The storage medium according to any one of claims 31 to 37, wherein the storage medium is controlled to be added. 39. The apparatus according to claim 31, wherein the external data storage device is network-connected to the image processing device and is connectable to an information processing device capable of operating the image processing device. A storage medium according to any one of the above. 40. In the controlling step, when the external data storage device is connected, it is determined whether a MAC address stored in the external data storage device matches a MAC address of hardware on the connection means. 34. A control method according to claim 31, wherein control is made to determine whether or not to permit the transition to the setup mode.
10. The storage medium according to any one of 9 above.