Patent ID: 7180628
Filing Date: 2007-02-20
Classification: H04N

Abstract:
1. A first image formation apparatus connected to at least a second image formation apparatus such that data communications can be executed between the image formation apparatuses, said first image formation apparatus comprising: a reading unit configured to read an image of a document; a printing unit configured to print the read image of the document; a display unit configured to display keys to select a function; and a controller configured to execute a link copy mode in which the read image is transferred to said second image formation apparatus to share printing of the read image with the first image formation apparatus and said second image formation apparatus, wherein the first image forming apparatus is configured to display in a link copy mode validity of keys for selection of usable functions in the link copy mode after the link copy mode has been selected, the usable functions being functions which both the first image formation apparatus and the second image formation apparatus are able to execute, wherein the first image forming apparatus is configured to display in a link copy mode invalidity of keys including a half-tone display for selection of unusable functions in the link copy mode after the link copy mode has been selected, the unusable functions being functions which neither the first image formation apparatus nor the second image formation apparatus are able to execute.