Patent ID: 6281989
Filing Date: 2001-08-28
Classification: H04N

Abstract:
A multi-functional device adapted for use with an external data processing device, the multi-functional device interposed between an external data processing device and a communication line, the multi-functional device comprising:reception means for receiving information via the communication line;transmitter-receiver means for transmitting and receiving data, including print data, to and from the external data processing device;storage means for storing the information received by the reception means as well as the data received by the transmitter-receiver means;means for detecting whether print data is stored in the storage means;means for determining whether a predetermined threshold amount of memory is available in the storage means when the means for detecting detects that print data is stored in the storage means;data ejection means for purging any print data from the storage means only when the means for determining determines that the predetermined amount of memory is not available in the storage means and either a predetermined signal is received by the reception means or data for performing a predetermined process is sent to the storage means; andejection inhibiting means for inhibiting the data ejection means from purging the print data from the storage means if a predetermined period of time is yet to elapse since the print data was placed in the storage means even when data is being sent to the storage means and the predetermined amount of memory is not available, and for allowing the data ejection means to purge the print data from the storage means if the predetermined of time has elapsed since the print data was placed in the storage means when data is being sent to the storage means and the predetermined amount of memory is not available.