Patent ID: 6487378
Filing Date: 2002-11-26
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
An electrophotographic apparatus, having a main unit and a sub-unit which is attachable, in such a way that it may be detached, to said main unit arbitrarily, for using said sub-unit in said main unit to thereby form an image, comprising:a resistive element which is fitted to said sub-unit and which is made of such a material that is changed in conductivity when exposed; an exposure section configured to expose said resistive element when said sub-unit attached to said main unit enters a predetermined operative state; a detection section configured to detect a conductivity of said resistive element fitted to said sub-unit attached to said main unit; and an identification section, provided on said main unit, configured to decide whether, as the attachment of said sub-unit is made, said attached sub-unit is unused on the basis of the conductivity detected by said detection section.