Patent ID: 6459863
Filing Date: 2002-10-01
Classification: G03G,G06Q,G07F,H04N

Abstract:
An image forming apparatus, comprising:an image forming mechanism configured to perform an image forming operation for forming an image on a recording sheet; a process cartridge configured to contain material used to make said image visible, said process cartridge being detachably installed in said apparatus; a card inlet configured to receive an electronic money integrated circuit card, said card inlet including a data input and output port for connecting to said electronic money integrated circuit card when it is inserted in said card inlet including an integrated circuit chip dedicated to an electronic money application; and a controlling mechanism configured to control said image forming operation performed by said image forming mechanism, said controlling mechanism including an integrated circuit chip dedicated to said electronic money application, said controlling mechanism capable of communicating for monetary information with said electronic money integrated circuit card via said data input and output port.