Patent ID: 6600576
Filing Date: 2003-07-29
Classification: H04N

Abstract:
A facsimile apparatus comprising:a main apparatus body including a processing device, a first storage unit and an output, numeric keys for entering dial numbers or abbreviated dial numbers into said first storage unit, a scanner adapted for removable physical engagement with said main apparatus body, said scanner having a reading unit for acquiring image data and a second storage unit for storing image data acquired by said reading unit, scanner connection/data transfer means for selectively connecting said scanner to said main apparatus body, and for the selective transfer of the image data then contained in said second storage unit from said scanner to said main apparatus body whenever said scanner physically engages said main apparatus body, but not otherwise, a printing unit for visually outputting selected acquired image data, and a first control unit for detecting whether or not said scanner is connected to said main apparatus body by said scanner connection/data transfer means, for determining whether or not said second storage unit contains new image data acquired since said scanner was last connected to said main apparatus body, and for when said scanner is detected as being connected to said main apparatus body and when said new data is determined to be present in said second storage unit providing control signals for directing said scanner connection/data transfer means to transfer said new image data from said second storage means to said processing means and directing said processing device to process said new image data for transmission to said printing unit for printing.