Patent Publication Number: US-2013229678-A1

Title: Operation panel and information processing device

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to an operation panel which can carry out the wireless communication with a device and an information processing device having the operation panel and a main body of the information processing device. 
     2. Description of Related Art 
     In recent years, there are devices in which the operation panel is attachable to and detachable from the main body of the device and the user can carry out the various types of settings for the main body and remotely control the main body by using the operation panel at a place which is different from the installation location of the main body. 
     For example, in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2003-345500, a facsimile device comprising operation keys provided on the main body of the device and a display unit which is attachable to and detachable from the main body, is disclosed. In the facsimile device, a user can input the operation for the facsimile device from both of the operation keys and the display unit. Further, the facsimile device changes the availability/non-availability of the operation keys provided on the main body and the availability/non-availability of the display unit according to whether the display unit is attached to the main body or not. 
     In case that the user uses the operation panel by carrying the operation panel to a place which is different from the installation location of the main body, such as a user&#39;s seat, various types of problems are caused because the user who carries out the operation is not near the main body. 
     For example, in case of the multi-function peripheral for executing the confidential output of the secret document, or the like, when the operation relating to the confidential output is carried out by using the operation panel at the place which is apart from the main body, the secret document output by the main body can be seen by another person until the user arrives at the main body to receive the printed document. As a result, the problem relating to the security is caused. 
     On the other hand, there are some operations which are preferably carried out when the operation panel is used by carrying it to a place which is apart from the main body. For example, in case that a website can be browsed by using the operation panel, when the website is browed for a long time in a state that the operation panel is attached to the main body, the use of the operation panel by another user is interrupted. 
     SUMMARY 
     To achieve at least one of the abovementioned objects, an operation panel reflecting one aspect of the present invention comprises: 
     an operating unit to receive an operation from a user; 
     a detecting unit to detect whether the operation panel is attached to a predetermined device; 
     a communication unit to be wirelessly communicable with the predetermined device; and 
     a control unit to switch a function of the predetermined device, which can be operated from the operating unit, so that the operation relating to a first function of the predetermined device can be carried out from the operating unit and the operation relating to a second function of the predetermined device cannot be carried out from the operating unit when the control unit recognizes that the operation panel is not attached to the predetermined device in accordance with a detection result of the detecting unit, and so that at least the operation relating to the second function can be carried out from the operating unit when the control unit recognizes that the operation panel is attached to the predetermined device in accordance with the detection result of the detecting unit. 
     Preferably, the control unit switches the function of the predetermined device, which can be operated from the operating unit, so that the operation relating to a third function of the predetermined device can be carried out from the operating unit when the control unit recognizes that the operation panel is not attached to the predetermined device in accordance with the detection result of the detecting unit, and so that the operation relating to the third function cannot be carried out from the operating unit when the control unit recognizes that the operation panel is attached to the predetermined device in accordance with the detection result of the detecting unit. 
     Preferably, the second function is a function for carrying out an authorized instruction for starting a print in a confidential job in which execution of the print is suspended in the predetermined device until the authorized instruction for starting the print is received from the operation panel. 
     Preferably, the third function is a web browsing function. 
     Preferably, the third function is a function for accessing a website other than a specific website by using a web browser. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description given hereinafter and the accompanying drawings given by way of illustration only, and thus are not intended as a definition of the limits of the present invention, and wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is an explanatory view showing an example of the configuration of the print system including the information processing device according to the embodiments; 
         FIG. 2  is a view showing the state in which the operation panel is detached from the information processing device; 
         FIG. 3  is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of the information processing device; 
         FIG. 4  is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of the operation panel; 
         FIG. 5  is a flowchart showing the process which is carried out when the operation panel of the information processing device according to the first embodiment receives the operation from the user; 
         FIG. 6  is a view showing an example of the warning message which is displayed on the display unit of the operation panel in Step S 103 ; 
         FIG. 7  is a view showing an example of the warning message which is displayed on the display unit of the operation panel in Step S 106 ; 
         FIG. 8  is a view showing an example of the warning message which is displayed on the display unit of the operation panel in Step S 106  in case that the available website is limited to only the specific websites; 
         FIG. 9  is a flowchart showing the process which is carried out when the operation panel of the information processing device according to the second embodiment receives the operation from the user; 
         FIG. 10  is a view showing an example of the warning message which is displayed on the display unit of the operation panel in Step S 203 ; 
         FIG. 11  is a view showing an example of the warning message which is displayed on the display unit of the operation panel in Step S 206 ; 
         FIG. 12  is a view showing an example of the warning message which is displayed on the display unit of the operation panel in Step S 206  in case that the available website is limited only to the specific websites; 
         FIG. 13  is a flowchart showing the process which is carried out when the operation panel of the information processing device according to the third embodiment receives the operation from the user; 
         FIG. 14  is a view showing an example of the warning message which is displayed on the display unit of the operation panel in Step S 303 ; 
         FIG. 15  is a view showing an example of the warning message which is displayed on the display unit of the operation panel in Step S 306 ; 
         FIG. 16  is a view showing an example of the warning message which is displayed on the display unit of the operation panel in Step S 306  in case that the available website is limited only to the specific websites; 
         FIG. 17  is a flowchart showing the process which is carried out when the operation panel of the information processing device according to the fourth embodiment receives the operation from the user; 
         FIG. 18  is a view showing an example of the warning message which is displayed on the display unit of the operation panel in Step S 403 ; 
         FIG. 19  is a view showing another example of the warning message which is displayed on the display unit of the operation panel in Step S 403 ; 
         FIG. 20  is a view showing an example of the warning message which is displayed on the display unit of the operation panel in Step S 406 ; 
         FIG. 21  is a view showing another example of the warning message which is displayed on the display unit of the operation panel in Step S 406 ; 
         FIG. 22  is a view showing an example of the warning message which is displayed on the display unit of the operation panel in Step S 406  in case that the available website is limited only to the specific websites; and 
         FIG. 23  is a view showing another example of the warning message which is displayed on the display unit of the operation panel in Step S 406  in case that the available website is limited only to the specific websites. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. 
       FIG. 1  shows an example of the system configuration of the print system  2  including the information processing device according to the first embodiment. The print system  2  comprises an information processing device  10 , an external device  7 , a print server  5  and the like so as to connect them via a network  3  such as a LAN (Local Area Network). In this embodiment, the image processing device  10  is a so-called multi-function peripheral (MFP) which has a copy function to print out an image of an original by optically reading the original, a print function to print an image in accordance with the print data received from the external device  7  or the like, a scan function to store an image data obtained by optically reading the original or the like, and a facsimile function. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , the information processing device  10  comprises the operation panel  30  which is attachable to and detachable from the information processing device  10 . A user can detach the operation panel  30  from the information processing device  10  and can operate the information processing device  10  by using the operation panel  30  at a place which is apart from the information processing device  10 . The operation panel  30  which is detached from the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10 , can transmit and receive the information by the wireless communication with the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10 . 
     The functions which can be operated from the operation panel  30  can be automatically changed according to whether the operation panel  30  is attached to the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  or is detached. In the embodiment, in the state in which the operation panel  30  is detached from the main body  10 A, some of the functions which the information processing device  10  has cannot be operated from the operation panel  30 . Further, with respect to the specific functions, the operation panel  30  switches the availability/non-availability of the specific functions to be operated from the operation panel  30  as follows. When the operation panel  30  is attached to the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10 , the specific functions cannot be used from the operation panel  30 . On the other hand, when the operation panel  30  is detached from the main body  10 A, the specific functions can be used from the operation panel  30 . 
       FIG. 3  shows the schematic configuration of the information processing device  10 . The information processing device  10  comprises a CPU (Central Processing Unit)  11  for controlling the whole operation of the image processing device  10 . The CPU  11  is connected to a ROM (Read Only Memory)  12 , a RAM (Random Access Memory)  13 , an image reading unit  14 , a printer unit  15 , an image processing unit  16 , a nonvolatile memory  17 , a facsimile communication unit  18 , an auxiliary storage unit  19 , a network I/F unit  21 , a user authorization unit  22 , a connection communication unit  24  and a connection detecting unit  25  via a bus. The detachable operation panel  30  is connected with the connection communication unit  24  via the communication. 
     By the CPU  11 , a middleware, application programs and the like are executed on an OS (Operating System) program as a base. The CPU  11  functions as a control unit for controlling the operation of the information processing device  10 . 
     In the ROM  12 , various types of programs are stored. By executing the processes by the CPU  11  in accordance with these programs, each function of the information processing device  10  is realized. 
     The RAM  13  is used as a work memory for temporarily storing various data when the CPU  11  executes the programs and as an image memory for storing image data. 
     The image reading unit  14  has a function for obtaining image data by optically reading an original. For example, the image reading unit  14  comprises a light source for irradiating the original with light, a line image sensor for reading the original line by line in the width direction of the original by receiving the reflected light from the original, a moving unit for sequentially moving the reading position line by line in the longitudinal direction of the original, an optical system having lenses, mirrors and the like for guiding the reflected light from the original to the line image sensor and focusing the reflected light on the line image sensor, a converting unit for converting an analog image signal outputted from the line image sensor into digital image data, and the like. 
     The printer unit  15  has a function to form (print) an image on print paper in accordance with image data. In the present embodiment, the printer unit  15  is configured as an engine unit of the so-called laser printer for forming the image by the electrophotographic process. The laser printer comprises a conveying device for the recording paper, a photoconductive drum, a charging device, a laser unit, a developing device, a transfer and separation device, a cleaning device and a fixing unit. In the printer unit  15 , the image may be formed by other methods. 
     The image processing unit  16  carries out the rasterization processing for converting print data into image data, compression/decompression processing of image data and the like, in addition to the processings, such as enlargement/reduction and rotation of the image. 
     The nonvolatile memory  17  is a memory (flash memory) in which the stored contents are not damaged even if the image processing device  10  is turned off. In the nonvolatile memory  17 , various types of setting information and the like are stored. 
     The facsimile communication unit  18  has a function to transmit and receive image data to/from an external device having the facsimile function via a public line or a network. 
     The network I/F unit  21  has a function to communicate with the print server  5 , the external device  7  and other external devices via the network  3 , such as a LAN. 
     The user authorization unit  22  authorizes a user who uses the information processing device  10  or the operation panel  30 . The user authorization is carried out by checking the combination of the user ID and the password. The authorization method to be used can be optionally selected. For example, the biometric authorization or the like can be used. 
     The connection communication unit  24  transmits and receives various types of information by communicating with the operation panel  30 . The connection communication unit  24  comprises a connector for connecting with the connector of the operation panel  30  when the operation panel  30  is attached to the main body  10 A. When the operation panel  30  is attached to the main body  10 A, the main body  10 A is connected with the operation panel  30  via the connector so as to communicate with each other by cable. Further, the connection communication unit  24  has a function to carry out the wireless communication with the operation panel  30 . When the operation panel  30  is detached from the main body  10 A, the communication for receiving and transmitting information between the main body  10 A and the operation panel  30  is carried out by the wireless communication. 
     The connection detecting unit  25  detects whether the operation panel  30  is attached to the main body  10 A or not. The connection detecting unit  25  comprises an optical sensor provided on the attachment portion of the operation panel  30  or a switch which is turned on when an actuator is pushed down by attaching the operation panel  30 . 
       FIG. 4  shows the schematic configuration of the operation panel  30 . The operation panel  30  comprises a CPU  31  for controlling the whole operation of the operation panel  30 . The CPU  31  is connected to a ROM  32 , a RAM  33 , a nonvolatile memory  34 , a display unit  35 , an operating unit  36 , a connection communication unit  37 , a detecting unit  38  and a network I/F unit via a bus. 
     The CPU  31  executes various types of programs. In the ROM  32 , programs and fixed data are stored. By executing the processes by the CPU  31  in accordance with the programs stored in the ROM  32 , each function of the operation panel  30  is realized. 
     The RAM  33  is used as a work memory for temporarily storing various data when the CPU  31  executes the programs and as an video memory for the display unit  35 . 
     The nonvolatile memory  34  is a memory (flash memory) in which the stored contents are not damaged even if the operation panel  30  is turned off. In the nonvolatile memory  34 , various types of setting information and the like are stored. 
     The display unit  35  comprises a liquid crystal display (LCD) and the like, and has a function to display various types of operating windows, setting windows and the like. The operating unit  36  receives various types of user&#39;s operations. The operating unit  36  comprises a switch unit  36   a  having a numerical keypad, a start button, a selecting button for selecting a function and the like, and a touch panel  36   b  which is provided on the screen of the display unit  35  and detects the position coordinate at which the touch panel  36   b  is touched with the user&#39;s finger, a pen or the like. 
     The connection communication unit  37  has a function to transmit and receive various types of information to/from the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10 . The connection communication unit  37  comprises a connector for connecting with the connector of the main body  10 A when the operation panel  30  is attached to the main body  10 A. Further, the connection communication unit  37  has a function to carry out the wireless communication with the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10 . 
     The detecting unit  38  detects whether the operation panel  30  is attached to the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  or not. The detecting unit  38  comprises an optical sensor or a switch which is turned on when the operation panel  30  is attached to the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10 . Alternatively, by receiving the information indicating the attachment status of the operation panel  30 , which is detected by the main body  10 A, the operation panel  30  may recognize the attachment status. 
     The network I/F unit  39  has a function to communicate with the main body  10 A or an external server via the network  3 , such as a LAN. It is possible to browse a website and the like. 
     The information processing device  10  has a confidential function which is suitable for the print of the secret document or the like in the above-mentioned print function or the facsimile function. The confidential function is one for suspending the execution of the print relating to the print job received from an external terminal or the facsimile reception until the instruction for starting the print is received from the user who is authorized by using the operation panel  30 . When the instruction for starting the print is received from the authorized user by using the operation panel  30 , the information processing device  10  executes the suspended print relating to the print job or the facsimile reception. 
     As described above, the job for carrying out the print in accordance with the additional print instruction from the operation panel after the print is suspended, is referred to as the confidential job. When the confidential job is a print job, the authorized user is a user who transmits the print job. For example, by entering the specific password, the user is authorized. 
     Further, the information processing device  10  has the web browsing function to browse a web page by accessing the website. Various operations relating to the web browsing function are received from the operating unit  36  of the operation panel  30 . The web page is displayed on the display unit  35 . 
     Next, the process for the operations received from the operation panel  30  will be explained. 
     The information processing device  10  has the function (in the first embodiment, referred to as the remote limitation function and the second function corresponds to the above remote limitation function.) in which the operation received from the operation panel  30  is impossible in case that the operation panel  30  is detached from the main body  10 A, but the operation received from the operation panel  30  is possible in case that the operation panel  30  is attached to the main body  10 A; the function (in the first embodiment, referred to as the local limitation function and the third function corresponds to the above local limitation function.) in which the operation received from the operation panel  30  is impossible in case that the operation panel  30  is attached to the main body  10 A, but the operation received from the operation panel  30  is possible in case that the operation panel  30  is detached from the main body  10 A; and the function (in the first embodiment, referred to as the always permitted function) in which the operation received from the operation panel  30  is possible regardless of the attachment/detachment of the operation panel  30 . Further, in the first embodiment, the first function corresponds to the function in which the operation received from the operation panel  30  is possible at least in case that the operation panel  30  is detached from the main body  10 A. 
     In this embodiment, the remote limitation function is the confidential output function and the local limitation function is the web browsing function. The confidential output function is one for instructing the start of the print suspended by the confidential function. The other function is the always permitted function. For example, the function for setting the copy function or the function for instructing the execution of the job for transmitting the stored image by facsimile, is the always permitted function. 
     In the state that the operation panel  30  is detached from the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  and is apart from the main body  10 A, if the CPU  31  permits the operation relating to the confidential output function, which is received by the operation panel  30 , the print is started when the user who carries out the above operation is not near the main body  10 A. As a result, there is some possibility that another person sees the printed document until the user arrives at the main body  10 A to receive the printed document, and there are some security problems. Therefore, in the state that the operation panel  30  is detached from the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10 , the CPU  31  which is the control unit prohibits the operation relating to the confidential output function, which is received by the operation panel  30 . 
     In the web browsing function, there is some possibility that the user occupies the operation panel  30  for a long time by browsing a website. As a result, another user is prevented from using the information processing device  10 . Therefore, in the state that the operation panel  30  is attached to the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10 , the CPU  31  partially or wholly prohibits the operation relating to the web browsing function, which is carried out by using the operation panel  30 . 
       FIG. 5  shows the process which is carried out when the operation panel  30  of the information processing device  10  according to the first embodiment receives the operation from the user. When the operating unit  36  of the operation panel  30  receives the operation from the user, the CPU  31  of the operation panel  30  judges whether the operation panel  30  is attached to the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  in accordance with the detection result of the detecting unit  38  (Step S 101 ). 
     In case that the operation panel  30  is detached from the main body  10 A (Step S 101 ; No), that is, in case that the detecting unit  38  detects that the operation panel  30  is not attached to the main body  10 A, the CPU  31  recognizes that the operation panel  30  is not attached to the main body  10 A, and judges whether the received operation is the operation relating to the remote limitation function (in this case, the confidential output function) or not (Step S 102 ). In case of the operation relating to the confidential output function (Step S 102 ; Yes), the CPU  31  prohibits the acceptance of the above received operation, and displays the warning massage indicating that the received operation is prohibited, on the display unit  35  (Step S 103 ). Then, the process is ended. 
       FIG. 6  shows an example of the warning massage  51  displayed on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30  in Step S 103 . The operation relating to the confidential output function is permitted in the state that the operation panel  30  is attached to the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10 . Therefore, the CPU  31  displays the warning message  51  for prompting the user to carry out the operation relating to the confidential output function again after the operation panel  30  is attached to the main body  10 A, on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30 . 
     On the other hand, in case that the received operation is not the operation relating to the confidential output function (Step S 102 ; No), the CPU  31  executes the process corresponding to the received operation (Step S 104 ). Then, the process is ended. For example, the CPU  31  transmits the contents of the received operation to the main body  10 A to instruct the main body  10 A to execute the process. 
     In case that the operation panel  30  is attached to the main body  10 A (Step S 101 ; Yes), that is, in case that the detecting unit  38  detects that the operation panel  30  is attached to the main body  10 A, the CPU  31  recognizes that the operation panel  30  is attached to the main body  10 A, and judges whether the received operation is the operation relating to the web browsing function which is the local limitation function (Step S 105 ). In case of the operation relating to the web browsing function (Step S 105 ; Yes), the CPU  31  prohibits the acceptance of the above received operation, and displays the warning message indicating that the received operation is prohibited, on the display unit  35  (Step S 106 ). Then, the process is ended. 
       FIG. 7  shows an example of the warning massage  52  displayed on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30  in Step S 106 . The operation relating to the web browsing function is permitted in the state that the operation panel  30  is detached from the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10 . Therefore, the CPU  31  displays the warning message  52  for prompting the user to carry out the operation relating to the web browsing function again after the operation panel  30  is detached from the main body  10 A, on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30 . 
     In case that the received operation is not the operation relating to the web browsing function (Step S 105 ; No in  FIG. 5 ), the CPU  31  executes the process corresponding to the received operation (Step S 107 ). Then, the process is ended. For example, the CPU  31  transmits the contents of the received operation to the main body  10 A to instruct the main body  10 A to execute the process. 
     The operation relating to the confidential output function, which is received from the operation panel  30  is permitted in the state that the operation panel  30  is attached to the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10 . Further, the operation relating to the web browsing function, which is received from the operation panel  30  is permitted in the state that the operation panel  30  is detached from the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10 . 
     The limitation of the web browsing function is carried out by prohibiting the browse of all of the websites, that is, by prohibiting the use of the web browsing function. Alternatively, for example, the available website is limited to only the specific websites. In this case, in the state that the operation panel  30  is attached to the main body  10 A, the specific website can be browsed and the other websites cannot be browsed. On the other hand, in the state that the operation panel  30  is detached from the main body  10 A, the above limitation is cancelled and all of the websites can be browsed. 
       FIG. 8  shows an example of the warning message  53  displayed on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30  in Step S 106  in case that the available website is limited to only the specific websites. The limitation of the available website is cancelled in the state that the operation panel  30  is detached from the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10 . Therefore, the CPU  31  displays the warning message  53  for prompting the user to carry out the operation relating to the browse of the optional website again after the operation panel  30  is detached from the main body  10 A, on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30 . 
     As described above, the CPU  31  switches the functions which can be operated from the operation panel  30 , according to whether the operation panel  30  is attached to the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  or is detached from the main body  10 A. Therefore, it is possible to optimize the functions which can be operated from the operation panel  30 , according to each state. Further, when the user carries out the prohibited operation, the warning message for the prohibited operation is displayed. Because the user can be informed from the warning message how to carry out the above operation, the user can carry out the suitable action for the above operation by referring the warning message. 
     Next, the second embodiment will be explained. 
     In the first embodiment, the CPU  31  switches the functions which can be operated from the operation panel  30 , according to whether the operation panel  30  is attached to the main body  10 A or is detached from the main body  10 A. In the second embodiment, the CPU  31  which is the control unit switches the functions which can be operated from the operation panel  30 , according to whether the operation panel  30  is within the predetermined range (in this case, not more than 1 meter) from the main body  10 A or not. 
     In the information processing device  10  according to the second embodiment, each of the connection detecting unit  25  of the main body  10 A and the detecting unit  38  of the operation panel  30  detects whether the operation panel  30  is within the predetermined range from the main body  10 A or not. For example, the above detection is carried out in accordance with the intensity of the electric wave received by the main body  10 A and the operation panel  30  via the wireless communication. 
     Further, in the second embodiment, the information processing device  10  has the function (in the second embodiment, referred to as the remote limitation function and the second function corresponds to the above remote limitation function.) in which the operation received from the operation panel  30  is impossible in case that the operation panel  30  is not within the predetermined range from the main body  10 A, but the operation received from the operation panel  30  is possible in case that the operation panel  30  is within the predetermined range from the main body  10 A; the function (in the second embodiment, referred to as the local limitation function and the third function corresponds to the above local limitation function.) in which the operation received from the operation panel  30  is impossible in case that the operation panel  30  is within the predetermined range from the main body  10 A, but the operation received from the operation panel  30  is possible in case that the operation panel  30  is not within the predetermined range from the main body  10 A; and the function (in the second embodiment, referred to as the always permitted function) in which the operation received from the operation panel  30  is possible regardless of whether the operation panel  30  is within the predetermined range from the main body  10 A or not. Further, in the second embodiment, the first function corresponds to the function in which the operation received from the operation panel  30  is possible at least in case that the operation panel  30  is not within the predetermined range from the main body  10 A. 
     The other configurations of the information processing device  10  according to the second embodiment are basically the same as those of the information processing device  10  according to the first embodiment. The explanation of the other configurations is omitted. 
     In the second embodiment, the remote limitation function is the confidential output function and the local limitation function is the web browsing function (or the limitation of the available websites). The reason why the confidential output function is the remote limitation function, is as follows. In the state that the operation panel  30  is not within the predetermined range from the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  (for example, in the state that the operation panel  30  is far apart from the main body  10 A), if the CPU  31  permits the operation relating to the confidential output function, which is received by the operation panel  30 , there is some possibility that another person sees the printed document until the user arrives at the main body  10 A to receive the printed document. Therefore, there are some security problems. 
     The reason why the web browsing function (or the function for limiting the available websites) is the local limitation function, is as follows. When the user occupies the operation panel  30  for a long time by browsing a website, there is some possibility that another user is prevented from using the information processing device  10 . 
       FIG. 9  shows the process which is carried out when the operation panel  30  of the information processing device  10  according to the second embodiment receives the operation from the user. When the operating unit  36  of the operation panel  30  receives the operation from the user, the CPU  31  of the operation panel  30  judges whether the operation panel  30  is within the predetermined range (for example, not less than 1 meter) from the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  in accordance with the detection result of the detecting unit  38  (Step S 201 ). 
     In case that the operation panel  30  is not within the predetermined range from the main body  10 A (Step S 201 ; No), that is, in case that the detecting unit  38  detects that the operation panel  30  is not within the predetermined range from the main body  10 A, the CPU  31  recognizes that the operation panel  30  is not within the predetermined range from the main body  10 A, and judges whether the received operation is the operation relating to the remote limitation function (in this case, the confidential output function) or not (Step S 202 ). In case of the operation relating to the confidential output function (Step S 202 ; Yes), the CPU  31  prohibits the acceptance of the above received operation, and displays the warning massage indicating that the received operation is prohibited, on the display unit  35  (Step S 203 ). Then, the process is ended. 
       FIG. 10  shows an example of the warning massage  61  displayed on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30  in Step S 203 . The operation relating to the confidential output function is permitted in the state that the operation panel  30  is within the predetermined range from the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10 . Therefore, the CPU  31  displays the warning message  61  for prompting the user to carry out the operation relating to the confidential output function again after the operation panel  30  is moved within the predetermined range (in this case, not more than 1 meter) from the main body  10 A, on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30 . 
     In case that the received operation is not the operation relating to the confidential output function (Step S 202 ; No in  FIG. 9 ), the CPU  31  executes the process corresponding to the received operation (Step S 204 ). Then, the process is ended. For example, the CPU  31  transmits the contents of the received operation to the main body  10 A to instruct the main body  10 A to execute the process. 
     In case that the operation panel  30  is within the predetermined range from the main body  10 A (Step S 201 ; Yes), that is, in case that the detecting unit  38  detects that the operation panel  30  is within the predetermined range from the main body  10 A, the CPU  31  recognizes that the operation panel  30  is within the predetermined range from the main body  10 A, and judges whether the received operation is the operation relating to the web browsing function which is the local limitation function (Step S 205 ). In case of the operation relating to the web browsing function (Step S 205 ; Yes), the CPU  31  prohibits the acceptance of the above received operation, and displays the warning message indicating that the received operation is prohibited, on the display unit  35  (Step S 206 ). Then, the process is ended. 
       FIG. 11  shows an example of the warning massage  62  displayed on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30  in Step S 206 . The operation relating to the web browsing function is permitted in the state that the operation panel  30  is apart from the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  outside the predetermined range. Therefore, the CPU  31  displays the warning message  62  for prompting the user to carry out the operation relating to the web browsing function again in the state that the operation panel  30  is apart from the main body  10 A outside the predetermined range, on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30 . 
     In case that the limitation of the web browsing function is the limitation of the available website (that is, the available website is limited to the specific websites), in Step S 205 , the CPU  31  judges whether the operation received from the user is the operation for browsing a website other than the available website. In case that the received operation is the operation for browsing a website other than the available websites, the CPU  31  selects “Yes” in Step S 205  and the process proceeds to Step S 206 . 
       FIG. 12  shows an example of the warning message  63  displayed on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30  in Step S 206  in case that the limitation of the web browsing function is the limitation of the available website. The limitation of the available website is cancelled in the state that the operation panel  30  is not within the predetermined range from the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10 . Therefore, the CPU  31  displays the warning message  63  for prompting the user to carryout the operation for browsing the website again in the state that the operation panel  30  is apart from the main body  10 A over 1 meter, on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30 . 
     In case that the operation received from the user is not the operation relating to the web browsing function (or the operation for browsing a website other than the available website) (Step S 205 ; No), the CPU  31  executes the process corresponding to the received operation (Step S 207 ). Then, the process is ended. For example, the CPU  31  transmits the contents of the received operation to the main body  10 A to instruct the main body  10 A to execute the process. 
     The operation relating to the confidential output function, which is received from the operation panel  30  is permitted in the state that the operation panel  30  is within the predetermined range from the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10 . Further, the operation relating to the web browsing function (or the operation for browsing a website other than the available website), which is received from the operation panel  30  is permitted in the state that the operation panel  30  is not within the predetermined range from the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10 . 
     As described above, the CPU  31  switches the functions which can be operated from the operation panel  30 , according to whether the operation panel  30  is within the predetermined range from the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  or not. Therefore, it is possible to optimize the functions which can be operated from the operation panel  30 , according to each state. Further, when the user carries out the prohibited operation, the warning message for the prohibited operation is displayed. Because the user can be informed from the warning message how to carry out the above operation, the user can carry out the suitable action for the above operation by referring the warning message. 
     Next, the third embodiment will be explained. 
     In the first embodiment, the CPU  31  switches the functions which can be operated from the operation panel  30 , according to whether the operation panel  30  is attached to the main body  10 A or is detached from the main body  10 A. In the third embodiment, the CPU  31  which is the control unit switches the functions which can be operated from the operation panel  30 , according to whether the communication between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A is the wireless communication or the cable communication. 
     In the information processing device  10  according to the third embodiment, each of the connection communication unit  24  of the main body  10 A and the connection communication unit  37  of the operation panel  30  has a first communication unit for carrying out the cable communication as a first communication method, and a second communication unit for carrying out the wireless communication as a second communication method. In this embodiment, the cable communication may be a cable communication which is established via the connector of the operation panel  30  and the connector of the main body  10 A which are connected with each other when the operation panel  30  is attached to the main body  10 A. Further, for example, the cable communication may be established by connecting them via a cable having a length of about 1 meter. The cable communication may be established by using a cable LAN. 
     Each of the connection detecting unit  25  of the main body  10 A and the detecting unit  38  of the operation panel  30  detects whether the communication between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A is established by the wireless communication or by the cable communication. The cable communication is established in priority to the wireless communication. 
     Further, in the third embodiment, the information processing device  10  has the function (in the third embodiment, referred to as the remote limitation function and the second function corresponds to the above remote limitation function.) in which the operation received from the operation panel  30  is impossible incase that the communication (cable communication) between the main body  10 A and the operation panel  30  via each first communication unit is not established and the communication (wireless communication) between the main body  10 A and the operation panel  30  via each second communication unit is established, but the operation received from the operation panel  30  is possible in case that the communication between the main body  10 A and the operation panel  30  via each first communication unit is established; the function (in the third embodiment, referred to as the local limitation function and the third function corresponds to the above local limitation function.) in which the operation received from the operation panel  30  is impossible in case that the communication using each first communication unit is established, but the operation received from the operation panel  30  is possible in case that the communication using each first communication unit is not established and the communication using each second communication unit is established; and the function (in the third embodiment, referred to as the always permitted function) in which the operation received from the operation panel  30  is possible regardless of whether the communication using each first communication unit is established or not. Further, in the third embodiment, the first function corresponds to the function in which the operation received from the operation panel  30  is possible at least in case that the communication between the main body  10 A and the operation panel  30  via each first communication unit is not established and the communication between the main body  10 A and the operation panel  30  via each second communication unit is established. 
     The other configurations of the information processing device  10  according to the third embodiment are basically the same as those of the information processing device  10  according to the first embodiment. The explanation of the other configurations is omitted. 
     In the third embodiment, the remote limitation function is the confidential output function and the local limitation function is the web browsing function (or the limitation of the available websites). That is, in case that the wireless communication is established, because the operation panel  30  is detached from the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  and the operation panel  30  is used apart from the main body  10 A, the confidential output function is treated as the remote limitation function. Further, in case that the cable communication is established, because the operation panel  30  is used by attaching the operation panel  30  to the main body  10 A or by connecting the operation panel  30  with the main body  10 A by a cable near the main body  10 A, the web browsing function (or the function for limiting the available website) is treated as the local limitation function. 
     The cable communication has the high security on the communication as compared with the wireless communication. Therefore, the operation relating to the function which requires the high security on the communication may be prohibited in the state that the wireless communication is established. For example, the operation relating to the function for setting and registering a password is prohibited in the state that the wireless communication is established. 
       FIG. 13  shows the process which is carried out when the operation panel  30  of the information processing device  10  according to the third embodiment receives the operation from the user. When the operating unit  36  of the operation panel  30  receives the operation from the user, the CPU  31  of the operation panel  30  judges whether the wireless communication between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  is established or the cable communication is established in accordance with the detection result of the detecting unit  38  (Step S 301 ). 
     In case that the wireless communication is established (Step S 301 ; wireless), that is, in case that the communication using the first communication unit is not established and the communication using the second communication unit is established, the CPU  31  judges whether the received operation is the operation relating to the remote limitation function (in this case, the confidential output function) or not (Step S 302 ). In case of the operation relating to the confidential output function (Step S 302 ; Yes), the CPU  31  prohibits the acceptance of the above received operation, and displays the warning massage indicating that the received operation is prohibited, on the display unit  35  (Step S 303 ). Then, the process is ended. 
       FIG. 14  shows an example of the warning massage  71  displayed on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30  in Step S 303 . The operation relating to the confidential output function is permitted in the state that the cable communication between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  is established. Therefore, the CPU  31  displays the warning message  71  for prompting the user to carry out the operation relating to the confidential output function again after the communication method for communicating between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A is switched from the wireless communication to the cable communication, on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30 . 
     In case that the received operation is not the operation relating to the confidential output function (Step S 302 ; No in  FIG. 13 ), the CPU  31  executes the process corresponding to the received operation (Step S 304 ). Then, the process is ended. For example, the CPU  31  transmits the contents of the received operation to the main body  10 A to instruct the main body  10 A to execute the process. 
     In case that the cable communication between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A is established (Step S 301 ; cable), that is, in case that the communication using the first communication unit is established, the CPU  31  judges whether the received operation is the operation relating to the web browsing function which is the local limitation function (Step S 305 ). In case of the operation relating to the web browsing function (Step S 305 ; Yes), the CPU  31  prohibits the acceptance of the above received operation, and displays the warning message indicating that the received operation is prohibited, on the display unit  35  (Step S 306 ). Then, the process is ended. 
       FIG. 15  shows an example of the warning massage  72  displayed on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30  in Step S 306 . The operation relating to the web browsing function is permitted in the state that the communication between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  is the wireless communication. Therefore, the CPU  31  displays the warning message  72  for prompting the user to carry out the operation relating to the web browsing function again after the communication method for communicating between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A is switched to the wireless communication, on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30 . 
     In case that the limitation of the web browsing function is the limitation of the available website, in Step S 305 , the CPU  31  judges whether the operation received from the user is the operation for browsing a website other than the available website. In case that the received operation is the operation for browsing a website other than the available websites, the CPU  31  selects “Yes” in Step S 305  and the process proceeds to Step S 306 . 
       FIG. 16  shows an example of the warning message  73  displayed on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30  in Step S 306  in case that the limitation of the web browsing function is the limitation of the available website. The limitation of the available website is cancelled in the state that the wireless communication between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  is established. Therefore, the CPU  31  displays the warning message  73  for prompting the user to carry out the operation for browsing the website again after the communication method for communicating between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A is switched from the cable communication to the wireless communication, on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30 . 
     In case that the operation received from the user is not the operation relating to the web browsing function (or the operation for browsing a website other than the available website) (Step S 305 ; No), the CPU  31  executes the process corresponding to the received operation (Step S 307 ). Then, the process is ended. For example, the CPU  31  transmits the contents of the received operation to the main body  10 A to instruct the main body  10 A to execute the process. 
     The operation relating to the confidential output function, which is received from the operation panel  30  is permitted in the state that the cable communication between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  is established. Further, the operation relating to the web browsing function (or the operation for browsing a website other than the available website), which is received from the operation panel  30  is permitted in the state that the wireless communication between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  is established. 
     As described above, the CPU  31  switches the functions which can be operated from the operation panel  30 , according to whether the wireless communication between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  is established or the cable communication is established. Therefore, it is possible to optimize the functions which can be operated from the operation panel  30 , according to each state. Further, when the user carries out the prohibited operation, the warning message for the prohibited operation is displayed. Because the user can be informed from the warning message how to carry out the above operation, the user can carry out the suitable action for the above operation by referring the warning message. 
     Next, the fourth embodiment will be explained. 
     In the third embodiment, the CPU  31  switches the functions which can be operated from the operation panel  30 , according to whether the communication between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A is the wireless communication or the cable communication. In the fourth embodiment, the CPU  31  which is the control unit switches the functions which can be operated from the operation panel  30 , according to whether the communication between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A is the short-distance wireless communication or the wireless communication (referred to as the second wireless communication) other than the short-distance wireless communication. 
     In the information processing device  10  according to the fourth embodiment, each of the connection communication unit  24  of the main body  10 A and the connection communication unit  37  of the operation panel  30  has a first communication unit for carrying out the short-distance wireless communication as a first communication method, and a second communication unit for carrying out the wireless communication other than the short-distance wireless communication as a second communication method. 
     It is preferable that the short-distance wireless communication having the communication range of about 1 meter is used. However, the short-distance wireless communication having the communication range of not more than 10 meters is permitted. In this embodiment, in the short-distance wireless communication, Bluetooth® is used. In the second wireless communication, Wi-Fi® is used. However, the communication methods are not limited to these. In case of Bluetooth®, class 3 (1 mW, range: 1 meter) is preferable. Further, Bluetooth® having class 2 can be used according to the circumstances. However, Bluetooth® having class 1 cannot be used as the short-distance wireless communication. 
     Each of the connection detecting unit  25  of the main body  10 A and the detecting unit  38  of the operation panel  30  detects whether the short-distance wireless communication between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A is established or the second wireless communication is established. The short-distance wireless communication is established in priority to the second wireless communication. 
     Further, in the fourth embodiment, the information processing device  10  has the function (in the fourth embodiment, referred to as the remote limitation function and the second function corresponds to the above remote limitation function.) in which the operation received from the operation panel  30  is impossible in case that the communication (short-distance wireless communication) between the main body  10 A and the operation panel  30  via each first communication unit is not established and the communication (second wireless communication other than the short-distance wireless communication) between the main body  10 A and the operation panel  30  via each second communication unit is established, but the operation received from the operation panel  30  is possible in case that the communication between the main body  10 A and the operation panel  30  via each first communication unit is established; the function (in the fourth embodiment, referred to as the local limitation function and the third function corresponds to the above local limitation function.) in which the operation received from the operation panel  30  is impossible in case that the communication using each first communication unit is established, but the operation received from the operation panel  30  is possible in case that the communication using each first communication unit is not established and the communication using each second communication unit is established; and the function (in the fourth embodiment, referred to as the always permitted function) in which the operation received from the operation panel  30  is possible regardless of whether the communication using each first communication unit is established or not. Further, in the fourth embodiment, the first function corresponds to the function in which the operation received from the operation panel  30  is possible at least in case that the communication between the main body  10 A and the operation panel  30  via each first communication unit is not established and the communication between the main body  10 A and the operation panel  30  via each second communication unit is established. 
     Alternatively, regardless of whether the short-distance wireless communication is actually established, the detecting unit  38  or the like may detect whether the short-distance wireless communication can be established. That is, at the place where the short-distance wireless communication can be established, the second wireless communication can be also established. In practice, it is assumed that the second wireless communication is established in accordance with the user&#39;s selection. Therefore, the detecting unit  38  or the like detects not whether the short-distance wireless communication is actually established or not, but whether the short-distance wireless communication can be established. In this case, the remote limitation function is the function in which the operation received from the operation panel  30  is impossible in case that the communication (short-distance wireless communication) between the main body  10 A and the operation panel  30  via each first communication unit cannot be established and the communication (second wireless communication other than the short-distance wireless communication) between the main body  10 A and the operation panel  30  via each second communication unit is established, but the operation received from the operation panel  30  is possible in case that the communication between the main body  10 A and the operation panel  30  via each first communication unit can be established. Further, the local limitation function is the function in which the operation received from the operation panel  30  is impossible in case that the communication using each first communication unit can be established, but the operation received from the operation panel  30  is possible in case that the communication using each first communication unit cannot be established and the communication using each second communication unit is established. 
     The other configurations of the information processing device  10  according to the fourth embodiment are basically the same as those of the information processing device  10  according to the first embodiment. The explanation of the other configurations is omitted. 
     In the fourth embodiment, the remote limitation function is the confidential output function and the local limitation function is the web browsing function (or the limitation of the available websites). That is, in case that the short-distance wireless communication is not established or cannot be established, because the operation panel  30  is used apart from the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10 , the confidential output function is treated as the remote limitation function. Further, incase that the short-distance wireless communication is established or can be established, because the operation panel  30  is used by attaching the operation panel  30  to the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  or the operation panel  30  is used near the main body  10 A, the web browsing function (or the function for limiting the available website) is treated as the local limitation function. 
       FIG. 17  shows the process which is carried out when the operation panel  30  of the information processing device  10  according to the fourth embodiment receives the operation from the user. When the operating unit  36  of the operation panel  30  receives the operation from the user, the CPU  31  of the operation panel  30  judges whether the short-distance wireless communication between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  is established (can be established) in accordance with the detection result of the detecting unit  38  (Step S 401 ). 
     In case that the short-distance wireless communication is not established (cannot be established) (Step S 401 ; No), that is, in case that the communication using the first communication unit is not established (cannot be established) and the communication using the second communication unit is established, the CPU  31  judges whether the received operation is the operation relating to the remote limitation function (in this case, the confidential output function) or not (Step S 402 ). In case of the operation relating to the confidential output function (Step S 402 ; Yes), the CPU  31  prohibits the acceptance of the above received operation, and displays the warning massage indicating that the received operation is prohibited, on the display unit  35  (Step S 403 ). Then, the process is ended. 
       FIG. 18  shows an example of the warning massage  81  displayed on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30  in Step S 403 . The operation relating to the confidential output function is permitted in the state that the short-distance wireless communication between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  is established (or can be established). Therefore, the CPU  31  displays the warning message  81  for prompting the user to carry out the operation relating to the confidential output function again after the communication method for communicating between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A is switched from the second wireless communication (in this example, Wi-Fi®) to the short-distance wireless communication (in this example, Bluetooth®), on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30 . 
       FIG. 19  shows another example of the warning massage  82  displayed on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30  in Step S 403 . In  FIG. 19 , the CPU  31  displays the warning message  82  for prompting the user to carry out the operation relating to the confidential output function again after the communication method for communicating between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A is switched to the short-distance wireless communication (in this example, Bluetooth®), on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30 . 
     In case that the received operation is not the operation relating to the confidential output function (Step S 402 ; No in  FIG. 17 ), the CPU  31  executes the process corresponding to the received operation (Step S 404 ). Then, the process is ended. For example, the CPU  31  transmits the contents of the received operation to the main body  10 A to instruct the main body  10 A to execute the process. 
     In case that the short-distance wireless communication between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A is established (or can be established) (Step S 401 ; Yes), the CPU  31  judges whether the received operation is the operation relating to the web browsing function which is the local limitation function (Step S 405 ). In case of the operation relating to the web browsing function (Step S 405 ; Yes), the CPU  31  prohibits the acceptance of the above received operation, and displays the warning message indicating that the received operation is prohibited, on the display unit  35  (Step S 406 ). Then, the process is ended. 
       FIG. 20  shows an example of the warning massage  83  displayed on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30  in Step S 406 . The operation relating to the web browsing function is permitted in the state that the second wireless communication (in this example, Wi-Fi®) between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  is established (or can be established). Therefore, the CPU  31  displays the warning message  83  for prompting the user to carry out the operation relating to the web browsing function again after the communication method for communicating between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A is switched from the short-distance wireless communication (in this example, Bluetooth®) to the second wireless communication (in this example, Wi-Fi®), on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30 . 
       FIG. 21  shows another example of the warning massage  84  displayed on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30  in Step S 406 . In  FIG. 21 , the CPU  31  displays the warning message  84  for prompting the user to carry out the operation relating to the web browsing function again after the communication method for communicating between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A is switched to the second wireless communication (in this example, Wi-Fi®)), on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30 . 
     In case that the limitation of the web browsing function is the limitation of the available website to the specific websites, in Step S 405 , the CPU  31  judges whether the operation received from the user is the operation for browsing a website other than the available website. In case that the received operation is the operation for browsing a website other than the available web sites, the CPU  31  selects “Yes” in Step S 405  and the process proceeds to Step S 406 . 
       FIG. 22  shows an example of the warning message  85  displayed on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30  in Step S 406  in case that the limitation of the web browsing function is the limitation of the available website to the specific websites. The limitation of the available website is cancelled in the state that the second wireless communication (in this example, Wi-Fi®) between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  is established. Therefore, the CPU  31  displays the warning message  85  for prompting the user to carry out the operation for browsing the website again after the communication method for communicating between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A is switched from the short-distance wireless communication (in this example, Bluetooth®) to the second wireless communication (in this example, Wi-Fi®), on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30 . 
       FIG. 23  shows another example of the warning message  86  displayed on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30  in Step S 406  in case that the limitation of the web browsing function is the limitation of the available website to the specific websites. The CPU  31  displays the warning message  86  for prompting the user to carry out the operation for browsing the website again after the communication method for communicating between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A is switched to the second wireless communication (in this example, Wi-Fi®), on the display unit  35  of the operation panel  30 . 
     In case that the operation received from the user is not the operation relating to the web browsing function (or the operation for browsing a website other than the available website) (Step S 405 ; No in  FIG. 17 ), the CPU  31  executes the process corresponding to the received operation (Step S 407 ). Then, the process is ended. For example, the CPU  31  transmits the contents of the received operation to the main body  10 A to instruct the main body  10 A to execute the process. 
     The operation relating to the confidential output function, which is received from the operation panel  30  is permitted in the state that the short-distance wireless communication between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  is established (or can be established). Further, the operation relating to the web browsing function (or the operation for browsing a website other than the available website), which is received from the operation panel  30  is permitted in the state that the second wireless communication (wireless communication other than the short-distance wireless communication) between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  is established (or can be established). 
     As described above, the CPU  31  switches the functions which can be operated from the operation panel  30 , according to whether the short-distance wireless communication between the operation panel  30  and the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  is established (or can be established) or not. Therefore, it is possible to optimize the functions which can be operated from the operation panel  30 , according to whether the operation panel  30  is near the main body  10 A or not. Further, when the user carries out the prohibited operation, the warning message for the prohibited operation is displayed. Because the user can be informed from the warning message how to carry out the above operation, the user can carry out the suitable action for the above operation by referring the warning message. 
     As described above, the embodiments are explained by using the drawings. However, in the present invention, the concrete configuration is not limited to the above embodiments. In the present invention, various modifications of the above embodiments or the addition of various functions or the like to the embodiments can be carried out without departing from the gist of the invention. 
     In the above embodiments, because the CPU  31  of the operation panel  30  carries out the process for switching the function which can be operated from the operation panel  30  (processes shown in  FIGS. 5 ,  9 ,  13  and  17 ), the main body  10 A is not required to carry out the process for switching the function which can be operated. However, the main body  10 A may switch the operation of the information processing device  10  in accordance with the detection result of the connection detecting unit  25  of the information processing device  10 , which indicates the attachment state of the operation panel  30 . Further, in case that the main body  10 A transmits the detection result of the connection detecting unit  25  to the operation panel  30  via the communication, the detecting unit  38  of the operation panel  30  can be omitted. 
     In each embodiment, the CPU  31  of the operation panel  31  carries out the process for switching the function which can be operated from the operation panel  30  (processes shown in  FIGS. 5 ,  9 ,  13  and  17 ). However, the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  may carry out the above process. For example, the information processing device  10  may have the following configuration. In this configuration, the operation panel  30  transmits the contents of the operation received from the operation panel  30  to the main body  10 A. Then, the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  judges whether the received operation is prohibited and transmits the above judgment result to the operation panel  30 . When the operation panel  30  receives the judgment result, the operation panel  30  permits the operation or prohibits the operation and displays the warning message in accordance with the received judgment result. 
     Further, the information processing device  10  may have the following configuration. In this configuration, the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  functions as a server for controlling the display contents to be displayed by the operation panel  30  and for controlling the process for permitting the operation. The operation panel  30  functions as a client for displaying the setting window and the like in accordance with the window data received from the main body  10 A and for transmitting the setting contents to the main body  10 A. In this case, the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10  carries out the process for switching the function which can be operated from the operation panel  30  (processes shown in  FIGS. 5 ,  9 ,  13  and  17 ). 
     In the above embodiments, the remote limitation function is the confidential output function and the local limitation function is the web browsing function or the function for limiting the available website to the specific websites. However, these functions are simply exemplified. The functions are not limited to these. 
     Further, in the above embodiments, the case in which the information processing device  10  is the multi-function peripheral, is explained. The information processing device is not limited to the multi-function peripheral as long as the information processing device operates in accordance with the operation received from the operation panel. 
     In the second to the fourth embodiments, the operation panel  30  is not limited to a panel which forms a part of the information processing device  10  and which is attached to and detached from the main body  10 A of the information processing device  10 . For example, in the information processing device, the operation panel which cannot be detached from the information processing device is fixedly provided, and another operation panel which is different from the fixedly-provided operation panel and which can operate this information processing device, is used as the operation panel according to the present invention. 
     One of the objects of the above embodiments and the like is to provide an operation panel and an information processing device which can prevent the operation which is not suitable for the attachment state or the like of the operation panel, when the operation panel which is attachable to and is detachable from the main body is used. 
     In at least one of the embodiments and the like, when the operation panel is not attached to the predetermined device, the operation relating to the first function of the predetermined device can be carried out from the operation panel and the operation relating to the second function of the predetermined device cannot be carried out from the operating unit. Further, when the operation panel is attached to the predetermined device, at least the operation relating to the second function can be carried out from the operation panel. That is, the second function is prohibited from being operated from the operation panel when the operation panel is detached from the predetermined device. 
     In at least one of the embodiments and the like, when the operation panel is not attached to the predetermined device, the operation relating to the third function of the predetermined device can be carried out from the operation panel. Further, when the operation panel is attached to the predetermined device, the operation relating to the third function cannot be carried out from the operation panel. That is, the third function is prohibited from being operated from the operation panel when the operation panel is attached to the predetermined device. 
     In at least one of the embodiments and the like, when the operation panel is not within the predetermined range from the predetermined device, the operation relating to the first function of the predetermined device can be carried out from the operation panel and the operation relating to the second function of the predetermined device cannot be carried out from the operation panel. Further, when the operation panel is within the predetermined range from the predetermined device, at least the operation relating to the second function can be carried out from the operation panel. That is, the second function is prohibited from being operated from the operation panel when the operation panel is apart from the predetermined device outside of the predetermined range. 
     In at least one of the embodiments and the like, when the operation panel is not within the predetermined range from the predetermined device, the operation relating to the third function of the predetermined device can be carried out from the operation panel. Further, when the operation panel is within the predetermined range from the predetermined device, the operation relating to the third function cannot be carried out from the operation panel. That is, the third function is prohibited from being operated from the operation panel when the operation panel is near the predetermined device. 
     In at least one of the embodiments and the like, when the communication between the operation panel and the predetermined device by the first communication method is not established and the communication between the operation panel and the predetermined device by the second communication method is established, the operation relating to the first function of the predetermined device can be carried out from the operation panel and the operation relating to the second function of the predetermined device cannot be carried out from the operation panel. Further, when the communication between the operation panel and the predetermined device by the first communication method can be established, at least the operation relating to the second function can be carried out from the operation panel. That is, the second function is prohibited from being operated from the operation panel when the communication using the first communication method cannot be established. 
     In at least one of the embodiments and the like, when the communication between the operation panel and the predetermined device by the first communication method can be established, the operation relating to the third function cannot be carried out from the operation panel. Further, when the communication between the operation panel and the predetermined device by the first communication method cannot be established and the communication between the operation panel and the predetermined device by the second communication method is established, the operation relating to the third function of the predetermined device can be carried out from the operation panel. That is, the third function is prohibited from being operated from the operation panel when the communication using the first communication method can be established. 
     In at least one of the embodiments and the like, in the state that the operation panel is detached from the predetermined device or that the operation panel is not near the predetermined device, the operation for starting the print in the confidential job cannot be carried out from the operation panel. 
     In at least one of the embodiments and the like, in the state that the operation panel is attached to the predetermined device or that the operation panel is near the predetermined device, the operation relating to the web browsing function, which is carried out from the operation panel, is prohibited. 
     In at least one of the embodiments and the like, in the state that the operation panel is attached to the predetermined device or that the operation panel is near the predetermined device, the operation for accessing a website other than the specific website, which is carried out from the operation panel, is prohibited. 
     According to the operation panel and the information processing device, because the control unit switches the function which can be operated from the operation panel according to whether the operation panel is attached to the main body or the like, it is possible to prevent the user from carrying out the operation which is not suitable for the attachment state or the like of the operation panel, by using the operation panel.