Patent ID: 7447456

Claim:
An image forming apparatus comprising: scanner means for scanning an original image to obtain image data; printer means for printing the image data; storage means for storing at least one function program for function extension that has been restricted in usage and for storing an identification information; hot-pluggable connecting terminal connectable with a cancellation device that stores cancellation information for canceling the usage restrictions on said at least one function program and that stores an identification information; and control means operative under program control: for detecting whether or not said cancellation device is connected to said connecting terminal; for judging whether or not the identification information stored in said cancellation device connected to said connecting terminal is registered in said storage means; for reading the cancellation information from said cancellation device when said identification information stored in said cancellation device is registered in said storage means; and for canceling the usage restrictions on said at least one function program according to the cancellation information.