METHOD FOR PROVIDING PRINTING SERVICES AND PRINTING CONTROL METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A KEY TO ACQUIRE ADDITIONAL AUTHORIZED PAGES AS NEEDED

摘要

A vendor provides, and an operator obtains a method dedicated printer bundle. The printer bundle includes a printer having a key interface, an ink supply, and a key for association with the printer through the key interface. The key is provided with key data pertaining to an authorized page count. The printer operator is allowed to acquire additional authorized pages as needed. When the printer ink supply becomes depleted, the printer operator is provided with additional ink at no or insignificant cost.

主权项

1. A method of providing printing services, comprising:
initializing a printer having a key interface and an ink supply; obtaining a key for association with the printer through the key interface; loading the key with key data pertaining to an authorized page count; controlling the key to acquire additional authorized pages as needed; providing the printer with additional ink when the printer ink supply is depleted; and informing a printer operator that the additional ink is provided at no or insignificant cost.