| 摘要 |
<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To efficiently perform printing in a specific color in a short period of time, in an image forming apparatus having a developing unit to which a plurality of cartridges having toner in the specific color can be attached. <P>SOLUTION: Prior to a printing operation, it is determined whether the cartridges attached to the developing unit can be used or not. One of the cartridges that can be used is assigned as a priority cartridge. A printing preparing operation is performed only for the priority cartridges and brought into a printable state. Accordingly, a printing preparing operation for the cartridges that cannot be used is securely prevented, which enhances temporal and economical efficiency. Further, since the printable state can be ready in a short period of time, a user does not need to wait for the printing preparing operation for a long time than necessary. Accordingly, the time for the user to wait can be shortened. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI |
