Abstract: The method of verifying the integrity of the non-volatile memory device contents in an image processing apparatus having image processing for forming an image, a controller for directing the operation of the image processing, a mass memory device and a non-volatile memory device for dynamically storing critical machine data comprising the steps of performing a non-volatile memory check including the steps of verifying selected patterns and verifying a checksum related to the non-volatile memory, determining a non-volatile memory fault during the process of performing the non-volatile memory check, retrieving backup critical machine data from the mass memory device, storing the critical machine data into the non-volatile memory device, and providing dynamically updated data backup of the non-volatile memory image to the mass memory device.

Abstract: A method of controlling an image processing apparatus having an image processing means for forming an image, a controller including a first memory, and a removable memory medium having a boot sector, a directory, and identifiable files with header sectors, selected files of the removable memory medium capable of being booted into said first memory for controlling the image processing means, including the steps of loading the removable memory medium into a memory drive integral with said image processing apparatus, reading the directory of the removable memory medium for determining bootable attributes, determining the validity of the header sector and the validity of files for booting into the controller, transferring all valid files of the removable memory into the first memory, and determining that the files loaded into the first memory are capable of controlling the image processing apparatus.

Abstract: System for saving and restoring critical files on the rigid disk of an electrostatographic reproduction machine in the event the disk becomes corrupted wherein the critical files have an identifying header sector transparent to the disk directory, with a floppy disk having a bootable locate and read utility to identify critical files and read them to blank floppy disks so as to enable the rigid disk to be rebuilt or replaced without fear of loss or destruction of the critical files, a disk rebuilding utility to rebuild the rigid disk, and a file restoration utility to restore the critical files to the rigid disk when rebuilding or replacing of the rigid disk is completed.

Abstract: System for recording and remotely accessing certain operating data in an electrostatographic reproduction machine for use in analyzing machine faults and software crashes, with transfer of the data to a remote service site either by floppy disk or telecommunications line.

Abstract: The method of permitting the execution of a disk loaded into the disk drive, the disk having a plurality of tracks, comprising the steps of writing data in non-standard format and length to a normally unaccessible track of the disk, the data including an encrypted password, the password being located at an arbitary location within the data, reading the data resulting in an error signal, locating an indexing position and applying an offset to identify the password, and unencrypting and authenticating the password in order to execute the disk.

Abstract: A fault diagnosing and identification system for reproduction machines in which LEDs are provided on the core PWBs, individual LEDs being activated in predetermined on/off sequences to identify both a faulty PWB and the specific fault itself.