Abstract: Methods, image-forming systems, and image-forming assistance apparatuses are described. According to one aspect, a method of informing a user with respect to operations of an image-forming device includes detecting a user attempting to effect an operation of an image-forming device configured to form hard images upon media and generating audible signals representing a human voice to communicate audible information to the user regarding the image-forming device and responsive to the detecting.

Abstract: System and methods for chaining the translation of data file formats by linking programs that convert datafiles between formats. A user submits a request to a controller program to convert a datafile from one format into another. The controller accesses a registry database to determine what translation programs (“translators”) are available, and designs a translation process linking the individual translators to perform the conversion. The translation job is controlled by job specification commands, preferably provided to each translator as a URL in HTTP protocol, that instruct each translator to access its data from the prior link in the translation chain. Format conversion occurs as the translators communicate directly with each other, passing the data down the chain. The process is especially suited for converting datafiles in unsupported formats into supported formats for printing.

Abstract: Methods, image-forming systems, and image-forming assistance apparatuses are described. According to one aspect, a method of informing a user with respect to operations of an image-forming device includes detecting a user attempting to effect an operation of an image-forming device configured to form hard images upon media and generating audible signals representing a human voice to communicate audible information to the user regarding the image-forming device and responsive to the detecting.

Abstract: Systems for retaining print job settings based upon a user's preferred print settings including a processor adapted to communicate with an imaging device and a registry coupled to the imaging device that includes the user's preferred print setting. In one embodiment, the registry stores the user's print settings in a database as name/value pairs. The user's print settings in the registry can override any default settings stored in the registry. Likewise, if print settings accompany a print job, those settings can override the user's preferred print setting stored in the registry. Systems and other methods also are provided.