Abstract: A xerographic reproducing machine including a manually operable start switch, a circuit responsive to actuation of the start switch for cycling from a standby condition to an operating condition for performing a process for copying a document, the copying process including machine preparation to a copy ready state and subsequent initiation of the sequential copying steps, a timing circuit for initiating the copying steps after achieving the copy ready state, and a standby circuit for cycling the machine to the standby condition after a predetermined time absent re-actuation of the start switch, the improvement comprising a delay control circuit connected to said timing circuit for delaying initiation of the copying steps after achieving the copy ready state, a switch for selectively activating the delay control switch, and a circuit responsive to activation of the delay control switch for bypassing the standby circuit.