Abstract: A simple and economical method and apparatus for identifying the toner installed in a multi-toner printer by identifying the toner holder installed in the printer is disclosed. Additionally, the multi-toner printer is controlled based on the toner holder installed and a job selection. A toner identification apparatus comprising a toner identification module, a display device, and an input device, identifies the toner holder installed in a multi-toner printer by producing and identifying a unique voltage identification signal for the installed toner holder. A job selection algorithm determines whether the installed toner holder is the correct toner holder for a specified job selection. Additionally, if the toner holder installed in the multi-toner printer contains MICR toner, the job selection algorithm mandates a security procedure that must be carried out in order for printing to be allowed.

Abstract: A sheet feeder having a platform for supporting a stack of sheets, a feed head assembly for feeding sheets seriatim from the top of a sheet supply stack supported on the platform, a mechanism for moving the platform relative to the feed head assembly, and device for controlling operation of the platform moving mechanism. The control device determines a selected parameter of a stack of sheets supported on the platform and produces a signal corresponding thereto. The speed of the platform moving mechanism is then set based on the parameter signal.