Abstract: A braking system for image forming apparatus returns an optical scan system in the image forming apparatus to a preselected home position after each scan of a document placed on a platen, within a predetermined period of time. Various factors including temperature, the number of copies of the document previously made, can change the operating performance of the braking system so that it does not return the optical scan system to the home position within the predetermined period. Detectors are provided to detect and sense the factors which will change the operating performance of the braking system. Brake control apparatus is responsive to the detectors and controls the braking system to return the optical scan system to its home position within the preselected period of time to thereby maintain the efficiency of the braking system even as the factors such as temperature, and number of copies previously made changes during operation of the image forming apparatus.