Abstract: Systems and methods for automatically selecting digital sending functionality are provided. In one embodiment, the method comprises receiving input of a character, determining the nature of the character, determining whether a digital sending trigger has been satisfied, and where a digital sending trigger has been satisfied, automatically selecting a digital sending functionality based upon the type of the trigger. In a preferred embodiment, the invention comprises a multi-function peripheral device capable of photocopying, e-mailing, and faxing documents. The device comprises a device operation module adapted to: evaluate characters received via the control panel, determine whether the user desires to photocopy, e-mail, or fax based upon the received characters, and automatically enable and initiate the desired functionality.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing user instructions or help information to a user of a computer controlled multi-function office device that enables the user to access a help module with an icon-based help mode configured to allow the user to select an icon and get an identification of the function, which the icon performs without performing the function. In accordance with the invention the identification of the function includes a link to instructions that explain the steps to use the function associated with the selected icon.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for disguising the depth of tree menus via popup options. In architecture, the system includes a display device that displays a top menu, and an input device to enable a user to select an option. A graphical user interface displays a second level menu on the display device in response to the option selection, and leaves a portion of the top menu visible to the user. The present invention can also be viewed as a method for disguising the depth of tree menus. The method operates by displaying a top menu on a display device and enabling a user to select an option. A second level menu is then displayed in response to the option selection, wherein the second level menu leaves a portion of the top menu visible to the user.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a system and method for automatically selecting a digital sending functionality. In one embodiment, the method comprises receiving input of a character, determining the nature of the character, determining whether a digital sending trigger has been satisfied, and where a digital sending trigger has been satisfied, automatically selecting a digital sending functionality based upon the type of the trigger. In a preferred embodiment, the invention comprises a multi-function peripheral device capable of photocopying, e-mailing, and faxing documents. The device comprises a device operation module adapted to: evaluate characters received via the control panel, determine whether the user desires to photocopy, e-mail, or fax based upon the received characters, and automatically enable and initiate the desired functionality.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a system and method for communicating information to a device user. The method comprises the steps of presenting a textual indication to the user regarding a high level aspect of a device functionality, receiving an input from the user regarding the device functionality, and presenting a graphical indication to the user regarding a low level aspect of the device functionality. In a preferred embodiment, the device functionality pertains to the display and adjustment of device settings.