Abstract: An image forming apparatus according to the invention comprises an image recording medium supplying unit in which an information recording medium including a radio communication medium is provided, a transport path in which the information recording medium supplied from the information recording medium supplying unit is transported, a transport unit for transporting the recording medium, an image erasing unit for erasing an image formed in the information recording medium, and an image forming unit for forming an image in the information recording medium. The apparatus has a configuration in which at least an antenna section of a radio communication medium processing unit communicating with the radio communication medium of the information recording medium is provided in the information recording medium supplying unit.

Abstract: A card reader has a main body and a card reader unit provided within the main body for executing at least one of recording and reproducing data on a card inserted in the card reader unit. A first communication unit is provided within the main body for executing at least one of inputting and outputting a signal, a power supply unit is provided within the main body for supplying electric power to each unit, and a controller is provided within the main body for controlling each unit. An accessory device can be removably attached to the main body for having at least one of the functions among a printing function, a data communicating function and a display function. A second communication unit is provided within the accessory device for having at least one of the functions of receiving a signal from the first communication unit and sending a signal to the first communication unit.

Abstract: When a visible image on a printing area of a rewritable recording medium is erased by an erase head, a control unit and an erasing control device, respectively, control the electric current supplied to the erase head, based on a power supply pattern recorded in a storage device and a temperature information from a first temperature detecting device for measuring the ambient temperature.

Abstract: A portable card reader is provided which reads data stored in a card inserted thereinto and/or records given data on the card. The card reader includes upper and lower casings which are pivotably supported so that they are opened to expose a card feeding path defined in the card reader for facilitating easy removal of the card if jammed. The card reader also includes a memory for storing therein the data read out of the card and an input/output terminal for establishing data communication with an external device such as a computer.