Canon is currently developing wireless direct-connection technologies that will provide anywhere/anytime accessibility to enable users to easily connect such devices as printers and digital cameras to a network. Also, based on these technologies, the company is developing cooperative networking technologies for quick and easy access, and high-speed video communication technologies that allow transmission while preserving high-definition image quality.

Conceptual Overview of Device Connection and Operation Through Wireless Direct Connection
and Cooperative Networking Technologies

Canon wireless direct-connection technology provides a framework for easy connectivity, automating the performance of various settings that were often problematic for users, such as wireless-parameter and device setup. For the wireless communication interface technologies that make up this technology, Canon selected such short-distance wireless communication standards as Bluetooth and Wireless USB, and wireless LAN technologies like IEEE802.1 1b/g/a/n. The company is working to create a common platform that will take full advantage of its products' features, and also seeks to develop technologies enabling easy setup, automatic connection, and wireless security (encryption and authentication) as middleware to facilitate easy connectivity and promote standardization. These technologies will continue to spread the trend toward networking among devices.

The objective in developing cooperative networking technologies is to build highly functional systems specialized for image-input and output devices.

One important factor in the creation of these systems is the automation of processes, from the connection of the device to the network, through to the execution of the desired task. Canon selects and functionally integrates the most appropriate technologies for each of the device's operating steps. For instance, among major standard technologies, Canon has been reviewing IPv6 for network connectivity; UPnP for service discovery, service access, and service capability adjustment; and XML Web Service technologies to provide service level status information, service execution, and interactivity functions.

Transmitting images between networked devices requires technologies capable of appropriately controlling ever-changing images and transmission quality. High-speed video communication technologies will enable the realization of networks supporting the transmission of highresolution images from high-definition imaging devices that will soon become the industry standard.