Image forming apparatus with function permitting key entry during waiting time

Electrophotographic copying apparatus comprising:

• copy number input means for inputting the desired number of copies of an original document;
• first display means for indicating the set number;
• second display means for indicating a copy ready condition in which the apparatus is ready to perform a copying operation;
• copy starter means for commanding a start of the copying operation;
• timer means for controlling the first display means to automatically return the set number of copies to one if the copy starter means fails to command the start of a copying operation during a predetermined period of time after the number of copies is set by the copy number input means;
• and
• control means for controlling the copy number input means to permit the copy number input means to set the number of copies even during a period for which the apparatus stands ready to perform the copying operation,
• wherein said control means controls the timer to actuate the timer after the copy ready condition is indicated.

Electrophotographic copying apparatus comprising:

• copy number input means for inputting the desired number of copies of an original document;
• first display means for indicating the set number;
• second display means for indicating a copy ready condition in which the apparatus is ready to perform a copying operation;
• copy starter means for commanding a start of the copying operation;
• timer means for controlling the first display means to automatically return the set number of copies to one if the copy starter means fails to command the start of a copying operation during a predetermined period of time after the number of copies is set by the copy number input means;
• control means for controlling the copy number input means to permit the copy number input means to set the number of copies even during a period for which the apparatus stands ready to perform the copying operation;
• and
• copy sheet feed means, the control means being constructed to disable the copy number input means to set the number of copies while the copy sheet feed means is operative.