What is MEAP?
Brief Overview:
MEAP, or Multifunctional Embedded Application Platform, enables Canon’s MFP devices to support document and other services above and beyond the standard functions of digital copy, print, scan, and send-to-E- mail/file/fax/Mail Box. MEAP is based on Java 2 Micro Edition ( J2ME) technology, which is an embedded Java runtime environment for devices
like the MFP. MEAP is factory-installed as firmware on every MEAP-compatible MFP device, at no additional cost to the customer.
In functional terms, MEAP provides application developers the following features to build higher-level document and workflow applications:
• Graphical User-interface (GUI) development
• Job control of print and scan operations
• Files, data, event control, and networking services
• Authentication, security, device interface, encryption, and other utilities
In English:
With MEAP, for example, a mortgage company could build an application that, in a single operation, could scan a document and then route copies electronically to the various parties that need to see it, such as underwriters, the legal organization, the title company, etc.
That would minimize the time it takes to transit the paper, not to mention eliminate the cost associated with the transit of the paper. Theoretically, it also would speed up the whole process and make it possible for the company to close more business.
Documents that are distributed like this can be printed and used in the traditional way, tied into an existing workflow systems or even posted as HTML pages on a Web site so people involved in the process can fill in data online.
Once IT guys see a copier running an application that is unique to their organization, they tend to have a huge number of ideas about how they are going to integrate the technology into existing business applications