One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for controlling mode switches in hardware. A positioning unit included in each printer connected to the network recognizes positional information, which represents its own geographical position where the printer is located and includes, for example, a latitude and a longitude. Reversible resistance changes are induced in the device under applied electrical pulses. The first segment extends downwardly. The controller is configured to provide a current signal for driving an NPN power switch and to provide a voltage signal for driving an NMOS power switch.