How can a user troubleshoot a Xerox device without calling upon a system administrator? Today some 'help software' or 'knowledge bases' can be accessed over the network via a computer. Unfortunately however, studies have shown that there is a rarely a free access machine sitting next to the copier/printer. Maintenance assistant software answers this problem by providing access to the help software directly from the device using a touch sensitive screen. Access is enabled via the Extensible Interface Platform. It can also query the knowledge base with the current error code to guide automatically the user to the right answer. Furthermore, Maintenance assistant uses linguistic tools to refine your search and help you find the most appropriate solution as quickly as possible. Previously designed for Xerox support staff, with EIP it is now available to customers.