A host device to control transmission of bit-map data and/or one or more real-time commands to an imaging device controls processing of a data stream including the bit-map data. In one aspect, if a detector of the host determines that a data stream to be transmitted includes bit-map data, then a processor of the host sends a real-time processing disable command; and then sends the data stream including the bit-map data. In another aspect, if a detector of the host determines that real-time command receipt by the imaging device is disabled, then a processor of the host transmits a data stream including bit-map data, followed by the transmission of a real-time processing enable command, and then the transmission of a real-time command. An imaging device and controlling its receipt and processing of data are also provided.