If you are scanning to attach for e-mails, the web, or Ebay and Yahoo auctions then this is the scanner to use. It is not the fastest, and sometimes you either have to pull out and reconnect the USB connection or restart the system because of freezing or the computer doesn't recognize the scanner. This happens regularly. You should also scan in manual mode to get the best scan. Only adjustments to be made are cropping the scan, and making it brighter. I also tried a Cannon 670, and it is much faster but the scan is not in the same league. Bottom line best scan and bang for the $. As far as the software package outside of the installation package I don't use it. I use Adobe PhotoDeluxe 4.0 which came with the 1240 package. I'm used to that program and I find it very easy to use. I was testing a few things for a friend who wanted to use it as a copy machine, and if you do the occasional copy it is fine. However, if you make many copies then it is way to slow. As far as ocr functions make a regular scan copy and save it in your word processing program. I tried OCRing with Omni Pro 11 and it is easier to do a straight scan and correct yourself then using that programs proofreading skills. For pictures and scanning on the web this scanner is awesome, and quirks aside the bottom line is the quality of the scan and for the list price of $129 list none do it better. I bought it with the $30 dollar rebate and a $15 dollar coupon from Amazon, and I have zero regrets.

Recommended: Yes

Amount Paid (US$): 85
Interface: USB