I purchased this model (Scanjet 4200C) a couple of years ago for about $150. Installation seemed to work ok in Win98, but the lamp wouldn't turn off. Even after downloading the lamp update patch from HP's website, the lamp still didn't turn off. And after being on for more than an hour, the scanner becomes unresponsive.

I recently upgraded to WinXP, and hoped that things would behave better. They are worse. Now, if I want to scan something, I have to reboot my computer and use the scanner immediately upon logging on. If I wait too long, I get a "scanner cannot be contacted by software" error.

It seems as though other reviews cover the details of the scanner. I just want everyone to be aware of the potential difficulties you may encounter with this scanner.

The software (HP Precision Scan LT) is slightly cumbersome. For those users who scan a lot, with customized settings, they are going to get frustrated having to reset those settings every time they start the program.

With the price currently listed at an attractive $60, you may get a lot of bang for your buck. But then again, you may get just what you pay for.

Recommended: No

Amount Paid (US$): 150
Interface: USB