A serious hobbyist couldn't ask for a better combination of precision and value. Despite the relatively low price, the scanner offers a 16-bit grayscale, 48-bit color, and a maximum resolution of 1,600 x 3,200 dpi--which is more than enough scanning power to glean every sharp detail from family photos.

One-touch buttons allow you to instantly copy, print, or e-mail photos. The built-in zoom feature provides a range of 50 to 200 percent, supplying plenty of options for enlarging or cropping your final prints. A cold cathode ray lamp is used as the light source, a powerful and economical choice that provides hours of efficient lighting. Maximum scan size is 8.5 x 11 inches, large enough for most office documents as well as your favorite vacation shots.

Included in the box is a USB cord, along with Epson Twain and a design software package. The manufacturer's warranty covers parts and labor for a full year.