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mudmonkey · Oct 6, 2000, 11:42 PM

I just bought a Umax Astra 3400, and I am trying to install Vistascan 3.7.3 to get it to work. Unfortunately, Vistascan 3.7.3 installer crashes on my computer before it asks me to find my plug-ins. I have tried with extensions off with virtual memory off with MacOS 9.0.4 base extensions, etc. all to no avail. I called Umax and they told me that I should buy a different model scanner!?!?! It is their stupid generic drivers, not the scanner itself...

Has anyone had troubles installing Vistascan 3.7.3 on MacOS 9.0.4. I have a Powerbook G3 (Lombard). Any help is appreciated as if I can't get this cleared by Monday, I will have to ship the scanner back.

Thanks,
Brian

ibookuser2 · Oct 7, 2000, 01:48 AM

I have had terrible experiences with UMAX scanners. I hate to tell people to stay away from people's products, but the UMAX drivers are absolutely worthless and do not run well on ANY computer with ANY operating system.

Microtek drivers aren't great, but are somewhat usable. If you are going to get a new scanner, AGFA makes some really nice ones that have excellent software, like pull the thing out of the box, put in the cd and install, reboot and scan.

mudmonkey · Oct 7, 2000, 10:58 AM

Thanks for the response. I am going to follow your advice. I couldn't believe it when UMAX told me I would have to buy a different model of scanner when the software of theirs won't even install. I'll buy a different model allright, a different brand with it!

I have taken your suggestion and am looking at the Agfa scanners. I am leaning toward the SNAPSCAN E50. Anyone have any comments?

ibookuser2 · Oct 7, 2000, 06:41 PM

I have used the E50 and have found it to be one of Agfa's best.

Oct 10, 2000, 10:25 PM

By all means, get a new scanner if you want. Just to add my two cents, I've had some nightmares with the Umax 2100U and VistaScan. I finally ditched the software for the MagicScan software (get it from their site) and haven't had any serious problems since. The scan quality is good and the MagicScan sw gives you many controls to get great scans. I'd try that before getting a new scanner.. but then again I'm lazy and software is easier to mess around with than hardware!