On the Epson printer problem, I have had strange problems occasionally with my Epson Stylus Photo 1280, software and hardware. Although the site says that there is a charge for telephone support after warranty, I have found them to be very helpful and will take as much time as necessary to help you out without charge except your long distance charge (they will ask for the serial number and your information if you haven't called before).
In the end, it may be a mechanical problem that only can be repaired at a shop, but that is highly unlikely because the mechanics are so simple and generally so reliable. I also am betting on a low ink cartridge. I sometimes get "communication error" and can't print at all when the cartridge is low (it's obviously not really a communication error). I can't even check the ink level in the Epson Print Utility because there is a "communication error" message given. If that's not it, call Epson. Robert | The next meeting of the Louisville Computer Society will | be September 23. The LCS Web page is <http://www.kymac.org>. | This list's page is <http://erdos.math.louisville.edu/macgroup>.
