SilverFast 5.x / 6, Windows XP, PhotoShop 7.0, Epson 2450

[packgrad2k1]

I have had SF 5.x working with PS 7 and XP (Epson 2450) for some time now. I recently moved, and when I put the computer back together, I apparently used a different USB port than before, and needed to reinstall the Espon software, and subsequently SF 5.x. Once I reinstalled, SF no longer recognizes my hardware. When the splash screen pops up, it freezes on "Detecting Devices" and locks up PhotoShop as well. Epsons program works however (as well as one can say that plugin "works") I have uninstalled the scanner, the TWAIN drivers, and SF 5.x, reinstalled everything, upgraded to SF 6, all to no avail. And, just for giggles, I tried running it under PS 6 instead of PS 7, and still have the same problems. I have it installed as a TWAIN device, not a plug-in. If needed, I can stop using PS7 to import the files if that will work, but using PS is preferred. Any ideas?

[packgrad2k1]

I realized after leaving the computer and just waiting that PS 7.0 does eventaully unlock, and SF opens. This still however takes about 15 minutes to happen. Any ideas on how to get this process to move along a little bit quicker? This happens regardless of whether or not photoshop has been closed since the last time SF was opened. IE, if you scan several photos, edit them, then go back to SF it still takes an inordinate amount of time to scan.

Thanks!

[packgrad2k1]

I've formatted my machine, and started from scratch and still have this problems. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.