Driver and Software installation (UPDATED 28/01/08)

As with most hardware these days, the driver and "Bonus" software installation is all taken care of by a Wizard. I wont spend too much time on this, other than to say you have two options; Easy Install (In bold letters) and Custom INstall (in smaller letters). I wonder which one Epson wants you to use? I will use the Easy Install, but just for this review I will take a look at the the Custom install. You are presented with a list choices and a prompt line on the bottom saying "start Installation of the Software that you want". Ok, I click on the driver and a pop up box provides me with details about the Driver clicking on any of the other buttons also provides details etc. So now I select the driver and Presto the whole list grey's out. Now I have installed many applications and printer drivers in my time, but I was left confused as to what was goring on. it would appear that you have to click each mini app. in turn to install it. Why couldn't Epson just provide a check box on each item and then let the computer get on with it. Perhaps it might be better to stick with the Easy install option.

Select the Easy Install option	The Custom install lets you choose what you want
Just in case your not sure, a pop up window will give you all the details	I'm sure I selected something?
A list of the Applications available, I will look at these towards the end of the review.

The Easy Install

In the end I opted for the Easy Install, this was an easy method although it did have a problem finding the printer. I closed the Installation and restarted it and then it worked without a hitch. One unexpected feature in the Easy Install was the inclusion of a tick box which will allow you to install the applications you want - so what is the custom install all about, or more to the point, what is the purpose of including a custom install option when the Easy Install gives you a choice too?

The Easy Install screen	and we're off
Plug in the USB cable to computer and printer	My system didn't find the printer on the first run
It did find it on the second try	Select the options you want to install
Your done, now Restart your computer	The ink levels are all up

The driver and software installation took about 12 minutes, I can't give you an accurate time as I was doing screen shots at the same time. I should also point out that this could have caused the slight hiccup in the installation process. Epson does advise you not to run any other application whilst installing the R1900. I am sure you will nat have the same problem as I had.