I tried posting this last night but my laptop was playing up:
I would go into detail about Win7 but i don't want to waste my time. Windows XP was the greatest OS from 2002 through to 2008 There were ~10 differant versions made from it because it was so advanced and easy at the same time. WinVista was a major flop! Windows created a new scorce code that allowed them to use transparency for effectivly and multitask, Windows Vista was basicly a preview for developers so they could make sure their software would work on Windows 7, I will advise that Windows 7 IS NOT designed for low power PC's because of the large programming involved with the multitasking features that run in the background.
I LOVE my Windows 7 and will definatly try to get Windows 8 when it releases. I think their new scorce code has much potencial.
The reason why some programs and drivers don't work on Win7 is because of these new things but if you have an internet connection (which you clearly do) don't ever install a driver that comes with the hardware... all I do is make sure i'm connected to the Internet, and plug in the thing I want it to use. Windows Hardware manager firstly searches the system folders to find an appropriate driver, It never usually finds any, It then searches on Windows Update for one that will work. I never have problems with my windows 7 unless I am trying to connect to a server that runs XP or sharing a printer through a computer on a network that has a WIN OS earlier than Vista, Even then it can be fixed if you have the patience and knowledge.
I have many Dongles and add-ons that I have bought from Hong Kong and they work fine if I don't use the software they come with.
I would suggest typing your scanner into Google and pay a vist to the manufactures website to download the Win7 driver if windows update can't find one.
One thing that you must stay aware of though is what BIT version of windows you have x86(32 bit) or x64 (64 bit), they can be important when installing drivers.
I Believe anyone can enjoy Windows 7, but there is a A LOT of differences and new things that need to be learned to understand and use the OS. I dislike using Windows XP now because I am so use to Windows 7 and I use the unusual features and shortcuts all the time.
As for apple OS's... I don't know anything else so restricted and basic, I do my head in trying to use it! all the ugly windows and annoying room wasters like the dock as well as the status bar that doesn't merge with the window when in full screen. it just seems too much!
I don't want to enforce my beliefs or anything but unlike apple, with Windows nothing is impossible.
good luck getting your scanner working, i'm sure there is an easy fix to your issue!
... I have written too much...