EPSON SCANNER Escndv.exe error message

I have followed a previous Q&A session with a subscriber named lustt  concerning a scanner shutdown that is followed by the Escndv.exe error message.  I am a Windows XP user, and own an Epson Perfection 3170 photo scanner and my scanner has started doing the same thing.  The scanner is only 3 months old and was working fine when it suddenly had a problem scanning.  Upon rebooting I started receiving the same prompt:  Escndv.exe error message.  I uninstalled all of the Epson software and reinstalled it  on several different occasions, with the same results.  My connections are solid, and my USB cable operates just fine.  I downloaded the latest drivers from Epson for the 3170 model with no results.  I tried downloading patches and solutions thru NewSoft (which writes Epson software) to no avail.  Epson has been unresponsive with its automated assistance and had no solutions.  A web search for Escndv.exe revealed a large number of users from various countries -in various languages- with the similar problems but no solutions.  Operating the Smart Panel software works, but it cannot scan.  I believe I've isolated the problem which seemed to be the Escndv.exe file which doesn't execute. I found a file in the Escndv FOLDER named "Escfg" and when I double clicked it, I received a prompt saying "Information for scanners that support EPSON Scan settings is not installed.  Epson Scan Settings will close."  I have already reinstalled the software from the original disc several times, what is it that I am missing, and where do I get it?  I see that you had no solutions for the previous user with this question who reinstalled his whole operation system, which is not an option for a novice like me.