"error applying settings to driver" from HP scanner error

Running Windows 7/64 bit SP-1; completely up-to-date.
I have an HP 2840 All-In-One laserjet  that has printed and scanned perfectly for over a year (USB interface).
In trying to scan a photo both the HP software and Window Fax & Scan Software fail to complete the actual scan IF ONE ADJUSTS the scan following preview!!  I guess this can be cropped later!
     
Both programs appear to call the same underlying driver (and interface) and provide a preview of the scan.
However, when asked to actually scan both yield a series of errors, beginning with
       "error applying settings to driver"  
this is followed by a generic error message and then for the HP interface I receive a "device not ready" error (0x0000015).
The printer still works.

I have successfully previewed and adjusted the scan area in the past--although this is a large photo (8 X 10") @ 300 DPI.

Strange?  Is there a buffer that can be adjusted in the registry?

Thanks in Advance,
Lyle Allen, Durham, NC