Latest input re scanners needed, please?

Howdy Folks...
Yep, my scanner finally died! RIP, HP. :>(

Best Buy says they have scanners as low as $99. (Epsoms) that should suit my purpose. However, a DG member recently told me about Newegg.com (not mentioning any names but, THANKS, VIC!) (Whoops.)

Anyway, whilst on the site I see quite a few choices, Epsoms, Canons, and many under 100 bucks. The thing is, I have no idea what the lingo/jargon refers to, i.e., Image censor CCS vs CCA, dpi software enhanced resolution, etc.

I also am remembering in another thread (two yrs ago!?) about some scanners being able to put scanned copies into Word and PDF files (would be great for newspaper articles, I think!). Then again, I also remember someone also saying they liked their scanner but didn't care for the driver that operated it. sheesh.

Anyway, the following link takes you to a page on Newegg. Can someone help me out w/some info as to what I can get by with but yet still enjoy a fast, efficient scanner that will do the PDF/Word file thingy? (All I ever scan are a few old photos, copy letters and newspaper articles (usually about us!), etc.)

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.asp?DEPA=0&type=&description=scanner&Submit=ENE&Ntk=all&N=0&minPrice=&maxPrice=&Go.x=0&Go.y=0

Any comments, recommendations, please?

Many thanks,
Clueless/SHOE-less