Have you tried running your printer through a USB port. While I guess it is hit and miss whether it would cure your problem if it is related to the Iomega then at least it might narrow it down.
I also run an Epson 750 and have had no problems at all but it runs so much quicker through the USB. If you don't have a USB driver for your printer either try the Epson site or email me.
Regarding MS shortcut bar I thought you could eliminate it permanently by clicking on on near the Office icon on the bar and selecting one of the options available and then you end up with yet another pop up window asking to confirm you never want to see it again - or something like that.
Carbheatcold