Low cost method to profile scanner

[blumesan]

I recently came across a web article describing a low cost method for profiling a scanner:

http://www.photographical.net/scanner_profiling2_2.html

It involves purchasing color targets (either transparencies or prints) and using a freeware program to construct the profile.* This sounds like a very good idea to me.* I would like to know if anyone has tried this approach and what results they obtained.* I am aware that other methods are available, such as using VueScan with similar targets.

A further question:* The available targets do not include a color negative target.* It is when scanning color negatives that I encounter the most problems with color accuracy and color casts.* Is there a method to calibrate a scanner for color negatives, particularly with regard to different film types?

Any input on this subject appreciated.