Digital BW, The Print

I think I know there's no way to use the Epson drivers, say on a 
1280, to print longer than 44 inches, but perhaps with one of the 
several RIPs being used for other purposes, even if only on a Mac?

My impression is that panormic prints might be getting increasingly 
popular, and I'd think a length limit would be a frustration in that 
context. Is there a conventional size or, more likely I guess, ratio 
for panoramas?

Thanks.
--
Sam