A method for configuring a modular printing system is disclosed. The system has a plurality of modules that are configured to be selectively interconnected to form different printing system configurations. The method includes providing printing system modules and associated configuration information for each module; selecting and interconnecting modules to produce a particular printing system configuration and communicating the associated configuration information for the selected modules to a system controller; and using the system controller to automatically determine a printing system configuration that includes operational parameter ranges for at least one of the selected modules. The method further includes storing the printing system configuration so that the modular printing system is ready to operate.