Getting Started with Conversion to Imagelink Film and Chemistry

Microfilm manufacturers today follow industry-standard photographic specifications (speed, contrast, resolution and granularity), and testing has shown that only minor adjustments are needed to achieve the desired results with Imagelink film and chemistry. Even so, a quality test or step test on the cameras is recommended before starting production.

Highlights

• Recommended order: processor first, then camera, film writer or duplicator
• Run table-top processors with Imagelink Archive Chemistry only, without changing settings
• In deep tank processors, keep current dilution ratios and check control densities before production
• Correcting camera exposure is preferred over changing processing conditions

Convert the processor, then the equipment

1. Convert the processor with as few setting changes as possible
2. Run a film test on the camera, writer or duplicator
3. Process the test sample
4. Measure the sample density
5. Correct the exposure if density is out of range

If only the film changes and the chemistry stays the same, steps 2 to 5 apply; if the chemistry changes later, density aims are checked with process control strips.

Processor chemistry conversion

• Table-top processors (Agfa FP, Imagelink Archive Processor, Kodak Prostar, Fuji AP): Imagelink Archive Chemistry only, no concentrated chemistry; keep Imagelink Archive and Prostar temperature at 100F (37.8°C)
• Deep tank processors: keep current ratios as far as possible; some adjustment may be required

Recommendations by application

• Reference Archive Films: Set Archive Writer exposure for an aim density of 1.0 ±.05 within about 0.90 to 1.10
• Imagelink HQ/HD and FS/HS camera films: Make sure the processor is in control, run a test with a white target or the customer's reference target, and correct camera exposure if needed
• Direct Duplicating 2468/3468 to Imagelink Direct Duplicating: Run a short step test to find the exposure that is 0.05 to 0.15 above Dmin in the clear area of the master
• Duplicating 2462 to IMAGELINK POS MICROFILM: Exposure may need to be reduced (faster duplication speed)

Converting DR COM film to Imagelink EcoPos 305

Parameter	Value
Required chemistry	Imagelink EcoPos 305 Developer (1:2), Imagelink EcoPos 305 Fixer (1:2) or Imagelink G3343c Fix (1:3)
Packaging	4 x 5L, dilution ratio 1+2
Suitable for	All deep tank processors
Starting temperature	37C (99 F)
Dwell time	30 seconds
Initial replenishment	250 ml/meter of 105 mm film
Initial background density	2.2 to 2.4
Dmin	Below 0.08

Initial conditions may differ from those of a stabilized process. To season the developer, run unexposed film through the processor without replenishment and top up the developer before starting production.