Loading 4x5" Sheet Film With 2509N Reels
There are two systems of processing 4 x 5" sheet film with a JOBO processor. If you are using the CPE-2 Plus or ATL-1000 processors, you would use the 2509N reel. The 2509N reel system works with the 2500 series tanks and this system is covered below.
The 2509N reel may be loaded one of two ways. You may load the reel by hand, or use the optional loader and guide. Both methods are covered below.
Note:
The loader (# 2508) and the guide (# 2512) are available separately. A loader and guide (4 x 5") are supplied with the Single Reel Sheet Film Kit (# 4341) or the 2 Reel Sheet Film Kit (# 4342).
The instructions for loading other sizes of sheet film (not 4 x 5" sheet film) on reels are essentially the same. Set the width of the reel to the appropriate size, and use the correct guide and plates (if required).
Caution: Sheet film is easily scratched or fingerprinted. Use care in handling sheet film. Always try to hold the film by its edges. Never place film on rough surfaces.
Prepare the reel
Be sure that the reel is clean, dry, and assembled (two halves put together). Be sure that the reel is set for 4 x 5" film. To set the reel for 4 x 5" film, twist the reel clockwise past a resistance and expand the reel to its maximum width. Twist the reel in the opposite direction until it goes past a resistance. Note the locations of the six slots, three on a side, for film. Also note the location of the locking studs for the plates (see illustration, below left). Make sure they are aligned across the reel from each other.
Prepare the film
You will need to identify the emulsion side of the film. Note that most sheet film has a series of notches on the short (4") side of the film. If you hold the film vertically, with the notches in the upper right hand corner, the emulsion side of the film is facing toward you. If the film is not notched, the inside of the natural film curl may identify the emulsion side.
Loading the film without loader and guide
Hold the reel in one hand and locate the three slots on one side of the reel. With the other hand, guide a sheet of film into one of the open (unloaded) slots. The emulsion side of the film should be facing the center of the reel. The 4" width of the film should be oriented parallel to the spiral of the reel. Be careful to place the film so it is going into the same slot position on both sides of the reel. Push the film into the spiral slot until it stops. It may be necessary to jiggle the film slightly to pass by the spokes of the reel. When seated correctly, the film will not protrude from the slot. Repeat this procedure for additional sheets of film. Load the innermost slots first.
Loading the film with loader and guide
Locate the loader in front of you with the 'JOBO' label reading correctly. Place the guide on the tall brass shaft with the flat side facing left and clockwise from the shorter brass shaft. Place the reel with the dark-colored side facing up, on the center hub. You will need to bend the guide slightly to the right for the reel to go all the way down on the hub. If the reel and guide are set in place properly, the guide will be pressed gently against the edge of the reel.
Turn the reel counterclockwise (only). You will feel the guide 'click' as it engages the six slots on the reel. Continue turning the reel counterclockwise until you hear the third click on a side. In the dark, bend a sheet of film slightly into the open end of the guide. The emulsion side of the film should be facing the center of the reel. The 4" width of the film should be oriented parallel to the spiral of the reel. Push the film into the spiral slot until it is stopped. When seated correctly, the film will not protrude from the slot. To load a second sheet, turn the reel counterclockwise, counting the clicks, for three clicks. To load a third sheet, turn the reel counterclockwise two clicks. For the fourth sheet, rotate the reel counterclockwise to the other side of the reel two clicks. The fifth and sixth require one click.
Mount the film retention plates (2509N reels only)
Locate the two sets of three nubs on opposite sides of the reel (inside the lip of the spiral.) Place the film retention plate with the bowed side facing the center of the reel so the three notches on the end of the plate engage the three nubs on the reel. Spread the reel slightly to allow the other end of the plate to slip into place. Repeat on the other side of the reel.