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USER MANUAL
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lab-box.it/tutorials

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Summarization of Contents

About Lab-Box
Why Lab-Box
Growing interest in analogue photography and rediscovery of the process.
What is Lab-Box
A multi-format tank for 35mm and 120 films, usable in daylight.
Crowdfunded Project
Lab-Box is a crowdfunded project, made possible by Kickstarter backers.
LID & TANK Details
LID
Designed for liquid flow and lightproof operation, latches securely to the tank.
TANK
The main body where film develops, with a side hole for agitation and liquid quantity markings.
Knob and Crank Operation
KNOB
Allows external control of the internal reel rotation; must be aligned by symbol to insert/remove.
CRANK (Accessory)
An accessory for easier external control of the internal reel, consists of two pieces.
Reel Hub and Reels
REEL HUB
Multiformat hub to mount 135 or 120 reels, with grooves and slits for chemical flow.
REELS 135 & 120
Reels for winding film; 135 reels have wings for agitation, 120 reels optimize space.
Chemicals Processes
Monobath
Process for quick and easy black and white film development with a single solution.
Black and White
Standard 4-bath process: Developer, Stop, Fixer, and Wetting Agent.
Color Negative – C41
Process for developing color negative films, requiring precise temperature control.
Developing, Stopping, and Fixing
Developing
Determines negative characteristics; use indicated temperature, time, dilution, and agitation.
Stopping
Carried out immediately after developing, lasts 45-60s, temperature should match developer.
Fixing
Last step before opening lid; time depends on product, temperature should match developer and stop.
Agitation Methods
Continuous Agitation (300ml)
Recommended for homogeneity and contrast, continuous rotation or tilting.
Intermittent Agitation (490ml)
Film stirred intermittently, requires frequent agitation (45s first, then 10s every 30s).
Washing and Wetting Agent
Washing
Important after fixing; can be done inside or outside the tank.
Wetting Agent
Last step before drying to improve cleaning and avoid stains; immerse film and agitate gently.
Drying and Cleaning Lab-Box Parts
Drying the Film
Hook film with clip, unroll gently, remove excess liquid, avoid dust and drafts.
Cleaning Lab-Box Parts
Wash all parts thoroughly, ensure they are dry, use cold air if using electric dryer.
Trouble Shooting - Loading 35mm Film
Film Wound Wrongly or Stuck
Check reel assembly, film guide position, and film clipping; ensure film is under metal pipes.
Film Not Cutting or Locking
Ensure film is under pipes, check for PET base, or inspect for damaged blade.
Film Releases from Clip
Ensure the clip is pressed sufficiently until it clicks.
Trouble Shooting - Loading 120 Film
Film Incorrectly Loaded or Jammed
Check reel assembly, film guide, and clipping; ensure film chamber is open.
Film Stuck During Backing Paper Pull
Ensure film chamber is open; use film left in camera for less than a week; avoid PET support films.
Film Stuck after Clipping
Close/open 120 film chamber slowly while turning knob until unlocked.
Film Releases from Clip
Ensure the clip is pressed sufficiently until it clicks.
Trouble Shooting - Developing 135 Film
White/Undeveloped Film Borders
Film borders touching reel does not affect results.
Scratched Film
Ensure blade tip is not edging out; clean roll gasket for dust/residues.
Unevenness, Dark Spots, Side Halos
Increase agitation duration and vigor; use continuous agitation with half-filled tank.
Chemical Leaks
Do not fill tank with more than 490-500ml; keep tank steady on flat surface.
Trouble Shooting - Developing 120 Film
First Frame Partially Burned
Advance film a few centimeters before closing back when loading.
Unevenness, Dark Spots, Side Halos
Increase agitation duration and vigor; use continuous agitation with half-filled tank.
Chemical Leaks
Do not fill tank with more than 490-500ml; keep tank steady on flat surface.
Technical Information and Support
Safety Information
Keep small children and infants away from the device due to moving parts.
Care and Warranty
Two-year warranty against manufacturer defects; contact support for service.
Technical Specifications
Dimensions: 182x98x124mm; Weight: 750g; Materials: ABS, Nylon, FKN, Silicone, Stainless Steel.
Customer Support
Contact support@lab-box.it or visit www.lab-box.it for assistance.