Review of the AGO Processor: A Game-Changer for Film Processing in the Classroom
As technology continues to enhance the efficiency of traditional processes, the AGO Processor has emerged as a standout tool for film processing in educational settings. One group of users at Buckinghamshire College Group, a film photography class, has shared their experiences with this innovative machine, highlighting its many advantages in streamlining the film development process.
Ease of Use for Students and Teachers
The AGO Processor has been a major asset for both students and teachers when it comes to processing rolls of film. One of the key features that the users appreciate is how easy it makes processing rolls of film, especially when it comes to handling colour films. Students can easily grasp the process, and the AGO's user-friendly interface allows them to focus more on their craft without getting bogged down in technicalities.
One standout feature is how the AGO adjusts the print time based on the temperature of the chemistry placed into the tank. This thoughtful function helps ensure that the film is processed under optimal conditions, reducing the chance of human error and enhancing the final results.
Customisable Time Sheets for Diverse Chemistry
Another advantage is the AGO’s ability to import custom time sheets for developing films. For users who rely on chemistry not natively supported by the processor, this feature proves invaluable. Instead of being limited to preset options, users can create their own time slots for specific chemicals and processes, making it easier to achieve consistent, high-quality results.
However, users do note that the preset times for black-and-white films can sometimes be a bit too long, often requiring a reduction to around 75% of the recommended processing time. While this adjustment is necessary, the flexibility to set up custom presets for black-and-white film development has made it easier to tailor the machine’s performance to their specific needs.
A Surprising Moment: Processing Film at High Temperatures
A memorable moment occurred when one student processed a roll of 35mm film and accidentally heated the chemistry well beyond the recommended range. Instead of the standard 39 degrees Celsius, the chemistry was heated to 55 degrees, resulting in a significantly shorter development time of less than a minute for colour film. While this was an unexpected issue, the ability to easily adjust the processing time made it possible for the student to correct the situation, showcasing the AGO Processor’s flexibility in handling different processing scenarios.
Ideal for High-Volume Processing
The AGO Processor shines particularly in scenarios where students need to process multiple rolls of film at once. The tank’s efficient setup allows for quick turnaround times, which is essential when working with a classroom full of eager students. The machine’s ability to handle this high volume of processing has made it a reliable tool in the classroom, especially in situations where the colour-developing tanks have been in disrepair for years.
A Game-Changer for Students' Education and Experience
For the past five years, the class has struggled with broken colour deep tanks, preventing students from processing their own colour film. With the AGO Processor, however, students now have the opportunity to develop their rolls of colour film, both in class and at home, without the need to rely on external labs. This has not only saved time but has also helped students better understand the process of film development and gain practical experience.
Final Thoughts: A Highly Recommended Tool
Ultimately, the AGO Processor has proved to be a game-changer for both teachers and students in the film photography class. Its ease of use, customisability, and ability to handle high-volume processing make it an essential piece of equipment. If the budget allows, the users recommend acquiring multiple AGO processors to accommodate the growing demand and ensure that every student has the opportunity to process their film with ease.
The AGO Processor has truly revolutionised the classroom experience, helping students gain valuable hands-on experience while providing instructors with a reliable and efficient tool to guide them through the process.
