The PIRA film processor, aka darkroom helper offers a unique solution to developing film at home or for small labs. Thanks to its fully programmable agitation, temperature control and adjustable timer it ensures your negatives (or slides) will always be perfect.

Compatible with the 2-reel and 3-reel Paterson tanks: (not included)

Works with all chemistry types: B&W, C-41, E-6, ECN-2 and all film sizes that the Paterson system holds. 35mm, 120 film and up to 4x5 sheets (with sheet holder accessory like the MOD54, sold separately).

It takes care of the three main process variables: Agitation, temperature and time, drastically reducing the workload and -more importantly- giving you much better consistency in your final pictures.

How does it work?

• Agitation: Instead of rotating the tank itself to achieve the necessary agitation, the machine uses a custom-made magnetic disc to spin the internal reels only:

This disc stays inside of the tank at all times and it is specially designed not to interfere with the lid closing or with the liquids being poured in and out. A matching disc positioned externally at the bottom of the base is automatically rotated. Both discs couple magnetically and this agitates the contents, while keeping the tank stationary the whole time.

The machine can be programmed with two types of motion:

Intermittent. The reels spin and stop with programmable frequency and duration. The tank is kept upright throughout the cycle.

Continuous. The tank is placed horizontally and the reels rotate until the timer is over, changing direction at regular intervals. One advantage is the potential to use less chemicals overall.

• Temperature: Since the tank is not moving for the duration of the cycle, it means that temperature can be more easily maintained without the need of complicated/messy warm water baths.

Instead, the machine has an insulated and electrically heated sleeve:

This is fully user-programmable and its purpose is to hold the temperature at the desired set point. Note: An external sous vide or other heating method is required to initially warm up the chemicals.

• Timings: The film processor is easy to program thanks to its lcd display and internal memory which can hold up to 8 different profiles for developing any type of chemistry: Black and white, C-41, E-6 or ECN-2.

Additionally the machine has an auto-compensating feature where it will record how many rolls have been developed with a specific set of chemicals and it will automatically compensate and add time for the next batch, this can be adjusted or switched off altogether.

Contents:

• PIRA – Darkroom Helper device. Developing tank not included.

• Magnetic disc with two column size adapters: for use with either the 2 reel or 3 reel tank.

• Retaining steel clamp. Optional use when developing a single roll to keep reel from lifting up in the column.

• Removable low friction liners for the bottom of the tank.

• 12VDC wall adapter. Ships with US, Euro, UK or Australian plug depending on destination.

• 2x 1 Lt. pouch bags for storing used chemicals air-free, giving longer shelf time.

Main website: https://darkroomhelper.pira.mx/

Watch the PIRA Film processor in action: