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Getting Started: How to Use the AGO Film Processor
Now that you have assembled your AGO Film Processor and loaded your film, here is a full walkthrough of the development workflow from turning the machine on to hanging the film to dry.
Step 1 Turn AGO on
Hold the ON/OFF button for 2 seconds. The AGO Film Processor logo should appear on screen. Press any button to move forward. If AGO does not turn on, charge the battery first. The battery logo appears on screen once a charger is connected.
Step 2 Check the battery
Make sure you have at least one bar of battery before proceeding. Otherwise attach a charging cable before starting. A full battery typically lasts a full day of film development.
Step 3 Choose the program
From the main menu select DEFAULT PROGRAMS and choose the program that matches your chemistry. Your own programs can be found under CUSTOM PROGRAMS.
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Step 4 Review and adjust the program if needed
The program overview page shows every step of the process. Before starting, confirm that times, agitation methods, and time compensation settings are correct for your chemistry and film.
Use the right arrow to move between items. The highlighted item is shown in yellow. Use UP and DOWN to change values.
The cylindrical icon shows the agitation method for each step: a horizontal cylinder means horizontal (roll) agitation, a vertical cylinder means vertical (stick) agitation, and a strikethrough cylinder means no agitation for that step.
Note: Automatic time compensation is disabled when using vertical agitation.
Step 5 Start the process
Pour the first chemical slowly into the tank through the AGO sink and press START. When the timer reaches zero, it is time to pour out the chemistry.
You do not need to detach the AGO to pour out chemicals. Simply hold the tank and tilt everything upside-down. The liquid flows out over the rim of the tank.
Pour in the next chemical and press START again. Repeat for each step until the process is complete.
Step 6 Wash the film
The last step is usually film washing. Hold the tank vertically under a running tap. You can use the AGO's running motor to aid washing, or detach it and use it as a timer.
Step 7 Hang film to dry
Remove the film from the reels and hang it to dry in a clean, dust-free space.
Step 8 Clean up
Always clean your AGO after developing. Use a damp cloth to wipe away chemical residue. Do not submerge the device in water.
This is an overview of the typical AGO development workflow. Read the other wiki articles to explore individual topics in more depth.