Durst AC 800 Manual

AC 800/AF 

User’s 

Manual

Instructions for safe use of the Durst AC 800/AF 

There are no hazards, specifically electrical hazards, 

under proper conditions of use. Extra precautions for 

the safe use of the equipment are given below. 

a) 

The enlarger Durst AC 800/AF is fitted with an earth wire 

for protection against electrical shock, which also ensures 

electro-magnetic safety (EMS/interference suppression). 

This earth wire can however only fulfil its function if your 

mains connection (socket) is also earthed. Have your mains 

connection checked by a qualified electrician for an earth 

connection. 

b) 

Extra protection is offered by a ground fall interruptor, 

which an electrician can install in your lab. 

c) 

Avoid continuous high relative humidity and condensation. 

Protect the equipment from splashes of water and 

chemicals. 

d) 

To ensure proper functioning, maintain the following operating 

conditions: 

relative humidity: 5 - 95 % r. h. 

ambient temperature: 15 - 30 °C. 

e) 

Do not make any repairs to the electrical system of the 

equipment by yourself. Have them carried out by a service 

engineer. 

f) 

Before opening the power unit, lamp house or disconnecting 

cables, make sure that the unit is switched off and 

that the mains cable is unpluged. 

g) 

Danger of injury on AF version. Persons must keep clear of 

moving parts during motorized adjustment, due to the 

danger of injury. 

h) 

Before changing the lamp, switch off the equipment, let it 

cool down and pull out the mains plug. There is a risk of 

injury by burning when changing lamps. 

i) 

The manufacturer does not accept liability for any damage 

caused by neglect of the safety precautions. 

2 Durst AC 800/AF-03/96

Congratulations on your purchase of this Durst equipment. 

It is the result of intensive research and development by 

Durst Phototechnik AG, Brixen, Italy. 

The Durst company has been attested by the German 

Society for the Certification of Quality Assurance Systems 

for conformity of its products to Standard ISO 9001/EN 

29001, Certificate No. 44 411 - 01 dated 30.04.93, which 

guarantees the highest quality in development and manufacture. 

Durst equipment is carefully inspected and tested 

before delivery. 

The technology and specification represent state-of-theart 

optics and electronics. New developments and enhancements 

are continuously incorporated; the diagrams, 

dimensions or technical data shown in this manual may 

therefore have been modified to take account of the latest 

advances. 

This manual describes the optimum operation of the 

machine, and contains basic instructions on handling, 

potential faults and operating mistakes; it is advisable to 

read it carefully before putting the instructions into practice. 

If you have any queries or require extra information, 

please contact your local Durst Service agent. 

Please help us to improve this manual, and send us your 

comments on the two pages at the end of the manual. 

Durst Phototechnik 

AG 

Brixen, Italy 

Durst AC 800/AF-03/96 3

Index 

1.0 Introduction and brief description 

1.1 Description of the Durst AC 800 and AC 800 AF 

enlargers 

1.2 Technical data 

1.3 Items included 

2.0 Assembly and installation of enlarger 

3.0 Specific enlarger functions 

3.1 Autofocus 

3.2 Subtractive exposure control with pre-filtration 

3.3 Basic calibration by reflection densitometer 

3.4 Automatic colour filtration by integral reading 

method 

3.5 Automatic colour and density under-corrections 

3.6 „FXFF“ function: fixed exposure time and filtration 

3.7 „VXFF“ function: automatic density control and 

fixed filtration 

4.0 Description of functions of operating elements 

4.1 The colour head 

4.2 The transformer housing 

4.3 The remote control (accessory) 

5.0 The memory system of the Durst AC 800/ 

AC 800 AF 

5.1 „CAL“ basic memory 

5.2 „XCP“ paper slope 

5.3 Slope for under-exposed „LN“ (Light Negative) 

negatives or over-exposed slides 

5.4 Slope for over-exposed „DN“ (Dark Negative) 

negatives or under-exposed slides 

5.5 Colour and density under-corrections 

6.0 Calibrating the Durst AC 800/AC 800 AF 

6.1 Preview 

6.2 Table of factory calibrations for the supplied 

test negatives 

6.3 Switching on the enlarger/preparations 

6.4 Autofocus and focus variator 

(only for Durst AC 800 AF) 

6.4.1 Preparations 

6.4.2 Steps for setting the autofocus 

6.4.3 Subsequent correction 

6.4.4 Manual focusing 

6.4.5 Setting the focus variator to a raised/lowered 

projection level 

6.5 Calibrating a memory channel for colour 

negatives/slides 

6.5.1 Making preparations 

6.5.2 Setting pre-filter arrangement 

6.5.3 Activating the basic calibration 

6.5.4 Adapting the exposure time for individual filters 

with pre-filters 

6.5.5 Continuing and finishing basic calibration 

6.5.6 Calibrating for maximum „XCP“ enlargement 

(compensation of reciprocity effect) 

6.5.7 Calibrating for under-exposed „LN“ negatives/ 

over-exposed slides 

6.5.8 Calibrating for over-exposed „DN“ negatives/ 

under-exposed slides 

6.5.9 Automatically ending the calibration mode 

Page 

6 

6 

7 

8 

9 

14 

14 

14 

15 

15 

16 

16 

16 

17 

17 

18 

18 

19 

19 

19 

20 

20 

20 

22 

22 

23 

24 

25 

25 

26 

29 

31 

31 

32 

32 

32 

33 

33 

34 

35 

36 

38 

39 


Page 

6.6 Calibrating a memory channel for black/white 

enlargements 

6.6.1 Preparations 

6.6.2 Setting pre-filters 

6.6.3 Basic „CAL“ calibration 

6.6.4 Calibrating for maximum enlargement (compensation 

of „XCP“ reciprocity effect) 

6.6.5 Calibrating for under-exposed „LN“ (Light 

Negative) negatives/over-exposed slides 

6.6.6 Calibrating for over-exposed „DN“ (Dark 

Negative) negatives/under-exposed slides 

6.6.7 Retrieving and noting the stored figures 

6.7 Pre-production test 

6.7.1 Pre-production test for colour negatives/slides 

6.7.2 Pre-production test for BW negatives 

6.8 Adapting memory to production 

6.8.1 Correcting colour negatives/slides 

6.8.2 Correcting BW negatives 

7.0 Practical work 

7.1 Preview 

7.2 Steps 

7.2.1 Switching on 

7.2.2 Making preparations 

7.2.3 Setting the focus variator 

7.2.4 Setting the enlargement 

7.2.5 Manual colour and density corrections 

7.2.6 Printing a different film or paper type 

7.2.7 Ending 

7.3 Using the „Automatic density control and fixed 

filtration“ function („VXFF“ key) 

7.4 Using the „Fixed exposure time and filtration“ 

function („FXFF“ key): producing contact prints 

7.5 Distortion control 

8.0 Troubleshooting table and explanations of 

error warnings 

9.0 Maintenance and care 

10.0 Special accessories 

39 

39 

40 

40 

42 

43 

43 

44 

46 

46 

46 

47 

47 

48 

49 

49 

50 

50 

50 

51 

52 

53 

53 

53 

54 

55 

56 

57 

60 

61 


Introduction and brief description 

1.0 

1.1 

Description of the Durst AC 800 and AC 800 AF 

enlargers 

The Durst AC 800 is a universal microcomputer-controlled 

colour enlarger with built-in reflection densitometer for 

the automatic calibration of memory channels for colour 

and black-and-white negatives as well as transparencies 

for all sizes up to 6 x 9 cm (2 1/4 x 3 1/4 in.). The Durst 

AC 800 controls the exposure by integrated readings 

below the negative stage during the exposure itself. All 

further operational characteristics are described in section 

3.0 of this operating manual. The Durst AC 800 AF enlarger 

also incorporates autofocus. 

1 

AC 800 

1. Colour head with integrated reflection densitometer. 

2. Film-format-related interchangeable mixing box 

3. Mechanical focus knob 

4. Height adjustment with coarse and fine setting 

5. Column with distance and enlargement factors 

6. Power unit 

7. Baseboard 

3 

2 

4 

5 

6 

7 

1 

AC 800 AF 

1. Colour head with integrated reflection densitometer. 

2. Film-format-related interchangeable mixing box 

3. Autofocus 

4. Height adjustment with coarse and fine setting 

5. Column with distance and enlargement factors 

6. Power unit 

7. Baseboard 

3 

2 

4 

5 

6 

7 

6 1.0 Introduction 

Durst AC 800/AF-03/96

1.2 

Technical data 

Column height: 

Total height: 

Baseboard size: 

Usable baseboard area: 

Optical axis/column 

distance: 

Light tracking: 

Exposure control: 

Light monitoring: 

Calibration system: 

Operating modes: 

Cooling: 

111 cm 

113 cm 

65 x 65 cm 

60 x 56 cm 

29 cm 

Via fade-proof interchangeable 

mirror shafts 

(35 mm, 6 x 6 cm, 6 x 9 cm) 

Via microprocessors 

Mixing shaft measurement 

for automatic compensation 

of colour temperature shifts 

in case of voltage fluctuations 

and lamp deterioration 

or lamp replacement 

Via built-in reflection densitometer 

and user’s guide 

Colour negatives, colour 

transparencies and blackand-white 

negatives 

cooling fan 

Filters: dichroic filters (Y, M, C) 

Max. filter density: 

Manual correction range: 

Lens focal lengths: 

130 densitometric units 

(= D 1.3) 

+/- 99 densitometric units 

(Y - M - C - D) 

50, 80, 100/105 mm 

Focusing: Manual (AC 800) 

Autofocus for 3 focal 

lengths (AC 800 AF) 

Print sizes: 

Connection plugs for: 

up to 40 x 50 cm 

(16 x 20 in.) 

Roll paper easel or footswitch, 

AC 800 Control 

remote control, supplementary 

socket with supply 

voltage 

Mains supply: • for 100, 110, 120, 220, 

240 volts to be set with 

voltage selector switch 

• 50 - 60 Hz 

Power consumption: 

Netweight: 

approx. 350 watts 

40 kg 

Durst AC 800/AF-03/96 1.0 Introduction 

7

Enlargement factor 

Lens 

focal length 

100/105 mm 

80 mm 

50 mm 

Film size 

6 x 9 cm 

6 x 6 cm 

24 x 36 cm 

min.* 

1.5 x lin. 

1.1 x lin. 

4.3 x lin. 

max.* 

7.3 x lin. 

10.3 x lin. 

17.8 x lin. 

*Guide values 

1.3 

Items included 

Durst AC 800 

consisting of: 

1 basic unit both with built-in automatic subtractive 

exposure control and built-in reflection densitometer with 

baseboard, column and colour head. 

1 Cobineg film carrier with a top Bimagla AN glass. 

6 x 7 Binema 67 metal mask pair for print sizes up to 6 x 7 

cm. 

1 set AC test negatives with reference print. 

1 Colamp 250 S halogen lamp (250 W/12 V). 

1 AC 800 mixing box - Box 69. 

1 connecting or mains cable. 

1 operating manual. 

Without lenses and lens circuit board. 

Durst AC 800 AF 

As above, but with micro-processor controlled focusing for 

50, 80 and 100/105 mm lenses. 

1 test lens 69 for the focus calibration. 

8 1.0 Introduction 


Assembly and installation of enlarger 

2.0 

Space requirement 

The Durst AC 800 is designed to take up minimum operating 

space (100 x 100 cm or 40 x 40 in.) so that it can be 

located on a bench in any darkroom or mounted on the 

wall for use with roll paper easels. 

3 

1 

Assembling the basic enlarger 

Place the column (1) and column base with transformer 

housing (2) and enlarger head (3) so that the transformer 

housing protrudes beyond the table edge. Hold the baseboard 

(3) against the transformer housing and - using the 

wrench (6) supplied - screw the five hexagonal bolts from 

underneath through the baseboard into the column base, 

ensuring that the reinforcing plate (5) is first fitted 

beneath the baseboard. 

4 

5 

6 

2 

2 

3 

Fitting the tungsten-halogen lamp (COLAMP 250 S) 

To fit the 250 watt/24 volt tungsten-halogen lamp (1) 

press the locking button (3) and remove the lamphouse 

cover (2). A retaining ledge and springs are visible inside. 

Mount the tungsten-halogen lamp (1) on the lamp fitting 

and push it underneath the retaining springs. Take care 

never to touch the inside of the reflector with the fingers. 

1 

2 

1 3 

Fitting the lenses 

• Fully screw the lens into the appropriate lens board (1). 

• Insert the board together with the lens into the lens 

stage (2) so that the aperture scale is visible from the 

front. 

• Secure the lens board with milled screw (3). 

Lenses and the lens boards or tubes needed for them are 

available separately (see section 10.0). 

Durst AC 800/AF-03/96 2.0 Assembly and installation 

9

Fitting the red filter for black-and-white enlarging 

To mount the red filter (1) screw the red filter shaft into 

the appropriate borehole on the lens stage and secure 

with locking screw (2). 

2 

1 

2 

1 

Fitting the mixing boxes 

Push the mixing box required with the two retaining studs 

(1) into the cutout in the catches (2) underneath the 

colour mixing head. The catches must therefore be in their 

forward position - pull them forward if necessary. Once 

the mixing box is in position, push the catches back. The 

enlarger is supplied complete with the AC 800 Box 69 

mixing box (3) for film sizes up to 6 x 9 cm. For increased 

light output when printing smaller film sizes, additional 

mixing boxes are available separately (see section 10). 

3 

Fitting the negative carrier 

Push the Cobineg negative carrier (1) fully into the enlarger 

head. To remove the carrier, slightly raise it first. 

1 

2 

4 

3 

3 

The negative carrier (1) is supplied complete with an upper 

anti-Newton glass (2) held in place by retaining springs 

(3). For glassless use the unit is supplied complete with a 

Binema 67 pair of metal format masks for the 6 x 7 cm 

film size. Additional pairs of metal format masks are available 

separately (see section 10). Raising the opening bar 

(4) locks the negative carrier open for insertion or adjustment 

of film strips. 

1 

10 2.0 Assembly and installation Durst AC 800/AF-03/96

Adjusting the magnification 

Adjust the required print size by raising or lowering the 

enlarger head with the grips (1 and 2). For quick vertical 

adjustment disengage the mechanism by turning the inner 

milled grip (1). This way the enlarger head can be smoothly 

and quickly raised or lowered to the required position. 

Lock the head by turning the inner grip; fine adjustment is 

then possible with the outer grip (2). 

2 

1 

Focusing (manually only with the Durst AC 800) 

Focus by turning the focusing knob (1) on the enlarger 

head. For focusing the lens diaphragm should be fully 

open; swing the filters out of the light path by pressing 

the „W. Light“ key. 

With the Durst AC 800 AF focusing is automatic once 

the autofocus has been programmed. 

1 

Description and mounting instruction of the AC 800 

Wallmount 

AC 800 Wallmount is to be used with Durst AC 800 and AC 

800 AF. 

It can be used: 

• when working with a roll paper easel 

• when doing high magnification (e. g. floor projection) 

Mounting the wallmount 

• Make sure that the wall does not show any uneveness. 

• Mark the position of the fixing screws on the wall. 

29 cm 

(11.4 in.) 

Note 

Distance between roll easel and holding plate (1) = 

approx. 12 cm (4 3/4 in.) 

48 cm 

(18.9 in.) 

1 

12 cm 

(4.7 in.) 


11

4 

5 

8 cm 

3.1 in.) 

• Drill ø 10 mm holes for top fixture (5) and bottom 

holder (2) as described beside. 

• Fit top fixture (5) to the wall. 

• Screw the plate (4) to the bottom of the enlarger 

column. 

• Fasten parts (1) and (2) with screws (3) and fit it to the 

wall. 

• Lift the enlarger column on the bottom holder (2) and 

screw on at top and bottom with screws. 

• Set the enlarger vertical and horizontal with a spirit 

level and tighten the screws. 

1108 cm 

(436 in.) 

3 

12 cm 

(4.7 in.) 

1 

6,9 cm 

(2.7 in.) 

2 

Colorhead AC 800 

Connection for roll paper magazine 

The adjacent drawing shows the schematic layout for 

enlarging with a roll paper magazine. The cable connections 

as shown in this drawing are made for the power 

supply. 


Control 

Roll paper 

easel 

Remote 

Control 

Rollbox 

Mains cable 

Mains cable 

12 2.0 Assembly and installation Durst AC 800/AF-03/96

Socket 

„Roll paper easel“ 

The Pin arrangement for installing a roll paper magazine 

on the AC 800/AC 800 AF is shown beside. 

Exposure end 

Ready 

Focus 

Start 

OV 

Power unit 

EPU 1200 (AC 900N, 

901, 1200N, 1201) 

AC 800, PCM 1000N, 

PCM 1001 

2a 

2b 

1a 

1b 

3b 

4a 

Socket 

„Roll paper easel“ 

Transport start 

A 

B 

C 

Roll paper easel 

Exposure end 

2a 

2b 

9 

10 

Transport start 

Focus 

1b 

Schottky 

Start 

3b 

1 

Ready 

1a 

OV 

4a 

3/4 

Power unit 

EPU 1200 

User 

connector 

Roll paper easel 

Effemme 


13

Specific enlarger functions 

3.0 

3.1 

Autofocus (only with Durst AC 800 AF) 

The autofocus, which is set as the first step before calibrating 

the paper/film channel, permits exact focusing by a 

motor mounted on the side of the enlarger head. 

3.2 

Subtractive exposure control with pre-filtration 

The exposure system on the Durst AC 800 requires only 

one filter set, in spite of the pre-filtration. To make this 

clear, the schematic process of an exposure is explained 

first without pre-filtration. 

Phase 1 

Paper 

Phase 4 

BGR 

Y 

M 

C 

BGR 

Y 

Phase 2 

Paper 

Phase 5 

BGR 

Y 

M 

C 

BGR 

Y 

Phase 3 

Paper 

BGR 

Y 

M 

C 

Before the exposure (phase 1), all three filters (yellow, 

magenta, cyan) are slotted in, which reflects the entire 

white-light spectrum (consisting of blue, green and red 

light). The slotted-in filters therefore function as a shutter. 

In phase 2 at the start of the exposure (without pre-filtration), 

all the filters are completely outside the beam. 

Phase 2 is called the white-light phase. In the first milliseconds 

of phase 2 the negative is analysed by the reading 

cells mounted underneath the negative. In the following 

phases the three Y, M and C filters are exposed, depending 

on the strength of the colour correction. 

Now the Y, M and C filters are successively and completely 

slotted in in phases 3, 4 and 5 (see drawing). The 

length of the single phases is a measure of the relevant 

colour intensity. For instance if the yellow filter is slotted 

into the beam for a long time, a relatively large amount of 

blue is blocked, which results in less yellow coloration of 

the photo-paper. So in this case the filter exposure times 

in the white light regulate the colour composition of the 

exposure light. 

At the end of phase 5 all the filters are back in the 

beam, and so serve as a shutter. 

M 

M 

C 

C 

Paper 

Paper 

14 3.0 Specific enlarger functions Durst AC 800/AF-03/96

Phase 2 

Paper 

BGR 

Y 

M 

C 

The pre-filtration 

Since colour paper is not equally sensitive in all three layers, 

the exposure times for blue, green and red vary widely. 

For example colour paper is relatively insensitive to red 

light, so the red exposure phase (phase 5) is longest. The 

length of the total exposure phase is therefore determined 

by the longest exposure phase of one colour. Shortening 

the exposure time by opening the aperture is usually not 

possible, since otherwise the short exposure time of the 

layer sensitive for the colour paper (e.g. blue) cannot be 

kept to exactly. Pre-filtering the white light can make the 

three exposure times equal, so that the total exposure 

time is shortened, for instance by opening the aperture. 

During pre-filtration two of three filters are slotted into 

the beam in phase 2, as needed (the three filter slot-in 

times should be equal, see drawing). The position of the 

filters can be set at the top right of the colour head, as 

shown in the right-hand diagram in the adjacent drawing. 

Full instructions are given in Section 6.5.2. 

3.3 

Basic calibration by reflection densitometer 

The projection light serves as light source for the reflection 

densitometer integrated in the enlarger. It is diverted 

via a cell in the diversion channel. During basic calibration 

the test grey field is compared with the reference grey 

field, and any variations are compensated via a microcomputer 

by controlling the filters. Full details are given in 

Section 5.1. 

3.4 

Automatic colour filtration by integral reading method 

The AC 800 relies on the integrated reading method comparing 

all negatives or transparencies against the calibration 

negative or transparency during the metering sequence. 

The unit considers the film original as a homogenously 

coloured image and matches colour as well density to the 

calibration (standard) negative or transparency. 

The automatic colour and density corrections can of 

course be manually changed. Refer to Section 7.2.5 for 

this. 

Durst AC 800/AF-03/96 3.0 Specific enlarger functions 

15

3.5 

Automatic colour and density under-corrections 

One of the major advantages offered by the AC 800 is the 

automatic compensation of predominant negative or 

transparency colours. Thanks to this system it is possible to 

obtain a higher share of balanced prints, made at the first 

try, from negatives or transparencies having predominant 

colours, as opposed to conventional metering methods. 

For example: 

You might have a portrait of a girl in a brilliant red dress. 

With the integrated reading method this would yield a 

print with a blue-green cast. Low correction will automatically 

compensate this predominant colour of the film 

original, without affecting the colour balance of normal 

originals. 

Full explanations and instructions on setting the low 

correction are given in Section 5.5. 

3.6 

„FXFF“ function: fixed exposure time and filtration 

Pressing the „FXFF“ key disengages the automatic colour 

and density measurement (the red LED lights up). Negatives 

or transparencies are then printed with constant exposure 

time at the fixed filtration of the last negative or 

transparency to be measured. 

This mode still compensates for different magnifications. If 

a negative has to be moved in the carrier you can first 

make a blind exposure with the negative centered and 

then switch to „FXFF“. 

FXFF is also used to produce contact prints (see section 

7.4). 

3.7 

„VXFF“ function: automatic density control and fixed 

filtration 

Pressing the „VXFF“ key provides automatic density compensation 

with fixed filtration, based on the filter values 

of the last measured negative or transparency. 

All film originals exposed under identical conditions 

(same lighting, film emulsion etc.), for example studio 

shots, wedding pictures, snow pictures, seascapes etc. can 

be printed in the fixed filtration mode with automatic 

density correction, without being affected by uneven 

colour distribution in the original. 

16 3.0 Specific enlarger functions Durst AC 800/AF-03/96

Description of functions of operating elements 

4.0 

4.1 

The colour head 

„Bal. adjust“ key: 

• To trigger the reflection densitometer’s 

metering cycle for reading the 

film original. 

• To record, in conjunction with the 

„Enter“ key, grey reference values 

(AIM values for YMC). 

2. „Enter“ key: 

• Electronic locking device for the 

single calibration modes (CAL-XCP- 

LN-DN) and their memory values. 

3. „Set-up“ key: 

• To trigger a calibration sequence or 

for jumping over the memory values 

of the memory channel being indicated. 

•To record, in conjunction with the 

„Enter“ key, the calibration values 

ascertained. 

• To reed, in conjunction with the 

„Enter“ key, correction values into the 

memory during the normal production. 

1 

2 3 10 11 12 13 14 15 

4 5 6 7 8 9 9 

4. „Hold“ key: 

• To retain colour and density correction 

values for further exposures in 

the normal printing mode, i. e. these 

values won’t be automatically erased 

after the exposure. 

5. „FXFF/VXFF“ key: 

„FXFF“ = Colour and density values of 

the previous exposure are recorded 

automatically and used for the following 

exposure. 

„VXFF“ = The filter balance of the previous 

exposure is recorded automatically 

and used for the following exposures 

- only density changes of the 

film original are compensated. 

Note: In the FXFF and VXFF modes, 

the enlarging paper’s reciprocity failure 

will be compensated automatically 

after magnification changes. 

6. „F.Var./ill“ key: 

• To enter the distance if the projection 

plane’s position changes (e.g. 

wall mounting or reductions). 

Enlarging easel range: -99/+999. 

• To switch the LED displays on or off. 

7. „Channel Mode sel.“ key: 

• To call up the required memory 

channel. 

• To select, in conjunction with the 

„Enter“ key, the desired mode of operation 

(Neg-Pos-B/W). 

8. „Disp. Select“ key: 

• To call up the following indications 

on the display: 

Basic Y-M-C filtration values (only 

with plastic slide open); Y-M-C exposure 

times (only with enlarger lamp 

switched on); Y-M-C-D memory 

values (in the calibration mode); 

Y-M-C-D correction values (in printing 

mode); lens focal lengths only 

„Cal.“; lens aperture. 

9. „+/-“ keys: 

• To change the values indicated on 

the display. 

10. 

Operating mode display (Neg = colour 

negatives, Pos = colour transparencies, 

B/W = black-and-white negatives). 

11. 

Display indicating the channel selected 

(0 - 9). 

12. 

Calibration mode display (Cal = basic 

calibration, XCP = paper slope, LN = 

slope for light film originals, DN = 

slope for dark film originals). 

13. 

Alternating display for: 

Head (H), Metering cycle (P), Focus 

Variator (d), Calibration (C), Lens (L), 

F/Stop (F), Exposure time (E), Magnification 

Factor (M-F) 

14. 

Memory values display for: 

Yellow (Y), Magenta (M), Cyan (C), 

Density (D). 

15. 

Memory value display of the calibration 

modes in use or correction value 

display in normal printing mode, display 

of lens focal length, lens aperture 

and number of exposures made. 

Durst AC 800/AF-03/96 4.0 Description of function of 

17 

operating elements

4.2 

The transformer housing 

1 2 3 4 

1. „Expose“ key: 

To trigger or cancel an exposure. 

2. „Light“ key: 

To switch enlarger lamp on or off or to interrupt an exposure. 

3. „W. Light“ key: 

To swing the basic filtration out of the colour head’s light 

path. 

4. „Power“ switch: 

On/off main switch. 

4.3 

The remote control (accessory) 

1 2 

3 4 5 9 

8 6 10 

7 

1 

Coloured selector keys to call up colour and density correction 

keys (YMCD) 

2 

Numerical row of keys (0 - 9) to enter required correction 

values as well as the lens aperture value being used 

3 

„-“ key to change the sign of the value being displayed 

4 

„Clear“ key to cancel an input 

5 

„Hold“key to keep correction value settings for following 

exposures 

6 

„W. Light“ key to swing basic filtra-tion out of the colour 

head’s light path 

7 

„Light“ key to switch the enlarger lamp on or off 

8 

„F/Stop“ key to run off or enter the lens aperture value 

9 

„Expose“ key to trigger an exposure 

10 

Variation of the light strength of the darkroom safelight 

mounted above the keys 

18 4.0 Description of function of Durst AC 800/AF-03/96 

operating elements

The memory system of the Durst AC 800/AC 800 AF 

5.0 

The Durst AC 800 features 10 (0 - 9) memory channels per 

operating mode (30 in total), which can be allocated to 

different film and enlarging paper types or different shooting 

conditions. To select the desired memory channel, 

press the „Channel“ key (only possible while in the normal 

printing mode) until the desired memory channel number 

is indicated on the display. 

5.1 

„CAL“ basic memory 

This memory records the unit’s basic settings as far as 

colour and density are concerned. These settings depend 

upon enlarging paper emulsion, film type and processing. 

Pressing the „Setup“ key actuates the entire calibration 

mode. Lens focal length and lens aperture are selected by 

pressing the +/- keys and fed into the memory by pressing 

the „Enter“ key. By pressing the „Disp. Select“ key you may 

then call up the single memories for Y-M-C-D. The values 

stored in these memories can be modified by pressing the 

+/- keys. 

Note 

The Y-M-C-D memory values of the Cal, XCP, LN, DN 

operating modes are expressed in densitometric units 

(30 units = one lens aperture value). 

5.2 

„XCP“ paper slope 

Paper = Cal, X.Comp 

Log E t 

1,4 

1,2 

1,0 

0,8 

Cal 

b 

a 

c 

E x t = constant 

This memory serves for the automatic compensation of 

colour and density shifts that may occur when printing 

overexposed negatives or underexposed transparencies. 

Depending upon the film material being printed, the yellow, 

magenta, cyan and density memory values can be 

modified during the programming sequence. Press the 

„Setup“ key to call up the „DN“ calibration mode and press 

the „Enter“ key to store the lens aperture value being displayed. 

Press the „Disp. Select“ key to call up the single Y- 

M-C-D memories and press the +/- keys to appropriately 

modify the memory values. 

In the chart shown the product of the radiation strength x 

time is plotted double logarithmically against the radiation 

strength. The reciprocity curve occurring with very 

short and very long exposure times deviates from the ideal 

constant Et (dashed line). The deviation is measured, interpolated 

linearly and automatically compensated. 

The instructions for producing „XCP“ are given in Section 

6.5.6 for colour negatives/slides, and in Section 6.6.4 for 

BW enlargements. 

100 X. Ref. 10 1 

log E 

Light output on the 

baseboard 

a = Reciprocity curve of paper 

b = Interpolation 

c = Compensation 

Durst AC 800/AF-03/96 5.0 The memory system 

19

5.3 

Slope for under-exposed „LN“ (Light Negative) negatives 

or over-exposed slides 



underexposed negatives or overexposed transparencies. 



modified during the programming sequence. 

Press the „Setup“ key to call up the „LN“ calibration 

mode and press the „Enter“ key to store the lens aperture 

values being displayed. Press the „Disp. Select“ key to call 

up the single Y-M-C-D memories and press the +/- keys to 

appropriately modify the memory values. 

The instructions for setting „LN“ are given in Section 

6.5.7 for colour negatives/slides, and in Section 6.6.5 for 

BW enlargements. 

5.4 

Slope for over-exposed „DN“ (Dark Negative) negatives 

or under-exposed slides 



overexposed negatives or underexposed transparencies. 



modified during the programming sequence. 

Press the „Setup“ key to call up the „DN“ calibration 

mode and press the „Enter“ key to store the lens aperture 

values being displayed. Press the „Disp. Select“ key to call 

up the single Y-M-C-D memories and press the +/- keys to 

appropriately modify the memory values. 

Instructions for setting „DN“ are given in Section 6.5.8 

for colour negatives/slides, and in Section 6.6.6 for BW 

enlargements. 

5.5 

Colour and density under-corrections 

The colour and density under-correction takes priority 

over the calibration settings in all the memory channels 

(consisting of „CAL“, „XCP“, „LN“ and „DN“). 

Colour under-correction enhances the integrally read 

colour value (reading cells underneath the film carrier) for 

negatives and slides with dominant colours. The correction 

is made by a settable percentage which represents a limit 

for the integrally read colour value. The Durst AC 800/AC 

800 AF incorporates over 17 under-correction steps (0 - 

16), with step 0 allowing full (100 %) under-correction. 

Step 16 makes no under-correction, so that the subordinate 

colour setting applies due to the integral reading 

method used. Each step therefore represents a percentage 

of approx. 6.25% (100:16). The following practical example 

will help you to understand colour-under-correction. 

The exposure times (in seconds) for the three colour filters 

amount for example as calibrated by the test negative 

Y = 4 M = 4 C = 4 

With a photo with a dominant colour (e.g. a red car on a 

grey car park), the colour correction is falsified by the 

integral reading system. 

Y = 4 M = 4 C = 8 

If the colour under-correction is now set to the figure of 8 

(percentage 50 %), this decreases the cyan filter time by 2 

seconds, that is 

Y = 4 M = 4 C = 6 

since 8 - 4 = 4 (integral reading system correction) 

4 x 50 % = 2 

In addition to colour under-correction a density undercorrection 

can be made in the same way (16 steps each of 

approx. 6.25 %). 

20 5.0 The memory system 


Factory pre-setting 

The factory pre-setting for colour under-correction incorporates 

an adaptation of the integrally read filter figures 

to approx. 50 %, no correction is made in density. 

Y M C D 

Neg. 6 7 8 16 

Pos. 4 4 4 8 

BW - - - 8 

Setting the colour and density under-correction 

The factory pre-setting can be adapted to special needs as 

follows. 

• With the enlarger switched off, hold down „Mode 

Select“ key and switch the enlarger on. 

• Holding down the „Enter“ key and pressing the „Disp. 

Select“ key displays one after another the Neg./BW/Pos. 

modes with the relevant parameters Y, M, C, D. 

• These parameters can now be allocated to the previously 

mentioned correction steps 0 - 16 with the +/- keys. 

Note 

As already mentioned, these corrections affect all the 

memory channels. 

Durst AC 800/AF-03/96 5.0 The memory system 

21

Calibrating the Durst AC 800/AC 800 AF 

6.0 

6.1 

Preview 

Switching on the enlarger/preparations 

Focusing/setting the autofocus/focus variator 

Calibrating the memory channels 

Pre-production test 

Adapting channels (optimising) for production: 

corrections in „CAL“/„XCP“/„LN“/„DN“ or „LC“ 

Correcting the focus 

See Section 6.3 


See Section 6.5 for colour negative/slides 

See Section 6.6 for BW 



See Section 6.4.3 

Production 

22 6.0 Calibrating 


6.2 

Table of factory calibrations for the supplied test negatives 

Channel no. Film type Aperture Cal XCP LN DN 

1 Kodak Gold II 100 8 Y - 13 7 1 9 

M - 4 3 0 8 

C - 11 6 1 - 1 

D 39 6 - 9 - 6 

2 Fujicolor Super HR II 100 8 Y - 23 0 1 3 

M - 8 - 2 - 7 6 

C - 13 7 7 - 3 

D 47 2 - 7 - 5 

3 Konica Super SR 100 8 Y - 12 0 1 1 

M - 5 - 2 0 0 

C - 17 4 12 - 3 

D 49 2 - 8 - 2 

4 Kodak 5026 VPS 8 Y - 12 - 5 1 - 1 

M - 3 - 6 2 3 

C - 16 - 3 3 1 

D 41 9 - 7 6 

5 Agfacolor XRC 100 8 Y 1 - 3 2 - 8 

M 1 - 7 4 - 9 

C - 11 - 4 4 - 12 

D 41 7 - 14 6 

6 Fujicolor Reala CS 120 8 Y 26 1 0 11 

M 33 - 1 - 3 13 

C 11 1 1 6 

D 87 - 1 - 8 - 6 

7 Kodak Vericolor 160 8 Y 26 1 - 1 3 

M 33 - 1 - 2 6 

C 11 1 - 3 4 

D 88 - 1 22 - 6 

Pre-filtration: Y = 81 M = 62 C = 6 

Filter times at F = 8: Y = 4.7 s M = 4.4 s C = 4.6 s 

Durst AC 800/AF-03/96 6.0 Calibrating 

23

6.3 

Switching on the enlarger/preparations 

a) 

b) 

c) 

Fit the required mixing box and the 

appropriate format mask 

Switch the unit on with the main switch 

on the transformer housing 

Using a masking frame or roll paper easel 

means that the projection plane is no 

longer on the level of the baseboard. This 

differential is ascertained and entered 

• Insert the required mxing box. 

• Insert the format mask matching your film size as well 

as the AN-glass. 

Note: When printing transparencies, use the special Bidia 

insert. Bidia does not require the use of an AN-glass. 

Film size Mixing box Format mask Lens 

6 x 9 cm AC 800- Binema 69 100/105 

6 x 7 cm Box 69 Binema 67 mm 

Bimagla AN 

6 x 6 cm AC 800- Binema 66/ 80 mm 

4.5 x 6 cm BOX 66 Binema 45 

Bimagla AN 

35 mm AC 800- Binema 35 50 mm 

Box 35 Bimagla AN 

„p“ will be indicated on the display. 

• A blue-green-red metering cycle will be taking place. 

The resulting values are automatically stored by the 

reflection densitometer and will be used as reference 

grey for further measurements. 

• At the end of the metering cycle the enlarger lamp is 

switched of automatically the unit is ready for operation. 

On the display will now be shown the operating mode 

(Neg-Pos-B/W), the channel being used and the lens aperture 

value. 

Note 

If on the display the lens aperture indication were to 

blink, enter a smaller or larger lens aperture value. For 

this switch the enlarger lamp on by pressing the „Light“ 

key and place a negative in the negative carrier. 



6.4 

Autofocus and focus variator (only for Durst AC 800 AF) 

6.4.1 

Preparations 

For programming the autofocus system kindly use the following 

flow chart. You can program the system for three 

different focal lengths (50, 80 or 105 mm). The focal 

lengths are allotted channels and processes. 

Before programming the autofocus system, the lens focal 

lengths must be fed into the paper calibration (CAL). 

Note 

The programming of the autofocus system is made 

easier by the use of the Durst-made and surface coated 

focusing magnifier. Order code: Proscop. 

a) 

b) 

c) 

d) 

e) 

Start 

Fit the unit with an enlarger lamp 

Insert required mixing box and appropriate 

format mask 

Place the focusing negative supplied in 

the film carrier 

Switch on the unit 

Into the film carrier’s bottom section insert the format 

mask matching the film size and a Bimagla AN glass into 

the film carrier’s top section. 

Note: When printing transparencies, insert the Bidia mask. 

In this case you will not be needing an AN glass. 




Bimagla AN 


4,5 x 6 cm Box 66 Binema 45 

Bimagla AN 



„p“ appears on the display. The densitometer’s zero balance 

is carried out and the lens carrier moves to the reference 

setting; the projected image is then focused automatically. 

Note 

If the autofocus is not programmed (1st start up) the 

lens stage can move down (error 7 in the display). 

Remedy: Press the „Enter“ key. 


25

6.4.2 

Steps for setting the autofocus 

a) Yes: set d, n figures to zero (see below) 

Does the „Foc. Var. Ill“ key LED light up? 

No: continue 

Set the positive variator to zero. 

Press and hold the „Foc. Var./Ill.“ key until „d“ is displayed. 

Release the „Foc. Var./Ill.“ key. Zero the value being displayed 

by pressing the +/- keys simultaneously. 

Set the negative variator to zero. 

Press and hold the „Foc. Var./Ill.“ key once - „n“ will appear 

on the display. Zero the value being displayed by pressing 

the +/- keys simultaneously. Pressing the „Foc. Var./Ill.“ key 

once more reverts the unit to the normal operating mode. 

b) 

c) 

d) 

e) 

f) 

g) 

h) 

i) 

Call up the required mode by pressing 

and holding the „Enter“ key and by 

simultaneously touching the „Channel 

Mode Sel.“ key 

Select the required memory channel 

Switch on the calibration mode by 

pressing the „Set-up“ key 

For feeding in the desired focal length 

press the +/- keys and store same by 

pressing the „Enter“ key 

Fit the appropriate lens 

Enter F22 by pressing the +/- keys and 

store this value by pressing the „Enter“ 

key 

Move the enlarger head, depending on 

the focal length being used, to the 

following settings 

By pressing the „Enter“ and subsequently 

pressing the „Setup“ keys, the lens as 

well as various other values will be 

stored 

Neg. = Colour negatives 

Pos. = Colour transparencies 

B/W = Black-and-white negatives 

Press the „Channel“ key till the desired memory channel is 

displayed: 

• Touch briefly: the indication increases + 1 

• Keep pressing: the indication will be reduced (- 1) 

The display will be showing the channel, the calibration 

mode (Cal) and the focal length (50, 80 or 105). 

Note: Activating the exposure control calibration mode is 

only meant for storing the focal length. 

The lens aperture value will be displayed (e. g. F8). 

Film size Focal length Lens board 

24 x 36 50 Setopla 2839 

4,5 x 6/6 x 6 80 Lapla 39 

6 x 7/6 x 9 105 Lapla 39 

Setting on metric scale Focal length 

35 50 mm 

34 80 mm 

33 105 mm 

Note 

If Error 6 is indicated on the display, the metering range 

has been exceeded. 

Remedy: Touch the „Enter“ key. On the right-hand enlarger 

head side, push the plastic slide fully upwards. This 

turns on the enlarger lamp automatically and the display 

indicates „H“ (=head). Press the „Disp. Select“ key to call 

up the exposures for Y, M, C. If the exposure time for one 

of these colours is less than one second, the display will be 

flashing. With the calibration bolt turn the appropriate filter 

in the enlarger head till the exposure time is more than 

one second. Then press and hold the „Enter“ key, then 

press the „Setup“ key. 

„CALE“ must be displayed. 



j) 

The calibration mode is switched automatically 

to „XCP“. 

k) The paper/film setup is thereby switched off. 

Press „Setup“ key for three times. 

l) 

m) 

n) 

o) 

p) 

q) 

r) 

s) 

Press and hold the „Enter“ key, then 

press the „Foc. Var/Ill.“ key 

Press the +/- keys simultaneously 

When using the 50 or 80 mm lens move 

the enlarger head all the way to the 

bottom. When using the 105 mm lens 

move the enlarger head to head elevation 

29 of the metric scale. Press and 

hold the „Expose“ key, then press the 

„Light“ key. 

Press the „Light“ key to move the lens 

carrier down until the focus setting is 

exceeded 

Lightly touch the „W.Light“ key to move 

the lens carrier up to the focus setting 

(use a focusing magnifier to check the 

focus 

Is the image on the projection plane in 

focus? 

Move colour head to next position. 

See adjacent table. 

By lightly touching the „W. Light“ key, 

move the lens carrier up to the focus 

setting (use a focusing magnifier) 

This switches on the AF setup-mode (programming the 

autofocus). The display indicates „SFOC“. The white-light 

mode is automatically switched on. 

This cancels all reference points stored for this focal 

length. The unit confirms this by switching the enlarger 

lamp brief-off before turning it on again. 

This causes the lens carrier to move to the reference setting. 

The up or down movement of the lens carrier is carried out 

in two speeds: 

- approx. 2 mm/sec. in the beginning 

- approx. 10 mm/sec. after about five seconds 

Important 

Always move the lens carrier to the final focus setting 

starting from below (using the „W. Light“ key) this to 

eliminate mechanical tolerances). 

Yes: 

Press and hold the „Enter“ key, then press the „Exppose“ 

key. This stores the new setting. To double check the unit 

automatically focuses the image based on the setting that 

has been entered. 

No: 

back to step o) 

Head elevation positions for the following lenses: 

50 mm 80 mm 105 mm 

17 18 29 

21 19,5 31 

30 21 34 

55 24 39 

92 30 47 

50 60 

92 92 

Enlarger head settings on metric scale. 

Important 

Always move the lens carrier to the final focus setting 

starting from below (using the „W. Light“ key) this to 

eliminate mechanical tolerances. 


27

t) Yes: 


Press and hold the „Enter“ key, then press the „Expose“ 

focus? 

key. This stores the new setting. To double check the unit 

automatically focuses the base on the setting that has 

been entered. 

No: 

back to step s) 

u 

v) 

w) 

Repeat steps r) to s) until the enlarger 

head positions are focused under step r) 

and stored 


press the „Foc.Var./ill“ key 

End 

This switches off the AF-setup-mode (SFOC) and the program 

reverts to the normal operating mode with automatic 

focusing. 

Note: If after having programmed the three focal lengths 

(50, 80, 105 mm) a paper-film channel is called up or programmed 

anew, the programming values (autofocus) of 

the appropriate focal length will automatically be transfered 

to that paper-film channel. 



6.4.3 

Subsequent correction 

a) 

b) 

c) 

d) 

e) 

f) 

g) 

h) 

i) 

Start 


Call up the memory channel of the focal 

length to be corrected 

Fit enlarger with appropriate lens 

Does the „F. Var/ill“ key LED light up? 

Place the focusing negative supplied in 

the film carrier 

Move the enlarger head to the setting to 

be corrected 


press the „ F.Var/ill“ key 

Press the „Light“ key to move the lens 

carrier down till the focus setting is 

exceeded 

A setup cycle will be running down. 

„p“ appears in the display. The densitometer is zeroed, and 

the lens carrier moves into the reference position, then 

focusing takes place automatically. 

Note 

If the autofocus is not programmed (during first use), 

the lens carrier may move into the bottom position 

(Error 7). 

Remedy: Press „Enter“ key. 

Press the „Channel“ key till the desired channel is displayed. 

• touch briefly: the indication increases + 1 

• keep pressing: the indication will be reduced (- 1) 

Film size Focal length Lens panel 

24 x 36 50 Setopla 2839 

4,5 x 6/6 x 6 80 Lapla 39 

6 x 7/6 x 9 105 Lapla 39 

Yes: 

Zero the „d“ and „n“ values. 

No: 

Continue 

Set the positive variator to zero. 

Press and hold the „Foc. Var/ill“ key until „d“ is displayed. 

Release the „Foc. Var/ill“ key. Zero the value being displayed 

by pressing the +/- keys simultaneously. 

Set the negative variator to zero. 

Press the „F. Var/ill“ key once - „n“ will appear on the display. 

Zero the value being displayed by pressing the +/- 

keys simultaneously. 

Pressing the „F. Var/ill“ key once more reverts the unit to 

the normal operating mode. 

This switches on the setup-focus mode (programming of 

the autofocus). The display indicates „SFOC“. The unit is 

automatically switched to the white-light mode. 

The up or down movement of the lens carrier is carried out 

in two speeds: 

• approx. 2 mm/sec. in the beginning 

• approx. 10 mm/sec. after about five seconds 


29

j) Important 

Lightly touch the „W. Light“ key to move 

Always start from below when moving the lens carrier 

the lens carrier up to the focus setting 

to the final focus setting (using the „W. Light“ key) this 

(use a focusing magnifier to check the 

to eliminate mechanical tolerances. 

focus) 

k) 

l) 

m) 

n) 

Press and hold down the „Enter“ key and 

then press the „Expose“ key 


focus? 


press the „F. Var/ill“ key 

End 

This stores the new setting. To double check the unit automatically 

focuses the image based on the setting that has 

been entered. 

Note 

If Error 7 will be indicated see section 8.0. 

Yes: 

Continue 

No: 

Back to step j) 

If the corrected setting is already listed in the calibration 

table (section 6.4.2) (max. permissible deviation: 5 mm), 

the stored value is carried over; otherwise the new setting 

is inserted in the reference point table. 

This switches off the Af-setup-mode (SFOC) and the program 

reverts to the normal operating mode with automatic 

focusing. 



6.4.4 

Manual focusing 

Special jobs may require manual focusing. For this kindly 

proceed as follows: 

a) 

b) 

c) 

d) 

e) 

f) 

g) 

Start 


Fit the enlarger with the appropriate 

lens 



Focus the image 



End 

„P“ will be shown on the display. The densitometer will be 

balanced to zero and the lens carrier moves to the reference 

setting; the enlarger is then focused automatically. 

Film size Focal length Lens panel 

24 x 36 50 Setopla 2839 

4,5 x 6/6 x 6 80 Lapla 39 

6 x 7/6 x 9 105 Lapla 39 

The unit is switched to the Setup-Focus mode (programming 

of the autofocus system). SFOC will be shown on the 

display and the enlarger light is switched on automatically. 

For this press the „Light“ (down) or „W. Light“ (up) keys. 

The lens carrier’s up or down movement takes place in two 

speeds: 

• approx. 2 mm/sec. in the beginning 

• approx. 10 mm/sec. after about 5 sec. 

This switches off the AF-Setup-mode (programming of the 

autofocus system) and the program reverts to the normal 

printing mode. 

Note 

The autofocus sequence will take place once more only 

after changing the magnification. 

6.4.5 

Setting the focus variator to a raised/lowered projection 

level 

When using a masking frame or a roll paper easel the projection 

plane will no longer be in focus. This differential is 

determined and fed in as follows. 

a) 

b) 

c) 

d) 

Determining the distance 

Press and hold the “F. Var./ill“ key 

Key in the previously determined value 

of the differential 

Release the „F. Var./ill“ key 

Use a ruler to ensure the distance between the baseboard’s 

projection plane and your new projection plane. 

„d“ will be indicated on the display. 

• With the +/- keys feed in the previously determined 

distance by pressing „+“ or „-“ key, according to the 

projection plane height. 

• If the projection plane is higher than the baseboard 

level, enter the distance by prefixing „-“ (minus); if the 

projection plane is below the baseboard level, enter the 

distance by prefixing „+“ (plus). 

Note 

Enter distance in „mm“. 

• An input is confirmed and checked by the lighting up of 

the red LED. 

Note 

The „Foc.Var“ key has an additional function. If this key 

is pressed briefly, all illuminations or displays will be 

extinguished. Pressing any key again returns to the display. 


31

6.5 

Calibrating a memory channel for colour negatives/ 

slides 

The memory channel is calibrated for a certain combination 

of film type, paper size and paper type. 

6.5.1 

Making preparations 

a) 

Set the measuring cell slide-in unit’s 

(1) amplification switch to the correct 

position 

• Pull the measuring cell slide-in unit (1) out of the unit. 

• Push the switch (2) to the setting matching your process 

Neg or Pos. 

• Push the measuring cell slide-in unit (1) into the 

appropriate opening. 

1 2 

b) 

c) 

Call up the desired operating mode by 

pressing the „Enter“ and „Channel Mode 

sel.“ keys simultaneously 

Call up the desired memory channel 

Neg. = Colour negatives 

Pos. = Colour transparencies 

B/W= Black-and-white negatives 

Press the „Channel“ key until the desired memory channel 

number is displayed. 

6.5.2 

Setting pre-filter arrangement 

a) 

Set the basic filtration 

2 

• Remove the calibration pin (1) on the right-hand side of 

the transformer housing. 

• Fully push the plastic slide (2) upwards on the enlarger 

head’s right. This switches on the enlarger lamp and the 

indication „H“ (= Head) will appear on the display. 

• Fit the calibration pin on the Y or M screw and turn 

same until the desired Y-M basic filtration value is indicated 

on the display. 

• For Neg: Y = 70, M = 50, C = 0. 

• For Pos: 000 close the slide again. 

• Press the „Light“ key to switch off the enlarger lamp. 

1 



6.5.3 

Activating the basic filtration 

a) 

b) 

c) 

d) 

e) 

Switch to the calibration mode by 

pressing the „Setup“ key 

With the +/- keys feed in the desired 

lens focal length and store same by 



lens aperture value and store same by 


Set the enlarger head to the correct 

position 

Enter the memory values taken from the 

table supplied (section 6.2) and check 

On the display will be indicated the channel number, the 

calibration mode (Cal) and the lens focal length (L50, 80 or 

105). 

The display will then be showing the lens aperture (e. g. f8) 

Note 

If on the display the lens aperture indication is blinking, 

you can stop this by entering a smaller or larger aperture 

value. 

Note 

The lens aperture value that has been fed into the unit 

must be set on the lens. 

Move the enlarger head up or down until either one of the 

following indications, i. e. 

• M F 8 - with the 50 mm lens 



is extinguished. 

• With the „Disp. Select“ key call up the Y-M-C-D 

memories and check. 

• Display: Cy - Cm - Cc - Dd. 

• Using the „+/-“ keys, enter or modifiy the memory 

values. 

6.5.4 

Adapting the exposure time for individual filters with 

pre-filters 

a) 

b) 

c) 

d) 

e) 

Press the „Light“ key to switch on the 

enlarger lamp 

Place a correctly exposed Durst test 

negative in the film carrier 

Focus projection (with Durst AC 800) or 

autofocus with Durst AC 800 AF 

Check exposure times 

Set to an exposure time of approx. 4 

seconds 

Switch on the enlarger lamp and press the „Disp. Select“ 

key to call up, in sequential order, the Y-M-C exposure 

times, which will be indicated on the display. Display E = 

Exposure time. 

• Press the „Disp. Select“ key to call up the lens aperture 

indication. 

• Select a lens aperture, pressing the +/- keys, so that cyan 

yields an exposure time of approx. 4 seconds. Factory 

settings (section 6.2) were determined using F-Stop 8 

(lens 50 and 105). 

• Press the „Disp.Select“ key once more to call up the 

exposure time indication and check. 

• Acceptable tolerance limit = ± 0,1 second 


33

f) 

g) 

If the deviation of ± 0.1 sec. is exceeded, 

the exposure times must be matched to 

each other by pre-filtration 

Set the correct lens aperture value on 

the lens 

• Pull the calibration pin out of its holder on the transformer 

housing. 

• Push the plastic slide upwards on the enlarger head’s 

right. 

• Fit the calibration pin on the Y-M filter screw and turn 

the same until the Y and M exposure match the C exposure 

time. 

• In the table in Section 6.2 the pre-filter settings are 

given with the relevant filter times for the factory 

pre-calibrations. 

Note 

Normally there are only two filters that may be moved 

into the light path. If because of material characteristics 

it becomes necessary to add cyan filtration, another filter 

must be set to zero. 

6.5.5 

Continuing and finishing basic calibration 

a) 

b) 

c) 

d) 

e) 

f) 

g) 

Prepare the test exposure 

Press the „Light“ key to switch off the 

enlarger lamp 

Insert a sheet of enlarging paper and 

expose 

Process the enlarging paper 

Carry out the zero balance for the 

densitometer 

Take a reading of the test print’s 0.70 

grey patch 

With the „Disp. Select“ key call up the 

Y-M-C-D memories and make a note of 

the new memory values 

Locate masking frame or roll paper easel so that the 70 

grey patch is exposed. 

• Trigger the exposure by pressing the „Expose“ key. 

Note 

The 70 grey patch must be exposed. 

For this press and hold the „Enter“ key. Then press the „Bal. 

Adjust“ key. This will result in a blue, green and red reference 

measurement. 

Note 

Do the zero balance shortly before the reference measurement. 

• First hold the test print against the room’s light source 

and, on the back of the print, mark the 0.70 grey patch 

with a circle. 

• Press the „Light“ key to switch on the enlarger light. 

• Push the test print underneath the reflection densitometer’s 

holder so that the 0.70 grey patch is metered. 

Center with the aid of the mark made before. 

Note 

The grey patch must face the metering opening. 

• Press the „Bal. Adj.“ key. The test print will now be measured 

automatically and the memory values corrected. 



h) Yes: 

Do the memory values differ from the 

back to step 6.5.5 c) 

previous ones? 

No: 

continue with step i (the display shows „0 000“) 

i) 

The values are stored in the memories by 

pressing and holding the „Enter“ key 

and, thereafter, the „Setup“ key 

A metering cycle is triggered. Als Bestätigung erscheint die 

Anzeige CALE für Calibration. This ends the calibration 

mode for the basic memory. The program automatically 

switches to „XCP“. 

6.5.6 

Calibrating for maximum „XCP“ enlargement (compensation 

of reciprocity effect) 

a) 

b) 

c) 

d) 

e) 

f) 

g) 

Enter the aperture with the „+/-“ keys 

which was last set when the calibration 

figures for the basic memory CAL were 

stored, and transfer the aperture to the 

lens. Pressing the „Enter“ key stores the 

aperture figure. 

Move the enlarger head to the correct 

position 

Focus the projection (with Durst AC 800) 

or autofocus (with Durst AC 800 AF) 



Prepare a test exposure 

Load the photo-paper, expose and 

process 


densitometer 


following indications is extinguished: 

• M F 17 - for the 50 mm lens 



Press the „W. Light“ key to switch on the enlarger lamp. 

• Set the lens to the largest aperture. 

• Focus the projected image. 

• Set the lens aperture to the value used before. 

• Press the „W. Light“ key to switch off the enlarger lamp. 



• Display: Cy - Cm - Cc - Dd. 

• With the +/- keys enter and if necessary modify the 

memory values. 

• Switch on the enlarger lamp. 

• Locate the masking frame or roll paper easel so that the 

0.70 grey patch is exposed. 


Note 


For this press and hold the „Enter“ key, then press the „Bal. 


measurement. 

Note 



35

h) • First hold the test print against the room’s light source 



grey patch 






Note 


• Press the „Bal. Adj.“ key. The test print will now be 

measured automatically and the memory values corrected. 

i) 

j) 

k) 

With the „Disp. Select“ key call up the 

Y-M-C-D memories and make a note of 

the new memory values 



The values are stored by pressing and 

holding the „Enter“ and subsequently 


Yes: 

back to step f) 

No: 

Confirmation by display „0 000“ and continue with step k) 

A metering cycle is triggered. 

The „SLPE“ (Slope Enter) appears to confirm the calibration 

made. The calibration mode continues automatically with 

„LN“. 

6.5.7 

Calibrating for under-exposed „LN“ negatives/overexposed 

slides 

a) 

b) 

c) 

d) 

„LN“ and the entered aperture are displayed. 

If the display flashes, the exposure 

time is too short. This is remedied 

by setting the next higher aperture. 

(Remember: transfer the aperture to 

the lens!) 


position 

Place an underexposed Durst test negative 

or an overexposed test transparency 

in the negative carrier 

Focus the projection (with Durst AC 800), 







• Press the „W. Light“ key to switch on the enlarger lamp. 



• Press the „W. Light“ or „Expose“ keys to switch off the 

enlarger lamp. 



e) • With the „Disp. Select“ key call up the Y-M-C-D 




• Display: Cy -Cm - Cc - Cd. 



f) 

g) 

h) 

i) 

i) 

k) 

l) 



process 


densitometer 


grey patch 

With the „Disp. Select“ key call up the Y- 

M-C-D memories and make a note of the 

new memory values 



The values are stored by pressing and holding 

the „Enter“ and subsequently pressing 

the „Setup“ key 

• Switch on the enlarger lamp with the „Light“ key. 



• Switch off the enlarger lamp by pressing the „Light“ key. 


Note 




measurement. 

Note 









Note 



measured automatically and the memory values 

corrected. 

Yes: 

back to step g) 

No: 

confirmation by „0 000“ as display and continue with step 

e) 

A blue-green-red metering cycle will be triggered. 

Memory confirmation by display „LNEn (LN Enter). The 

calibration mode continues automatically with „DN“. 


37

6.5.8 

Calibrating for over-exposed „DN“ negatives/underexposed 

slides 

a) 

b) 

c) 

d) 

e) 

f) 

g) 

h) 

If the display flashes when the previously 

used aperture is entered, the exposure 

time is again not ideal, and can be corrected 

by changing the aperture („+/-“ 

key). The change in aperture must again 

be transferred to the lens. Pressing the 

„Enter“ key stores the aperture setting 

Load the over-exposed Durst test negative 

or under-exposed test slide in the 

film carrier (use „over (+2)“ negative) 





process 


densitometer 


grey patch 

With the „Disp. Select“ key call up the Y- 

M-C-D memories and make a note of the 

new memory values 

Do not change enlarger head and lens aperture settings. 



• Display: Cy - Cm - Cc - Cd. 



• Switch on the enlarger lamp with the „Light“ key. 



• Switch off the enlarger lamp by pressing the „Light“ key. 


Note 




measurement. 

Note 









Note 




corrected. 



i) 


Yes: 


back to step e) 

No: 

confirmation by display „0 000“, continue with next step. 

j) 




A metering cycle will be triggered. 

Storage of the readings is confirmed by the display „DNEn“ 

(for DN Enter). 

6.5.9 

Automatically ending the calibration mode 

After confirmation of storage the calibration operation 

ends automatically. Normal operation starts. 

6.6 

Calibrating a memory channel for black/white enlargements 

Note 

The automatic calibration works only for a medium gradation 

of approx. 3. 

6.6.1 

Preparations 

a) 

Set the measuring cell slide-in unit’s (1) 

amplification switch to the correct 

position 


• Set the switch (2) to B/W. 



1 2 

b) 

c) 

Select the „B/W“ operating mode by 

simultaneously pressing the „Enter“ and 

„Channel-Mode Sel.“ key 

Call up the desired memory channel 

B/W = Printing black-and-white negatives. 

Press the „Channel“ key until the desired memory channel 

number is displayed. 


39

6.6.2 

Setting pre-filters 

2 

1 

• Remove the calibration pin (1) on the right-hand side of 

the transformer housing. 

• Fully push the plastic slide (2) upwards on the enlarger 

head’s right. This switches on the enlarger lamp and the 

indication „H“ (= Head) will appear on the display. 

• Fit the calibration pin on the Y-M-C screw and turn 

same until all filters have reached their mechanical stop 

(the display mustn’t necessarily indicate zero). If necessary 

set the grey value by moving in all three filters by 

the same amount. 

• Close the plastic slide (2) again. 


Note 

The exposure times must be matched to the time whose 

pre-filter is on mechanical zero stop (normally the cyan 

filter). 

6.6.3 

Basic „CAL“ calibration 

a) On the display will be indicated the channel number, the 

Switch to the calibration mode by 

calibration mode (Cal) and the lens focal length (L50, 80 or 


105). 

b) 

c) 

d) 

e) 

f) 


lens focal length and store same by 



lens aperture value and store same by 


Set the enlarger head to the correct 

position 


enlarger lamp 

Place a correctly exposed test 

negative in the film carrier 

The display will then be showing the lens aperture (e. g. f8) 

Note 

If on the display the lens aperture indication is blinking, 

you can stop this by entering a smaller or larger aperture 

value. 

Note 

The lens aperture value that has been fed into the unit 

must be set on the lens. 


following indications, i. e. 




is extinguished. 



g) 

h) 

i) 

i) 

k) 

l) 

m) 

n) 

o) 

p) 


autofocus with Durst AC 800 AF 

Check exposure times 

Set to an exposure time of approx. 4 

seconds 



process. 


densitometer 


grey patch 

With the „Disp. Select“ key call up the D 

memory and make a note of the new 

memory value 



Store the calibration value in the „Cal“ 

mode 

Switch on the enlarger lamp, press the „Disp. Select“ key. 

The exposure time will then be indicated on the display. 

Display E = exposure time. 

• Press the „Disp. Select“ key to call up the lens aperture 

indication. 

• Select a lens aperture, pressing the +/- keys, so that cyan 

yields an exposure time of approx. 4 seconds. 

• Press the „Disp.Select“ key once more to call up the 

exposure time indication and check. 

• Acceptable tolerance limit = ± 1 second 

• Set the correct aperture value on the lens. 

• Locate masking frame or roll paper easel so that the 70 



Make a test exposure sequence by modifying the density 

values being displayed as follows: -30/-15/0/ +15/+30. 

• With the „Disp. Select“ key call up the density memory 

channel. 

• Display: CD. 

• With the +/- keys enter the memory value. 


Note 


• For this press and hold the „Enter“ key. Then press the 

„Bal. Adjust“ key. This will result in a blue, green and red 

reference measurement. 

Note 









Note 


• Press the „Bal. Adj.“ key. The test print will now be measured 

automatically and the memory values corrected. 

Yes: back to step k) 

No: confirmation by display „0 000“ 

For this press and hold the „Enter“ key, then press the 

„Setup“ key. Make a note of the lens aperture. 

Confirmation by „CAL“ display (for calibration). The calibration 

mode automatically continues with „XCP“ („XCP“ is 

displayed). 


41

6.6.4 

Calibrating for maximum enlargement (compensation of 

„XCP“ reciprocity effect 

a) 

Enter the aperture with the „+/-“ keys 

which was last set during storage of the 

calibration figures for the basic „CAL“ 

memory, and transfer the aperture to the 

lens. Pressing the „Enter“ key stores the 

aperture figure. 

b) Move the enlarger head up or down until either one of the 



position 




c) 

d) 

e) 

f) 

g) 

Focus the projection (with Durst AC 800) 




process 


densitometer 


grey patch 

Press the „W. Light“ key to switch on the enlarger lamp. 


• Focus the projected image. 


• Press the „W. Light“ key to switch off the enlarger lamp. 

• Switch on the enlarger lamp. 

• Locate masking frame or roll paper easel so that the 0.70 


• With the „Disp. Select“ key call up the density memory. 

• Display: CD. 





Note 




measurement. 

Note 









Note 




corrected. 



h) 

i) 

j) 

With the „Disp. Select“ key call up the D 

memories and make a note of the new 

memory values 





the „Setup“ key. 

Yes: back to step e) 

No: confirmation by display „0 000“ and continue with 

next step 

A deviation of +/- 2 figures here is acceptable. 

Another reading cycle takes place. Storage is confirmed by 

„SLPE“ in the display. The calibration mode continues 

automatically with „LN“. „LN“ is displayed and the entered 

aperture. 

6.6.5 

Calibrating for under-exposed „LN“ (Light Negative) 

negatives/over-exposed slides 

Under-exposed negatives or over-exposed slides are calibrated 

for BW enlargements with the normal „CAL“ calibration. 

The density correction therefore does not need to 

be set to zero in this step. 

a) 

b) 

c) 

d) 

With the +/- keys enter the lens aperture 

that has been used in the „Cal“ mode 

and store this value by pressing the 

„Enter“ key 


position 

Set density figure to zero. 

The values are stored by pressing and 

holding the „Enter“ and subsequently 


Set the lens aperture to this value. 






• Using the „Disp. Select“ key select the density „D“. 

• Set to zero by simultaneously pressing the „+/-“ keys. 

A reading cycle takes place whose figures are then stored 

(confirmation by the display „LNEn“, LN Enter). The calibration 

mode automatically continues with „DN“. 

6.6.6 

Calibrating for over-exposed „DN“ (Dark Negative) 

negatives/under-exposed slides 

Also in this case the procedure is the same as for „LN“. The 

following steps explain again only the zero-setting of density 

and how to memorize. 

a) 

b) 

c) 

Enter the previously set aperture with 

the „+/-“ key and store by pressing the 

„Enter“ key 

Set the density to zero 




• Using the „Disp. Select“ key select the density „D“. 

• Set to zero by simultaneously pressing the „+/-“ keys. 

A reading cycle takes place whose figures are then stored 

(confirmation by the display „DNEn“, e.g. DN Enter on the 

display). The calibration mode automatically continues 

with the normal mode. 


43

6.6.7 

Retrieving and noting the stored figures 

a) 

Retrieving filter and density figures in 

• Pressing the „Set-up“ key switches the enlarger into the 

the basic „CAL“ memory 

calibration mode again. 

• After the focal length and aperture have been confirmed 

with „Enter“, the colour head must be moved to the 

right enlarging position (MF 8 with 50 mm lens). 

• Using the „Disp.Select“ key retrieve the filter and density 

correction figures and note them in the table (page 45). 

b) 

c) 

Recall filtration and density values of 

XCP-LN and DN 

Pre-filtration settings 

• After the „Set-up“ key has been pressed, the next „XCP“ 

calibration mode is displayed, whose figures can be displayed 

consecutively with the „Disp. Select“ key. 

• The procedure is the same for the next two memory 

channels. 

Since the variations in filter exposure time are not very 

great (up to 30 %) for different film and paper figures 

(that is different memory channels), it is advisable to set 

the pre-filtration only when the first memory channel is 

calibrated, and to leave the figure the same for the remaining 

memory channels. The exposure times are checked, 

with the enlarger light on, by means of the „Disp. Select“ 

key. The filter figures (C) are shown first, then the exposure 

times (E) for the various colours. 

Steps for retrieving the pre-settings: 

• Leave the Set-up mode (the Set-up LED goes out). 

• Pushing up the plastic slide on the right-hand side of 

the colour head shows the display „H“. 

• With the „Disp. Select“ key the various pre-settings are 

retrieved, and can be entered in the following table. 



Channel no. 

mode 

Film type 

Size/ 

Aperture 

Paper type Filter Cal XCP LN DN H 

Y 

M 

C 

D 

Y 

M 

C 

D 

Y 

M 

C 

D 

Y 

M 

C 

D 

Y 

M 

C 

D 

Y 

M 

C 

D 

Y 

M 

C 

D 

Y 

M 

C 

D 


45

6.7 

Pre-production test 

6.7.1 

Pre-production test for colour negatives/slides 

a) 

b) 

The enlarger is in the normal mode. 

Make 10 to 15 prints 20 x 25 cm 

(8 x 10 in.) in size from typical customer 

negatives or transparencies (these film 

originals should be correctly exposed 

and free of extremely predominant 

colours) of the film type just programmed 

(preproduction test) 

After processing judge the test prints’ 

colour balance and density and if necessary 

correct the basic memory (section 

6.8) 


• Place the negative in the negative carrier. 

• Open the lens diaphragm fully and focus the projection 

(with Durst AC 800), or autofocus (with Durst AC 800 

AF). 

• Stop the lens down again. 

Note 

The lens aperture value indicated on the display must 

match the aperture setting on the lens. 

• Switch off the enlarger lamp. 

• Insert enlarging paper. 

• Trigger the exposure. 

6.7.2 

Pre-production test for BW negatives 

a) 

The pre-production test is in principle the 

same as for colour negatives/slides, and 

only the test prints need their density 

checking 



6.8 

Adapting memory to production 

6.8.1 

Correcting colour negatives/slides 

a) 

Correct memory values 

• With the „Disp. Select“ key call up the appropriate colour 

and density channel (Y-M-C-D). 

• With the +/- keys enter the required correction values. 

• By pressing and holding the „Enter“ key and by subsequently 

pressing the „Setup“ key the correction values 

just entered are fed into the basic memory. On the display 

zero will be indicated once more. 

If the corrections are required for just one of the XCP-LN- 

DN calibration modes, the memory values of the calibration 

mode concerned are to be corrected as follows: 

• Press the „Setup“ key repeatedly to call up the required 

calibration mode. 

• With the +/- keys enter the appropriate value and store 

same by pressing the „Enter“ key. 

• With the „Disp. Select“ key call up the appropriate colour 

and density channel (Y-M-C-D). 

• Place the corresponding test negative in the negative 

carrier. 

• Press and hold the „Enter“ key, then press the „Setup“ 

key. 

• Press the „Setup“ key repeatedly to switch to the normal 

printing mode. 

b) 

c) 

d) 

e) 

Repeat the preproduction test (step 

6.7.1a) 

If the result is satisfactory, produce a 

20 x 25 cm test print from a normally 

exposed Durst test negative or slide 

Enter the „Cal-XCP-LN-DN“ memory 

values in the table supplied (section 

6.6.7) 

With the „Setup“ key switch back to the 

normal printing mode 

With the „Setup“ key call up the „Cal-XCP-LN-DN“ calibration 

modes and with the „Disp. Select“ key the Y-M-C-D 

memory values and make a note thereof. 

The programming of a channel is thus completed. 


47

6.8.2 

Correcting BW negatives 

a) 

b) 

c) 

Correct the memory value 

Enter the figure stored for „CAL-XCP“ in 

the table in Section 6.6.7 

With the „Setup“ key switch back to the 

normal printing mode 

The steps here are also basically the same. 

• With the „Disp. Select“ key call up the density channel. 

• With the +/- keys enter the required correction value. 

• To feed the entered correction value into the basic 

memory, press and hold the „Enter“ key, then press the 

„Setup“ key. The display will indicate zero once more. 

Note 

If corrections are required for XCP, modify the memory 

values as follows: 

• Press the „Setup“ key to call up the desired calibration 

mode. 

• With the +/- keys enter the appropriate lens aperture 

value and store same by pressing the „Enter“ key. 

• With the „Disp. Select“ key call up the density channel. 

With the „Setup“ key call up the calibration modes „Cal- 

XCP“ and with the „Disp. Select“ key call up the D memory 

values and make a note thereof. 

The programming of a channel is thus finished. 



Practical work 

7.0 

7.1 

Preview 

Switching on 


Setting focus variator 

Setting enlargement 

Possibly manual correction of: 

a) focus 

b) colour and density 

Printing a different film or paper type 

Ending 

After calibration has ended, the enlarger automatically 

switches from the set-up mode to working mode. The following 

flow chart provides a preview of the individual 

steps. 

Section 7.2.1 

Section 7.2.2 

Section 7.2.3 

Section 7.2.4 

a) Section 6.4.3 

b) Section 7.2.5 

Section 7.2.6 

Section 7.2.7 

Durst AC 800/AF-03/96 7.0 Practical work 

49

7.2 

Steps 

7.2.1 

Switching on 

a) „P“ will be indicated on the display. 

Switch the unit on with the mains 

• A blue-green-red metering cycle will be taking place. 

switch on the transformer housing 

The resulting values are automaticaly stored by the 

reflection densitometer and will be used as reference 

grey for further measurements. 

• At the end of the metering cycle the enlarger lamp is 

switched off automatically; the unit is ready for operation. 

On the display will now be shown the operating mode 

(Neg-Pos-B/W), the channel being used and the lens aperture 

value. 

Note 

If on the display the lens aperture indication were to 

blink, enter a smaller or larger lens aperture value. 

7.2.2 


a) 

b) 

c) 

Select the desired memory channel 

Call up the appropriate operation mode 

(Neg-Pos-B/W) by simultaneously pressing 

the „Enter“ and „Channel-Mode-sel“ 

keys. 

Set the measuring cell slide-in unit’s 

(1) amplification switch to the correct 

position 

Press the „Channel“ key until the number of the desired 

memory channel is displayed. 

Neg.= colour negative printing 

Pos.= colour transparency printing 

B/W = black-and-white negative printing 


• Push the switch (2) to the setting matching your process 

Neg, Pos or BW. 



1 2 

50 7.0 Practical work 


c) 

Fit desired mixing box and appropriate 

format mask 

• Insert the required mxing box. 

• Insert the format mask matching your film size as well 

as the AN-glass. 

Note: When printing transparencies, use the special Bidia 

insert. Bidia does not require the use of an AN-glass. 




Bimagla AN 


4.5 x 6 cm Box 66 Binema 45 

Bimagla AN 



7.2.3 

Setting the focus variator 

a) 

b) 

c) 

d) 

e) 

Using a masking frame or roll paper easel 

means that the projection plane is no 

longer on the level of the baseboard. This 

differential is ascertained and entered as 

follows. 

Determining the distance 

Press and hold the “F. Var./ill“ key 

Key in the previously determined value 

of the differential 

Release the „F. Var./ill“ key 

Use a ruler to ensure the distance between the baseboard’s 

projection plane and your new projection plane. 

„d“ will be indicated on the display. 

• With the +/- keys feed in the previously determined 

distance by pressing „+“ or „-“ key, according to the 

projection plane height. 

• If the projection plane is higher than the baseboard 

level, enter the distance by prefixing „-“ (minus); if the 

projection plane is below the baseboard level, enter the 

distance by prefixing „+“ (plus). 

Note 

Enter distance in „mm“. 

• An input is confirmed and checked by the lighting up of 

the red LED. 

Note 

The „Foc. Var“ key has an additional function. If this key 

is pressed briefly, all illuminations or displays will be 

extinguished. Pressing any key again returns to the display. 


51

7.2.4 

Setting the enlargement 

a) 

b) 

c) 

d) 


enlarger lamp 

Place a film strip in the negative carrier 

Open the lens aperture fully and adjust 

the enlarger head to obtain the desired 

print size 


autofocus (with Durst AC 800 AF). 

e) Note 

With the +/- keys enter the desired lens 

If the aperture display flashes (sign of a poor exposure 

aperture value 

time), you can stop this by entering a smaller or larger 

aperture. 

f) 

g) 

h) 

i) 

Set the lens aperture on the lens 

Press the „Light“ key to switch off the 

enlarger lamp 


process. Expose by pressing the „Expose“ 

key 

To make another print of the same film 

or paper type, repeat Section 7.2.4. 

Note 

The lens aperture value being displayed must match the 

lens aperture setting of the lens. 



7.2.5 

Manual colour and density corrections 

The enlarger is in normal mode. Generally production is 

satisfactory, but individual prints need correcting. In these 

cases manual corrections can be made. They apply only to 

the relevant enlargement, and are normally automatically 

deleted for the next setting. If two enlargements with the 

same corrections occur, the correction figures can be fixed 

by pressing the „Hold“ key. 

a) 

b) 

c) 

Select the colour or density to be 

corrected with „Disp. Select“ 

The correction can be made with the 

„+/-“ keys. 

It applies to the current enlargement. If 

the „Hold“ function is activated (green 

light on the „Hold“ key), the correction 

applies to all further prints. If the key is 

pressed again, now only the calibrated 

filter and density figures apply (green 

light goes out). 

If the remote control is used, the corrections are entered 

with the numerical keyboard and the relevant colour/density 

correction keys. 

7.2.6 

Printing a different film or paper type 

If enlargements of another film or paper type must be 

produced, select the suitably calibrated memory channel 

and make the other preparations. To do this, start with 

Step 7.2.2 a), and then carry out all the following steps. 

7.2.7 

Ending 

Switch off the AC 800 with the main switch. 

Note 

Keeping the unit at operating temperature will ensure 

best results. Therefore, after longer periods without 

exposures, switch on the enlarger lamp for a short time. 


53

7.3 

Using the „Automatic density control and fixed filtration“ 

function („VXFF“ key) 

This function is mainly used for studio photographs, since 

the filter settings of these are frequently the same. 

a) 

b) 

Load the negative, focus the image (only 

for Durst AC 800), and produce a test 

print (press the „Expose“ key) 

After processing correct any colour and 

density faults, and fix the corrections by 

pressing the „Hold“ key (see Section 7.2.5) 

c) 

d) 

Pressing the „VXFF“ key retains the 

colour and density corrections found by 

the reading for the next prints (a similar 

negative). The enlarging scale can be 

changed at will, since the reciprocity 

effect is automatically compensated and 

the exposure time is matched to the 

density to be retained („VX“ variable 

exposure time) 

If the „VXFF“ key is pressed again, the 

„LED“ goes out and the function is ended 



7.4 

Using the „Fixed exposure time and filtration“ function 

(„FXFF“ key): producing contact prints 

If you produce an enlargement under this function, the 

colour and density reading is not made during the exposure 

as usual, but the previous enlargement readings are 

automatically adopted. The „FXFF“ function is primarily for 

producing contact prints. Since the film material with this 

type of exposure is not in the film carrier but on the projection 

level, with the normal mode the reading cells 

mounted underneath the film carrier would be disturbed 

by the approximately white light. Only error warnings such 

as „Wrong aperture setting“ (aperture number flashes) 

would be displayed. 

The steps for setting contact prints now follow. 

a) 

b) 

c) 

d) 

e) 

f) 

g) 

First load the negative to be printed in 

the film carrier, and set the enlargement 

to match the space needed by the negative 

strip on the projection area 

After focusing (manually with the Durst 

AC 800), make a blank exposure (no 

photo-paper) (press the „Expose“ key). 

This automatically measures the colour 

and density 

Pressing the „FXFF“ key (LED shows red) 

stores the readings and keeps them for 

the next exposure 

Take the negative out of the film carrier 

and put it on the baseboard together 

with the other strips 

Position the negative strip for the 

contact print over the photo-paper on 

the projection level. It is possible to use 

a contact frame or sheet of glass 

Make the exposure („Expose“ key) and 

process the contact print 

If no more contact prints are needed, the 

„FXFF“ function is ended by pressing the 

„FXFF“ key (LED goes out) 


55

7.5 

Distortion control 

Converging verticals cannot always be avoided when a 

shot is taken. With the AC 800 complete distortion control 

is possible by tilting the enlarger head and the lens plane. 

There are scales on the enlarger to permit repeats. 

2 

3 

1 

Procedure 

• Load the negative to be corrected and focus it. 

• Fix the required head position by turning the handle (1). 

• Pivot the colour head by loosening the knob (2) to the 

required side. The head must always be held firm with 

one hand. It can be panned in both directions by 45°. A 

scale (3) indicates the angle, and so permits accurate 

repeats. Fasten in the required position again with the 

knob (2). 

• To permit the lens carrier to be pivoted, loosen the screw 

(4). The lens will now slide and pivot, and two scales (5) 

show the rectification, and so ensure simple repetition. 

The required position is fixed by fastening the screw (4). 

• Focus by slanting the mask frame. 

4 5 



Troubleshooting table and explanations of error warnings 

8.0 

Signal/fault 

Lens aperture indication blinks 

No digital display 

Desired operating mode (Neg-Pos- 

B/W) can’t be selected 

In the calibration mode (Cal-XCP-LN- 

DN) the memory values can’t be 

modified or the enlarger lamp can’t 

be switched on 

Manually entered correction values 

are erased after each exposure 

Cause or problem 

Too long or too short an exposure 

(acceptable exposure time 1 - 300 

sec) 

Possible causes: 

a) Lack of measuring cell slide-in unit 

or amplification switch is not on the 

setting of your process. 

b) No negative or transparency in the 

negative carrier. 

c) Lens aperture too large or too 

small. 

„F. Var./ill“ key has been pressed. 

Functions only in print mode. 

Calibration conditions not fulfilled. 

Enlarger head position incorrect. 

Display in CAL, LN, DN 

MF 8 for the 50 mm lens 


MF 2 for the 100/105 mm lens 

Display in: XCP 



MF 7 for the 100/105 mm lens 

Exposure made without actuating 

„Hold“ function. 

Remedy 

a) Fit measuring cell slide-in unit and 

get the amplification switch to the 

position of your process. 

b) Insert negative or transparency 

c) Enter smaller or larger lens 

aperture 

Press the „F. Var./ill“ key. 

Press the „Setup“ key to call up the 

print mode. Press and hold the „Enter“ 

key, then with the „Mode Sel.“ key 

select the desired process. 

Attention 

Set the amplification switch of the 

measuring cell slide-in unit to the 

appropriate position. 

Adjust the enlarger head until said 

indication disappears. 

Key in correction values and press the 

„Hold“ key. Correction values will be 

kept for the following exposures. 

Durst AC 800/AF-03/96 8.0 Troubleshooting table and 

57 

explanations of error warnings

Error indication 

Err 0 

Err 1 

Err 2 

Err 3 

Err 4 

Err 5 

Err 6 

Err 7 

Err 8 

Err 9 

Brightly lit E on the display 

Cause or problem 

Upper mixing shaft sensitivity limit 

Lower mixing shaft sensitivity limit 

Upper negative sensitivity limit 

Lower negative sensitivity limit 

Upper sensitivity limit of the built-in 

reflection densitometer. Wrong original 

(completely white) 

Upper sensitivity limit of the built-in 

reflection densitometer. Wrong original 

(completely dark) 

Computer overflow of the automatic 

memory value determination. 

When you program the autofocus you 

can store up to 20 base points per 

lens. If the 20 points are exceeded, 

the display shows Error 6! 

Faulty electronics 

The lens carrier locks 

Faulty enlarger head position measurement 

signal 

Calibration values have been erased 

Calibration values have been erased 

Remedy 

Contact the service department of 

your Durst agency 



Set amplification switch to correct 

position (Neg-Pos-BW) on the bottom 

of the measuring cell slide-in unit. If 

the fault can’t be remedied with this, 

contact the service department of 


Set amplification switch to correct 

position (Neg-Pos-BW) on the bottom 

of the measuring cell slide-in unit. If 

the fault can’t be remedied with this, 

contact the service department of 


Take a reading of the correct original 

(0.70 patch). If the fault can’t be 

remedied, contact the service department 

of your Durst agency 

Take a reading of the correct original 

(0.70 patch). If the fault can’t be 

remedied, contact the service department 

of your Durst agency 

Set the previous (Y-M-C-D) memory 

values and take another reading of 

the test exposure (0.70 patch). If the 

fault can’t be remedied, contact the 

service department of your Durst 

agency 

Press the „Enter“ key. Delete all the 

base points and recalibrate the enlarger 

by selecting suitable base points. 



Press the „Enter“ key or on/off switch. 

If the fault recurs frequently, please 

contact the after-sales service department 

of your authorised Durst agent 

Check cable connections. If the fault 

can’t be remedied, contact the service 

department of your Durst agency 

Enter calibration values once more, 

i.e. calibrate the unit anew 

Enter calibration values once more, 

i.e. calibrate the unit anew 

58 8.0 Troubleshooting table and Durst AC 800/AF-03/96 

explanations of error warnings

Maintenance and care 

9.0 

The Durst AC 800 resp. AC 800 AF is designed for heavyduty 

use with minimum maintencance. 

It retains its high efficiency even in the most demanding 

operating conditions. Periodically grease the self-coiling 

counterweight spring at the rear of the enlarger column 

with vaseline or mineral oil. Depending on the amount of 

use of the enlarger, the counterweight spring is subject to 

constant wear which can eventually lead to cracks along 

both edges. Regularly check the counterweight sprint - 

uncoil it by lowering the enlarger head to the bottom of 

the column. 

Important: 

If the counterweight spring shows signs of damage it 

would be replaced immediately. To avoid injuries to darkroom 

personnel this operation should be carried out by 

the service department of your agency in your country. 

Periodically dust the negative carrier glasses and lenses 

with a chamois leather or antistatic brush or cloth. Periodically 

also clean the colour filters of the colour head 

with a wad of cotton wool soaked in alcohol. 

Diffusers of the mixing boxes and the heat filter below 

the tungsten-halogen lamp of the colour head should also 

be cleaned regularly. 

Before opening the colour head for servicing or for 

changing the tungsten-halogen lamp always check that 

the unit is desconnected from the mains supply. For safety, 

unplug the mains lead from the supply socket. 

Fuses 

Before replacing defect fuses, the power cable must be 

disconnected from the socket. Fuses are located at the 

back side of the power unit (specifications are indicated). 

If after the replacement of fuses the error still persists or if 

the source fuse needs to be replaced more often call a 

qualified service technician. 

Maintenance and care of the autofocus (AC 800 AF 

only) 

The spindle and the guiding rails of the lens stage need a 

special treatment every 6 months. They should be cleaned 

and a special grease should be used for smooth operation. 

We recommend Isoflex Topas AK 50. 

Durst AC 800/AF-03/96 9.0 Maintenance and care 

59

Special accessories 

10.0 

AC 800 Box 66 

Description 

Accessories for the lighting system 

Mixing boxes for film sizes up to 6 x 6 cm 

As above, but up to 24 x 36 mm 

Accessories for the film carrier 

Format masks for 6 x 9 cm films are fastened in the film 

carrier instead of the glasses 

As above, but for 6 x 6 cm 

As above, but for 4.5 x 6 cm 

As above, but for 4.5 x 6 cm 

As above, but for 24 x 36 cm 

As above, but for 110 film 

As above, but on request for special sizes 

(only DIN or ASA standards). The delivery 

period for special sizes is approx. 30 days. 

Special masks for mounted 35 mm slides 

for use in Cobineg film carriers 

Order code 

AC 800 - 

Box 66 


Box 35 

Binema 69 

Binema 66 

Binema 45 

Binema 45 H 

Binema 35 

Binema 110 

Binema S 

Bidia 

Setopla 

Accessory for lens mounting 

Lens circuit boards for 50 mm lenses 

with M 39 threads 

Lens circuit boards for 80 - 105 mm lenses 


Lens circuit boards for 80 - 105 mm lenses 


Adapter ring for using lenses with M 25 

threads on lens circuit boards and extension 

tubes with M 39 threads Flaring 

Lens extension tube for 1:1 enlargements 

Film size Lens Lens board 

focal length platine 

24 x 36 mm 50 mm Setopla 2839 

4.6 x 6/ 

6 x 6 cm 80 mm Lapla 39 

6 x 7/ 

6 x 9 cm 105 mm Lapla 39 

Setopla 2839 

Lapla 39 

Lapla 50 

Flaring 

Femotub 

Femotub 

60 10.0 Special accessories 


AC 800 Wallmount 

Description 

General accessories 

Special wallmount for big enlargements on 

the floor, also suitable for the AC 800/ 

AC 800 AF used with the roll paper magazine 

Portable remote control with numerical keys with the following 

functions: 

• manual colour and density correction 

• „Hold“ key for holding set corrections 

• entry of lens aperture 

• switching the enlarger light on and off 

• automatically slots out the pre-filtration 

• making the exposure 

BW test negative (24 x 36 mm) for focus 

calibration (AC 800 AF) 

Plastic protective cover 

Order code 


Wallmount 


Control 

Test 35 

Autocuf 

AC 800 Controll 

Spare parts 

Standard film carrier with a top Bimagla 

AN glass 

Glass for Cobineg film carrier with anti- 

Newton ring coating 

Metal mask pair for the glassless enlargement 

of 6 x 7 cm films in Cobineg film 

carriers 

Light box for film sizes up to 6 x 9 cm 

Specially selected halogen lamp 250 W/ 

24 V 

BW test negatives (6 x 9 cm) for focus calibration 

Cobineg 

Bimagla AN 

Binema 67 


Box 69 

Colamp 250 

Test 69 

Colamp 250 

Durst AC 800/AF-03/96 10.0 Special accessories 

61

EU-Conformity declaration 

We, 


AG 

Postfach 223 

Vittorio-Veneto-Straße 59 

I-39042 Brixen 

declare, that the apparatus named hereafter complies with the applicable EU Safety and Health Guidelines. 

This declaration is void, if any alterations to the apparatus have been implemented prior to our consent. 

Nature of the apparatus: 

Type: 

Applicable EU Guidelines: 

Applied Standard in particular: 

Date: 

Enlarger 

Durst AC 800/AF 

EU machine guideline (89/392/EEC) 

version 93/44/EEC 

EU low-voltage guideline (73/23/EEC) 

EU guideline for electro-magnetic compatibility 

(89/336/EEC) version 93/31/EEC 

DIN EN292-1: 11.1991, 

DIN EN292-2: 11.1991, 

DIN EN294: 08.1992, 

DIN EN349:06.1993, 

EN 60950, 

EN 55022, 

EN 50082-1, 

EN 55024-2, 

EN 55024-3, 

EN 55024-4 

Brixen, December 1995 

Manufacturer’s signature: 

Title of Signer: 

Dr. Richard Piock 

Managing Director 


Improvements 


Improvements 




AG 

Division Phototechnik 

Vittorio-Veneto-Straße 59 

I-39042 Brixen, Italy 

Telefon +39/0472 810111 

Telefax +39/0472 83 09 80 

www.durst-online.com 

E-Mail:info@durst.it 

IV60045

Durst AC 800 Manual

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