Avantra SelectSet 20/25 - Feeding Film & Distorted Image

[getdown]

Hello,

I'm hoping that someone has an idea as to what could be causing this issue. Our Avantra has had a few issues as of late, and today it has finally gotten to the point that we are unable to image film. When we process the imaged film, it comes out distorted (see attached image).

There are two other issues that we have run into, that until now have been simply inconveniences but likely have something to do with the image distortion we are experiencing.

1) Randomly the cutter will not cut. The workaround we have figured out is to lift the cassette up, manually execute the hole punch (which no longer functions anyway), than manually cut the film.

2) This used to be random, but seems to happen almost all of the time now, but if the Avantra is powered on without a cassette in place, film will begin slowly feeding out of the machine. With the distortion pattern we are seeing, this would be my first guess as to the cause, however I have no clue what so ever as to what could be causing this to happen.

A further note that I was just reminded of, apparently along the line someone had some issue with either the cutter or the punch, and a sensor on the end of it was replaced or modified. I will attempt to get a good picture of it and see if that might lead to any insight.

Thank you for your help

 

[VladCanada]

Film moves when image exposes!
1. Possibly broken SDM module (Avantra has TWO of them and they are identical) and motors (responsible for the media) not synchronised to keep film on drum's surface tighten, or even worse - DEC (main board) lost some params.
Possibly nip assy has mechanical issue too.
2. Punch assy does not work - same reason, SDM.
3. Cutter switch (home sensor) needs adjustment.

You need serviceman or experienced freelancer onsite and nobody (even AGFA Tech Support) can remotely help you.

 

[getdown]

Do you know of any resources for finding a serviceman to do such a repair? We are located in Santa Barbara, California, about 1.5 hours north of Los Angeles.

Are there any resource for acquiring replacement parts?

 

[VladCanada]

1. Call 1-800-TRY-AGFA first, but talk to them sitting in your arm-chair... 'cause I don't want your broken bones after falling down (price-surprise )
2. Try to find a "Second-Hand Press-Prepress Equipment" company-reseller in CA via google, they usually have AGFA trained or experienced staff.
(For instance www.c-doc.com, but they are IL located)
3. I could help you as well but... I'm in Toronto area and don't have "USA work permit" ... and my travel expenses for you are not reasonable.
But if you need new SDM for reasonable price - send me PM.
BRG
Vlad

 

[DonBlock]

getdown,

It sounds like you could have several issues both mechanical and electrical. We are out of Cincinnati but travel to where ever we are needed. You can send me a direct message if you would like to discuss this option.

 

[VladCanada]

DonBlock - I have NO feedback from him since my last PM... so he is not interested in our advise.

 

[DonBlock]

Vlad - thanks for the update. All we can do is try.......