I've looked around the web for specifics on developing Rollei ATP 1.1 in TD-3. Mostly I've just seen people listing TD-3 as a cheaper alternative to the Rollei developer but not too much about development. Does anyone use this combination and could you give some specifics about temp, agitation regiment, iso, and time? Some recommendations would be nice as a starting point.
From what I infer from the data given by Rollei, ATP is another example of a microfilm being rebranded for camera use. The giveaway is that the film has a polyester base. Camera films use an acetate base to avoid camera damage. Remember Rollei does not manufacture any of the films marketed under their name. As microfilm you can expect a problem with higher than normal contrast and very little latitude. Hopefully TD-3 can control the contrast problem. I would recommend bracketing all exposures. In addition avoid over development. You might also try the Crawley developer FX-1. BTW, it is much cheaper to just buy microfilm instead of the rebranded stuff
I appreciate the information Gerald. I looked around a little bit for cheap bulk microfilm and didn't find any. Is there a partiuclar supplier you know of, or, is it just a matter of stumbling upon some on eB*y once in a while?
Also check for companies selling library supplies. Make sure that whatever you find is perforated as some microfilm is not. Also check various user groups to see what microfilms people are using for continuous tone in camera use. Check for minimum purchase requirements.
Better then FX-1/Beutler is going TDLC-103 because the contrast is built up slower. The disadvantage is that the Sodiumbicarbonate used in TDLC-103 is not so stable so you have to make this developer fresh from scratch chemicals. Another disadvantage but that is also valid for the FX-1/Beutler receipt with ATP1,1 you have to expose around E.I. 10-12.
TDLC-103:
metol 0,5g
sodiumsulfite (sicc.) 2,5g
sodiumbicarbonate 5g
destilled water 400ml
fill up till 500ml
In harsh light condition you still will have a problem with blocked highlights. But is an easy and cheap low contrast type developer suitable for these type of micro films.
Rollei ATP1,1 (E.I. 12) and TDLC-103 stock (1+0) for 10-12 minutes at 20C.