Comparison of films processed in automatic and manual processors.

This study compared the quality of Kodak RP X-Omat, Kodak Blue Brand, and Kodak periapical films processed in manual tank. Auveloper, P-10, All-Pro, Philips 810, and RP X-Omat processors. Film quality was evaluated in terms of film fog, image contrast, and resolution. For Kodak RP X-Omat and periapical films, automatic processors produced less film fog and were more consistent in fog production than manual tank processor. The difference in fog production between automatic and manual processors was not clinically significant; indeed, it was visuially undetectable. The difference disappeared when Kodak Blue Brand film was used. For Kodak RPX-Omat and Kodak Blue Brand films, at high film densities, the RP X-Omat processor produced films of the highest image contrast. For periapical films, the manual processor produced the highest image contrast. Image contrast at low densities was nearly the same for all processors. For each type of film, resolution was nearly the same for all processors.