INTRODUCTION
Automatic processors are now frequently used in practice. They are expensive, but easy to maintain, quick and clean. Many developmental faults such as finger prints and dirt on the films, film damage caused by hangers and insufficient rinsing are virtually eliminated. The benefits far outweigh the expense, and once you have used an automatic processor, you will never want to return to manual processing!

TECHNIQUE

1. Prior to radiography, switch on the processor (this should ideally be done at the start of the day in order to prevent having to wait to develop films). Ensure that the safelight is operating, and that a supply of x-ray films of the correct film-screen combination are available. Check that films are inside the cassettes to be used and that the intensifying screens are clean. The water supply should be drained at the end of the working day, so ensure that this is replenished before use.
2. The processor must reach a temperature of 28° C before use. The warm up period is approximately 15 minutes, although this may take longer in cold weather.
3. It is sensible to pass a clean already-processed film through the processor prior to use to ensure correct operation and also to remove any old chemicals from the rollers.
4. Having performed the necessary radiographic procedures, take the cassette/s to the dark room. Ensure that the door is locked and that a light-proof curtain is drawn across to cover any cracks that may allow light to enter. Switch on the safe light and turn off the main light.
5. Open the cassette and carefully remove the exposed film. Films must only be handled with clean, dry hands; and by the perimeter only. Insert the film into the processor and gently check that the film is being pulled down into the machine before closing the lid. This should be undertaken in the shortest possible time, since prolonged exposure to the safelight may cause fogging.
6. Whilst the film is being developed; reload the cassette with a fresh film. Make sure that the unexposed films are kept in a safe, dry place and that the lid is kept firmly closed.
7. Once the exposed film is safely within the processor and the cassette reloaded, the main light may be switched on whilst you await the production of the radiograph. Never be impatient and pull through a film as it appears since this may damage the rollers.
8. Assess the film under the x-ray viewer for quality and place in a labelled envelope for the veterinary surgeon's perusal. Details to be recorded on the envelope are as follows:
   • The owner's surname.
   • Owner's address.
   • Patient's name.
   • Date.
   • Projections.
   • Further details; eg. Pre or post operative radiographs.
9. Having completed the day's radiographic procedures; the processor should be switched off at the mains. The water tank should be drained by turning off the appropriate tap. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions or to a senior member of staff if you are in any doubt as to the operation of any aspect of the processor; it is an extremely important and not to mention, expensive piece of veterinary equipment and therefore needs to be treated with the utmost care.
10. Wipe the superficial rollers with a clean damp cloth, ensure that the work bench is clean and dry and check the stock levels of unexposed films. Switch off the lights and close the door.