JOBO CPA 2 – Color Film Processing Guide

This guide explains how to use the JOBO CPA 2 processor with the JOBO tank system for developing color films (C-41 or similar).

System Overview

1. JOBO CPA 2 Processor

Used to control temperature, agitation, and timing. Includes a water bath, lift head, and control panel with temperature and motor speed knobs.

Jobo CPA2 Processor

2. JOBO Tank System

  • 1500 series: for 135 and 120 rolls

  • 2800 series: for large format film and paper prints

Jobo film developing tanks and paper drums

Step 1 – Preparation

  • Before turning on the machine, set timer. Max time is 5 hours.

  • Choose your tank:

    • 1520 tank → up to two 135 or 120 rolls

    • 1520 + 1530 tanks combined → up to five 135 or six 120 rolls

  • Prepare chemicals:

    1520 tank:         240–300 ml
1520 + 1530 tank:  570–600 ml

  • Pour chemicals into labeled bottles and matching measuring cylinders.

  • Check the C41 Dev Log to see how fresh are the chemicals

  • Fill the Jobo with water until the level reaches the center of the roller holder.

It’s helpful pour in already hot water, so the heating process gets quicker. To do it, set 40° on the water tap.

Step 2 – Pre-warming Setup

  1. Place bottles and measuring cylinders in the water bath for pre-warming. Lock them in place to prevent floating.

  2. Adjust the roller holder:

    • Inward = for 1500 tanks

    • Outward = for 2800 tanks

  3. Attach the tank to the processor.

Step 3 – Temperature Setup

  1. Turn on:

    • NETZ 1 – Main power

    • PUMPE 1 – Circulation pump

  2. Set the temperature knob to 40 °C (≈ 38 °C actual in the bath).

  3. When the water bath reaches 38 °C, wait an additional 10 minutes to stabilize.

It’s always good to have a theromometer around to check the actual temperature.

Step 4 – Processing

  1. Turn on the motor (MOTOR 1) and set speed to F or 3 — suitable for color processing.

  2. Add chemicals through the lift head opening, in order:

    1. Developer

    2. Blix (Bleach + Fix)

    3. Stabilizer

  3. Keep a container ready to collect used chemicals from the output hose.

  4. Follow the recommended C-41 times:

5. After each step: - Lift the tank using the lift. - Drain the chemical through the lift head pipe - Pour in the next solution

Step 5 – Finishing Up

  1. After the final rinse, turn off the processor.

  2. Lift the tank and drain remaining liquids.

  3. Carefully remove the tank from the processor.

  4. Turn off the pump and processor.

  5. Empty the water bath by opening the drain under the processor.

Step 6 – Cleanup

  1. Wash and dry:

    • Tanks

    • Reels

    • Measuring cylinders

    • Containers

  2. Return all equipment to its proper place.

  3. Reset the timer.

Don't forget to update the C41 dev chart, so we know when to prepare a new batch of fresh chemicals!

Notes

  • Always wear gloves when handling chemicals.

  • Ensure proper ventilation in the workspace.

  • Check the C-41 developer usage chart before starting — replace chemistry as needed.

  • Keep the work area dry and clean after use.

PreviousDeveloping C41 film rollsNextImacon scanning

Last updated