RELOADING RADA (ROLLEI,WIRGIN, GOLDECK, ETC.) CASSETTES

1. Memorize these instructions since you can't refer to them in the dark; better yet, run through the steps with the lights on with scrap film.
2. Gather all your items together -- 16mm film, RADA cassette, scissors, 1/2" black tape, and film template.
3. Wash your hands thoroughly, or use film gloves (obtainable at most camera shops) in order to avoid getting oil or dirt on the film.
4. With the lights on, remove the tape securing the cap from the cassette.
5. Remove both cap.
6. Remove any tape and film from the spool.
7. Completely check the cassette for any loose dirt or film scraps.
8. Turn off the lights.
9. Cut a 24" length of film, using a template, ruler or whatever you can device. A yardstick with a notch or piece of tape at 24" will work fine.  The type of 16mm film you use depends on the camera you have.  Some cameras, such as the Rollei cameras need single-perforated film to advance the film.  With these, you can use single perf or double perf film, but if you use double perf film the additional set of perforations will end up in the picture.  Other cameras do not use perforations so you can use any type of 16mm film, but depending on the cameras, you could end up with perforations in the image if you use perforated film.  
10. Connect the film to the feeder spool.  You have two options here.  You can cut a 1/4 inch tongue in the middle of the film and slip it into the slot on the spool, but this is difficult and prone to breakage.  A better approach is to use a piece of tape.  Wind the tape around the spool so that it connects to the front and back of the film.  Then wind the film tighly into a roll and pull out a 1" leader. Make sure that the emulsion in wound in toward the center of the roll.
11. Slip the leader through the film outlet while dropping the roll of film into the cassette. The film slot can be difficult to find in the dark, so you may need to practice with the lights on with a scrap piece of film. If you are using single perforated film with a Rollei, make sure the perforated edge of the film goes into the cassette first.
12. Place the cap back on the cassette.
13. Turn on a dim light.
14. Check to make sure that the film is loaded correctly -- emulsion toward the lens and perforations in first.
15. Attach the cap with 1/2" black tape.
16. Place the reloaded cassette in its protective case.  A regular 35mm cassette holder will work, too.
17. Mark the outside of the case with the type of film.

Too bad all of the 16mm cameras did not use the RADA cassette.

FRONT DESK.

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