Abstract: A modular photographic film printer utilizes a direct current servo controlled main drive motor and belt drive to move a master film and raw film stock across printing heads without the use of intermediate sprockets. Film tension is controlled by tension control motors connected to the pay out and take up reels of the printer. The unit is modular in construction, and circuitry is provided for monitoring critical functions of the printer in order to locate malfunctions. Fiber optics are utilized in the sound track printing head to provide cool operation.

Abstract: A printing head assembly for exposing raw stock film with a preprint film in a contact film printer including a dual roller gate assembly. The dual roller gate assembly includes a pair of rollers mounted on a roller frame for engaging the preprint film and raw stock film on opposite sides of the printing aperture for wrapping both the preprint and raw stock film about a segment of the printing sprocket of substantially greater length than the printing aperture. An adjustable biasing spring permits regulation of the tension applied through the rollers to the film runs. The dual roller gate assembly includes a selectively operable retraction device to withdraw the rollers away from the printing sprocket for loading and unloading the film printer. In an alternate embodiment, the dual roller gate assembly is pivotally mounted by an offset shaft which permits pivotal movement of the dual roller gate assembly to provide clearance for loading the film printer.