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A-D Strips


Testing each film for the acid level is a simple and cost effective way to asses your archive library collection. We use and recommend using A-D Strips to all our customers. Once the acid level is determined for each particular film you can then plan your own duplication program.

UPDR can carry out the work "In Country" or conduct the program at their purpose built laboratory in rural Victoria.

The acid is released within the acetate base but slowly diffuses to the surface causing the noticeable "vinegar" odor. Another symptom often noticed in the later stages of "Vinegar Syndrome" is the appearance of crystal growths on the surface of the film. 


Typical Work Flow

Verify the line pair per millimetre (lp/mm) capability of the original film and lens and set the scanner to that micron so that you capture all the data that is recorded on the original film. Depending on the film type used you may possibly need to scan as low as 2.5 microns. High resolution scans (4microns) are time consuming and may take more than 50+ hours to scan a complete roll. A film duplicate can be produced in under 2 hour and last 500 years without loss of quality.


The flow chart on the left gives a simplified summary of the steps that are required to be taken for each and every roll of film.

With years of experience and thousands of rolls successfully duplicated any archive collection will be in safe hands. 

UPDR can also provide the opportunity to purchase equipment, train staff and initially supervise them.

Based on previous experience in Asia we also offer a maintenance package for the life of any project. We hold an extensive range of spare parts for equipment and  provide support throughout all projects.

  • We provide Aerial Duplicating Resources “In country”.

  • We specialise in repairing and duplicating films

  • We consult with, and guide, our clients on all aspects of film preservation.

  • We can project manage the process from beginning to end.

  • We provide expertise, people, product and equipment.

  • We can provide staff training so the customer can manage their project “in-house” for themselves 

  • We can provide equipment for duplicating programs.

For any queries  please email UPDR via our "Contact Us" page and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.