Xp-Ms

By David Mantripp

Minolta Multi-Format Set for Dimage Scan Multi Pro

Although theMinolta Dimage Scan Multi Procomes with an extensive set of film holders, it does not include holder support for specialist frames such asXPan24 x 65mm.   Minolta refer to this asƒ¬multi-format 35mmî, and the optionalHS-P1holder kit provides support for this and a variety of other more esoteric formats.

It is actually possible, at a pinch, to scan XPan film using the standard MF holders, but this can cause problems with the scannerís autofocus, and also unless the film is perfectly flat, loss of edge sharpness is likely.

The HS-P1 inserted into the MF holder, with a mask cut for 35mm, and the top glass plate open.
Spring loaded clips are seen in front.

The kit comes in a small white box, the contents of which are at first somewhat baffling and only partly related to the (terse) instructions.   The kit is to be used with the existing MF holder. First, a lower glass insert is placed in the MF holder aperture.   Then a plastic mask slides into place on top.   The mask has to be trimmed for your particular application using a sharp knife‚ guides are printed on the mask. Minolta provides just 4 blank masks, so youíd better be careful to get it right.

Once the mask is in place, you have two options. The first, which is documented, is to insert two spring-loaded clips into the holder, and swing these into place to hold the film.   This is actually a very poor design, surprisingly for Minolta. Using XPan film, in order to make this work and avoid getting the clips in the target frame, you would need to cut the film in strips of 3 frames‚ and only want to scan the middle one!   Fortunately, the undocumented option then comes into play.   Minolta supply a second glass plate held in a sturdy hinged frame which slots into the holder. You place your film on the mask, lower the top plate, and youíre set.

It works extremely well, although the usual hazards await those who donít keep the film or glass plates clean.   Whenever theyíre not in use, put them safely away somewhere!   Provided they are kept clean, there are no MoirÈ or other interference problems.

 
DSMP software in Multi 35mm mode

With this accessory you have the perfect mid-budget solution for one-pass XPan film scanning. The Minolta software works as well and as reliably as for all other formats.   As said above, youcanuse the 6 x 9 holder to scan XPan film if youíre careful, but the HS-P1, if you can persuade your dealer to order it, is a worthwhile addition.

© 2002David Mantripp

If you enjoyed this article, as well as the hundreds of other tutorials, features, 
reviews and essays on this site, you can support its continued growth
and discover an exciting new photographic resource by …

Elevate Your Vision

Join our community of passionate photographers.

Access our extensive knowledge archive.

Master the art of landscape and beyond.

Your Email *

Select list(s) to subscribe to

Example: Yes, I would like to receive emails from Luminous Landscape. (You can unsubscribe anytime)

Constant Contact Use. Please leave this field blank.

---

By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: The Luminous Landscape Inc. https://luminous-landscape.com. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the  SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact.

By subscribing I agree with Terms and Conditions

Do it later