DIY AUTO TANK FILM DEV ROLLER - STEP BY STEP

In this video, I’ll show you how to build a compact, low-cost, and fully automated Film Development Tank Rotator powered by the ESP32-C3 Super Mini microcontroller. Whether you're developing Black & White, C-41 color negative, or E-6 slide film, agitation consistency and precise timing are critical. This DIY rotator automates the entire agitation cycle with smooth bidirectional rotation and rest intervals, replicating manual tank inversions while preventing streak artifacts and air bubbles. It works seamlessly with Paterson, Jobo, AP, and other standard daylight processing tanks! ✨ KEY FEATURES: • Minimalist 1-Knob UI: A single rotary encoder with push-button controls time setup, start/pause/cancel, and live motor speed adjustment. • Smart Agitation Cycle: 10s Clockwise (CW) ➔ 1s Rest (releases micro air bubbles) ➔ 10s Counter-Clockwise (CCW) ➔ 1s Rest. • Real-Time Display: 4-digit TM1637 LED screen shows the MM:SS countdown, pulsing colon, and temporary motor speed readout (SP 30% - 100%). • Ultra-Compact Form Factor: Powered by the thumb-sized ESP32-C3 Super Mini (RISC-V) running off standard 5V USB-C power. • Efficient Drive: DRV8833 dual H-bridge motor driver powering an N20 metal gear motor with a rubber friction-drive roller. 🛠️ HARDWARE & BILL OF MATERIALS (BOM): 1. ESP32-C3 Super Mini development board https://s.shopee.vn/1BNTtP4qS 2. DRV8833 Dual H-Bridge Motor Driver module https://s.shopee.vn/6VOrDrkoS1 3. N20 Geared Motor (150 RPM, 5V/6V) https://s.shopee.vn/6q1hcZcmz4 4. TM1637 4-Digit 7-Segment LED Display (Red) https://s.shopee.vn/gR4HOId0S 5. KY-040 Rotary Encoder module with knob https://s.shopee.vn/40hWFWxppt 6. 5V adapter: https://s.shopee.vn/3qO63HfbAQ 7. Rubber wheel for N20 motor: https://s.shopee.vn/6Am0pSTyVU 8. Jack DC 2.5mm Female – 1 pcs: https://s.shopee.vn/60RrmvmrpX 9. Jack DC 2.5 Male – 1pc: https://s.shopee.vn/6q0ymOz82C 10. Plastic bearing: 6203 (17*40*12) - qty 4/ 608 (8*22*7) - qty 2/ 6000 (10*26*8) - qty 2 https://s.shopee.vn/3g4frFlfgP 11. OD 8mm shaft: https://s.shopee.vn/906CD73cG8 12. Hex screw & Nut: M6x30 (qty 10) M5x20 (qty 20pcs) M4x20 (qty 20pcs) M4x15 (qty 20pcs) M4x10 (qty 10pcs) M4 nut (qty 20) M5 nut (qty 10) M6 nut (qty 10) https://s.shopee.vn/AAI9bIx8bA 📂 SOURCE CODE & SCHEMATICS (Open Source): The complete Arduino sketch, config files, and high-resolution wiring schematics are available on GitHub: 👉 GitHub Repository: https://github.com/techcakelab/DIY-Au... If you enjoyed this project or found it helpful for your home darkroom, please give it a thumbs up 👍, leave a comment with any questions, and subscribe for more DIY maker and photography projects! #filmphotography #darkroom #diy #esp32 #paterson #c41 #filmdeveloping #arduino #analogphotography #makersgonnamake #35mm #120film