Digital fiche/microform readers
These allow you to print or scan from library fiche or film. They are located on Levels 2 and 4 in the Library of Birmingham.
When you first book a 'reader', a staff member will show you how to use it.
To use the Digital Fiche/Microform reader, double click the SL1000 icon on the computer screen. Your initial screen should look like this.
- Check that there is a blue flashing light on the front of the unit. If not, use the off/on switch on the back of the unit.
- Choose your FILM option (2) you wish to use: 35mm roll film, Microfiche 270F/420F.
At the bottom of the screen, various edit options will appear depending on what film option you have chosen.
When using film it is important you feed the film on correctly, otherwise if you want to rewind the film it will all unwind off the spool.
Do not save any changes you have made to the software/display of the unit. Instead, choose the reset option. If you have any difficulties in doing this, let us know.
Troubleshooting
I’m scanning an image and the scanner hasn’t started.
Check the USB cable. This can frequently be the trouble.
There is a blue flashing light at the front of the unit. What does it mean?
This means that the unit has ‘gone to sleep’ as it hasn’t been used for a while.
To activate it again, just press any key of the application and the unit will start again. This will start up when you start the software on the computer.
I’m having difficulty with the film rewinding and/or winding
Ask a staff member for help as the rollers need cleaning, the film direction may be set incorrectly or the fiche carrier may not be set correctly.
Page last updated: 29 September 2023
