The Lab Owner’s Guide to Buying an ECN-2 Processor: Choosing Between the ECN PRO vs. ECN PRO2

The Cinema Film Boom is No Longer a Niche

The resurgence of analog photography has evolved. It’s no longer just about Portra or Gold. Photographers and indie filmmakers are flooding labs with Kodak Vision3 and other motion picture films. They want the high dynamic range, the "cinema look," and the cost savings of bulk-rolled film.

For commercial labs, this presents a profitable opportunity, but also a significant bottleneck: The Remjet Layer.

If you are looking to buy an ECN-2 processor to scale your business, you need the right tool for the specific stocks you handle. At Micrographics Data, we engineer the industry-standard solutions for both workflows: the ECN PRO and the ECN PRO2.

Here is how to choose the right machine for your lab.

Option 1: The ECN PRO

The "Remjet" Workhorse

If your customers are bringing you standard Kodak Vision3 (50D, 250D, 500T), you cannot use a standard minilab. The carbon "Remjet" backing will contaminate your chemistry and ruin your equipment.

The Micrographics Data ECN PRO is engineered specifically to automate the messy part of motion film processing.

• Integrated Remjet Removal: Features a dedicated pre-bath and mechanical wash stage that strips the carbon backing before development.
• True ECN-2 Compliance: Uses the correct CD-3 chemistry process at the correct temperatures, ensuring the accurate color science cinematographers expect.
• Multi-Format: Handles 16mm and 35mm formats seamlessly.

Best For: Labs that want to say "Yes" to every roll of authentic cinema film, regardless of the carbon backing.

Option 2: The ECN PRO2

The High-Speed "Clean" Specialist

As the market evolves, new "cinema-style" films are appearing that are Remjet-free (such as CineStill, AHU backings, or pre-removed stocks). For labs focusing on these modern emulsions, you need speed and precision without the heavy industrial wash stages.

The Micrographics Data ECN PRO2 is the streamlined solution for high-volume, clean motion film processing.

• Optimized Footprint: Designed for labs where space is at a premium.
• In-Line Automation: Continuous processing for high throughput of clean cine-stocks.
• Archival Standard: Maintains the same rigorous temperature and transport controls as our government-grade archival machines.

Best For: Labs specializing in cross-processing looks or specific Remjet-free cine stocks who need to maximize throughput.

Comparison: Which Machine Does Your Lab Need?

When researching to buy an ECN-2 processor, use this table to determine your ROI.

Feature	ECN PRO	ECN PRO2
Primary Capability	Remjet Removal & Processing	Remjet-Free Processing
Film Compatibility	Standard Kodak Vision3, Ektachrome	CineStill, AHU, C-41 converted stocks
Workflow	Includes Pre-Bath & Wash Stage	Streamlined Development Line
Ideal Customer	The "Full Service" Professional Lab	The "Modern Emulsion" Lab
Format	8mm/16mm / 35mm (option)	8mm/16mm / 35mm (option)

Why Partner with Micrographics Data?

We are not just a manufacturer; we are preservationists.

Since 1989, Micrographics Data (Singapore) has provided archival and photo-imaging solutions to government agencies, museums, and libraries worldwide. We do not repurpose old minilabs. We build new, industrial-grade processors designed to last for decades.

• Global Logistics: We ship and install worldwide.
• Technical Support: Direct access to our engineering team for troubleshooting and maintenance.
• Custom Solutions: We understand that every lab's floor plan is unique.

Ready to Upgrade Your Lab?

Don't let the motion picture film trend pass you by. Whether you need the heavy-duty Remjet removal of the ECN PRO or the streamlined efficiency of the ECN PRO2, we have the machine to fit your workflow

Visitour onlineshop for more details and  email us at sales@micrographicsdata.com