MICROFICHE RECORDER AND PROCESSOR

A microfiche recorder in which a platen is rectilinearly moved over a reference plate having an optical aperture through which images are projected onto film on the platen. A supply of recording film is stored on the platen for movement therewith to prevent film twisting and distortion. The platen moves slidably over the reference plate and vacuum ports in the platen retain the film section being exposed to the platen. When the platen is in its home or starting position, a reciprocating clamp grasps an edge of the exposed film, the vacuum is released and a predetermined length of film is drawn from the platen to thereby automatically reload the platen with fresh film for exposure. As soon as the exposed film section has been fully withdrawn from the platen, a cutter severs it from the remaining film. Thereafter, transport wheels grasp the film, the clamp releases and the film is transported into a chemical processor for developing so that the exposed film is ready for use substantially immediately after its exposure while a fresh film section is being exposed.