yep, smoke and everything. Apparently water had gotten into the
electrics and so on. I bought it second hand from a shop and this
happened about a month or two after getting it.

Ive seen pictures of the motor, it looks like quite a primitive design
as opposed to a Jobo system.

I own one. The larger size like I said before. The paper when inserted
into the tube is slightly too big and requires trimming and at 20x24
it's a real hassle. An oversight (undersight?) I would say.

Since then I got a Simmard (made in Canada) and that worked much better
for my needs as the design was simple (motorised) but very well thought
out. The tube sits on rollers which has a rocking system and that helps
with keeping the solution on the print.

I also tried a pup tent (actually a camping toilet tent--unused) so I
could print during the day as well. However, I found with the added
hassle it was easier to print during the night time and have the doors
open....

No worries, I can only recommend you work out a way to sought out your
workflow to what best suits you in a way which doesnt require massive
capital investment beforehand. Like I said I thought the devtek system
not worth the hassle because of the oversight of the sizing of the tank.
Jobo is well made and can be very compact in actual use because. I had a
bad experience with it and this does not seem to be the norm. I use Nova
tanks and think they are the best for space saving although they too
have their drawbacks. Not the least of which is the high expense.

There is always single tray processing?

Nicholas

 If you cover the windows with something light proof [heavy drapes or just
something you can move into place] then you can avoid the pup tent. The
other idea might be to try and see if Rosco sells a lighting gel that would
turn the window into a big safe light. They seem to sell almost everything
else. Personally I'd feel better if the window was blocked off. Doesn't need
to be anything extreme or permenant. Two sets of drapes work just fine if
thick enough. Are quick to put  up take down. Pushing a cardboard insert
into the window opening works also. Instant darkness and totally removable.

     If you're using drums for prints you might find it less then
thrilling. I use drums for colour and they work fine but it's more of a
hassle then trays for B&W. You do save on chemicals. Drums are a much slower
process.

      The filter is going to depend on your water. I forget the issues on
filters. Other then they need to be matched to the flow required.

    Nick

There used to be a product called rubylith and one called amberlith
which came in rolls big enough to cover a window. Since the digital
revolution most print shops quit using this stuff and it may be
possible to get some for a song. I'd go for a red filter on the window
for VC paper as you never know what the quality of light is from the
outside, it may fog the paper with an amber filter if it's too bright.

Actually that is how wet demos were done at trade shows and in stores
and those places are far more difficult to make light tight then a
bathroom in your home.