An electronically controlled photographic image utilization device is arranged to transport a roll of microfilm having all images printed thereon in separate photographic areas, each area being arranged in a microfiche- type format. The photographic image utilization device has an automatic call- up feature so that any given photographic area may be selected in a first dimension and projected responsive to the push of a button, the operation of a rotary switch or both. A special bar code is printed along the edge of the film and used in conjunction with a closed loop film control system to eliminate the need for precise, clock- controlled synchronization between the film transport and the code reading. Preferably, the bar code is read by optical electronic sensors. Responsive thereto, the electronic control system accurately positions a selected photographic image, on the microfilm, within a viewing area. Thereafter, and while the film transport is being held stationary, any image on the microfilm may be selected for projection by a manual movement in second and third dimensions of a simple lens positioning mechanism which is small, compact, and easily moved. The reader may also be operated manually so that the automatic controls may be bypassed, if desired.
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