Arg, Fix film for the manufacturer's recommended time for whatever kind of fixer you are using (rapid or conventional - TF-5 is a rapid fixer). While your at it read up about doing the test for clearing time. It's a good way to know if your film fix is exhausted. You can determine
minimum fixing time with the clearing test as well. Rule of thumb: fix film for at least twice the clearing time. When clearing time approached double that in fresh fixer, your fixer is exhausted and needs to be replaced.
Note I said minimum fixing time above. For film, it's often a good idea to fix longer, to be sure of adequate fixation, to get rid of the pink sensitizing dyes, etc., etc. I'm with Bruce: I like six minutes and two-bath fixation in rapid fixer for just about everything. I use the clearing-time test to know when to discard bath one.
One caveat with alkaline and neutral fixers for film: Carried-over developer can be reactivated in the fix. If you turn on the room lights to early when fixing, you can end up with fogged film. Don't ask me how I know this
Best,
Doremus
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