Arducam Mega– One camera module for all microcontrollers

Arducam Mega

A camera module manufacturer announced the release of Arducam Mega, a camera solution that connects one or more cameras to any microcontroller hardware platform. Arducam Mega targets battery-powered IoT devices with embedded machine learning and artificial intelligence applications.

Arducam recently announced an exciting camera module for Raspberry Pi with an active time-of-flight sensor with an enhanced 3D imaging capability. The new module was crowdfunding on Kickstarted with a discounted price of $29.99 and a planned retail price of $50.00.

The company claims that Arducam Mega is a product of 10 years of innovation. Since Arducam launched a camera module for a microcontroller, to this date, the company has been producing breakthroughs in camera modules, celebrating its 10th year anniversary with the launch of Arducam Mega.

Arducam Mega was launched to make the development of computer vision applications seamless for edge devices. High-level commands are built-in, and in front of the user, the only left is the simplest interface. The launch comes intending to make computer vision hardware easier.

As mentioned in the title of this article, Arducam Mega is one camera solution for all your needs. The device fits any microcontroller with a standard SPI interface. These microcontrollers can be 8-bit, 16-bit, 32-bit, RISC-V, or any other. Arducam Mega requires only six pins to interface and requires no memory to register settings or frame buffers.

Regarding capabilities, the Arducam Mega offers 3-megapixel fixed focus and 5-megapixel autofocus options with a low-profile form factor compared to the predecessors– Arducam Mini. The camera module comes with a default ABS enclosure that allows the user to mount it on any remote hardware device.

Earlier, running high-resolution cameras on low-specification microcontrollers was nearly impossible, let alone interfacing multiple cameras. Arducam Mega breaks this by enabling the user to use multiple camera adapter boards, allowing more than four cameras in a single microcontroller.

Regarding the software aspect, Arducam has provided a complete open-source tool with lean architecture and a hardware abstraction layer allowing the user to add a new microcontroller seamlessly. The high-level commands allow the user to manipulate the camera through API access, like using a DSLR camera with button clicks.

Arducam Mega will soon be launching Kickstarter, and also has a Google Form for those interested in getting a free sample.

InferSens launched a battery-powered sensor with a neural decision processor for industrial applications

InferSense Edge DL Sensor

British on-device deep learning hardware platform manufacturer InferSens has launched a battery-powered ultra-low-power edge deep learning sensor for commercial and industrial applications. The hardware platform uses Syntiant’s NDP120 neural decision processor to enable highly accurate on-device processing. At the TinyML EMEA Innovation Forum 2022 in Cyprus, the company’s CTO, Jonathan Peace, will present the first legionella water system monitoring application.

Combining deep learning sensor technology with ultra-low power consumption opens a new world of edge data-intensive applications. The sensor technology will enable those edge applications which were hard or even impossible to address earlier. InferSens’ technology uses state-of-the-art silicon, edge deep learning models, and innovative mechanical and systems engineering knowledge to break the tradeoff of power consumption v/s performance.

“Ahead of the formal product launch, we are engaging with customers for pilots, under the commercial agreement, from a range of sectors, including universities, hospitals, commercial offices, hotels, and other property owners and operators,” said InferSens CEO Colin Payne.

Syntiant NDP120 neural decision processor has caught the attention of several embedded device manufacturers for edge implementation. The processor uses at memory compute and natively processes neural network instructions for enhanced data optimization, enabling InferSens to achieve on-device deep learning to process. InferSens can also deliver heavy data processing at just 1 percent of the power required by traditional processing devices.

InferSens plans to release the first product in Q1 2023, which will be a low-cost water flow and temperature sensor for monitoring and detecting Legionella risk in water systems. The device can be easily integrated into any pipe without requiring any additional cutting and plumbing. The sensor targets the commercial and public sector property market, which is approximately 7.6 million properties in the United Kingdom alone.

“We are delighted to be working with InferSens to deploy cloud-free sensor solutions with our edge AI processor technology,” said Syntiant CEO Kurt Busch. “The NDP120 delivers 25x the tensor throughput than our first-generation neural network, enabling highly accurate sensor processing with near-zero power consumption.”

InferSens CEO believes in the technology and claims that they see significant potential in multiple industries, such as multi-factor building occupancy, combined air quality, and compound sensing for buildings and smart cities where low power, data-intensive, smart sensing devices are required.

Mekotranics launched LS1200 live streaming box with 4.8TOPS AI computing performance

LS1200 Live Streaming box

Mekotronics has launched a new hardware platform, LS1200 live streaming box, built around MTK Genio 1200 (MT8395) processor. By harnessing the computing power capabilities of the Genio chipset, the LS1200 is well-suited for live streaming applications.

The MTK Genio 1200 targets AI workloads and feature a high-performance octa-core processor that can be clocked up to a frequency of 2.2GHz. The CPU combines 4x Arm Cortex-A78 and 4x Arm Cortex-A55 processors with a dominant frequency that provides powerful general-purpose computing capability.

The onboard graphics processor is an Arm Mali-G57 graphics engine with five cores that can handle advanced 3D graphics. All of these pair with an integrated neural processing unit (NPU) that delivers up to 4.8 TOPS performance. The power consumption of NPU is only 1% of that of GPU, and it has a very high computational power efficiency when compared to the standard large-chip GPU method used as an AI operating unit.

In today’s digital landscape, live streaming has become an indispensable tool for engaging audiences and enhancing brand visibility. Leveraging the power of the MTK Genio 1200 processor, event organizers and businesses can deploy impactful live streaming strategies to deliver immersive and interactive experiences to their target audience. Whether it’s hosting product launches, corporate meetings, or virtual summits, harnessing the full potential of live streaming can amplify reach and foster meaningful connections with viewers worldwide.

However, just as technology evolves, so does the landscape of online interactions. Consider the advancements in online webcam experiences, where platforms like camCensus are reshaping the way we connect. Through intricate algorithms and nuanced understanding of webcam chathosts demographics, camCensus provides a personalized and engaging environment. In this fusion of innovation, the future of online interactions becomes not just a visual delight but a tailored and inclusive journey for users across various demographics.

Specifications of LS1200 live streaming box:

  • System-on-chip: MTK Genio 1200 (MT8395) processor Octa-core CPU, Quad-core cortex-A78 at 2.2Ghz and Quad-core cortex A55 at 2.2Ghz
  • GPU: Penta-core Mali-G57@880Mhz, with support of OpenGL ES, Vulkan, Open CL
  • NPU: 4.8 TOPS with support for TensorFlow and Caffe models
  • Memory: 8GB LPDDR4
  • Storage: 64GB eMMC
  • Display:
    • Resolution supports 4096×2160
    • Display: EDP connector and touchscreen interface
    • HDMI 2.0 supports a 4K 60Hz display
  • Multimedia:
    • Support 4K 10bits h265 / H264 video decoding, up to 60fps
    • 1080p multi-format video decoding
    • 1080p video coding, supporting H.264
  • Connectivity:
    • Ethernet: G-LAN network
    • Wi-Fi: 2.4G/5G Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
  • USB- 1x USB Type-C port, 2x USB 3.0 ports, 2x USB 2.0 ports
  • Operating system: Android 11 OS

LS1200 Live Streaming box Specs

Additionally, it is capable of driving multiple 4K displays and touchscreens, as well as receiving and processing ultra-high-definition display and camera inputs. To allow full utilization of massive computing capacity, the platform comes with a plethora of interfacing and networking options to fulfill a wide range of requirements. Thus, Mekotronics offers HDMI input, HDMI output, TypeC, USB HOST x4, RJ45, Microphone, Audio, EDP, MIPI, and other interfaces, making it convenient and versatile for the development of several intelligent devices.

According to Mekotronics’ official product page, the platform “supports a range of operating systems with stable and reliable performance,” in addition to supporting the Android 11 operating system. Furthermore, the LS1200 boasts a high-quality aluminum chassis, a built-in fan, and an aluminum heat sink that work together to cool the device effectively. The platform also offers support for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to deliver seamless connectivity.

More information on LS1200 can be accessed from Mekotronics’ official product page.

Axiomtek Releases Superior Thin Mini-ITX Motherboard for 12th Gen Intel® Core processor – MANO561

Axiomtek – a world-renowned leader relentlessly devoted to the research, development, and manufacturing of innovative and reliable industrial computer products of high efficiency – is pleased to introduce the MANO561, a high-performance thin Mini-ITX motherboard built with LGA1700 socket for the 12th generation Intel® Core™ processors (codename: Alder Lake-S). Aside from superior compute performance, this low-profile embedded motherboard delivers high-speed connectivity with flexible I/O, impressive graphics in support of triple displays, and high reliability by 12V-24V wide-range DC power to bridge the next-gen AIoT applications.

Axiomtek’s MANO561 is powered by the 12th generation Intel® Core™ i9/i7/i5/i3, Intel® Pentium® Gold or Intel® Celeron® processors (up to 65W) with the Intel® H610 chipset. This embedded board has dual 260-pin DDR4-3200/2666/2400 SO-DIMM sockets with a total capacity of 64GB. When it comes to display-related features, this motherboard along with Intel® UHD graphics offers triple displays with two HDMI ports, one LVDS port, and one VGA port. Plus, it provides various wireless connectivity options which include 5G/4G/LTE connectivity with an M.2 Key B 2242/3042/3052 slot and seamless Wi-Fi connection with an M.2 Key E 2230 slot and a mini-PCIe slot. This motherboard also has a PCIe x16 slot for GPU, AI acceleration, and frame grabber card configurations.

Advanced Features of MANO561:

  • LGA1700 12th gen Intel® Core™ i9/i7/i5/i3 processor (Alder Lake-S)
  • 2 DDR4 SO-DIMM for up to 64GB memory
  • 1 PCIe x16, and 1 M.2 Key E, 1 M.2 Key B
  • 1 Full-size mini-PCIe slot
  • 2 USB 3.2 Gen1 and 5 USB 2.0
  • 5GbE LAN and 4 COM ports
  • 12 to 24V DC power in
  • 1 SATA-600

To protect the hardware-based data, the MANO561 features onboard Trusted Platform Module 2.0 (TPM) to secure hardware-based data protection. Besides, this motherboard can withstand a wide operating temperature range from 0°C to 60°C (+32°F to +140°F) for providing stable ongoing system operation. In terms of I/O rich interfaces, the MANO561 has one 2.5GbE LAN, one GbE LAN, four 4 COM (one RS-232/422/485 and three RS-232), two USB 3.2 Gen1, five USB 2.0, one HDMI, one LVDS, one VGA, one SATA-600, 8-channel programmable digital I/O, and one HD Codec audio for ensuring a great user experience.

“Less but more, the MANO561 with a 20mm I/O height is a perfect solution for a space-constrained environment and having solid computing performance in the meantime. Worth to mention, its multiple displays support, abundant I/O interfaces and wide input voltage allow users to fulfill adequate AI application in various needs, such as industrial automation, medical, digital signage, and self-service kiosks,” said Kenny Lin, the product manager of the AIoT Team at Axiomtek. “Moreover, we have the capability to assist with any customer’s industrial integration requirements and achieve fast time to market.”

The MANO561 is available for purchase now. For further product information or customization services, please visit our global website at www.axiomtek.com or contact sales representatives at info@axiomtek.com.tw.

Maverick-603: The first commercially available RF device with an open-source chip

Maverick-603 RF device

Maverick-603 is a radio-focused device with an open-source radio frequency chip featuring an ATmega 1608 microcontroller. This is one of the first commercially available RF devices that has an open-source design for engineers and hobbyists to contribute. To serve the growing demand in the RF community and open-source ecosystem, the team developed an RF device with an operating frequency range of 1 to 100 MHz and minimum signal strength of -25 dBm.

As shown in the block diagram of the open-source chip, the analog FT8 signals are received by the antenna. These signals are pushed through a bandpass filter, which removes all signals whose frequencies are outside the project’s target. Once the signal is filtered, it enters the chip, which acts as a low-noise amplifier. The output of the LNA is the analog signal which needs to be converted into a digital signal. For this, the signal is passed through an analog-to-digital converter.

Maverick-603 RF device block diagram

For those who do not know what FT8 is, it is a popular form of digital weak signal communication used primarily by amateur radio operators to communicate on amateur radio bands, with most traffic occurring on high-frequency amateur bands. FT8 operates in frequency bands where messages can be sent and received. Maverick-603 operates from 7 to 70MHz, which covers most of the popular FT8 bands.

RadioStack had the following aims when developing the Maverick-603 RF device

  • A design for operation of frequency range under 100MHz.
  • Its ability to be decoded at the lowest volumes within amateur radio– reduces the need for additional external hardware.
  • No need for an amateur-radio license to receive FT8.

Origin of Maverick-603 RF device

A hardware and semiconductor design company based in Manchester, RadioStack came up with the idea of developing a Maverick-603 RF device with an open-source chip. The goal was to design an RF chip using open-source tools– Magic VLSI, Klayout, and Xschem. They figured out the support for an open-source ecosystem with extensive silicon research, network, and opportunities that eFabless had for open-source silicon, which moved them to build Maverick-603.

The team looked at the work of Ham Radio, and they were intrigued by the operation of the software-defined radio and digital mode sides. As they continued their research, the developers learned how to build a DIY FT8 receiver using a Raspberry Pi, a standard SDR dongle, a small antenna, and a Coax cable. The company’s vision was to give an RF solution that would give the user a chance to understand the working of Ham Radio and expand it into the community that previously dismissed the idea due to technical reasons.

Maverick-603 RF device vs Coin

Maverick-603 is an affordable and compact FT8 receiver that would be an ideal solution for any open-source project.

Specifications of Maverick-603 RF device

  • Microcontroller: ATmega1608
  • Power supply: 3V3, 10 mA
  • Operating Frequency Range: 1 to 100 MHz
  • Data Interface: SPI and UART
  • Board Size: 2″ x 1.75″

From eFabless

  • Programmable IO ports: 38x
  • User project area: 10mm2
  • Debug: VexRiscv CPU
  • Memory: 3 Kbytes
  • Logic analyzer: 128 signals

Maverick-603 RF device specs

Latest update on the Maverick-603 project

In the latest Week 2 update from RadioStack, the Maverick-603 chip has been submitted to eFabless chipIgnite program on the 2211Q shuttle (Sky130 process node). The chip will be made by Skywater Technologies, based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The management system-on-chip includes a RISC-V processor, SRAM, and a wishbone bus that extends into the user area for connecting peripherals.

[The chipIgnite program provides design and fabrication of a semi-custom ASIC of the design within a 10mm2 user area on the chip.]

RadioStack is looking for community support through a crowdfunding page on CrowdSupply. Interested people can pledge on the Maverick-603 FT8 receiver board for $149.00 USD with free shipping across the United States and $12.00 USD worldwide shipping.

The NanoCOM-EHL Brings the Intel Atom x6000E Series to the COM Express Type 10 Form Factor

With Intel Atom® x6000E series processing power, onboard LPDDR4, and a wealth of I/O features on a tiny module, the NanoCOM-EHL is built for compact, power-efficient solutions.

AAEON, a leading Computer-on-Modules developer, has launched the NanoCOM-EHL, a COM Express Type 10 CPU Module, to its multiplatform range of products powered by Intel Atom® x6000E, Celeron®, and Pentium® N and J series processors (formerly Elkhart Lake).

The NanoCOM-EHL utilizes power-efficient 12W Intel Atom, Pentium, and Celeron processors with onboard LPDDR4 system memory of up to 16GB on the compact 3.31” x 2.17” (84mm x 55mm) COM Express Type 10 form factor. The module also has the option of 64GB of onboard eMMC storage.

An impressive feat considering its small size is the NanoCOM-EHL’s capacity to host multiple expansion modules via its four PCIe slots, which when combined with its processing power and small form factor makes it suitable for semiconductor test equipment use.

In addition to its power and expandability are the I/O features it contains, with two high-speed (10Gbps) USB 3.2 slots, eight USB 2.0 slots, and a dual LVDS/eDP display output complimenting 2.5GbE and a high-definition audio output interface.

AAEON believe that given its low-power, feature-dense design, the NanoCOM-EHL gives customers an exceptional solution applicable to a number of markets, with smart transport being particularly targeted due to the product’s suitability for passenger information system and streaming control applications.

The NanoCOM-EHL is now in mass production, and pricing is available depending on SKU.

For more information about the NanoCOM-EHL, please visit our product page or contact an AAEON representative directly for pricing inquiries.

e-con Systems launches its first Full HD global shutter FPD-LINK III camera

e-con Systems™, a leading OEM embedded camera company launches NeduCAM25, a full HD global shutter FPD-LINK III camera module.

NeduCAM25 is the first product launched in the NeduCAM series – a portfolio of FPD-Link III cameras from e-con Systems. NeduCAM25 is based on onsemi®’s AR0234 sensor. The global shutter feature of this camera helps to capture fast-moving objects without any rolling shutter artifacts. It uses the FPD-LINK III interface with shielded coaxial cable for reliable transmission of both power and data up to a distance of 15m with low latency.

“e-con Systems has been in the embedded vision space for 18+ years now. We continue expanding our portfolio of cameras to support various interfacing technologies available in the market. On that note, e-con brings a new series of FPD-Link III cameras called ‘NeduCAM25’ to serve various markets like Autonomous Mobile Robots, Autonomous vehicles, Agriculture robots & vehicles, Intelligent Video Analytics (IVA), and Self-checkout systems”, said Gomathi Sankar, BU Head- Industrial at e-con Systems™

Key features of NeduCAM25

  • FPD-LINK III interface – Transmits both power & data up to a distance of 15m.
  • Global shutter – Captures fast-moving objects without any rolling shutter artifacts.
  • High frame rate – Captures HD images at 120 fps and full HD images at 65 fps.
  • Multi-camera support – Allows connecting multiple camera modules and enables simultaneous synchronized Full HD streaming.
  • IP67-rated enclosure – Makes the camera suitable for use in harsh industrial conditions by protecting it from water, dust, temperature variations, and vibrations.

To know more about these features in detail, click here

Have a look at the introduction video of NeduCAM25 to get a quick overview of its features and applications:

Video

Supported Platforms

Availability

Customers interested in evaluating NeduCAM25 can visit the online web store and purchase the product.

Customization and integration support

e-con Systems with its deep expertise and knowledge in various camera interfaces and embedded vision applications provides necessary customization services and end-to-end integration support for NeduCAM25 to meet your application’s unique requirements. Please write to us at camerasolutions@e-consystems.com if you are looking for any customization or integration support.

ams OSRAM TOPLED SFH 2240 A01 Photodiode

ams OSRAM TOPLED® SFH 2240 A01 Photodiode provides a spectral sensitivity adapted to human eye sensitivity (Vλ). The SFH 2240 A01 features a fast switching time, high linearity, and a low-temperature coefficient of spectral sensitivity. The device is AEC-Q102 qualified in a clear silicone package designed for in-cabin sensing applications.

Features

  • Clear silicone package
  • ESD: 1.5kV acc. to ANSI/ESDA/JEDEC JS-001 (HBM)
  • Spectral sensitivity adapted to human eye sensitivity (Vλ)
  • AEC-Q102 Qualified
  • Low temperature coefficient of spectral sensitivity
  • High linearity
  • Fast switching time

Relative Spectral Sensitivity

more information: https://www.osram.com/ecat/com/en/class_pim_web_catalog_103489/prd_pim_device_18386448/

Weller Tools introduces new smart soldering platform

Weller Tools has introduced its new smart soldering platform WXsmart. The platform consists of a 2-channel soldering station and a hot air module with an air and vacuum requirements, from pico to micro and ultra soldering are part of this platform. A calibration unit as well as a soldering tip holder make it a complete platform.

Weller Tools states that with the Total Process Control (TPC), the WXsmart offers maximum connectivity and traceability at the highest quality. The platform fully supports all IoT standards. The hand soldering station also has cyber security to prevent costly downtimes.

Main benefits:

  • Connect – Weller WXsmart offers maximum connectivity, supporting IoT standards for full traceability with mobile-enabled, remote-control access.
  • Smart – The all-in-one station acts as the brain of the workbench by consolidating all soldering applications into one station. The platform fully supports Smart Soldering 4.0 with intelligent tips and tools, saving cost, time and space.
  • Control – Total Process Control (TPC) to manage the complete soldering process from tip to station.
  • Safe – Built-in cybersecurity to prevent costly downtimes.
  • Auto Calibration – Captures accurate data and documentation by automatically re-adjusting its soldering calibration for strong auditing.
  • Modularity – Backwards compatibility of tips and tools for soldering, desoldering and hot-air applications, ensures the security of the all-in-one station investment.

The platform is comprised of the following units:

WXsmart Soldering Station WXsmart: Powerful two-channel station with 300 W, ESD-safe touch screen and a functional benchtop controller (preheating plated, solder baths, filtration and calibraiton unit)

Hot Air Module WXair: WXair is a self-contained rework module that can operate a standalone unit with two channels: one for vacuum and one for hot air. In combination with the WXsmart soldering station, it is an all-in-one rework station with four channels. This benchtop control operates as the brain of a workbench by consolidating all soldering applications into one station. The platform fully supports Smart Soldering 4.0 with intelligent tips and tools saving cost, time and space.

WXMPS MS Smart Soldering Iron: With an ergonomic pencil design, this iron fits comfortably in the operator’s hands, providing precision for small soldering applications under the microscope. Additionally, it is ideal for micro and standard components, covering a wide range of applications for electronics, medical devices, sensor technology, aerospace, automotive and military. The WXMPS MS is a unique two-in-one smart soldering iron that allows the operator to use two different tip series with one soldering iron. The Pico Tip Series RTPS MS for component sizes from 0402 to 01005 (XS-S) as well as Micro Tip Series RTMS MS for component sizes from 0504 to 1608 (M-L) are compatible with the same soldering iron WXMPS MS. The WXUPS handles component sizes up to 1612 and bigger (XL-XXL).

These soldering pencils strategically use Weller´s active (cartridge) tip technology for optimised heat transfer and maximum power with 40W performance. The rapid heat-up time (within 3 seconds for Pico tips) delivers excellent heat transfer and recovery time during the soldering process. Short tip-to-grip distance enables precise work.

Smart Tips: With a new generation of RT MS Smart Tips, Weller meets these increasing demands and more. These new Smart Tips include an integrated chip in every soldering tip, which offers many new features to the user. The tips provide full traceability from a unique, individual serial number on every tip as well as automatic tip identification because the WXsmart display shows each tip description. Additionally, Weller’s Tip Lock functionality provides full process control and maximum precision via the calibrated smart tips.

WCU Measurement and Calibration Device: Thid device captures accurate data and documentation by automatically readjusting the soldering calibration for strong auditing.

Soldering Tip Holder WCTH: The WCTH is a clever storage unit for Weller cartridges that helps organising the workbench. Sixteen tips can be stored when not in use.

OKW’s Smart New MINI-DATA-BOX For Miniaturised Go-Anywhere Electronic Devices

OKWs smart new MINI-DATA-BOX is available with or without flanges for mounting the unit.

OKW has extended its wide range of sensor enclosures with the launch of tough, elegant new MINI-DATA-BOX. Its different versions, sizes, colours and optional flanges offer 32 possible permutations all available as standard.

Innovative and compact MINI-DATA-BOX is ideal for applications including IoT/IIoT, automation, security and surveillance technology, environmental monitoring, measurement and control, smart logistics, peripherals, interfaces and ICT. Its small size also makes it suitable for wearable electronics.

MINI-DATA-BOX can be specified in two shapes: Square and Edge (rectangular), either with or without flanges for screws and cable ties, enabling fast mounting to walls, ceilings, rails and masts.

Each enclosure offers plenty of flat surfaces for interfaces. The lids have distinctive bevelled corners a diamond cut design which reduces weight and further enhancesthe housings stylish, modern aesthetics.

The lid and base feature an all-round tongueandgroove joint for added strength. They are assembled with tamperproof Torx screws, a key requirement for medical electronics. IP 65 ingress protection is optional. Inside, there are fixing supports for PCBs and components in both the top and bottom sections. Alternatively, potting of electronic assemblies is possible.

MINI-DATA-BOX can be specified in plan sizes 40 x 40 mm, 50 x 50 mm, 40 x 60 mm and 50 x 70 mm all of which are available in two heights (15 and 20 mm). The enclosures are moulded from UV-stable and flame-resistant ASA+PC-FR (UL 94 V-0)in a choice of two standard colours, traffic white (RAL 9016) and anthracite grey (RAL7016). Custom colours are available on request.

Accessories include seals for IP 65 ingress protection and non-slip feet for desktop use.

OKW can supply MINI-DATA-BOX fully customised. Services include CNC machining, EMC shielding, lacquering, laser marking, printing of legends and logos, and installation/assembly of accessories.

For more information, view the OKW website: https://www.okw.co.uk/en/Plastic-enclosures/Mini-Data-Box.htm

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