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Common
Misconceptions About Free Space Optics »
by: Pablo Bandera
Abstract:
Although Optical Wireless or Free-Space Optics (FSO) has been in
use for decades by the military, only recently has it made its way
into the mainstream of broader markets. With this increased awareness
come a number of questions that are commonly raised. This paper
seeks to address these common concerns in order to facilitate learning
about the technology and its capabilities.
FSO:
Low Cost, Broadband, Optical Access »
by: Dr. David Rockwell & Dr. Stephen Mecherle
Abstract:
The global telecommunications network has seen massive expansion
over the last few years, catalyzed by the telecommunications deregulation
of 1996. First came the tremendous growth of the long-haul, wide-area
network (WAN), followed by a more recent emphasis on metropolitan
area networks (MANs). Meanwhile, local area networks (LANs) and
gigabit ethernet ports are being deployed with a comparable growth
rate. In order for this tremendous capacity to be exploited, and
for the users to be able to utilize the broad array of new services
becoming available, network designers must provide a flexible and
cost-effective means for the users to access the telecommunications
network. Presently, however, most local loop connections are limited
to 1.5 Mbps (a T1 line). As a consequence, there is a strong need
for a high-bandwidth bridge (the “last mile” or “first
mile”) between the LANs and the MANs or WANs. FSO systems
represent one of the most promising approaches for addressing the
emerging broadband access market and its “last mile”
bottleneck. These robust systems, which establish communication
links by transmitting laser beams directly through the atmosphere,
have matured to the point that mass-produced models are now available.
FSO systems offer many features, principal among them being low
start-up and operational costs, rapid deployment, and high fiber-like
bandwidths. FSO systems offer capacities in the range of 100 Mbps
to 2.5 Gbps, and demonstration systems report data rates as high
as 160 Gbps.
Wavelength
Selection for FSO Systems »
by: Dr. David Rockwell & Dr. Stephen Mecherle
Abstract:
This paper explores one of the most important trade issues for FSO
Systems, the selection of the optical wavelength. Historically,
most developers of FSO systems have employed wavelengths in the
near-visible infrared spectral region (~ 780 nm to ~ 850 nm), principally
because of the availability of efficient and reliable direct semiconductor
diode-based sources at those wavelengths, and, for the 780 nm devices,
the cost advantages of utilizing the same wavelength as is used
in CD recorders. While cost is obviously an important factor for
FSO systems, one must also consider several additional constraints,
most notably the need not to exceed eye-safe limits on transmitted
intensities under conditions of high data-rate transmissions through
heavy atmospheric attenuation (due to fog, for example). Other important
trade criteria include overall performance, and the potential for
system growth and scalability. When all of these factors are considered,
it becomes clear that a more judicious approach is to employ wavelengths
near 1550 nm for FSO systems, the same wavelength range used in
commercial fiber-optic communications networks.
Environmental
Qualification of FSO Systems »
by: Robert T. Carlson and Slawomir Paciorek
Abstract:
This paper discusses test methods and results of fSONA Communications
Corporation's FSO systems, the SONAbeam™ 155-M, SONAbeam™
622-M and SONAbeam™155-S systems - FSO systems that use 1550
nm lasers. Presented are results of environmental qualification
tests and field performance tests over link ranges of 450 meters
and 5 kilometers. The SONAbeam™ 155-M, SONAbeam™ 622-M
and 155-S are three representatives of a family of FSO products
that work in the range of 34-1250 Mbps. Very robust performance
is the emphasis in the design of these FSO systems.
Compact
Telescope for FSO Communications Systems »
by: Vladimir Draganov and Daryl James
Abstract:
Several types of telescopes are used for FSO telecommunications
systems. The most common are Cassegrain and Gregorian telescopes.
The main difference between Cassegrain and Gregorian optical systems
is that Gregorian telescopes employ a concave secondary mirror located
beyond the focus of the primary mirror. This results in longer tube
lengths, as the distance between mirrors is slightly more than the
sum of their focal lengths, which is the reason Cassegrain systems
are the most common. In addition, Gregorian telescopes produce an
upright image, while Cassegrain telescopes produce an inverted image.
Optical
Gain & Lasers »
Presentation by: Dr. David Rockwell
Abstract:
Lasers have revolutionized the telecommunications industry and played
a direct part in the recent Internet boom. Discover the science
beneath the surge in communications by studying how lasers generate
light, what exactly light is, what laser stands for, what types
of lasers exist, what the ideal laser for FSO communications is,
and how fiber amplifiers or EDFA’s are used in FSO and fiber
communications. This technical presentation presents an overview
of laser communications fundamentals through diagrams, charts and
notes.
FSO
Security »
by:Dr. Robert T. Carlson
Abstract:
The security and confidentiality of communications, whether through
public or private networks, has become a topic of increased attention.
This application note examines the fundamental physics of wireless
transmission equipment and demonstrates how Free Space Optics or
FSO is among the most secure of all wide-area connectivity solutions
with regard to transmission security. The vulnerabilities of RF
systems have led many people to wrongly conclude that all wireless
transmissions are highly vulnerable to interception. FSO systems
are among the most secure of all wide-area connectivity solutions
due to their inherent low probability of intercept (LPI) and anti-jam
(AJ) characteristics. Eavesdropping and physical intercept are extraordinarily
difficult and the chance of an attempted intercept being discovered
is very high. For these reasons, government and military organizations
that value security have deployed FSO laser communication systems
for voice, video and broadband data communications.
What
a Prudent Buyer Needs to Know About FSO »
by: Dr. G. Stephen Mecherle and Dr. David Rockwell
Abstract:
FSO communications are now established as a viable approach for
addressing the emerging broadband access market and its ‘last
mile’ bottleneck. These robust systems, which establish communication
links by transmitting laser beams directly through the atmosphere,
have matured to the point that mass-produced models are now available.
FSO systems offer many features, principal among them being low
start-up and operational costs, rapid deployment, and high fiber-like
bandwidths. FSO systems are compatible with a wide range of applications
and markets, and they are sufficiently flexible as to be easily
implemented using a variety of different architectures. Because
of these features, market projectins indicate healthy growth for
FSO sales. Although simple to deploy, FSO transceivers are sophisticated
devices. The many sub-systems require a multi-faceted approach to
system engineering that balances the variables to produce the optimum
mix. A working knowledge of the issues faced by an FSO engineer
provides a foundation for understanding the differences between
the various FSO systems available. This paper aims to examine the
many elements considered by the FSO system engineer when designing
an FSO product so that the buyer can ask those same questions about
the FSO systems they are evaluating for purchase.
Registration required
SONAbeam™
Performance in Sandstorms »
Abstract:
fSONA has deployed SONAbeamTM systems around the world in every
type of environment. In most places the discussion revolves around
the effects of fog or extreme rain. But a significant part of the
FSO market lies in dry desert-like areas where the main concern
is sandstorms and dust storms. What effect do these have on FSO,
and what kind of performance can we expect to see in these parts
of the world?
In general, the range and availability of an FSO link are a function
of the visibility between the terminals. The further you can see
through the atmosphere, the further an FSO beam can “see”
through it as well. But we should be careful not to be too simplistic.
The detailed characteristics of fog or rain, especially the particulate
size of the medium, create certain scattering and absorption effects
on the light itself, affecting in turn the attenuation of the signal.
In the case of RF transmission, rain droplets and moisture in the
air are the worst culprits. The finer particulate size of fog, by
contrast, is less forgiving on FSO transmission. Sandstorms and
dust storms appear to have characteristics of both rain and fog;
particle sizes ranging from very small to very large mixed with
moisture and heavy winds. How this all translates into performance
of an FSO link is not at all obvious. But there does exist a set
of equations, validated with real-world measurements, that provides
users with the answers they need to set up a reliable FSO link.
Remote
RF Antenna Extension »
Abstract:
Nowadays, cell phones are a girl’s (and boy’s) best
friend -- that is, until that all-important call gets dropped. Increasing
coverage and capacity, without breaking the bank, has become an
almost intractable problem for mobile service providers. But where
RF technology falls short, Free-Space Optics comes through –
loud and clear.
The growing demand for mobile wireless service is driving service
providers to expand networks at an unprecedented pace. Unfortunately,
that’s a lot easier said than done. In rural areas, the problem
is how to extend coverage to users spread out over a large area,
especially if there are obstacles such as mountains or foliage in
the way. In Urban areas, the problem is particularly acute. There
are many places in which a wireless network cannot reach (e.g. tunnels,
indoor stadiums, elevators, underground parking lots…). It
is precisely urban areas that hold the largest number of potential
subscribers, making it crucial not only to increase coverage but
capacity as well.
FSO
Infrastructure for (Mobile) Other Licensed Operators
»
Abstract:
Mobile Other Licensed operators and Other Licensed Operators, (M)OLO,
have historically relied upon fixed wire and radio frequency technologies
to meet their network infrastructure requirements. In today’s
networks, it is necessary to optimize the use of Capex and reduce
Opex. Free Space Optics solutions address both these concerns.
In-Building
Cell Site Extension »
Abstract:
Wireless cellular service is no longer a luxury but a requirement
for a steadily growing number of people. Malls, hotels, and other
public structures want and need to offer service, and yet it is
precisely these places that have the worst coverage. Wouldn’t
it be nice if mobile service let you be more…well… mobile?
The growing demand for mobile wireless service is driving service
providers to expand networks at an unprecedented pace. However,
as urban areas become more densely populated, it is becoming increasingly
difficult for network coverage to reach every user. There are many
areas such as tunnels, indoor stadiums, and elevators where coverage
is of poor quality or does not exist at all. It is precisely these
areas that hold the largest number of potential subscribers, making
it crucial not only to extend coverage but capacity as well.
FSO
and Link Margin »
Abstract:
There are a lot of claims out there in the optical wireless industry,
some of which may be a bit confusing, or even a bit hard to believe.
A parameter as straightforward as 'output power' may not be quite
what you think. The fundamental concept of 'link margin' is defined
differently for different products. How can you be sure that what
you hear is true? How can you distinguish the real market from a
clever marketing slant? The basic ideas that describe how an FSO
link works are not too complicated. As usual, however, there is
a difference between theory and practice. It is one thing to describe
an FSO system on paper (or in a brochure), and quite another to
have a robust and reliable system working in the field. Understanding
some of the subtleties involved in achieving optimal performance
will allow you to make intelligent decisions about FSO, and can
help separate product from product hype.
FSO
for Remote Antenna Extensions »
Abstract:
Nowadays, cell phones are a girl’s (and boy’s) best friend -- that
is, until that all-important call gets dropped. Increasing coverage,
without breaking the bank, has become an almost intractable problem
for mobile service providers. But where RF technology falls short,
Free-Space Optics comes through - loud and clear. The ideal backhaul
connection between a remote antenna and a BTS is achieved by using
fSONA’s free-space optics (FSO) SONAbeam™ technology. This
technology offers all of the advantages of both fiber and microwave,
with none of their disadvantages.
FSO
for Wi-Fi HotSpot Networks »
Abstract:
As the demand for the internet steadily grows, so does the need
for broadband access. So rapid is this growth, in fact, that fiber
and copper network infrastructures simply can’t keep up, especially
in densely populated urban environments. Now, a recent development
in the wireless telecommunications industry is providing FSO with
the perfect complement, allowing flexible high-capacity network
expansion into potentially every corner of the globe. This development
is 802.11 wireless networks, more popularly known as Wireless Fidelity,
or “Wi-Fi.” Wi-Fi promises to revolutionize the way
we connect to the internet, but it can’t do it alone. FSO,
and in particular the high-power and high-reliability SONAbeam™
technology, extends the benefits of Wi-Fi all the way back to the
internet itself, providing a complete network solution.
FSO
for Gigabit and Fast Ethernet Networks »
Abstract:
Are you looking for high-reliability, wireless Ethernet connectivity
between campus buildings? fSONA Communications Corp. offers a complete
line of high quality, field proven Free Space Optical (FSO) transceivers
for rapid deployment in Ethernet networks. The SONAbeam™ family
of products provides transport services for 10BaseT, 100BaseT and
1000BaseT (Gigabit) Ethernet for line-of-site links at distances
up to 4km. SONAbeam™ is the highest reliability wireless connectivity
solution available for Gigabit and Fast Ethernet LAN extensions.
FSO
for DSL Backhaul »
Abstract:
Is the high cost of fibre installation delaying your deployment
of remote DSLAM’s and the provisioning of DSL expansion to customers
behind DLC’s? Do you need scalable backhaul bandwidth that is low-cost
and deploys quickly? In recent years, strong demand for broadband
access from residential and Small Medium Enterprise (SME) customers
has delivered consistent growth in Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)
services. Recently however, it has become increasingly apparent
that to sustain this growth and compete with the ubiquitous cable
modem offerings, Telco’s must find new and innovative solutions
for customers outside the proximity of the Central Office (CO).
FSO
for Digital Media Networks »
Abstract:
Consumer demand for higher quality audio and video with more choices
and interactive programming has propelled the media industry into
the digital world. Today, media companies are migrating towards
a completely digital workflow from capture, through storage and
editing, to reproduction and broadcasting. FSO products are licence
free, compatible with your existing network infrastructure, and
can be deployed or re-deployed in a matter of hours at prepared
sites.
FSO
for Backhaul in Mobile Wireless Networks »
Abstract:
Even in today's unstable market, PCS / cellular services are growing
- with increased bandwidth comes increased cell density. Predictions
are that the worldwide number of cell sites will nearly triple over
the next 5 years. As wireless networks migrate from second generation
(2G) to third generation (3G) technologies, the bandwidth requirements
will grow dramatically. PCS / Cellular backhaul will need to be
scalable to adapt to this growing demand for bandwidth. FSO technology
offers a rate adaptable carrier class solution and is a perfect
fit for PCS / Cellular backhaul applications.
FSO
for Disaster Recovery »
Abstract:
FSO offers you rapidly deployable, secure high bandwidth restoration
services. FSO products offer fiber-like data rates and availability
with the true simplicity and ease of use of a wireless solution.
FSO solutions can be rapidly deployed to support your emergency
needs. As an example, a SONAbeam™ can be installed in less
than 30 minutes, once power and data connections are routed to the
site, using fSONA's simple alignment system. SONAbeam™ FSO
operates indoor (through windows) or outdoors from roofs, towers
or balconies.
FSO
for High Security Applications »
Abstract:
The vulnerabilities of RF systems have led many people to wrongly
conclude that all wireless transmissions are highly vulnerable to
interception. However, FSO systems are among the most secure of
all wide-area connectivity solutions due to their inherent low probability
of intercept (LPI) and anti-jam (AJ) characteristics. Eavesdropping
and physical intercept are extraordinarily difficult with FSO systems
and the chance of an attempted intercept being discovered is very
high. For these reasons, government and military organizations that
value security have deployed FSO communication systems for voice,
video and broadband data communications.
FSO
for Military »
Abstract:
A general scan of the current free-space optics (FSO) market shows
that FSO products are conspicuously divided into two categories
when it comes to transmission wavelength: 780-850nm and 1550nm.
Both categories are considered “near-infrared” and are
invisible to the naked eye. Both have similar light attenuation
properties when propagating through the atmosphere. So what’s
the difference? Plenty. A closer look at the situation reveals that
1550nm transmission has some significant advantages, especially
for military applications.
Gigabit
and Fast Ethernet Networks
»
Abstract:
fSONA Communications Corp. offers a complete line of high quality,
field proven Free Space Optical (FSO) transceivers for rapid deployment
in Ethernet networks. The SONAbeamTM family of products provides
transport services for 10BaseT, 100BaseT and 1000BaseT (Gigabit)
Ethernet for line-of-site links at distances up to 4km. SONAbeamTM
is the highest reliability wireless connectivity solution available
for Gigabit and Fast Ethernet LAN extensions.
Healthcare
and Medical Imaging
»
Abstract:
Free-Space Optics has proven to be the most practical and economical
way to build or enhance any communications network, saving millions
of dollars and thousands of headaches. This is especially important
in medical and health care applications, where more than just headaches
are at stake, and having a flexible and capable network in place
can be a matter of life and death.
Digital
Media Transport
»
Abstract:
Are you looking for a rapidly re-deployable product that will extend
your digital media network and achieve the same performance as optical
fiber? Wireless technologies offer an attractive alternative, but
what product can achieve the required bandwidth with secure, near
zero-latency, jitter-free performance?
Generalized
Link Margin »
Abstract:
There are a lot of claims out there in the optical wireless industry,
some of which may be a bit confusing, or even a bit hard to believe.
A parameter as straightforward as “output power” may
not be quite what you think. The fundamental concept of “link
margin” is defined differently for different products. How
can you be sure that what you hear is true? How can you distinguish
the real market from a clever marketing slant?
SONAbeam
Network Management
»
Abstract:
Even if the hardware used to build a network is the most robust
and has the highest performance in the industry, efficient and thorough
network management is a must. One might argue that a more reliable
network requires less management. At fSONA, we think you should
have it all.
SONAbeam
with RF Diversity
»
Abstract:
Do you need high-bandwidth wireless communications? Do your applications
require “Five 9’s” availability, regardless of
weather conditions? Are your links mission-critical, where you can’t
afford even a minute of downtime?
Voice
and Data Integration
»
Abstract:
fSONA’s new OSU is a low-cost, ultra-compact, multiprotocol,
CLE/CPE access device that combines Ethernet and TDM T1/E1 circuits
in their native format
into an optical trunk interface for connection to the SONAbeamTM
transceiver. With the OSU, multiple services can be delivered from
point to point over the SONAbeam FSO link.
WiFi
Networks »
Abstract:
fSONA Communications is helping to make the ultimate dream of the
information age come true – high-speed internet access available
to everyone, always, everywhere.
Free
Space Optics (FSO) »
By Ray Horak, President and GPB, The Context Corporation for Commweb
Free Space Optics (FSO) is a truly amazing wireless optical technology.
Conceptually, it's a hybrid of several technologies and applications
that we've discussed in previous lessons. Quite some time ago, we
explored Transmission Media, in general, including both RF (Radio
Frequency) and fiber optics.
Free
Space Optics - Ready for Prime Time? - March 18, 2002
»
By Daniel Briere and Beth Gage for Network World Fusion
Free Space Optics, the technology that overlaps the optical and
wireless categories, has long been under development yet it has
not achieved acceptance as a standard access option for providers.
FSO vendors have done a good job emphasizing the technology's advantages
of being cost-effective and easy to deploy, but they have had difficulty
convincing service providers of the technology's viability and marketability.
In early market trials, weather and other obstacles resulted in
not-so-great signal availability, and providers quickly categorized
FSO as more of a "back-up" solution or one that only works
well in a campus environment. The nail in the coffin right? Wrong-throw
out any skepticism and preconceptions you may have about FSO viability.
Free
Space Optics finds focus - January 14, 2002
»
By Jim Barthold for Telephony
It's a free space free-for-all as carriers take a new look at optics-based
technology. Despite its reputation as a fragile and temperamental
technology, domestic service providers and foreign carriers are
using FSO not only as a broadband backup but also as a viable last-mile
technology.
Wireless
MANs: The Sky’s The Limit - Aug 2001 »
By Edwin E. Mier, Kenneth M. Percy and Uwe E. Bilger for Business
Communications Review
Wireless point-to-point links are a diverse lot, handling anywhere
from 1 Mbps to 1 Gbps, and costing $5,000 to $50,000 per link. Welcome
to the wide world of wireless. Many enterprise network managers
know their way around when it comes to cabling LANs and linking
sites via terrestrial carrier circuits. But wireless represents
an alternative — and one that, our hands-on testing concludes,
is not only viable, but may even be preferable.
Carriers
Moving to Free Space Optics? - July 23, 2001
»
By Jeanie Stokes for Broadband Week
The slowdown in telecom spending and drying up of capital availability
in recent months hasn't been bad news for one sector. The makers
of free space optics, a technology that uses lasers for last mile
connectivity, say they're finally attracting some attention amid
the mayhem. A year ago, the FSO sector had trouble getting on the
radar screens of telecom service providers. Now, both major carriers
and their newer competitors are looking for ways to cut costs. They're
finding alternative wireless solutions may be cheaper and quicker
ways to deliver broadband access.
Laser
Technology Sheds Light On Connection Issue - July 16th, 2001
»
by Michael Kenward for Financial Times
Even in these days of market gloom for telecoms, there are some
bright spots. Indeed, some see the downturn as good news for the
spread of optical wireless, or free-space lasers. In this technology,
a laser beam sends a signal through the air, rather than along a
glass fibre, to a receiver a short distance away. More than 90 per
cent of large buildings in North America are not connected to the
optical telecoms network. A frenzy of fibre-laying at the peak of
the boom also means that more than 90 per cent of the installed
capacity in that fibre optic "backbone" lies idle. However,
an inexpensive and easily installed way of bringing the two together
could give operators an easy way to add customers quickly.
Laser
Redux - June 5, 2000 »
By Jonathan Collins for Tele.com
Here's a blast from the past: free-space optics. The technology,
also known as laser networking, was thought to be consigned to the
dustbin of telecom history when it failed to deliver in its first
commercial incarnation more than 10 years ago. What's old is new
again, however, and today a group of established vendors and startups
are offering this old chestnut to Internet service providers (ISPs)
as a way to roll out reliable high-speed, last-mile connections
quickly and at a fraction of the cost of laying fiber.
Shortcut
to Broadband: Free Space Optical Networks - June 1st, 2001
»
By Theresa Carbonneau for Electronic Component News
For some time now we've been imagining a future of boundless connectivity,
of video on demand and quality online audio, of real-time high-resolution
3D Internet games and full-screen HDTV video conferencing. Of instant
downloads and like-you're-there access to corporate networks. We
want full-time, high-speed access. We want it now and we want it
cheap. But there's not enough bandwidth to most homes or offices
to support the services we want — even though fiber has been
laid in metropolitan areas around the world by long-distance carriers
and fiber-backbone companies with capacity far in excess of what
is necessary for current broadband desires.
Yet, most of us don't have access to it. We will continue to wait
for access for some time, until the cost of materials and labor
necessary to deliver fiber are reduced. This problem of connecting
to the backbone has become commonly referred to as the "last,"
"first" or "golden" mile problem. Despite the
lack of fiber access, a great number of last-mile options exist:
digital subscriber lines, cable modems, passive optical networks,
radio and microwave wireless, and satellite networks. But none of
these offer the speed of free space optics.
Optical
Wireless: Low-Cost Broadband Optical Access - June, 2001
»
By David Rockwell and G. Stephen Mecherle for Lightwave
Optical free-space wireless solutions provide fast, low-cost, high-bandwidth
access for bridging the last mile. The global telecommunications
network has seen massive expansion over the last few years, catalyzed
by the telecommunications deregulation in 1996. First came the tremendous
growth of the long-haul WAN, followed by a more recent emphasis
on metropolitan-area networks (MANs). Meanwhile, LANs and Gigabit
Ethernet ports are being deployed with a comparable growth rate.
To exploit this tremendous capacity and provide users with the broad
array of new services becoming available, network designers must
provide a flexible and cost-effective means of accessing the telecom
network. Currently, however, most local-loop connections are limited
to a T1 line (1.5 Mbits/sec) and, as a consequence, there is a strong
need for a high-bandwidth bridge between the LANs and MANs or WANs,
known as "last mile" or "first mile."
Free-Space
Optics No Longer Simply a Niche Solution - May 2001
»
By Meghan Fuller for Lightwave
For three days at the Optical Fiber Communications (OFC 2001) conference
in Anaheim, CA, a steady stream of people crowded around the booths
sponsored by free-space optical (FSO) equipment manufacturers. That
such companies should be popular at OFC is not entirely surprising-according
to a recent study from Washington, DC-based Strategis Group, global
FSO equipment revenues will jump from less than $100 million in
2000 to approximately $2 billion by 2005, a 1,900% increase. Market
researcher Allied Business Intelligence (Oyster Bay, NY) puts global
FSO transceiver revenue at more than $4 billion by 2005. A key factor
driving the market's growth is its evolution to higher speeds and
carrier-class reliability.
Lasers
Aim To Cut Broadband Bottleneck - February 21, 2001
»
By Corey Grice for C|Net.com
For months, communications carriers and equipment makers have tested
new technologies, known as "free-space" lasers or sometimes
"optical wireless," to deliver high-speed network connections
to business customers. Until recently the technology has been relegated
to white board theories, research and development labs and trial
projects.
Now start-ups Terabeam, a Seattle-based laser service provider,
and FSONA Communications, a laser equipment maker, are set to announce
for the first time the commercial availability of their products
and services within the next week. "It's becoming apparent
that this stuff is ready for primetime," said Jeff Kagan, an
independent Atlanta-based communications industry analyst. "Now
it's time for the pressure test by bringing it to market and signing
up customers and seeing if it works.
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