OW NERS M ANUAL
If you have questions concerning the
operation of this Whistler product
please call:
C
u STO m e r
Se RVICE
1-8 0 0 -531-0 0 0 4
174 0 /174 3
Monday - Friday • 8:00 am - 5:00 pm CT
174 4 /174 5/174 8
or visit our website
LASER-RAD AR
w w w.w h is t le r g ro u p .com
DETECTOR
Please keep the receipt in a safe place. You
may register
verification purposes, copy of your
your
product
online
a
dated store receipt must still accompany
any unit sent in for warranty work. If the
unit is returned without a dated store receipt
an out of warranty service charge applies.
Note: Your warranty period begins at the
time of purchase. The warranty is validated
only by the dated store receipt! Now is the
time to record the serial number of the unit in
the space provided in the warranty section of
the manual.
The Whistler Group Corporate Headquarters
13016 N. Walton Blvd. • Bentonville, AR 72712
Tel (479) 273-6012 • Fax (479) 273-2927
Customer Return Center
1201 N. Dixieland Rd. • Rogers, AR 72756
Consumer Relations Tel (800) 531-0004
P/ N 203331,
©
2003 The Whistler Group, Inc.
w w w .w h ist le rg ro u p .co m
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
Dear Whistler Owner,
Topic
Page
3 - 6
6 - 8
For many of us, a vehicle is more than just transportation. It can
be a mobile office, communications or entertainment center,
or simply an expression of our personality. Whistler products
are designed to make the time you spend in your vehicle more
productive, more fulfilling, safer, or just simply more fun. Our
mission is to provide products that improve your driving expe-
rience.
Model Features Summary
Installation
• Mounting Guidelines
• Windshield Mounting
• Power Connection And Fuse Replacement
Operation
• Compass Calibration Set-Up
• Power On And Self-Test
• Self-test Mute
9 - 13
• Integrated Real Voice™
• Memory Beep Confirmation
• Auto Quiet/ Quiet Modes
• City Modes
Your new Whistler laser/radar detector detects all radar, laser
and safety radar systems.
• Dim/ Dark Modes
• Engaging/ Disengaging VG-2 Detection
• Stay Alert
• Option Select Mode
• Teach/ Tutorial Mode
• Vehicle Battery Saver Mode
Radar, Laser And VG-2 Alerts
• Radar Alerts
To fully acquaint yourself with the operation of the Whistler
laser/radar detector and to better understand the differences
between detecting radar, laser and safety radar signals, we rec-
ommend reading this entire manual or visit our FAQ page on
our website www.whistlergroup.com
13 - 15
• Pulse Protection®
Enjoy your Whistler and please drive safely.
• Safety Radar Audio/ Visual Alerts
• VG-2 Audio/ Visual Alerts
• Alert Priority
Sincerely,
• Reset Features
The Whistler Group, Inc.
• Care Maintenance
Troubleshooting Guide
Are Detectors Legal?
Speed Monitoring Technologies
• Radar Facts
15 - 16
16 - 17
17 - 18
• Note: On 1748 model the compass must be
calibrated before use. See compass calibration set-up.
• Laser Facts
•
Note: Some units may display “P” instead of “H”.
Both represent highway mode.
• Other Speed Detection Systems
• Radar Detector Detectors
Warranty Information
Specifications
19 - 21
21 - 22
22
Accessories
INSTALLATION
OP ERATION
Windshield Mounting
Compass Calibration Set-Up (1748 only)
•
Install the two suction cups and rubber bumper onto the
bracket by fitting them into their holes.
The unit will need to be calibrated in order for the
compass to provide accurate readings. To calibrate the unit,
perform the following procedure:
•
Press the suction cups onto the windshield at the location
you have chosen. IMPORTANT: Some newer cars have a
plastic safety coating on the inside of the windshield.
The windshield bracket may leave permanent marks on
this type of surface. To find out if your vehicle has this
type of windshield, check the owner’s manual or ask your
dealer. We recommend that you do not leave the suc-
tion cup bracket on the window in direct sunlight. If the
detector is removed, this may cause blistering of the
dash in some vehicles.
1. Mount the unit level in the center of the vehicle’s
windshield in which it will be used. Make sure there are
no other magnetic sources near the detector
(i.e., speaker).
2. Select a large clear area (parking lot or field) without any
power lines.
3. While parked, press both volume buttons simultaneously
until the compass headings start to rotate.
N
•
•
Slide the detector onto the bracket until it locks into place.
If necessary, the unit may be leveled by bending the
windshield bracket. Press the bracket release button
and remove the detector before bending.
W
E
S
3. Drive vehicle slowly in two complete circles, in either
direction. If calibration does not automatically finish press
both volume buttons simultaneously to complete
calibration. The unit will beep twice and show current
compass heading.
Power Connection
•
Plug the small end of the power cord into the unit’s power
jack.
Plug the large end into the vehicle’s cigarette lighter.
W
E
S
•
Note: If unit mounting is relocated in the vehicle, (i.e. visor
to windshield mounting or dash mounting), or if the unit is
moved to another vehicle, you must recalibrate the compass.
Fuse Replacement
The lighter socket plug is equipped with a replaceable 2 amp
3AG fuse located behind the silver tip. To replace the fuse,
carefully unscrew the tip of the plug.
Power On And Self-Test
Each time your Whistler detector is turned on, an
automatic self-test sequence confirms that the speak-
er and visual displays are functional.
IMPORTANT: Unscrew slowly. The tip contains a spring
which may fly out when disassembling. Insert the new fuse
with the spring and screw on the tip.
With use, screw cap on plug may loosen. Retighten occa-
sionally.
Self-test Mute
Simply press the Quiet button during the self-test
sequence to cancel the self-test audio. This will not
effect radar/laser alerts. To restore the self-test audio,
simply press the Quiet button during the next self-
test.
Unscrew the tip of the lighter socket plug carefully when replacing
the 2 amp fuse.
7
8
OP ERATION
OP ERATION
Integrated Real Voice®
When selected, Real Voice will be used to articulate the
following:
1. Band Identification
2. Safety Warning System messages
3. Feature Selection
Quiet Mode
Quiet cancels audio during an alert and any new alert
within 20 seconds. After 20 seconds, approximately 2
beeps are provided on any new alert and unit then
remains quiet.
•
•
Press Quiet to cancel the audio.
Memory/Beep Confirmation
Press Quiet a second time during an alert to restore
the standard audio alert pattern; or turn the unit off,
then on.
All features selected (except Stay Alert and Quiet) are
retained in memory. Each time a button is pressed one
beep confirms feature “on”, two beeps confirm feature
“off”.
City/City 1/City 2 Mode
Whistler’s Three Stage City Mode is designed to reduce
the annoyance of automatic door openers, intrusion
alarms and other devices which share frequencies with
police radar.
Press City to cancel Highway mode and engage
City. Display will switch from “H” to “C”.
Audio Level Adjustment
The audio levels can be adjusted high to low, or low to
high, in seven steps:
•
•
•
Press Volume
Press Volume
up to increase audio level.
down to decrease audio level.
•
Pressing City a second time engages City 1. Display
As audio level is adjusted, beeps are provided and the
display indicates volume level. The more “bars” illumi-
nated, the higher the volume.
reads:
•
Pressing City a third time engages City 2.
Display reads:
Auto Quiet Mode
Auto Quiet reduces the selected audio level to a level
(1) approximately 5 seconds after a radar or safety radar
signal is detected. The alert for any new signal within
20 seconds will resume at level (1). Auto Quiet does not
affect VG-2 or laser alerts.
Note: After 3 seconds, l or ll City Mode indicator turns
off.
•
Pressing City a fourth time returns to Highway mode.
•
•
•
Press Quiet (before
a
signal is detected) to
In City Mode, weak speed/safety radar signals give an
initial alarm of two beeps, and then the unit remains
quiet unless the signal becomes very strong. When the
signal strength increases, two additional beeps are pro-
vided. In City 1 Mode, only the X band sensitivity is low-
ered. In City 2 Mode, X-band is not detected.
engage Auto Quiet. Unit will beep once.
Once the Auto Quiet mode is engaged, you may
cancel the audio alarm by pressing Quiet.
Press Quiet (when the unit is not alarming) to
cancel Auto Quiet mode. Unit will beep twice.
CAUTION: Some towns/small cities may still be using X
9
10
OP ERATION
OP ERATION
WARNING!!! Stay Alert is NOT intended as a substitute
for adequate rest. You should NOT operate a vehicle if
you are drowsy. During extended periods of vehicle oper-
ation, you should take frequent breaks. Improper reliance
on the Stay Alert feature may result in vehicle damage,
personal injury or death. NEVER OPERATE A VEHICLE
IF YOU ARE DROWSY.
band radar. If Auto Quiet is engaged in City 1 or City 2
modes and the unit receives a strong radar signal, the
unit performs the Auto Quiet feature. City Modes do not
change the audio alert for laser or VG-2.
Dim/Dark Mode
Dim/Dark Mode reduces the illumination of the
display.
Press and hold Power for 2 seconds to reduce
illumination to a Dim setting.
Pressing and holding the power button for 2
seconds a second time engages Dark Mode. The
display illumination is further reduced.
Option Select Mode
Entering Option Select Mode allows you to turn on or
off VG-2 detection or Voice alerts. Note: The unit
must not be alarming.
•
•
To turn VG-2 detection on/off:
Press and hold the Quiet button until the unit pro-
vides a unique beep then release the Quiet button.
Unit will say “VG-2” and the V/L light will illuminate
briefly. If VG-2 detection is already on, the unit will
provide a double beep to indicate VG-2 detection is
turned off.
Dim or dark can be engaged during an alert. In Dark
Mode, the display goes dark for as long as a signal is
being detected and for 20 seconds after, then the dis-
play returns to the dimmer setting.
Pressing and holding the power button a third time
restores full illumination to the display.
•
To turn Voice off/on:
Press and hold the Quiet button (greater than 3 sec-
onds) until you hear a double beep then release the
Quiet button. Voice alert is now off. If voice alert was
already off, the unit will say “CAUTION”.
Engaging/Disengaging VG-2
See option select mode to turn this feature on.
Stay Alert Feature
The Stay Alert Feature is designed to test a driver’s
alertness. To engage (when unit is not alarming):
Teach/Tutorial Mode
Provides simulated alerts for each type of signal.
•
Press and hold City for less then 2 seconds. The”H”
or “C” will flash indicating Stay Alert is activated.
•
•
Press City and Quiet simultaneously and release.
Press Power to exit.
Within 30-60 seconds two beeps are sounded; to show
alertness, the driver must press either the (Volume), City or
Quiet button within 3-5 seconds. If the button is pressed
within 3-5 seconds, the cycle is repeated.
Vehicle Battery Saver Mode
The Vehicle Battery Saver Mode automatically shuts
off your detector within 6 hours if you forget to turn it
off. The timer is reset if the detector is turned off,
unplugged or any button is pressed before the 6
hours have expired. The detector will alert you with an
If a button was not pressed within 3-5 seconds alarm
sounds and the display will flash all LEDs.
•
Press Power to cancel Stay Alert.
11
12
RADAR ALERTS/VG-2
OP ERATION
sages. When Safety Radar is detected the audio alert
is geiger counter-like.
audible and visual warning before it shuts off.
Display shows:
Blinking
Example:
During this warning you can momentarily reset the
unit by pressing any button. This will reset the timer.
Note: Not all areas have Safety Warning System trans-
mitters.
If the unit has automatically turned itself off, press the
Power button to turn the unit back on. You can man-
ually engage the Vehicle Battery Saver Mode by press-
ing and holding the City button until one beep is
heard.
VG-2 Audio/Visual Alerts
Note: You must turn this feature on in option select
mode before it will detect the VG-2 Gun.
When a VG-2 signal is detected, the detector “hides” its
own radiated signal and becomes undetectable by the
VG-2.
RADAR ALERTS
Speed Radar Audio/Visual Alerts
Every 30 seconds, the detector checks for a VG-2 sig-
nal. If a VG-2 signal is still present, the unit continues to
hide and repeats the VG-2 alert. If no signal is detect-
ed, two beeps are provided, indicating an “all clear”
condition. During VG-2 Alert X, K, and Ka band signals
cannot be received.
When X, K or Ka is detected the band ID and signal
strength is displayed. The audio alert is continuous
and has a geiger counter-like pattern. The faster the
beep the closer or stronger the radar source. Example:
I = weak signal, III = strong signal
Alert Priority
Pulse Protection®
When two or more signals are received at the same
time, the alert priority is:
When a pulse type signal (instant on strong signal) is
detected an urgent 3 second audio warning is sound-
ed and the display shows:
1. Laser
2. VG-2
3. Speed Radar
4. Safety Radar
Example:
If X band is alerting, then suddenly VG-2 is detected,
the VG-2 warning will override the X band alert.
After 3 seconds standard alert pattern continues.
Safety Radar Alerts
In communities where transmitters are located, the
Safety Warning System alerts you with 60 voice mes-
14
13
RESET FEATURES
CARE & M AINTENANCE
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
PROBLEM: No display or audio.
Reset Features
All user features can be reset to factory settings.
•
Check fuse in Whistler plug; replace if necessary with a 2 amp
3AG type.
•
•
Check fuse for lighter socket; replace if necessary.
Make sure lighter socket is clean.
•
•
•
•
•
Unplug Power Cord from unit.
Press and hold Power and Quiet.
Plug Power Cord into unit.
PROBLEM: Unit alarms when vehicle hits bumps.
•
•
Check for loose lighter socket; tighten and clean.
Check connections at both ends of power cord. Substitute
Wait for 2 beeps.
another cord to determine if cord is defective. Return defective
cord to the factory.
Release Power and Quiet buttons. Unit is now reset.
PROBLEM: Unit alarms when using vehicle equipment, electrical
accessories (brakes, power mirrors/windows, directionals, horn, etc.),
or when accelerating.
Note: Must calibrate compass after resetting features.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Audio to level (4).
•
Vehicle’s electrical system, including battery and alternator, may
Highway Mode ON.
have electrical noise. Install a filter capacitor (470mfd. 25 volt or
larger capacitance value) on the back of the lighter socket.
PROBLEM: Audio alerts are not loud enough.
Dim/Dark Mode to full illumination of display.
Auto Quiet Mode OFF.
VG-2 Detection Mode OFF.
Voice ON.
•
•
Cancel Auto Quiet Mode or City Mode.
Check audio level setting (see page 9).
PROBLEM: No X band signals.
Cancel City 2.
PROBLEM: Unit gives laser alert when accelerating.
Unit ON or OFF.
•
•
Possible bad or low quality distributor cap. Replace with high
Care And Maintenance
quality cap.
During the summer months, avoid prolonged expo-
sure to direct sunlight by removing your unit from the
dash when your vehicle is parked for an extended peri-
od of time. Do not spray water, cleaners or
If difficulties occur which cannot be solved by informa-
tion in this Troubleshooting Guide, please call Whistler
Customer Service at 1-800-531-0004 before returning
your unit for service.
polishes directly onto the unit. The spray may pene-
trate through the openings and damage the unit. Also,
do not use any abrasive cleaners on the unit’s exterior.
ARE DETECTORS LEGAL?
Troubleshooting
In Most States YES!
Your Whistler detector is expertly engineered and
designed to exacting quality standards to provide you
with reliable, trouble-free operation. If your unit has been
correctly installed following the guidelines in this manu-
al, but is not operating optimally, please refer to the trou-
bleshooting guide on next page.
Laser detectors are completely legal in every state when used in
automobiles or light trucks (under 10,000 lbs.). Similarly, when
used in automobiles or light trucks, radar detectors are legal in
almost every state. Exceptions are Virginia and Washington, D.C.,
which have local regulations restricting the use of radar receivers
in any vehicle. Concerning trucks over 10,000 lbs., the Federal
Highway Administration (FHwA) issued
a
regulation,
effective January, 1994 which prohibits radar and laser detector
use in these types of vehicles nationally.
15
16
ARE DETECTORS LEGAL?
SP EED M ONITORING
line of traffic and determine its speed. The advantage of laser
over radar in terms of target identification is the result of the laser
gun’s narrow beam. A radar transmission can cover more than a
four-lane highway at a distance of 1,000 feet, compared with a
laser transmission which covers about 3 feet at the same dis-
tance.
Prior to the FHwA regulation, laws existed in the state of New York
restricting the use of radar detectors in trucks over 18,000 lbs. and
in the state of Illinois in trucks over 26,000 lbs.
FCC ID HSXWH03 - 1740
FCC ID HSXWH14 - 1743/1744
FCC ID HSXWH04 - 1745
FCC ID HSXWH13 - 1748
For best protection, keep these points in mind:
•
Because you vehicle’s license plate or headlights are the laser
gun’s primary targets, mounting your Whistler detector on
the dashboard can improve laser detection at short range.
Do not follow closely behind any vehicle you cannot see
through. If you can’t see past a vehicle ahead of you, chances
are your detector won’t either.
The receiving range of your laser detector will not be the same
as a radar detector. Laser guns are most often used at short
range.
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is
subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device many not
cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including interference that may cause unde-
sired operation.
•
•
IMPORTANT
FCC requirements state that changes or modifications not
expressly approved by Whistler could void the user’s authority to
operate the equipment.
Whistler Laser/Radar detectors receive all current laser guns
which operate at a laser wavelength of 905 +/- 10mm.
•
Pro Laser™ I II III
•
LT1 20-20
•
Ultra Lyte
SP EED M ONITORING
Radar Facts
Other Speed Detection Systems
Several techniques other than radar or laser are used to measure
vehicle speeds. When these methods are being used, no detec-
tor can provide a warning. These techniques include:
A radar gun operates by transmitting radio waves at certain frequen-
cies which reflect off objects and are then picked up by the radar
gun’s receiving section. When a radar beam reflects off a moving tar-
get, a measurable frequency shift occurs. The radar unit converts
this shift into miles per hour to determine your vehicle’s speed.
Currently, the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) permits
operation of traffic radar guns at X Band (10.500 - 10.550 GHz), K
Band (24.050 - 24.250 GHz), and Ka Band (33.400 - 36.000 GHz).
•
Pacing - A patrol car drives behind you and matches your
driving speed.
•
Vascar/Aircraft - The time it takes a vehicle to travel a known
distance is measured.
Radar Detector Detectors (VG-2)
Note: A radar detector will not alarm if an officer is not transmit-
The Interceptor VG-2, or simply VG-2, is a microwave receiver
used by police to detect signals radiated by the local oscillator of
a radar detector. Because its purpose is to identify persons driv-
ing with radar detectors, the VG-2 is known as a “radar detector
detector”.
ting on any one of the above radar bands.
Laser Facts
It’s well documented that many radar guns cannot reliably provide
the speed of a targeted vehicle that is traveling in a group of vehi-
cles. In contrast, a laser gun can target a specific vehicle out of a
18
17
W ARRANTY INFORM ATION
W ARRANTY INFORM ATION
dated store receipt to the address below. Units returned without
dated store receipt will be handled as described in section
“Service Out Of Warranty.” Due to the specialized equipment nec-
essary for testing a laser/radar receiver, there are no authorized
service stations for Whistler brand detectors other than Whistler.
The VG-2 is the primary tool used by the police to
identify radar detector equipped vehicles. If caught, in a state
where detectors are illegal, (see page 16), drivers risk losing their
radar detector and receiving a fine. In addition, instant-on radar is
almost always used in combination with a VG-2, leaving unsus-
pecting motorists vulnerable to receiving two tickets - one poten-
tially for speeding, the other for possession of a detector.
When returning a unit for service under warranty,please follow
these instructions:
Having a radar detector capable of detecting the VG-2 may alert
you to the presence of a speed trap.
1. Ship the unit in the original carton or in
a
suitable
sturdy equivalent, fully insured, with return receipt
requested to:
For more information on speed monitoring technologies, please
visit our FAQ page on our website:
Whistler Repair Dept.
1201 North Dixieland Rd
Rogers, AR. 72756
Please allow 3 weeks turn-around time.
It is the responsibility of the individual radar detector owner to
know and understand the laws in your area regarding the legality
of the use of radar detectors.
IMPORTANT:
Whistler will not assume responsibility
for loss or damage incurred in shipping. Therefore, please ship
your unit insured with return receipt requested. CODs will not
be accepted!
W ARRANTY INFORM ATION
2. Include with your unit the following information, clearly
printed:
Consumer Warranty
This Whistler Laser/Radar detector is warranted to the
original purchaser for a period of one year from the date of origi-
nal purchase against all defects in materials and
workmanship. This limited warranty is void if the unit is abused,
modified, installed improperly, if the housing has been
removed, or if the serial number is missing. There are no
express warranties covering this product other than those set forth
in this warranty. All express or implied warranties for this product
are limited to one year. Whistler is not liable for damages arising
from the use, misuse, or operation of this product.
•
Your name and street address (for shipping via UPS),
a daytime telephone number and email address, if
applicable.
•
A detailed description of the problem (e.g., “Unit
performs self-test but does not respond to radar”).
A copy of your dated store receipt or bill of sale.
•
3. Be certain your unit is returned with its serial number.
For reference, please write your units serial number in
the following space: s/n__________________________.
Service Under Warranty
During the warranty period, defective units will be
repaired without charge to the purchaser when returned with a
Units without serial numbers are not covered under warranty.
IMPORTANT: To validate that your unit is within the
warranty period, make sure you keep a copy of your dated
19
20
SP ECIFICATIONS/ACCESSORIES
W ARRANTY INFORM ATION
store receipt. You may register your warranty online at
purposes, a copy of your dated store receipt must accompa-
ny any unit sent in for warranty work.
• Dimensions:
• Weight:
1740 - 6.8 oz.
1743/1744 - 5.5 oz.
1745 - 6.1 oz.
1748 - 6.5 oz.
1740 - 5.35”L x 3.15”W x 1.45”H
1743/1744 - 4.3” L x 2.85”W x 1.3” H
1745 - 3.45”L x 4.73”W x 1.52”H
1748 - 4.65”L x 1.45”W x 2.95”H
• Laser Wavelength:
905 ± 50 nanometers (nm)
• Operating Temperature Range: 24.050-24.250 GHz (K Band)
-20˚ C to +80˚ C (-4˚ F to +176˚ F)
• Power Requirements:
• Radar Frequencies:
10.500-10.550 GHz (X Band)
Service Out of Warranty
Units will be repaired at “out of warranty” service rates when:
•
•
•
•
The units original warranty has expired.
Dated store receipt is not supplied.
The unit has been returned without its serial number.
The unit has been abused, modified, installed improperly,
or had its housing removed.
33.400-36.000GHz
(Ka Superwideband)
Operational 12 to 15 volts DC, 250mA nominal
Vehicle Battery Saver, 30mA nominal.
Compass accuracy to 5° resolution to 5°
One or more U.S. patents may apply: #5,146,227; #5,379,456;
#5,666,120, and #5,990,821. Other patents pending.
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
The minimum out of warranty service fee for your Whistler detec-
tor is $55.00 (U.S.). If you require out of warranty
service, please return your unit as outlined in the section “Service
Under Warranty” along with a certified check or money order for
$55.00. Payment may also be made by MasterCard, VISA or
American Express; personal checks are not accepted. In the
event repairs cannot be covered by the minimum $55.00 service
fee, you will be contacted by a Whistler technical service specialist
who will outline options available to you. If you elect not to have
your unit repaired, it will be returned to you along with your certi-
fied check or money order.
These and other accessories can be ordered directly from Whistler by call-
Order
Code
Description
Price
202138
Visor Bracket
$
$
$
$
$
6.95
202140
206552
206553
206880
Windshield Bracket Kit
Straight Power Cord (5’)
Coiled Power Cord (7’)
9.95
14.95
15.95
9.95
Hardwire Kit (10' )
IMPORTANT: When returning your unit for service, be certain
to include a daytime telephone number, and email address (if
applicable).
(for wiring to fuse box)
206666*
Modular Cord Package
(includes coiled and straight cords,
and power adapter)
$
17.95
Customer Service
159032
402081
206660
Package of 8 Suction Cups
Dash Pad
Straight Modular Cord and
Socket Multiplier
Coiled Modular Cord and
Socket Multiplier
$
$
2.95
6.95
If you have questions concerning the operation of your
Whistler detector, or require service during or after the warranty
period, please call Customer Service at:
1-800-531-0004.
$
$
11.95
12.95
206661
Representatives are available to answer your questions
Monday - Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (CT).
*Modular: Interconnecting pieces cord and plug. Shipping and handling
(per order) $5.00. Prices are subject to change without notice.
22
21
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