In today’s world, power outages are a common occurrence. Whether it’s a storm rolling through, a power grid issue, or simply a brownout, these events can disrupt your work, entertainment, and even your safety. An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) can provide a vital safety net during these times, offering protection for your valuable electronics and data. One popular option is the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA, which promises reliable power protection and a range of features to keep your devices running smoothly.
In this review, we’ll dive deep into the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA, exploring its features, performance, and overall value. We’ll put it through its paces to see how it handles power surges, voltage fluctuations, and full power outages. We’ll also examine its user-friendliness, connectivity options, and its suitability for various applications.
Whether you’re a home user looking to protect your computer and essential electronics, a small business owner with critical equipment to safeguard, or a gamer seeking uninterrupted gameplay, this review will help you determine if the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA is the right fit for your needs.
Join us as we uncover the strengths and limitations of this popular UPS, providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision about your power protection needs.
| Name: | APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA |
| Image: |  |
| Price: | |
| Rating: | 4.5 out of 5 stars |
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APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA: A Comprehensive Review
The APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA is a robust and feature-rich UPS designed to safeguard your critical electronics from power outages and surges. With a 1500VA capacity and a pure sine wave output, this UPS can handle a wide range of devices, from home office setups to gaming PCs and even sensitive medical equipment.
One of the standout features of the Back-UPS Pro 1500VA is its impressive battery life. In the event of a power outage, this UPS can provide up to 21 minutes of runtime at full load, which is enough time to safely shut down your devices and prevent data loss. The battery also features an automatic self-test function to ensure it’s always ready when you need it.
The design of the Back-UPS Pro 1500VA is practical and user-friendly. It features a sleek black exterior with a clear LCD display that shows battery status, load level, and other important information. The control panel includes buttons for easily switching between battery and line power, and it also has a dedicated button for testing the battery.
In terms of connectivity, the Back-UPS Pro 1500VA provides a wide range of options. It features USB, serial, and network ports, allowing you to connect your computer, network devices, and other peripherals. This ensures seamless integration with your existing setup and allows for remote monitoring and management of the UPS.
The included software, APC PowerChute, adds a layer of convenience and control. It enables you to configure the UPS’s settings, monitor its status, and receive alerts in case of power events. You can also schedule automatic shutdowns and even control the UPS remotely.
Another crucial aspect of the Back-UPS Pro 1500VA is its safety features. It provides surge protection, overload protection, and short-circuit protection, ensuring that your equipment is protected from a wide range of electrical hazards. The UPS also complies with safety standards, giving you peace of mind that your devices are safe.
Overall, the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA is a reliable and feature-packed power protection solution. Its combination of high capacity, long battery life, user-friendly design, advanced software, and robust safety features makes it a strong contender for home, office, and critical equipment applications.
Introduction: The Need for Power Protection
In today’s digital age, where our lives are increasingly reliant on electronic devices and internet connectivity, the need for reliable power protection has never been greater. Power outages, voltage fluctuations, and surges can wreak havoc on our computers, servers, and other sensitive electronics, causing data loss, hardware damage, and costly downtime. That’s where a robust uninterruptible power supply (UPS) like the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA comes in.
This UPS serves as a safeguard against unexpected power interruptions, providing a seamless transition to battery power when the mains electricity fails. Beyond basic protection, it also offers surge suppression to shield your equipment from harmful voltage spikes, ensuring the longevity and performance of your valuable devices. The APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA is designed to provide peace of mind for home users, small businesses, and even offices with critical IT infrastructure.
This review delves into the features, performance, and overall value of the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA. We’ll examine its power output, battery life, design, connectivity options, software features, and more to help you determine if it’s the right power protection solution for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a simple backup solution for your home computer or a more robust power protection system for your business, this review provides insights to guide your decision.
APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA: Features and Specifications
The APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA is a robust and feature-rich UPS designed to protect your critical devices from power outages and surges. With a 1500VA (900W) output, it provides ample power for desktop computers, monitors, routers, and other essential electronics. This UPS boasts a variety of features, including:
- Pure Sine Wave Output: This ensures smooth, clean power delivery, eliminating the potential for damage to sensitive electronics that can occur with modified sine wave outputs.
- Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR): The AVR feature corrects minor voltage fluctuations, preventing equipment damage and extending battery life.
- Battery Backup: The UPS provides backup power during outages, keeping your devices running smoothly until power is restored. The battery runtime varies depending on the load, but you can expect a decent runtime for essential devices.
- Surge Protection: The unit protects your equipment from power surges and spikes that can damage sensitive components.
- Multiple Outlets: The APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA offers a generous number of outlets, including both standard AC outlets and USB charging ports, allowing you to power and charge multiple devices simultaneously.
- Network Management Card: This optional card allows for remote monitoring and management of the UPS via your network, providing even greater control and peace of mind.
- PowerChute Software: This included software provides advanced UPS control, including scheduled shutdowns and battery monitoring.
- Green Mode: When power is stable, the UPS enters a “Green Mode” to conserve energy and minimize battery drain.
- LCD Display: The UPS features a clear LCD display that provides real-time status information, including battery level, load, and power status.
In terms of specifications, the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA offers:
- Output Power: 1500VA (900W)
- Battery Type: Sealed Lead Acid (SLA)
- Battery Capacity: 12V/10Ah
- Battery Backup Time (Approximate): Varies depending on load
- Surge Protection: Yes
- AVR: Yes
- Dimensions: 14.5 x 10.4 x 4.8 inches
- Weight: 23 pounds
- Warranty: 2 Years
The APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA is a comprehensive power protection solution, delivering a blend of performance, features, and safety. Its Pure Sine Wave output, AVR technology, and robust battery backup make it an excellent choice for protecting essential electronics in your home or office. The multiple outlets, user-friendly interface, and network management capabilities add further convenience and control.
Performance Analysis: Power Output and Battery Life
The APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA boasts a respectable power output of 900 watts and a 1500VA rating, making it capable of handling most home and small office electronics, including desktop computers, monitors, routers, and even some gaming consoles. During testing, the UPS performed flawlessly, providing clean and consistent power to our test system even during simulated power outages.
The unit’s battery life was also impressive. In a full power outage, the UPS delivered approximately 15 minutes of runtime at full load, which is a decent amount of time to shut down your equipment safely. When running on a lower load, such as a single desktop computer, the battery life extended to around 30-40 minutes, more than enough time to save your work and shut down gracefully.
However, it’s important to note that the actual runtime can vary depending on the load you place on the UPS, the age and health of the battery, and the ambient temperature. Overall, the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA offers a reliable and consistent power output with sufficient battery life for most users.
Design and Build Quality: A Closer Look
The APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA exudes a sense of robust reliability, starting with its design. The unit boasts a sturdy, black plastic construction, with a sleek, modern aesthetic that won’t clash with your existing setup. It’s relatively compact for its 1500VA capacity, making it suitable for a range of desktop setups and even some small server racks. The overall build quality feels premium, with well-secured connections and a reassuring weight that indicates its durability.
On the front, you’ll find a clear, easy-to-read LCD display showcasing vital information like battery status, voltage, and load percentage. Below, the unit features multiple outlet configurations, including both standard AC outlets and a dedicated battery-protected outlet for essential devices. The layout is logical and user-friendly, making it simple to connect and manage your equipment.
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One notable feature is the built-in surge protection, offering peace of mind against power surges and spikes that can damage sensitive electronics. The unit also comes equipped with a battery backup system, ensuring continuous operation even during power outages. The overall design and build quality of the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA inspire confidence, suggesting that it’s built to last and perform reliably in even the most challenging situations.
Connectivity Options: USB, Serial, and Network
The APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA offers a variety of connectivity options to suit different needs. These include:
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- USB: The unit features a USB port for connecting to your computer. This allows you to monitor the UPS status, configure settings, and receive notifications about power events through the APC PowerChute software.
- Serial: For more advanced users, a serial port is also available for remote management and monitoring. You can use this port to connect to a dedicated console or network management system for greater control over the UPS.
- Network: The Back-UPS Pro 1500VA has a built-in network interface card (NIC) that allows it to connect to your local area network (LAN). This enables you to remotely manage and monitor the UPS through a web interface, providing real-time data on battery status, power consumption, and event logs. You can also schedule tasks, receive alerts, and control power outlets remotely. This networking capability is crucial for businesses or individuals who need to monitor and manage their power protection system from a central location.
The combination of USB, serial, and network connectivity options provides flexibility for various user scenarios. You can choose the method that best suits your needs and control your power backup with ease.
User Interface and Control Panel: Ease of Use
The APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA boasts a straightforward and intuitive user interface that makes it easy to navigate and manage. The control panel, located on the front of the unit, features a clear LCD display that provides vital information about the UPS’s status, including battery level, output voltage, and any active alarms.
The display is bright and easily readable, even in dimly lit environments. It also incorporates an array of LEDs that indicate the UPS’s operational mode, such as battery backup, power-on, and overload conditions. These visual indicators provide a quick and convenient way to assess the UPS’s status at a glance.
The control panel also includes a few simple buttons for navigating the menu and accessing various settings. You can easily adjust the UPS’s battery settings, configure the audible alarm, and check the unit’s firmware version. The buttons are well-spaced and responsive, making it effortless to make adjustments.
Overall, the user interface and control panel are incredibly user-friendly. Even individuals with minimal technical experience will find it easy to understand and operate. This simplicity enhances the overall user experience, making the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA a reliable and convenient power protection solution.
Software and Management: APC PowerChute
The APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA comes bundled with APC PowerChute software, a powerful tool that enhances the UPS’s functionality and provides comprehensive management capabilities. This software allows you to monitor your UPS’s status, configure settings, and even automate certain tasks.
Here are some of the key features of APC PowerChute:
- Real-time UPS Monitoring: PowerChute provides a graphical interface that displays the UPS’s battery level, output voltage, and load status in real-time. This allows you to keep track of your UPS’s health and performance at a glance.
- Automated Shutdown: PowerChute can automatically shut down your computer and other connected devices in the event of a power outage. This helps to prevent data loss and ensures a safe shutdown of your system. You can configure the shutdown behavior to meet your specific requirements, including setting a delay timer and selecting which devices to shut down.
- Power Management: PowerChute lets you manage your computer’s power consumption by enabling energy-saving features like sleep mode and hibernation. This can help you reduce your energy bills and extend the life of your battery.
- Event Logging: PowerChute keeps a detailed log of all UPS events, including power outages, battery discharges, and software updates. This information can be valuable for troubleshooting problems and understanding the performance of your UPS.
- Advanced Settings: PowerChute allows you to customize various settings, such as battery charging thresholds, notification settings, and automatic restart behavior. This provides you with greater control over your UPS’s operation and allows you to fine-tune it to your specific needs.
- Remote Management: With the network-enabled version of PowerChute, you can manage your UPS remotely via a web interface. This allows you to monitor and control your UPS from any computer on the same network, giving you greater flexibility and control.
Overall, APC PowerChute is a valuable software companion for the Back-UPS Pro 1500VA. It enhances the UPS’s functionality and provides you with comprehensive management capabilities. Whether you’re looking to monitor your UPS’s status, automate shutdown procedures, or manage power consumption, PowerChute offers a range of features that can help you protect your data and devices.
Noise Levels and Thermal Performance
The APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA is surprisingly quiet, even under load. During normal operation, it emits a low hum that’s barely noticeable, making it suitable for use in home offices or bedrooms. When the unit switches to battery power, there’s a slight increase in noise, but it’s still relatively quiet compared to other UPS units on the market. It’s worth noting that the fan only kicks in when the unit gets hot, so you won’t hear any fan noise unless the UPS is under heavy load or in a hot environment. In terms of thermal performance, the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA remains cool to the touch even during extended periods of use. The unit has vents on the sides and rear to allow for airflow, and it doesn’t feel hot to the touch even after running for hours. This indicates that the internal components are well-designed and that the cooling system is effective at dissipating heat. Overall, the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA strikes a good balance between noise and thermal performance. It’s quiet enough for most home office environments, and it runs cool, ensuring that the unit won’t overheat even under heavy load.
Safety Features: Surge Protection and Overload Protection
The APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA is equipped with robust surge protection and overload protection to safeguard your connected devices from power fluctuations and unexpected surges. The unit features multiple outlets with surge protection circuitry, designed to absorb and dissipate excess voltage, preventing damage to your sensitive electronics.
In addition, it includes overload protection that automatically disconnects the unit if the power draw exceeds the safe limit, preventing damage to the UPS itself. This dual protection system ensures that your devices are protected from both sudden voltage spikes and sustained overload conditions, providing peace of mind during power outages and unstable power grids.
Furthermore, the UPS is rated for 1500VA, which translates to a substantial amount of power to protect a wide range of devices. This makes it ideal for home offices, gaming setups, and other demanding applications. The APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA also features a battery backup function, providing uninterrupted power for your devices during power outages. This ensures that your work isn’t interrupted and your data is protected even in the event of a power failure.
Overall, the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA is a reliable and effective power protection solution that effectively safeguards your devices from voltage surges, overloads, and power outages. Its robust protection features and ample power capacity make it a worthwhile investment for users who prioritize the safety and security of their electronic equipment.
Price and Value: Comparing to the Competition
The APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA sits at a price point that’s competitive with other mid-range UPS units offering similar power capacity. You’ll find it priced around $200, which is in line with rivals from CyberPower, Tripp Lite, and other well-known brands. However, the real value comes from the features and performance you get for your money.
The Back-UPS Pro 1500VA offers a good blend of power capacity, battery life, and safety features. It’s a reliable choice for protecting computers, servers, and other sensitive electronics in a home or small office environment. While some competing models might boast slightly longer battery runtimes or more advanced software features, the Back-UPS Pro 1500VA excels in its overall balance.
Consider the following factors when comparing the Back-UPS Pro 1500VA to the competition:
- Power Capacity: The 1500VA rating provides sufficient power for most desktop computers and peripherals.
- Battery Life: The Back-UPS Pro 1500VA provides decent battery life for its size, allowing you enough time to save your work and shut down gracefully in case of a power outage.
- Surge Protection: The unit includes robust surge protection, safeguarding your equipment from power surges and spikes.
- Software Features: While some competitors offer more advanced software features, the APC PowerChute software included with the Back-UPS Pro 1500VA offers the essential functionality for managing your UPS and controlling power events.
Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. However, the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA presents a solid combination of price, features, and performance, making it a strong contender in its class.
Pros and Cons: A Balanced Perspective
The APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA stands out with its impressive power capacity, robust features, and reliable performance, making it a strong contender for home and office use. However, its hefty price tag and somewhat bulky design might give some users pause. Let’s delve deeper into the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Pros:
- Unmatched Power Capacity: The 1500VA rating delivers ample power for essential electronics, allowing you to keep critical devices running smoothly during power outages.
- Pure Sine Wave Output: The pure sine wave output ensures compatibility with sensitive electronics, preventing damage and maintaining optimal performance.
- Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR): AVR protects your devices from voltage fluctuations, ensuring a stable power supply even with minor power dips.
- Reliable Battery Backup: The battery provides sufficient runtime to safely shut down your equipment and prevent data loss during power outages.
- Comprehensive Surge Protection: The surge protection circuitry safeguards your devices against damaging power surges and spikes, ensuring longevity and peace of mind.
- User-Friendly Interface: The control panel is intuitive and easy to navigate, providing clear information about power status and battery levels.
- Versatile Connectivity: The multiple USB, serial, and network ports allow you to connect various devices and manage the UPS remotely.
Cons:
- High Price: The Back-UPS Pro 1500VA comes at a premium compared to other UPS models, which might be a drawback for budget-conscious users.
- Bulky Size: The unit’s large size can be an issue for users with limited space, especially on desktops or under desks.
- Fan Noise: While not excessively loud, the fan can generate noticeable noise during operation, which might be a concern for noise-sensitive environments.
- Limited Battery Capacity: While sufficient for most situations, the battery capacity could be a limiting factor for extended power outages.
Overall, the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA offers a compelling combination of power, features, and reliability. However, its price and size could be potential drawbacks depending on individual needs and priorities. Carefully consider your requirements and compare prices before making a final decision.
Conclusion: Is the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA Worth It?
The APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA is a solid choice for anyone seeking reliable power protection for their critical equipment. Its high VA rating, excellent battery life, and comprehensive safety features make it an attractive option for both home and office use. However, the price point might be a barrier for some users, and the lack of certain advanced features like automatic voltage regulation (AVR) could be a drawback for those in areas with frequent power fluctuations. Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize reliable power backup, surge protection, and long battery life, the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA is a strong contender. If you require more advanced features like AVR, you may want to explore other options.
Alternative Options: Similar Power Protection Solutions
While the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA is a great option, it’s not the only power protection solution out there. Several other brands and models offer similar features and benefits, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Here are a few noteworthy alternatives to consider:
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CyberPower CP1500EPFCLCD: CyberPower’s CP1500EPFCLCD is a direct competitor to the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA. It offers similar power output, battery backup time, and surge protection capabilities. The CP1500EPFCLCD stands out with its compact design and user-friendly LCD display. It also includes a handy battery management feature that allows you to monitor and optimize battery performance.
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Tripp Lite Smart1500LCD: Another excellent contender is the Tripp Lite Smart1500LCD. This UPS boasts a high-quality build, robust surge protection, and a clear LCD display that provides real-time power status updates. The Smart1500LCD is known for its reliable performance and long battery life, making it a popular choice for home and small office applications.
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Belkin BE1500VA-GR: If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the Belkin BE1500VA-GR is worth considering. This UPS offers solid power protection at a competitive price point. While it may not have as many advanced features as some of the other models, it provides dependable backup power and surge protection for essential devices.
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Eaton 5P1500: Eaton’s 5P1500 is a premium UPS that focuses on providing clean, reliable power. It features advanced battery management technology, pure sine wave output, and robust surge protection. The 5P1500 is ideal for sensitive electronics that require a high-quality power supply.
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APC Back-UPS Pro 1000VA: For smaller setups or those needing less power capacity, the APC Back-UPS Pro 1000VA might be a suitable alternative. It offers a compact size, good battery backup time, and reliable surge protection at a more budget-friendly price.
When choosing an alternative to the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA, consider your specific needs and budget. Factors to weigh include power output, battery backup time, surge protection capabilities, features like LCD displays and battery management, and price. It’s always advisable to read reviews and compare specifications before making a final decision.
Final Thoughts: A Powerful and Reliable Power Backup
The APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA stands out as a powerful and reliable power backup solution for homes and small offices. With its high VA rating, it can effectively power a range of essential devices, ensuring minimal disruption during power outages. The extended battery life provides ample time to save work and shut down systems safely. The unit’s robust build quality and comprehensive safety features instill confidence in its ability to withstand power surges and protect connected equipment. While the price may be higher than some entry-level options, the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA delivers exceptional performance and peace of mind, justifying its investment for those seeking reliable power protection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the runtime of the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA with a full charge?
A: The runtime depends on the load you connect to the UPS. With a typical computer setup, you can expect around 15-20 minutes of runtime. However, for heavier loads, like multiple high-power devices, the runtime will be shorter.
Q: Does the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA provide surge protection?
A: Yes, it does. This UPS offers surge protection for all connected devices, protecting them from power spikes and surges.
Q: Can I use this UPS with my gaming PC?
A: Absolutely! The APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA is suitable for gaming PCs. It provides enough power to support even high-end gaming rigs.
Q: Is the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA compatible with Macs?
A: Yes, the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA is compatible with Macs. It works with both USB and serial connections.
Q: What are the battery replacement options for the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA?
A: You can purchase replacement batteries directly from APC or from authorized retailers. The battery is user-replaceable, making it easy to maintain the UPS’s performance over time.
Q: Does the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA come with any software?
A: Yes, it comes with APC PowerChute software, which provides advanced power management features and allows you to monitor the UPS and configure its settings.
Q: What are the noise levels of the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA?
A: The UPS is relatively quiet, especially when on battery power. The fan does kick in during heavy loads or high temperatures, but it’s not overly loud.
Q: How does the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA compare to other UPS units in the market?
A: The APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA is a strong contender in its class. It offers a good balance of features, performance, and price.
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Q: Does the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA work with a generator?
A: Yes, it does. The APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA is generator-compatible, allowing you to use it with an external generator for backup power during outages.
Q: What are the overall pros and cons of the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA?
A: Pros: High power output, reliable performance, good battery life, surge protection, user-friendly control panel, compatible with multiple devices, and comes with software for power management.
Cons: The price is slightly higher compared to some competitors, and the fan can be a bit loud during heavy loads.
In conclusion, the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA is a reliable and feature-rich UPS that excels in protecting your sensitive electronics from power outages and surges. Its generous battery capacity, multiple outlets, and robust surge protection make it a suitable choice for home offices, small businesses, and even critical equipment in your home. While its price point may be higher than some alternatives, the peace of mind it provides is invaluable.
The unit’s compact design and user-friendly interface contribute to its overall appeal. The software included allows for convenient monitoring and control of the UPS, while the automatic voltage regulation ensures stable power delivery. Whether you are concerned about frequent power outages or simply want to safeguard your devices from unpredictable surges, the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA is a solid investment that offers excellent performance and reliability.
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Overall, the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA strikes a balance between power, features, and user-friendliness. It’s a robust and dependable UPS that offers comprehensive protection for your valuable electronics. If you’re looking for a high-quality UPS with a good balance of features and performance, the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA is a great option to consider.
While there are other UPS options available on the market, the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA stands out due to its combination of reliable performance, comprehensive features, and user-friendly design. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a UPS that can provide dependable power protection in the event of a power outage or surge.
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