Epson 500 User Manual

IMPORTANT NOTICE
DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY
Epson American makes no representations or warranties, either express or implied, by or
with respect to anything in this manual, and shall not be liable for any implied warranties
of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose or for any indirect, special, or
consequential damages. Some states do not allow the exclusion of incidental or
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical,
photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Epson.
American, Inc. No patent liability is assumed with respect to the use of information
contained herein. Nor is any liability assumed for damages resulting from the use of the
information contained herein. Further, this publication and features described herein are
subject to change without notice.
TRADEMARKS
EPSON is a registered trademark of Seiko Epson Corporation.
ActionNote is a trademark and EPSON Connection is a service mark of Epson America,
Inc.
General notice: Other product names used herein are for identification purposes only and may be trademarks of their respective companies.
The Energy Star emblem does not represent EPA
endorsement of any product or service
Copyright © 1993 by Epson America, Inc.
Torrance, California, USA
400290600
12/93
Important Safety Instructions
Read all of these instructions and save them for later reference. Follow
all warnings and instructions market on the computer.
Turn off the computer before cleaning. Clean with a damp cloth only.
Do not spill liquid on the computer.
Use only the type of power source indicated on the computer's label.
Connect all equipment to properly grounded power outlets. Avoid using outlets on the same circuit as photocopiers or air control systems that regularly switch on and off.
Do not let the computer's power cord become damaged or frayed.
If you use an extension cord with the computer, make sure the total
ampere rating of the devices plugged into the extension cord does not exceed the cord’s ampere rating. Also, make sure the total of all devices plugged into the wall outlet does not exceed 15 amperes.
Except as specifically explained in this User's Guide, do not attempt
to service the computer yourself.
Unplug the computer and refer servicing to qualified service
personnel under the following contitions: If the power cord or plug is damaged; if liquid has entered the
computer; if the computer has been dropped or the cabinet damaged; if the computer does not operate normally or exhibits a distinct change in performance. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions.
When travelling by airplane, be sure to take your computer into the passenger compartment as carry-on luggage to prevent it from being stored in an unpressurized storage area.
If you plan to use the computer in Germany, observe the following:
To provide adequate short-circuit protection and over-current protection for this computer, the building installation must be protected by a 16 Amp circuit breaker.
Beim Anschluß des Computers an die Netzversorgung muß
sichergestellt werden, daß die Gebäudienstallation mit einem
16 A Uberstromschutzchalter abgesichert ist.
iii
Importants Instructions de Securite
Lire attentivement les instructions suivantes et les conserver pour less
consulter en cas besoin. Observer soigneusement tous les
avertissements et directives marques sur I'ordinateur.
Débrancher l’ordinateur avant de le nettoyer. N’utiliser qu’un chiffon humide. Veiller à ne pas renverser de liquides sur l'appareil.
Utilisers seulement le type de source d'alimentation électrique indiqué
sur l'étiquette.
Tout l'équipement doit être branché sur des prises de courant avec
contact de terre. Ne jamais utiliser une prise sur le même circuit qu’un appareil à photocopies ou un systéme de contrôle de ventilation avec commutation marche-arrêt automatique.
S'assurer que le cordon d'alimentation de l'ordinateur n'set pas
abimé ni effiloché.
Dans le cas ou on utilise un cordon de rallonge avec l'ordinateur,
s'assurer que l'intensite en amperes requise pour tours les apparils
branches sur ce cordon ne soit pas superieure a la capacite du cordon.
S'assurer aussi que cette intenste ne depasse jamails la somme de 15
ampéres pour l'ensemble des appareils.
Sauf dans les cas spécifiques expliqués dans ce manuel de l'usager, ne pas essayer d'entretenir ou de réparer l'ordinateur somémme.
Débrancher l'ordinateur et contracter un technicien qualifié dans les
circonstances suivantes:
Si le cordon ou la prise sont abimés; si un liquide a pénétré à l'intérieur de l'appareil; si on a laissé tomber l'appareil ou si le boîtier est endommagé; si l'ordinateur ne fonctionne pas normalement ou fonctionne d'une maniére trés defférente de l’ordinaire. N’ajuster que les commandes décrites dans les directives.
Pour les voyages par avion, prendre l'ordinateur avec soi dans la
cabine comme bagage à main, pour éviter qu'il soit transporté dans une soute non pressurisée.
Pour utiliser l'irdubateyr eb Allemagne, il est nécessaire que le
bâtiment siut nuni d'un dijoncteur de 16 ampères pour protéger
l'ordinateur contre les courts-circuits et le survoltage.
iv
Contents
Introduction
Standard Configuration OptionaI Equipment Where to Get Help
Compuserve online Support
How to Use This Manual
Conventions Used in This Manual
Chapter 1 Setting Up the Computer
Identifying the System Park
Front View
Rear Panel and Left Side Connecting the AC Adapter Opening the Screen Connecting the Trackball
Attaching the Trackball
Turning On the Computer
Using Your Operating System
Chapter 2
Taking Care of the Computer Backing Up Your Files Using the Password Function
Typing the Password Using the Keyboard
Using Fn, F11, and F12
Using the Embedded Numeric Keypad
Resetting the Computer .........................
Turning Off the Computer Changing the CPU Speed Adjusting the LCD Screen Using Diskettes Using the Video Utilities and Drivers
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Using Your Computer
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1 3 4 5 6 7
1-2 1-2 1-4 1-4 1-6 1-6 1-7 1-8 1-10
2-2 2-3 2-3
2-4 2-5
2-5 2-6 2-7 2-8 2-8 2-9 2-9 2-10
v
Chapter 3
Powering the Computer
Using the AC Adapter Using the Battery Pack
Replacing the Battery Pack
Recharging the Battery
Extending Battery Life
Low Battery Indicator
Using the Suspend/Resume Switch
Using setup to
Conserve Battery Power
Using Energy Wisely
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Chapter 4 Connecting Optional Devices
Connecting an External Monitor
Using the External Monitor
Connecting a Parallel Printer Connecting a Serial Device
Checking the Serial Port Settings Connecting an External Keyboard Connecting a Pointing Device Connecting the Fax/Modern Telephone Line
Adding Memory Modules or a Numeric Coprocessor
Removing the Keyboard
Installing a Memory Module
Installing a Numeric Coprocessors
Replacing the Keyboard
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3-1
3-2 3-2 3-4
3-5
3-6 3-7
3-8 3-8
4-2
4-4
4-5
4-6
4-7
4-8
4-8
4-9
4-10
4-11
4-13 4-15 4-17
Chapter 5
Starting the Setup Program
Changing the Settings
Running Setup
......................
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Automatically Configuring Your System
Saving Your Selections Changing the Basic Settings Changing the Custom Settings Changing Power Management Settings Changing the Password
vi
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5-2 5-3 5-3 5-3 5-4 5-5 5-7 5-8
Appendix A
Troubleshooting
Identifying Your System Error Messages The Computer Won’t Start Battery Problems AC Adapter Problems The LCD Screen Is Blank The External Monitor Screen Is Blank The Computer Locks Up Password Problems
Diskette Problems
Diskette Drive Problems Hard Disk Problems Software Problems Printer Problems Memory Module problems
Trackball or Pointing Device Problems
External Keyboard Problems Numeric Coprocessor CMOS Battery Problems
Appendix B
Built-in Command Set AT Command Summary
Dial Modifiers
MNP Command Summary
AT Register Summary
Option Registers MNP Register Summary Result Code Summary
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Fax/Modem
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Problems
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A-2 A-3 A-3
A-4
A-5 A-6 A-6 A-7
A-8 A-9
A-10
A-10
A-11
A-12
A-12 A-13
A-13
A-14
A-14
B-3
B-4
B-6
B-7
B-8
B-10 B-12
B-13
vii
Appendix C
Specifications
Main Unit ................................................................................
Controllers and Connectors ......................................................
Input Devices .........................................................................
Mass Storage ............................................................................
Display ....................................................................................
Power Supply ...........................................................................
Physical Dimensions ................................................................
Environmental Requirements ...................................................
Power Source Requirements ......................................................
C-1
C-2
C-3 C-3
C-3
C-3
C-4
C-4
C-5
Glossary
Index
Epson International Marketing Locations
viii

Introduction

3With your purchase of an EPSON computer, you have chosen state-of-the-art notebook computing. The 486SLC2-50 microprocessor chip, designed for portable computers, packs high-speed performance into your compact, lightweight notebook.
®
ActionNote™ 500 series

Standard Configuration

The ActionNote 500 notebooks are versatile computers supporting a wide range of applications and hardware. Their standard features include the following:
Cyrix™ 486SLC2-50 processor with clock-doubling technology, which enables the processor to operate at twice the speed of the system
4MB or 8MB of RAM (random access memory), expandable to 8MB
Backlit LCD (liquid crystal display) screen supporting standard VGA resolutions (up to 640 x 480) in 256 colors
16-bit local bus video controller for LCD and external monitor Jntemal hard disk drive Internal 3.5-inch, 1.44MB diskette drive Bidirectional parallel port for a printer or other parallel device Serial port for a serial device RJ-11 standard phone jack for an internal modem
Introduction 1
Autosensing video port for an external color or monochrome VGA or SVGA monitor
Port for a PS/2®-compatible pointing device Trackball with drivers and utilities Port for a PS/2-compatible external keyboard
Rechargeable battery pack AC adapter for the computer and recharging the
battery pack Socket for an optional numeric coprocessar
Two processing speeds: high and low (8MHz) Suspend mode to save battery power Carrying case with room for the computer, trackball,
AC adapter, power cable, diskettes, and manuals MS-DOS® Operating system, including diskettes and manuals Microsoft® Windows,™ including and manuals.
Depending on the configuration you purchased, your computer may also include the following:
Internal 9600/2400 fax/modem Internal 14.4/14.4 fax/modem BitCom® modem software and WinFax™ LITE fax
transmission software, including disckettes and manuals.
2
Introduction
Your ActionNote complies with the United States Environmental
Protection Agency's Energy Star Program, which promotes the manufacture of energy-efficient printers, computers, and monitors. Your computer's power management features place the hard disk drive, LCD, and system in a low-power suspend mode when these
Note
If you use an Energy Star compliant external monitor with your computer, it also goes into a low-power mode because it isn't receiving video signals from your computer. (screens on non-compliant monitors go blank, but do not enter a low-power mode.)
Your computer's Setup program lets you select different time-out periods for the hard disk drive, LCD, and system so you can ensure that the power management features fit the way you work.
components are inactive for a specified period of time.

Optional Equipment

You can easily upgrade your computer by installing additional memory and adding optional devices, including:
Expansion memory module (4MB) External PS/2-compatible keyboard
Extra battery packs
Additional AC adapter Adapter for an automobile cigarette lighter Fax/modem (installed by dealer only).
Introduction 3

Where to Get Help

If you purchased your computer in the United States or Canada, EPSON provides local nationwide networkd of Authorized EPSON Service Centers. EPSON also provides support
Connection. In the United States, dial 1-800-922-891. In Canada, dial 1-800-GO-EPSON.
Call of EPSON Connection for the following:
Technical assistance with the installation, configuration, and operation of EPSON products
Assistance in locating your nearest Authorized EPSON
Reseller or Service Center
Assistance with Extra care Road service Sales of accessories, manuals, or parts for EPSON products Customer relations EPSON technical information library fax service
customer support and service through a
services through the EPSON
Product literature with technical specifications on current and
new products.
when you call for technical assistance, you need to be able to identify your system and its configuration, and provide any error messages to the support staff. See Appendix A for more
information.
If you purchased your computer in the united states or canada, EPSON also provides Extra Care Road Service. Your ActionNote package should contain a packet describing the program. If not, call the EPSON Connection.
4 Introductions
If you purchased your computer outside the United States or Canada, please contact your EPSON dealer or the marketing location nearest you for customer support and service. International marketing locations are listed at the end of this manual.
If you need help with MS-DOS, Windows, or any software application program you are using, see the documentation that came with the program for technical support information.

CompuServe On-line Support

If you have a modem, a fast way to access helpful tips, specifications, drivers, application notes, and bulletins is through the Epson America Forum on CompuServe.
CompuServe member, simply type GO
to reach the Epson America Forum. If you are not currently a member of CompuServe, you are
elegible for a free introductory membership as an owner of an EPSON product. This membership entitles you to:
An introductory $15 credit on compuServe
®
If you are already a
EPSON
at the menu prompt
Your own user ID and password A complimentary subscription to CompuServe Magazine,
CompServe's monthly Publication.
To take advantage of this offer, call
-1-800-848-8199 in the United States and Canada and ask for representative #529. In other countries, call l-614-529-1611 or your local CompuServe access number.
Introduction 5

How to Use This Manual

This manual expIains how to set up and operate your computer and install options.
You do not need to read everything in this book to use your computer; see the following chapter sections you need:
Chapter it provides setps for setting up your computer Chapter 2 covers basic information about using the computer.
Chapter 3 explains how to power your computer using the AC adapter and the battery. It also describes ways to
power.
summaries to find find
conserve battery
Chapter 4 describes how to chapter 5 describes how to run the Setup program; this is
neaessaryifyouwanttosetapaswordayouchangettre configuration of your computer.
Appendix A provides troubleshooting tips. Appendix B provides basic informatian about the intemaI
modem and summarizes its commands. Appendix C contains the specificaticns for ActionNote
computer.
connect optional devices.
At the end of the manual, you'll find a Glossary and an Index.
6 Introduction

Conventions Used in This Manual

This manual uses the following type conventions represent commands:
Example
Enter
Ctrl C
FnFl
C:\DOS
COPY *.* A:
path\filename
CWl
Meaning
Keys you press on the keyboard
Keys you press at the same time; hold down the key marked Ctrl and then press,
the lelter C,orholddownthekeymarked
Fn and then press the F1 key
Text as it appears on the screen
Text that you type exactly as shown
Words printed in lowercase it alics
represent optional parameter names; here you would type the actual path and
filename, such as \WORK\CONTACT
Names ot hardware elements
Introduction 7
Chapter 1
SettingUp the Computer
This chapter covers the following asicinformatiionforsettingup mour ActionNote computer:
Identifying the system parts
Connecting the AC adapter Opening the screen connecting the trackball
Turning on the computer.
Instruction for installing optional equipment (such as a memory
module or a numeric coprocessor) or connecting external
equipment (such as a monitor or printer) are provided in
Chapter 4.
caution when travelling by airplane, be sure to take your computer into
compartment as carry-on luggage to prevent it
from being stored in an unpressurized storage area.
.
Setting Up the Computer 1-1

Identifying the System Parts

Before getting started, refer to the illuslrations in this section to
identify the different parts of your computer.

Front View

1-2 Setting Up the Computer
LEDS
The LEDs (light emitting diodes) on your computer provide
information about its operation, as shown in the following table.
LED functions
LED
Power
Low battery
Charging
Suspend mode
Hard disk drive lndicates the computer is accessing the hard
NumLock
1
Caps Lock
!krdLock
Function
lndicates the computer is on: the AC adapter, battery pack. or automobile adapter is supplying power to the computer.
When flashing, indicates the battery capacity is less then 209b.
Indicates the battery is fully charged; blinks when the AC adapter is connected and charging the battery.
lndicates the computer is in Suspend mode.
disk drive.
iNDICATES
that Numlock is set on the keyboard.
This activates the ernbedded numeric
on the keyboard.
Indicates that caps Locks Look is set ofndkzatesthatCapLockbaetcnthekeyboard.
lndicates that Scroll Lock is set on the keyboard.
rd.
keypad
Setting Up the Computer 1-3

Rear Panel and Left Side

1-4 Setting Up the Computer

Connecting the AC Adapter

The AC adapter is designed to be used in most countries, as it can
operate in the ranges 100 to 240 VAC, 50 to 60 Hz (autosensing).
Caution
Use only the AC adapter (model number AP-3S25) supplied
with the computer.
If you are using the adapter in a country other than the one where
you purchased your ActionNote, make sure you have the correct
power cable for the electrical socket. See the power cable specifications in Appendix C for details.
You may need to connect the AC adapter to charge the battery
before you use it for the first time. (SeeChapter 3 for complete
instructions on powering the computer with the AC adapter and/or the battery.)
Follow these steps to connect the adapter to the computer:
1.
Connect the AC adapter plug to the DC input port on the right side of the computer.
2. Connect the power cable to the AC adapter.
3. Connect the other end of the power cable to a grounded electrical outlet.
Setting Up the Computer 1-5

Opening the Screen

To open the LCD samm, place the computer on a level surface.
Facing the front of the computer, slide the release latches toward
the sides and lift up the screen.

Connecting the Trackball

Your computer package includes a, trackball, which you connect to
the MOUSE port on the left side of the computer. Although the KB
and MOUSE ports look the same, they cannot be used
interchangeably. Be sure to plug your trackball into the MOUSE
port to avoid damaging your system.
1-6 Setting Up the Computer
Before you can use an optional device like the trackball, you must
Setting Up the Computer 1-7
install special software, called a device driver. The device driver allows the operating system and your application software to recognize the device. The device driver and utilities for the trackball have already been installed on your hard disk so the Action-Note
You Can Configure the trackball for left-handed use and customize other features of its operation. For more information, see the documentation that came with the trackball.
will recognize the trackball as soon as you turn it on.

Attaching the Trackball

You can attach the track ball to the right or leftside of your keyboard or LCD screen. If you attach it to the right side of your keyboard,make sure there is not a diskette in the diskette drive. Also,you will not be able to access the diskette drive while the trackball is attached.
Follow these steps to attach the trackball to your computer:
1. Press the button on the attaching devics. The clip extends so youcan& clamp the device onto the side of your computer.
2. Clip the attaching device onto either side of the keyboard or
screen and release the button.
3. snap the trackfull onto the attaching device. aUollbotheatta~QvMe.

Turning On the Computer

When you first use the Action Note, battery may not be charged;somakesuretheACadapteris itonhrttwfimttinw.
1-8 Setting Up the Computer
comeaedwhenyoutum
Before you turn on the computer, first connect and turn on any external devices you will be using--such as a printer or monitor. (See Chapter 4 for information about installing optional devices.)
Then press the power button on the top of the computer to turn it on..
The Computer performs a series of power-on on diagnostics tests to
check the circuit boards, memory, ports,. keyboard, and disk
drives. It displays several messages during the diagnostics,
including this prompt:
Press <Delete> If you want to run setup
If the tests indicate a problem with the system or a change in configuration, you will see an error message followed by this
Prompt:
RUN SETUP UTILLITY
Press <F1> to RBSONE
If this happens, press F1 to run the Setup program and check your system configuration. See Chapter 5 for instructions.
Setting Up the Computer 1-9
When the computer completes its testing, it displays a screen describing the system's configuration.
If necessary, press the Pause button on the keyboard to view the
configuration screen. Then press any key to continue the startup Process.-
Because your-computer was set up at the factory, the configuration
information should be accurate. If you have changed the computer’s setup so that this information does not match your configuration, run the Setup program as described in
correct it

Using Your Operating System

Your Computer-WithMS-D0S and
installed on the disk. However, you can use another
operating system, such aso OS/2,• UNIX,• or XENIX,• Although
this manual includes sample MS-DOS commands, it does not
explain how to use the operating system; see your MS-DOS or
other operating system manuals for complete instructions.
Your computer starts up in MS-DOS and Windows as soon as it
completes the power-on diagnostics. The messages you see as the
computer loads MS-Dos depend on how your computer has been
set up.
If you plan to use another Operating system, you need to install it
now. See the documentation that came with your operating system
for installation instructions.
Microsoft widows
1-10
setting up the computer
Chapter 2
Using Your Computer
This chapter describes how to use your ActionNote computer on a daily basis. It provides information on the following procedures:
Taking care of the computer Backing up your files Using the password function
Using the keyboard
Reseting the computer
Turning off the computer Changing the CPU speed Adjusting the LCD screen
Using diskettes Using the video utilities and drivers.
Using Your Computer
2-1

Taking Care of the Computer

Before you begin using your computer, read the following guidelinesto
Keep the computer and AC adapter dry, and do not expose
them to extreme heat or cold.
Do not place external devices on top of the computer, even if it is closed, to prevent damage to the LCD display.
when you are not using the external device connectors, keep
the covers closed to prevent damage to ports.
Occasionally clean the exterior of the computer with a soft, damp cloth.
Occasionally clean the LCD display using glass cleaner on a soft cloth; do not apply the cleaner directly to the screen.
Follow these precautions to protect your hard disk from damage and to avoid losing data:
Never turn off or reset the computer when the hard disk drive
light is on. This light indicates that the computer is copying data to or from the hard disk.
ensure proper maintenance of the ActionNote:
Do not move the computer when the power is on. After
turning the power off, wait 20 seconds before moving it. This allows the disks in the drive to stop spinning and the hard disk read/write heads to lock in place so you do not damage the drive.
2-2 Using Your Computer

Backing Up Your Files

Be sure to back up your files regularly. For large you might want to consider a portable tape backup unit. Make copies of all your system and applicatioon program diskettes before copying the programs to the hard disk.
Your computer comes with video drivers and utilities already installed on the hard disk. To protect these these important files, you should back them up before you begin using your system. The files are located in two directories, C:\WINDOWS\VGAUTIL
and C:\VGAUTIL.
Your can back up these directories using either the Windows File Manager or the MS-DOS XCOPY command.
See your MS-DOS or Windows documentation
information about copying files and directories. See page 2-10 for more information about using the video utilites and drivers.
for more
amounts of data,

Using the Password Function

The ActionNote provides password security for the entire system or only the Setup program. This allows you to safeguard all your data or only your Setup configuration. The passward function is optional and you do not have to set a password if you don't wantdon’twant
You use the Setup program to first enable or disable a password and then define it. (See Chapter 5 for instructions.)
If you enable the power-on password, you must enter it each time you turn on or reset your computer. (Resetting the computer is described later in this chapter.) The computer prompts you for the password after it completes its power-on diagnostics.
Using Your Computer
2-3
IfyouenaMethesehrppassword,youmustenter it before you can
use the Setup program. The computer prompts you for the
password after you press Delete to start Setup.

Typing the Password

You see this prompt when the password feature is activated:
Enter CURRENT Passsword:
Type the correct password and press Enter. To protect your
password, the screen does not display the characters you type.
If you do not type the correct password, the screen displays an X
and repeats the passord prompt. Try typing the password again.
The computer allows you three tries to enter it correcly. After the
third incorrect attempt, the system displays a blinking face icon
and locks up. You must reset the system to try again.
Note
If you want to change your current password or disable the
password function, you need to use the Setup program. See
Chapter 5 for instructions. If you forget your password, call the
EPSON Connection for assistance at 1-800-922-8911 in the United States or 1-800-GO-EPSON in Canada.
2-4 Using Your Computer

Using the Keyboard

Although the keyboard on the ActionNote has only 84 keys (85 on the international version), its still provides all the functions of a full-size
has a separate numeric keypad you can use for both numberic entry
and cursor control. The ActicnNote has an embedded numeric
keypad that you access using the Fn and Shift keys in the same
way you use the Shift key to enter uppercase characters. (Using
the embedded numberic keypad is described later in this section.)
Note
The keyboard on the ActionNote is available with different layouts for different languages. Special keyboards are available in some countries. Additionally, you can use MS-DOS to reassign the layout of your keyboard to duplicate that of another country. See your MS-DOS manual for more information.
This section describes how to use the Fn, F11, and F12 keys and the embedded numberic keypad on your keyboard.
(102-key) keyboard. For example, a full-size keybard

Using Fn, F11, and F12

The Fn key activates the F11 and F12 keys and controls functions on the embedded numberic keypad. The F11 and F12 keys perform
special functions within application programs. You activate these
keys by using Fn with the F1 and F2 keys. Hold down Fn and press F1 to produce F11; hold down Fn and press F2 to produce
F12.
Using Your Computer 2-5
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