CEILING MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
U
n c o m p r o m i s i n g in Ev E r y
s
E n s E
™
TM
INSTALLATION GUIDE
CEILING MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
CEILING MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
Thank you for choosing ICS Loudspeakers. With proper installation, use, and
care, your loudspeakers will deliver years of listening enjoyment. For information
on the complete line of advanced IntelliControl ICS products, please visit us at:
www.nilesaudio.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction 3
Features and Benefits 3
Parts Guide 4
Installation Considerations 4
Installing the Loudspeaker 6
Adjusting the Pivoting Woofer and Tweeter 8
Settings Adjustments 9
Painting the Grilles 9
Installing the Grilles 9
Loudspeaker Applications 10
Specifications 12
CONGRATULATIONS!
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2
CEILING MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
LEFT/CENTER/RIGHT CEILING-MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
SURROUND EFFECTS CEILING-MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
STEREO INPUT CEILING-MOUNT LOUDSPEAKER
7. 3
7. 5
7. 7
8.5
8.7
7FX 8FX
7SI
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CEILING MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
CEILING MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
INTRODUCTION
The designer aesthetics, audiophile sonic performance, and ease of installation of
ICS loudspeakers put them in a class above competitive products. Each loudspeaker
features our advanced Rear Wave Control enclosure that is uniquely designed for
retrofit installations and optimized for high quality, predictable sound performance
and reduced sound bleed into adjacent rooms. The low profile, magnetically
attached grilles blend into any room’s decor. Available in 7” and 8” versions, there
are left/center/right, surround effects, and stereo input models for applications
ranging from advanced home theater to distributed audio systems. The patented
Directed Soundfield™ pivoting woofer technology directs the sound to the listening
area for superb audio performance.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS
DESIGNER AESTHETICS
Magnetically attached MicroThin™ round speaker grilles ensure a clean,
unobtrusive designer appearance that blends with the room’s aesthetics. Optional
square grilles provide added design flexibility.
AUDIOPHILE SOUND
The ICS Rear Wave Control enclosure is uniquely designed to fit through the
loudspeaker’s ceiling opening—ideal for retrofit installations. The enclosure is
shaped and sized for high quality, predictable sound performance while significantly
reducing unwanted sound from bleeding into adjacent rooms and spaces.
DIRECTED SOUNDFIELD™
Patented technology
*
that precisely directs the sound to the listening area for better
sound quality. New patent-pending pivot mechanism adjusts smoothly while holding
the woofer securely in position.
INSTALLATION EASE
Three patent-pending, spring tensioned mounting clamps permit quick installation
and compensate for uneven mounting surfaces and varied environmental conditions.
Weather-resistant construction enables installation in moist areas such as bathrooms
or outdoors under eaves.
INSTALL WITH CONFIDENCE
The best-built loudspeakers deserve the best protection—the ICS Lifetime Limited
Warranty.
* U.S. Patent 6,070,694
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CEILING MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
PARTS GUIDE
PACKAGE CONTENTS – RWC7.3, RWC7.5, RWC8.5, RWC7.7,
RWC8.7, RWC7SI
(1) ICS loudspeaker with Rear Wave Control enclosure, (1) Magnetically attached
round grill, (1) Hole template with painting standoffs, (1) Owner’s manual with
warranty information
PACKAGE CONTENTS – RWC7FX, RWC8FX
(2) ICS loudspeakers with Rear Wave Control enclosures, (2) Magnetically attached
round grilles, (2) Hole templates with painting standoffs, (1) Owner’s manual with
warranty information
INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
Recommended tools for installation:
7” ICS LOUDSPEAKERS
These require an 8-1/2” (21.60 cm) diameter hole opening with a minimum of 8”
(20.32 cm) depth when measured from the exterior face of the drywall, plus at least
10” (25.4 cm) clearance to one side of the loudspeaker opening for the Rear Wave
Control enclosure. To the sides of the hole you will need 1” for the mounting tabs to
clamp the speaker to the drywall.
8” ICS LOUDSPEAKERS
These require an 9-3/4” (24.76 cm) diameter hole opening with a minimum of 8”
(20.32 cm) depth when measured from the exterior face of the drywall, plus at least
10” (25.4 cm) clearance to one side of the loudspeaker opening for the Rear Wave
Control enclosure. To the sides of the hole you will need 1” for the mounting tabs to
clamp the speaker to the drywall.
(CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE)
• Cordless screwdriver • Measuring tape • Painters tape
• One inch #2 Phillips tip • Stud nder • Drop cloth
• 1/8” Drill bit • Spackle • Rubber gloves
• Drywall saw • Wire stripper • Optional - a 24” x 24”
piece of R19 insulation
• Laser plumb bob • Cable ties
• 12” -14” Coat hanger wire • Pencil
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CEILING MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
CEILING MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS (CONTINUED)
NOTE: BE VERY CAREFUL WHEN LOCATING THE SPEAKERS. VERIFY ALL LOCATIONS
ARE CLEAR OF OBSTRUCTIONS BEFORE CUTTING THE FIRST HOLE.
Each speaker requires two-conductor wiring of sufficient gauge. The gauge depends
on the length of the wire. For recommendations, please refer to (Figure 2). (Stereo
Input loudspeakers require four-conductor wiring).
When running loudspeaker wire inside walls or ceilings, use special jacketed
cable (CL-2 or CL-3 rating) to protect the wire and for fire prevention. In some
municipalities, conduit is required. For a trouble-free installation, low voltage wire
such as loudspeaker wire must be in accordance with the National Electrical Code
and any applicable provisions of the local building code. If you are unsure of the
correct installation techniques, wire jacket, or type of conduit to use, consult a
professional audio/video installer, building contractor, or the local building and
inspection department.
Figure 1. ICS loudspeaker installation dimensions
Figure 2. Speaker Wire Gauge Guide
Distance from speaker to amplifier Wire Gauge
Less than 80 feet
16
80 to 200 feet 14
More than 200 feet 12
8” (20.32 cm)
Depth Behind
Drywall
RWC7 8-1/2” (21.6 cm)
RWC8 9-3/4” (24.8 cm)
Diameter Hole Opening
10” (25.4 cm)
Clearance
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CEILING MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
INSTALLING THE LOUDSPEAKERS
It is often easier to lay the speakers out on the floor and then transfer the locations to
the ceiling with a laser plumb bob. If you are using new construction brackets, place
string across the centers of the bracket to provide a way to align the bracket to the
laser. Remember, you will need 1” to the sides of the mounting hole for the mounting
clamps to secure the speaker to the drywall.
1. Once you have determined a possible position for the hole cutout, drill a 1/8”
pilot hole just barely through the ceiling (1/2” to 5/8” deep in most homes) in
the center of your proposed loudspeaker location. BE VERY CAREFUL NOT
TO DRILL THROUGH EXISTING WIRES, PIPES, OR STRUCTURE. IF
YOU FEEL ANY EXTRA RESISTANCE AS YOU ARE DRILLING, STOP.
2. Cut a foot-long piece of coat hanger. Bend the wire (creating a right angle)
leaving 5-1/2” at one end (this allows for the extra width of the mounting dogs).
Poke the “L-shaped” wire into the pilot hole and turn it in a complete circle and
move it into the ceiling cavity to make sure you have approximately 8” of depth.
If the wire’s movement is obstructed by anything, fill the hole(s) with spackle
and try another location (If there is any risk of unisulated electrical connections
within the ceiling area, use insulating gloves or other materials or consult with an
installation professional before proceeding).
3. If the coat hanger moves freely in a complete circle and you have sufficient
depth, tape the template to the ceiling and proceed to layout the other speakers.
Once you are comfortable with all speaker locations, use a pencil to lightly
outline the circular template.
4. Drill the starting point of your cut with a 1/4” bit.
5. If you are cutting drywall, use a sheetrock or keyhole saw. Cut the hole with the
saw at a 45° angle. That way the drywall section can be replaced cleanly if there
is an unseen obstruction behind the wall. IMPORTANT: BE VERY CAREFUL
NOT TO SAW THROUGH EXISTING WIRES, PIPES, OR STRUCTURE.
IF YOU FEEL EXTRA RESISTANCE AS YOU ARE CUTTING, STOP.
NOTE: DO NOT INSTALL LOUDSPEAKERS BEFORE THE DRYWALL HAS BEEN COMPLETELY FINISHED AND PAINTED.
6. Prep the speaker wire by stripping 1/4”-1/2” from each speaker lead. Twist the
strands or tin the leads with solder to ensure there are no stray strands that could
short and possibly harm the amplifier.
(CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE)
Figure 4. Attaching a safety wire.
Figure 3. Securing the speaker wire with
a wire tie.
Figure 5. Inserting the loudspeaker into
the opening hole.
Mounting clamps require 1” clearance
to the sides of the hole opening
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CEILING MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
CEILING MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
INSTALLING THE LOUDSPEAKERS (CONTINUED)
7. The speaker has black and red
spring-loaded connectors attached
to the Rear Wave Control enclosure
(Figure 3). Black is for the negative
(
–) wire and red for the positive (
+
). It
is important to observe correct wiring
polarity. This is especially important
for the Stereo Input (SI) Loudspeaker.
If you have wire other than black and
red, make sure you connect it the same
on the amplifier end as the speaker
end. Failure to do so will adversely
affect the loudspeakers’ performance.
Supports are provided to secure the
speaker wire with wire ties.
8. A safety wire anchor is provided on
the Rear Wave Control enclosure
should you be required to secure the
loudspeaker assembly to a roof beam
or rafter (Figure 4).
9. Once the speaker wires and safety
wire are connected, carefully slide the
loudspeaker with attached Rear Wave
Control enclosure into the opening hole
(Figure 5). While holding the speaker
in place, tighten the mounting
screws to secure the speaker to
the drywall. We recommend
using a motorized screwdriver.
Be careful not to over tighten.
ICS loudspeakers feature spring
loaded mounting clamps that
allow the speaker to remain
flush with the ceiling, even if the
drywall shifts or expands.
NOTE: DO NOT CARRY THE SPEAKER
BY THE TWEETER OR TWEETER BRIDGE.
THIS MAY DAMAGE THE SPEAKER.
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CEILING MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
ADJUSTING THE PIVOTING WOOFER AND TWEETER
ICS loudspeakers feature the patented Directed Soundfield™ woofer pivot
mechanism that enables the loudspeaker to direct the sound to the listening area
(Figure 6). The tweeter(s) pivot independently of the woofer to provide additional
control of the sound. Adjusting the woofer angle will affect the tweeter angle, so
always begin by adjusting the woofer.
The ability to control the front sound wave via Directed Soundfield and the rear
sound wave via the Rear Wave Control enclosure gives ICS loudspeaker powerful
advantages over competitive models.
1. Press the outside edge of the woofer on the plastic, not the rubber, and slide
the speaker until it is facing the primary listening position. The woofer adjusts
approximately 15-degrees. Do not force the speaker to move beyond its limits.
2. After adjusting the woofer, adjust the tweeter by pressing on the outside edge of
the tweeter until it is facing the primary listening position.
Figure 6. Aim woofer and tweeter towards listener area
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CEILING MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
CEILING MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
SETTINGS ADJUSTMENTS
TWEETER SWITCH (RWC7.3, RWC7.5, RWC8.5, RWC7.7, RWC8.7)
The three-position tweeter switch allows you to adjust the high frequency output of
the loudspeaker to compensate for environmental issues. The center position does
not affect the tweeter output. Moving the switch to the – position reduces the tweeter
output by 3dB to compensate for bright rooms (tile or wood floors, spare furnishing,
tall ceilings). Moving the switch to the + position increases the tweeter output by 3dB
to compensate for absorptive rooms (carpeting, lots of drapery, plush furniture, etc.).
DIALOG COMPENSATION SWITCH (RWC7.3, RWC7.5, RWC8.5,
RWC7.7, RWC8.7)
This switch provides additional definition at critical midrange frequencies where
the human voice is reproduced. This switch is generally used only for home theater
center speaker applications. Engage the switch if you wish to enhance the dialog.
DIFFUSE / DIRECT SWITCH (RWC7FX, RWC8FX)
Use the Diffuse setting for movies and general music listening since most films are
mixed using non-localized surround effects and music is usually recorded in a
favorable acoustic environment. Use the Direct setting for discrete multi-channel
recordings that equally emphasize front and surround sounds. For 7.1-channel
surround sound systems, use the Diffuse setting on the side effects loudspeakers and
the Direct setting for the rear effects loudspeakers.
PAINTING THE GRILLES
ICS loudspeaker grilles can be painted without priming, but the fabric scrim must
first be removed. The installation template has die cut standoffs that can be used to
position the grille off the ground while painting. Use several light coats sprayed from
different sides and angles to cover all surfaces and not fill in any holes. If you do
fill some holes, use compressed air to open them before the paint dries. It may be
helpful to dilute the paint.
INSTALLING THE GRILLES
The ICS MicroThin™ speaker grille installs magnetically over the speaker. Carefully
center the grill over the speaker and let the magnets do their work, verifying that the
grill sets flush against the ceiling at all edges.
Figure 8. Home Theater Application.
Critical
Listening
Position
FX
LCR
FX
FX
LCR
FX
LCR
Figure 7. Stereo Sound Application.
3-6'
8'
8'
3-6'
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CEILING MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
(CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE)
LOUDSPEAKER APPLICATIONS
ICS Loudspeakers are designed to be installed in any standard ceiling. When
choosing a location, thought should be given to the sound coverage of the
loudspeaker, and ease of running the speaker wire.
STEREO SOUND APPLICATIONS
The best stereo effect will be achieved if both
loudspeakers are at an equal distance from the
listening area. Ideally all loudspeakers should be
on the same horizontal plane (Figure 7). Avoid
installing loudspeakers near corners to prevent
a “boomy” or diffracted sound. Also note that
the lower the ceiling, the closer the loudspeaker
should be placed to the listener.
HOME THEATER APPLICATIONS
Left/Center/Right – Position the center
channel loudspeaker directly over the
television, with the left and right speakers
equidistant from the center. The separation
between the left and right speakers should
not be more than the distance to the primary
seating area (Figure 8).
Side Surround Effects – Position
surround effects loudspeakers to the sides
of the listening area with the tweeters in-line
with the listener. The tweeters should point to
the front and rear of the room (Figure 8).
Rear Surround Effects – Position
surround effects loudspeakers behind the
listening area, to the inside of the front left
and right speakers. The tweeters should
point to the sides of the room (Figure 8).
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CEILING MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
CEILING MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
Figure 9. Single Loudspeaker Stereo Input Application
LOUDSPEAKER APPLICATIONS (CONTINUED)
STEREO INPUT SINGLE SPEAKER APPLICATIONS
Stereo Input loudspeakers are ideal for small rooms where positioning two
loudspeakers is not practical. Examples would be a small kitchen, bathroom, hallway,
or small bedroom. Locate the loudspeaker as close to the center of the room as
possible for the most even distribution of sound (Figure 9). Avoid installing the
loudspeaker near a corner to prevent a “boomy” or diffracted sound.
Model Woofer
Tweeter /
Midrange
Recommended
Amplifier Power
Normal
Impedance
Frame Dimensions
with Grille
Hole Cut-Out
Dimensions
Depth (5/8”
Drywall Ceiling)
RWC7.3
7” glass
fiber woofer
cone
1” UltraSilk
®
soft dome
10-140 watts
8 ohm nominal;
6 ohm minimum
9-7/8” (21.15 cm)
8-5/8”
(21.84 cm)
7-1/8”
(18.08 cm)
RWC7.5.
7” glass
fiber woofer
cone
1” fluid-cooled
Teteron
®
dome
10-140 watts
8 ohm nominal;
6 ohm minimum
9-7/8” (21.15 cm)
8-5/8”
(21.84 cm)
7-1/8”
(18.08 cm)
RWC7.7
7“ IMPACT
(Improved
Aluminum
Ceramic
Technology)
cone
1” nano-coated
IMPACT dome
10-175 watts
8 ohm nominal;
6 ohm minimum
9-7/8” (21.15 cm)
8-5/8”
(21.84 cm)
7-1/8”
(18.08 cm)
RWC7FX
7” glass
fiber woofer
cone
Dual 1”
fluid-cooled
Teteron
®
domes
10-150 watts
8 ohm nominal;
6 ohm minimum
9-7/8” (21.15 cm)
8-5/8”
(21.84 cm)
7-1/8”
(18.08 cm)
RWC8.5
8” glass
fiber woofer
cone
1” fluid-cooled
Teteron®
dome / 1-1/2”
fluid-cooled
Teteron
®
dome
10-150 watts
8 ohm nominal;
6 ohm minimum
11-1/4” (28.52 cm)
9-3/4”
(24.76 cm)
7-1/8”
(18.08 cm)
RWC8.7
8” IMPACT
(Improved
Aluminum
Ceramic
Technology)
cone
1” IMPACT
dome / 1-1/2”
IMPACT dome
10-180 watts
8 ohm nominal;
6 ohm minimum
11-1/4” (28.52 cm)
9-3/4”
(24.76 cm)
7-1/8”
(18.08 cm)
RWC8FX
8” IMPACT
(Improved
Aluminum
Ceramic
Technology)
cone
Dual 1” nano-
coated IMPACT
domes
10-180 watts
8 ohm nominal;
6 ohm minimum
11-1/4” (28.52 cm)
9-3/4”
(24.76 cm)
7-1/8”
(18.08 cm)
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CEILING MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
SPECIFICATIONS
13
CEILING MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
CEILING MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
1-800-BUY-HIFI (289-4434)
BY PHONE (IN USA)
CUStOmEr SErvICE HOUrS
8:00 AM to 5:30 PM ET
8:00 AM to 7:00 PM ET
tECHNICAl SUPPOrt HOUrS
www.nilesaudio.com
ON tHE wEB
EmAIl tECHNICAl SUPPOrt
EmAIl fOr PrOdUCt SUggEStIONS
productsuggestions@nilesaudio.com
techsupport@nilesaudio.com
BY PHONE (OUtSIdE USA)
1-305-238-4373
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14
CEILING MOUNT LOUDSPEAKERS
LIMITED WARRANTY
Niles Audio Corporation (“NILES”) warrants to the original retail purchaser only that this product will be free of manufacturing defects
in material and workmanship for the following periods and subject to the limitations and exclusions set forth below:
Lifetime Warranty
All Passive Loudspeaker Products (those not requiring AC or battery power).
Ten years from the date of purchase
All Other Passive Products (those not requiring AC or battery power).
Two years from the date of purchase
All Active Products (those requiring AC or battery power).
This warranty is not transferable to subsequent purchasers of the product. To obtain warranty service, contact the authorized dealer
where you purchased your product or take the unit to the nearest authorized NILES dealer (with proof of purchase – claims made
without proof of purchase will be denied) who will test the product and if necessary, forward it to NILES for service. If there are no
authorized NILES dealers in your area, you must contact NILES to receive a factory Return Authorization Number. DO NOT RETURN
ANY UNIT WITHOUT FIRST RECEIVING WRITTEN AUTHORIZATION AND SHIPPING INSTRUCTIONS FROM NILES.
Upon examination, NILES will, at its sole option and expense, repair or replace any product found to be defective. NILES will return
the repaired or replaced unit to you via its usual shipping method from the factory to your address in the United States of America or
Canada only. Any shipping costs for addresses outside of the United States or Canada shall be the responsibility of the purchaser.
In the event that this model is no longer available and cannot be repaired effectively, NILES, at its sole option, may replace it with
a different model of equal or greater value, or refund the original purchase price paid. THE FOREGOING ARE YOUR EXCLUSIVE
REMEDIES FOR BREACH OF WARRANTY.
This Warranty does not include service or parts to repair damage caused by improper use or handling, including but not limited to
damage caused by accident, mishandling, improper installation, commercial use, abuse, negligence, or normal wear and tear, or any
defect caused by repair to the product by anyone other than NILES.
This warranty does not cover reimbursement for your costs of removing and transporting the product for warranty service
evaluation, or installation of any replacement product provided under this warranty.
This Warranty will be void if:
•the Serial Number on the product has been removed, tampered with or defaced.
• the product was not purchased from an authorized dealer or reseller.
THE FOREGOING WARRANTIES ARE EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER EXPRESSED AND IMPLIED WARRANTIES.
NILES EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL SUCH OTHER WARRANTIES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND NON-INFRINGEMENT, WITH RESPECT
TO THE PRODUCT. TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, NILES SHALL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT PROVIDED (OR PROHIBITED) BY APPLICABLE
LAW, EVEN IF NILES HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.
Notwithstanding the above, if you qualify as a “consumer” under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, or applicable state laws, then
you may be entitled to any implied warranties allowed by law for the Warranty Period. Further, some states do not allow limitations
on how long an implied warranty lasts or allow the exclusion or limitation of consequential damages, so such limitations may not
apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.
For the name of your nearest authorized NILES dealer, contact: NILES AUDIO CORPORATION, P.O. BOX 160818, Miami, Florida
33116-0818, or call 1-800-289-4434, 1-305-238-4373. Please be advised that NILES only sells its products via the Internet through
a select group of authorized Internet dealers. These are listed on our website at www.nilesaudio.com. Products offered on the
Internet through unauthorized Internet dealers are not covered by the NILES warranty and may be either:
1) goods acquired on a secondary or grey market
2) counterfeit or stolen goods
3) damaged, or defective goods
Please fill in your product information and retain for your records.
Model ______________________ Serial No. _____________________________________________ Purchase Date ______________
ATTENTION: TO OUR VALUED CONSUMERS:
To insure that consumers obtain quality pre-sale and after-sale support and service, NILES products are sold exclusively through
authorized dealers. This warranty is VOID if the products have been purchased from an unauthorized dealer.
©2010 Niles Audio Corporation. All rights reserved. Niles and the Niles logos, UltraSilk, are registered
trademarks of Niles Audio Corporation. Directed Soundfield, Uncompromising In Every Sense and
MicroThin are trademark of Niles Audio Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their
respective owners. Designed and Engineered in the USA. Made in China. DS00725A
1-800-BUY-HIFI – www.nilesaudio.com
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