Panasonic vm-l153 Operation Manual

Camcorder
Operating Instructions
R
Getting Started
Model No.
VM-L153
Basic Operation
Special Features
For Your Information
Please read these instructions carefully before attempting to operate this product. Please save this manual.
For assistance, please call : 1-800-211-PANA(7262) or send e-mail to : consumerproducts@panasonic.com
LSQT0630A

Things You Should Know

Thank you for choosing Panasonic!
You have purchased one of the most sophisticated and reliable products on the market today. Used properly, it will bring you years of enjoyment. Please take time to fill in the information to the right. The serial number is on the tag located on the rear side of your Camcorder. Be sure to retain this manual as your convenient Camcorder information source.
Unpack your Camcorder
These accessories are provided in order to set up or use your Camcorder.
1 pc. AC Adaptor (PV-A20) with DC Power Cable (page 9)
1 pc. Shoulder Strap (LSFC0012) (page 11)
1 pc. Audio/Video Cable (LSJA0390) (pages 20, 21)
1 pc. CR2025 Clock Battery (installed in Camcorder) (page 35)
Date of Purchase
Dealer Purchased From
Dealer Address
Dealer Phone No.
Model No.
Serial No.
1 pc. Battery Pack (PV-BP15/LSSB0007) (pages 8, 9)
Battery Charging Confirmation Marker
Use this marker as a reminder to yourself when the battery is fully charged
1 pc. Lens Cap (LSKM0937) with Lens Cap Strap (LSGQ0049) (page 11)
For assistance, please call : 1-800-211-PANA(7262) or send e-mail to : consumerproducts@panasonic.com
2
or in need of a charge. This marker performs no function and is for your reference only.
Things You Should Know
Safety Precautions
WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT
EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
Your Compact VHS Camcorder is designed to record and play back in Standard Play (SP) and Super Long Play (SLP) modes. You can also play a Compact VHS Camcorder recording on your VHS VCR using the supplied VHS PlayPak.
This Camcorder is equipped with the HQ System to provide excellent video pictures, and is compatible with standard VHS equipment. It is recommended that only cassette tapes that have been tested and inspected for use in VCR machines with the
The above markings are located on the appliances bottom cover.
FCC Warning : Any unauthorized changes or modifications to this equipment would
void the users authority to operate.
and/or mark be used.
This symbol warns the user that uninsulated voltage within the unit may have sufficient magnitude to cause electric shock. Therefore, it is dangerous to make any kind of contact with any inside part of this unit.
This symbol alerts the user that important literature concerning the operation and maintenance of this unit has been included. Therefore, it should be read carefully in order to avoid any problems.
Getting Started
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with Part 15 and part 18 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when operated in a residential environment. If this equipment does cause interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, use the equipment in another location and/or utilize an electrical outlet different from that used by the receiver. If necessary, consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. You may find the booklet, ‘Something About Interference’ available from FCC local regional offices helpful.
This product may cause interference to radio equipment and should not be installed near maritime safety communications equipment or other critical navigation or communication equipment operating between 0.45-30 MHz.
3

Important Safeguards

1. Read Instructions – All the safety and
operating instructions should be read before the unit is operated.
2. Retain Instructions – The safety and
operating instructions should be retained for future reference.
3. Heed Warnings – All warnings on the unit
and in the operating instructions should be adhered to.
4. Follow Instructions – All operating and
maintenance instructions should be followed.
5. Cleaning – Unplug this video unit from the
wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners. Use a dry cloth for cleaning.
6. Attachments – Do not use attachments not
recommended by the video product manufacturer as they may be hazardous.
7. Water and Moisture – Do not use this video unit near water – for example near a bath tub, wash bowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool, and the like.
8. Accessories – Do not place this video unit on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The video unit may fall, causing serious injury to a child or adult, and serious damage to the unit. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table recommended by the manufacturer, or sold with the video unit. Any mounting of the unit should follow the manufacturer’s instructions and should use a mounting accessory recommended by the manufacturer. An appliance and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the appliance and cart combination to overturn.
9. Ventilation – Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for ventilation and to ensure reliable operation of the video unit and to protect it from overheating. These openings must not be blocked or covered. Never place the video unit on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface, or near or over a radiator or heat register. This video unit should not be placed in a built-in installation such as a bookcase or rack unless proper ventilation is provided or the manufacturer’s instructions have been adhered to.
10. Power Sources – This video unit should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power supply to your home, consult your appliance dealer or local power company. For video units intended to be operated from battery power, or other sources, refer to the operating instructions.
11. Grounding or Polarization – This video unit
may be equipped with either a polarized 2-wire AC (Alternating Current) line plug (a plug having one blade wider than the other) or 3-wire grounding type plug, a plug having a third (grounding) pin.
The 2-wire polarized plug will fit into the power outlet only one way. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug fully into the outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug still fails to fit, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized plug.
The 3-wire grounding type plug will fit into a grounding type power outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug into the outlet, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the grounding type plug.
12. Power-Cord Protection – Power-supply
cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them. Paying particular attention to cords of plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the unit.
13. Outdoor Antenna Grounding – If an outside
antenna or cable system is connected to the video unit, be sure the antenna or cable system is grounded so as to provide some protection against voltage surges and built-up static charges. Part 1 of the Canadian Electrical Code, in USA Section 810 of the National Electrical Code, provides information with respect to proper grounding of the mast and supporting structure, grounding of the lead-in wire to an antenna discharge unit, size of grounding conductors, location of antenna discharge unit, connection to grounding electrodes, and requirements for the grounding electrode.
14. Lightning – For added protection of this
video unit receiver during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable system. This will prevent damage to the video unit due to lightning and power-line surges.
For assistance, please call : 1-800-211-PANA(7262) or send e-mail to : consumerproducts@panasonic.com
4
Important Safeguards
15. Power Lines – An outside antenna system
should not be located in the vicinity of overhead power lines or other electric light or power circuits, or where it can fall into such power lines or circuits. When installing an outside antenna system, extreme care should be taken to keep from touching such power lines or circuits as contact with them might be fatal.
16. Overloading – Do not overload wall outlets and extension cords as this can result in a risk of fire or electric shock.
17. Objects and Liquids – Never push objects of any kind into this video unit through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind onto the video unit.
18. Servicing – Do not attempt to service this video unit yourself as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
19. Damage Requiring Service – Unplug this video unit from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions:
a. When the power-supply cord or plug is
damaged.
b. If any liquid has been spilled into, or
objects have fallen onto, the video unit.
c. If the video unit has been exposed to rain
or water.
d. If the video unit does not operate normally
by following the operating instructions. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions, as an improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the video unit to its normal operation.
e. If the video unit has been dropped or the
cabinet has been damaged.
f. When the video unit exhibits a distinct
change in performance – this indicates a need for service.
20. Replacement Parts – When replacement
parts are required, be sure the service technician has used replacement parts specified by the manufacturer or have the same characteristics as the original part. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric shock or other hazards.
21. Safety Check – Upon completion of any
service or repairs to this video unit, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to determine that the video unit is in safe operating order.

Precautions

Getting Started
USE & LOCATION
TO AVOID SHOCK HAZARD ... Your Camcorder and power supply should not be exposed to rain or moisture.
Do not connect the power supply or operate your Camcorder if it gets wet. Your Camcorder has been designed for outdoor use, however it is not designed to sustain direct exposure to water, rain, sleet, snow, sand, dust, or a direct splashing from a pool or even a cup of coffee. This action could permanently damage the internal parts of your Camcorder. Do not attempt to disassemble this unit. There are no user serviceable parts inside. Unplug your Camcorder from the power supply before cleaning.
DO NOT AIM YOUR CAMCORDER AT THE SUN OR OTHER BRIGHT OBJECTS.
DO NOT LEAVE THE CAMCORDER WITH THE EVF AIMED DIRECTLY AT THE SUN AS THIS MAY CAUSE
DAMAGE TO THE INTERNAL PARTS OF THE EVF.
DO NOT EXPOSE YOUR CAMCORDER TO EXTENDED HIGH TEMPERATURE ... Such as, in direct sunlight,
inside a closed car, next to a heater, etc... This action could permanently damage the internal parts of your Camcorder.
AVOID SUDDEN CHANGES IN TEMPERATURE ... If the unit is suddenly moved from a cold place to a warm
place, moisture may form on the tape and inside the unit.
DO NOT LEAVE YOUR CAMCORDER OR THE POWER SUPPLY TURNED ON WHEN NOT IN USE.
STORAGE OF YOUR CAMCORDER ... Store and handle your Camcorder in a manner that will not subject it to
unnecessary movement (avoid shaking and striking). Your Camcorder contains a sensitive pick-up device which could be damaged by improper handling or storage.
CARE
TO CLEAN YOUR CAMCORDER ... Do not use strong or abrasive detergents when cleaning your Camcorder
body.
TO PROTECT THE LENS ... Do not touch the surface of the lens with your hand. Use a commercial camcorder
lens solution and lens paper when cleaning the lens. Improper cleaning can scratch the lens coating.
TO PROTECT THE FINISH OF YOUR CAMCORDER ... Before handling your Camcorder, make sure your hands
and face are free from any chemical products, such as suntan lotion, as it may damage the finish.
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Table of Contents

Getting Started
Things You Should Know .............................................................................2~3
Important Safeguards ...................................................................................4~5
Precautions........................................................................................................ 5
Quick Operation Guide .....................................................................................7
Supplying Power (Battery Charge/Use/Refresh/Care, AC Adaptor, Car Battery Cord) ...... 8~9
Cassette Information ...................................................................................... 10
Before Using
Using MENU Mode .......................................................................................... 12
Setting the Clock
AccuBrite Built-in Light (Using the Light, Replacing the Bulb) ............................... 15
Basic Operation
Camera Recording (Basic, Stand-by, Programmed Recording) .............................16~18
Playing Back Recordings
(Basic Playback, Visual Search, Still Picture, Tracking, TV/VCR Playback) ................. 19~20
Copying your Tapes (dubbing) ...................................................................... 21
Special Features
Four-Speed Power Zoom................................................................................ 22
Backlight .......................................................................................................... 23
Focus (Auto/Manual Focus) .................................................................................... 24
High Speed Shutter (Auto/Manual Shutter) ............................................................ 25
Auto Fade......................................................................................................... 26
Color Digital Fade ........................................................................................... 27
Digital Zoom .................................................................................................... 28
Digital Electronic Image Stabilization (E.I.S.) ............................................... 29
MotionSensor .................................................................................................. 30
(Remove the Sensor tag, Using the Shoulder and Hand Straps, Lens Cap) ...... 11
(Time Zone, Auto Daylight Saving Time) ................................... 13~14
For Your Information
Viewfinder/LCD Monitor Indications ....................................................... 31~33
Notes On Operations ......................................................................................34
Replacing Clock Battery ................................................................................. 35
Palmcorder Accessory System ..................................................................... 36
Palmcorder Accessory Order Form .............................................................. 37
Specifications .................................................................................................. 38
Before Requesting Service (Video Head Cleaning) .............................................. 39
Request for Service Notice ............................................................................ 40
Limited Warranty ............................................................................................. 41
Customer Services Directory ......................................................................... 42
Spanish Quick Use Guide/Guía Para Uso Rápido........................................ 43
Index ................................................................................................................. 44
For assistance, please call : 1-800-211-PANA(7262) or send e-mail to : consumerproducts@panasonic.com
6

Quick Operation Guide

Charging the Battery Pack
Charge Battery Pack fully before operation
(page 8).
1 Plug in AC Adaptor. 2 Insert Battery. CHARGE Lamp flashes,
then stays lit when charging is complete.
Insert Cassette
1Attach fully charged Battery (page 8). 2Slide TAPE EJECT to open door. 3Insert cassette (page 10). 4Press here to close door.
Camera Recording
See page 16.
1 Press LCD-OPEN to unlock the LCD monitor.
Swing it fully open and adjust the angle.
Getting Started
2 Set POWER to CAMERA. 3 Press RECORD/PAUSE to start recording.
Press RECORD/PAUSE again to pause
recording.
Playback using the LCD Monitor
See page 19.
1 Press LCD-OPEN to unlock the LCD monitor.
Swing it fully open and adjust the angle.
2 Set POWER to VCR. 3 Press (REWIND/SEARCH) to rewind tape. 4 Press (PLAY/STILL) to start playback. 5 Press (STOP) to stop playback.
7
Supplying Power
Charging the Battery Pack
Charge Battery Pack fully before use.
3
2
POWER Lamp
1
1 Plug in AC Adaptor.
POWER Lamp lights.
2 Insert Battery.
A Align left side of Battery with left edge of
AC Adaptor.
B Press Battery down and slide in direction
of arrow.
The CHARGE Lamp flashes, then stays lit when charging is complete.
3 Remove Battery.
Slide Battery to the left and lift off.
CHARGE Lamp
A
B
(Top View)
Using the Battery Pack
A fully charged Battery provides a maximum of about 1 hour 10 minutes of continuous use (LCD monitor off) or about 55 minutes (LCD monitor on). Actual time may vary due to operating conditions. Using the Built-in Light decreases operating time.
a
Note:
Charging takes about 1 hour.
While the DC Power Cable (supplied) is connected
to the AC Adaptor, the Battery cannot be charged.
After charging 5 times, use Battery Refresh feature as explained below.
Battery life gradually decreases after repeated use and recharging. If operation time becomes very short even after a sufficient charge, discard Battery properly (pages 9, 34).
A
Lift up EVF and attach Battery.
a Insert top of Battery into top of mounting
surface.
b Press and snap into place.
B
A
b
B
Battery Refresh
This feature completely discharges Battery before recharging begins. Use after every 5 charges for optimum Battery performance.
REFRESH Lamp
BATTERY REFRESH
For assistance, please call : 1-800-211-PANA(7262) or send e-mail to : consumerproducts@panasonic.com
8
Remove Battery.
Slide BATTERY RELEASE and remove Battery.
To use battery refresh, insert Battery on AC Adaptor (see steps 1~2 above), then press BATTERY REFRESH.
The REFRESH Lamp lights, then goes out when discharge is complete. Battery charging will then start automatically.
If BATTERY REFRESH is pressed by mistake, remove Battery from AC Adaptor and reinsert it for normal charging.
Note:
Charging takes about 5 hours when Battery Refresh is used.
Battery will not operate in extremely high temperatures.
Supplying Power
Battery Care
Caution:
Charge only with specified charger.
Battery can be charged within a temperature range of
10 °C (50 °F) and 35 °C (95 °F).
Battery is normally warm after charging or just after use.
Do not use an insufficiently charged or worn-out Battery.
Safety precautions:
Do not get Battery near, or dispose of in, fire.
Do not directly connect (short circuit) the positive (+) and negative () terminals.
Never attempt to disassemble or reassemble Battery.
To avoid Battery damage:
Do not drop or jar Battery.
Use Battery with specified units only.
If Battery is used in extremely high
temperatures, a safety device will automatically prevent operation.
To prolong Battery life:
While not in use, remove Battery from the Camcorder and AC Adaptor, and store in a cool, dark, dry place.
Keep Battery terminals clean.
AC Adaptor
1 Connect AC Adaptor DC OUT to
Camcorder DC IN with supplied DC
DC Power Cable
Power Cable.
2 Plug in AC Adaptor.
POWER Lamp
DC IN Connector
DC OUT Connector
CAUTION:
This unit will operate on 110/120/220/240 V AC 50/60 Hz. An AC plug adaptor may be required for voltages other than 120 V AC. Please contact either a local or foreign electrical parts distributor for assistance in selecting an alternate AC plug. We recommend using the accessory power plug adaptor (VJSS0070/K2DB42E00001) in an area which has special AC outlets.
POWER Lamp lights.
Note:
While the DC Power Cable (supplied) is connected to the AC Adaptor, the Battery cannot be charged.
When not in use, unplug AC Adaptor from AC outlet. (Adaptor uses 1.2 W of electricity while plugged in.)
Getting Started
Car Battery Cord (Optional)
Cigarette Lighter Socket (12 V)
DC IN Connector
Car Battery Cord (optional)
Cigarette Lighter Plug
1 Connect PV-C16 Car Battery Cord
(optional) to
Camcorder DC IN.
2 A Start engine first.
B Plug Car Battery Cord into
Cigarette lighter socket.
If Car Battery cord fuse needs replacing, use exact current rating (in amps).
Note:
This cord only works in vehicles equipped
with DC 12 V (negative ground) battery. Check with your car/truck dealer. Use only specified car battery cord.
To avoid blowing the car battery cord fuse, do step 2 in the proper order.
Running vehicles must be well ventilated.
When not in use, disconnect cigarette
lighter plug.
For personal safety the driver of the vehicle should not attempt to operate the camcorder while driving.
9

Cassette Information

Cassette Insertion/Removal
1 Turn Tape Wheel in direction of arrow
1
3
2 Attach Battery (page 8). 3 Slide TAPE EJECT to open door.
2
4 Insert cassette as shown.
until there is no slack.
5
Record/Playback Time
Use tapes with the mark in this unit.
Tape Speed Selector Position
SP
(Standard Play)
SLP
(Super Long Play)
SLP playback may contain more picture noise.
Erase Protection Tab
Protects tapes from being accidentally erased.
4
TC-20
20 minutes
1 hour
Cassette type
TC-30 TC-40
30 minutes
1 hour
30 minutes
12
Slide tab type
5 Press here to close door.
To remove the cassette, slide the TAPE EJECT switch.
40 minutes
2 hours
1 To prevent accidental erasing,
break off tab with screwdriver. (Or, slide tab open.)
2 To record again,
cover hole with adhesive tape. (Or, slide tab closed.)
For assistance, please call : 1-800-211-PANA(7262) or send e-mail to : consumerproducts@panasonic.com
10
Before Using
How to remove the Sensor tag
Hand Strap
Sensor tag
Attaching Shoulder Strap
Remove Battery Pack before completing the following steps:
1 Undo strap ends
from buckles.
2 Thread strap ends through Strap
Rings on Camcorder.
Getting Started
1 Open the Hand Strap as illustrated
at left.
2 Remove the Sensor tag.
Then, replace the Hand Strap.
Adjust the Length of the Shoulder Strap
Pull a loop of strap from buckle, then pull
strap tight to shorten or lengthen.
Hand Strap
2
3 Re-insert the strap
ends into buckles.
3
min. 25.4 mm (1 inch)
1
Adjust Hand Strap length to fit your hand as shown.
Lens Cap
Attaching the Lens Cap Strap:
Thread the Strap through the Lens Cap attachment ring as illustrated at left.
Attaching the Lens Cap Cord to the Hand Strap:
Remove the Hand Strap from the front clasp and thread the Strap through the loop in the Lens Cap Cord. Reattach the Hand Strap.
11

Using MENU Mode

1, 2, 3, 4
Before you begin...
Connect Camcorder to power source.
Set POWER to CAMERA or VCR.
1 Press MENU for MENU mode.
The CAMERA or VCR MENU screen (see below left) appears when Menu mode is entered.
2 Press UP or DOWN to highlight the
desired menu item.
3 Press M.FOCUS to set selection. 4 Press MENU to exit.
Note:
The Menu mode is canceled if UP/DOWN, M.FOCUS, or MENU are not pressed within 5 minutes when Self Demo mode is off with no cassette tape and/or battery inserted.
The Menu mode is canceled if UP/DOWN, M.FOCUS, or MENU are not pressed within 30 seconds when Self Demo mode is on with no cassette tape and/or battery inserted.
Camera Mode Menu Screen
1 2 3 4 5 6
1 REC MODE (page 16).
Change to desired tape speed, SP/SLP.
2 SHUTTER (page 25).
Select desired shutter speed.
3 LCD BRIGHT (pages 16, 19).
LCD BRIGHT SETTING sub menu is displayed. Adjust LCD monitor brightness level.
4 DIGITAL EFFECTS (pages 26~28, 30).
7 8 9
DIGITAL EFFECTS sub menu is displayed. To select DIGITAL ZOOM, MOTIONSENSOR, or FADE.
5 PROGRAMMED REC (page 18).
Camcorder starts and stops recording at a preset time.
6 DISPLAY SET (pages 31, 32).
DISPLAY SET sub menu is displayed.
VCR Mode Menu Screen
3 6 7
To select DISPLAY or MODE SELECT.
7 CLOCK SET (pages 13, 14).
CLOCK SET sub menu is displayed. Set the Date and Time.
8 STAND-BY RELEASE (page 17).
ON : Enables quick resumption of recording
from Stand-by mode.
9 LIGHT MODE (page 15).
OFF/ON OFF/ON/AUTO : Light can be set ON, OFF, or AUTO.
For assistance, please call : 1-800-211-PANA(7262) or send e-mail to : consumerproducts@panasonic.com
12
: Light can be set ON or OFF.
Setting the Clock
Set the following items in order: Time Zone, Daylight Saving Time, Date, and Time.
1, 2, 3, 4
Before you begin...
Connect Camcorder to power source.
Set POWER to CAMERA or VCR.
1 Press MENU for MENU mode.
Press UP or DOWN to select CLOCK SET .
[ VCR MODE ][ CAMERA MODE ]
2 Press M.FOCUS for
CLOCK SET menu. Press UP or DOWN to select TIME ZONE, DST,
or DATE/TIME.
3 Press M.FOCUS for menu of item selected
in step 2.
To change the setting:
TIME ZONE Go to step 3a on page 14.
D.S.T. Go to step 3b on page 14.
DATE/TIME Go to step 3c on page 14.
Getting Started
4 Press MENU twice to exit.
13
Setting the Clock
3a
The Camcorder is preset to Eastern time.
3b
Clock will auto-adjust to daylight saving time (DST).
Autumn (Last Sunday in October) :
back one hour.
Setting the Time Zone
[ Time Zone chart ]
Auto Daylight Saving Time
DST: AUTO
Spring (First Sunday in April) :
ahead one hour.
Press
select local time zone. Press M.FOCUS to confirm entry.
When traveling, repeat this operation and
select one of the 8 listed time zones to set the clock to local time.
Note :
Clock may lose or gain up to 2 minutes
per month.
When traveling outside the listed time zones, set clock to local time manually.
To adjust or set clock, see Setting Date and Time (below).
The Camcorder is preset to DST: AUTO . If DST is not observed in your area, set to OFF by doing the following.
Press UP or DOWN to
select OFF or AUTO. Press M.FOCUS to confirm entry.
Note:
Auto DST does not function if time zone is set to Hawaii or Samoa (see “Setting the Time Zone above).
UP or DOWN to
3c
Date and time including leap year are calculated up to DEC 31, 2099.
14
Setting Date and Time
EXAMPLE :
Press or hold down DOWN to select hour, then press
M.FOCUS to fix.
Repeat for minute, month, day, and year.
Clock starts when year is entered and pressed.
For assistance, please call : 1-800-211-PANA(7262) or send e-mail to : consumerproducts@panasonic.com
M.FOCUS is
UP or
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