Sony DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder

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  • B&H # SODCRSR45
  • Mfr# DCR-SR45

Product Highlights

  • 1/8" Advanced HAD CCD Sensor
  • Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar Lens
  • 40x Optical Zoom
  • SteadyShot Image Stabilization
  • Built-In Zoom Microphone
  • Quick On Button
  • Easy Handycam Button
  • 2.7" Touch Panel Clear Photo LCD Plus
  • Memory Stick Media Slot
  • 30GB Hard Disk Drive

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The DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder is the entry-level system in Sony's hybrid HDD family. The 30GB HDD offers up to 20 hours of record time in the LP mode. Use Memory Stick PRO Duo or Memory Stick Duo media for transferring your video or stills to your PC for editing, emailing or printing. Adding to this camera's exceptional features would be the One Touch Disc Burn function that allows you to burn your data to DVD when connected to your PC via a USB cable.

The SR45 also features the Quick On 2 button for capturing the moment at a touch without having to wait an eternity for your camera to wake up. The 2.7" touch panel Clear Photo LCD Plus display rotates up to 270° and provides easy to navigate menus thanks to the touch screen. A built-in zoom mic offers exceptional audio, 40x optical zoom brings your subject in focus with clean, accurate detail while the Easy Handycam button shuts out advanced record functions allowing you to focus on capturing the moment and not worried about what button does what.

1/8" Advanced HAD CCD Sensor
The 1/8" Advanced HAD (Hole Accumulation Diode) CCD sensor gives your video and still images exceptional accuracy and clarity with 340k (effective) pixels.
40x Optical Zoom
40x optical zoom brings your subject close and clear with no loss of video image.
2.7" Wide Touch Panel Clear Photo LCD Plus Display
The widescreen touch panel 2.7" LCD display rotates up to 270° for optimal recording from any angle. Now you can get any shot you want and frame what you're recording without losing the image.
Hybrid Recording to the 30GB Hard Disk Drive or Memory Stick Media
Record to the 30GB internal hard disk drive or to Sony's own Memory Stick Duo or Memory Stick PRO Duo (sold separately) recording media. Images from the HDD can be transferred in-camera to Memory Stick media. Use the Memory Stick media in your PC or compatible Memory Stick device for uploading to edit, email, or print.
Memory Stick PRO Duo Media Slot
The Memory Stick PRO Duo Media slot allows you to insert Memory Stick PRO Duo and Memory Stick Duo media (sold separately) for capturing video and still images.
Quick On-2
Don't ever miss the key moment again! One press of the Quick On button puts the camcorder into sleep mode, when you press the button a second time it comes on, ready to record.
Built-In Zoom Mic with 5.1 Channel Recording
When your camera's zoom goes in for the close-up so does the built-in zoom mic. The mic focuses on the sound coming from your subject, letting all other noises fall into the background for clear and accurate dialogue and sound.
Easy Handycam Button
Sony knows that camcorders can be complicated at times. That's why they give you the option to keep things simple with the Easy Handycam Button. This option locks out more complicated features. Only the buttons essential to recording remain unlocked, letting you concentrate on capturing and enjoying the moment.
Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar Lens
Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lenses have been designed especially for consumer camcorders. These lenses offer the sharpness and quality of professional lenses.
InfoLITHIUM Battery with AccuPower Meter System
The InfoLITHIUM Battery with the AccuPower Meter System is one smart rechargeable battery. View remaining battery or charging time (in minutes) on the LCD or viewfinder so you always know where you're at with battery life. These batteries are not subject to memory effect which shortens battery life when you charge too often. Charge whenever you want without worry.
Stamina Battery Power Management System
The Stamina Battery Power Management System lets the camcorder extend InfoLITHIUM battery life for extra long recording.
Fader Effects 2
When ending or starting a scene a good option is the black or white fader effects for a smooth, professional looking transition
Face Index 2
The ingenious Face Index 2 technology lets you find the video scene you want by face. Choose from the faces displayed in the index and the scenes in which that person appears will be selected.
Film Roll Index 2
Sony makes finding scenes quick and user-friendly with the Film Roll Index 2. Much like the chapters in a book the index helps you find the video scenes you want by previewing the beginning. You also have the option to display scenes at intervals of 3, 6 and 12 seconds or 1 and 5 minutes.
One Touch Disc Burn
Supplied Software allows you to burn copies of your video or stills onto DVD when you connect via a USB cable to your PC and hit the One Touch Disc Burn button. It couldn't be easier!
Progressive Shutter System
This feature progressively scans your still images using an interlaced scanning system for detail and accuracy.
Super NightShot Infrared System
Ever want to record at night or in low light but can't? Well now you can. The Super NightShot Infrared System records with a slow shutter speed to capture video even in complete darkness (0 lux) providing video with both color and clarity
Multi-Language Menu
Choose from menus in English, English (simplified), Canadian French, Latin American Spanish and Brazilian Portuguese.
Optics
Sensor 1/8" Advanced HAD CCD
Lens Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar
f-stop/1.8-4.1
Focal Length=1.9-76mm
Zoom 40x Optical
2000x Digital
Filter Size 30mm
Recording
System NTSC
Format Video: MPEG-2
Still: JPEG
Audio Dolby Digital 2 channel
Image Stabilization Super SteadyShot Image Stabilization
Lux 6 lux
Line In Recording No
A/V Dubbing No
Tape Loading N/A
Display
Display Type Wide touch panel Clear Photo LCD Plus Display
Display Size 2.7"
Viewfinder N/A
Camera Features
Manual Controls Focus
Built-in Speaker Yes
Built-in Mic Yes
Accessory Shoe N/A
Fade Resistance Yes
Effects Yes
Built-in Light/Flash No
Digital Still Mode
Still Recording Media Memory Stick PRO Duo
Memory Stick Duo
(sold separately)
Resolution 0.3Mp (640 x 480 VGA)
Input/Output Connectors
Inputs No
Output USB: Hi-speed
Composite Video: RCA via A/V breakout cable
Analog Audio L/R: RCA via A/V breakout cable
Microphone Input No
Headphone Jack No
General
Power Requirements 7.2V (battery pack)
8.4V (AC Adapter)
Dimensions (WxHxD) 3 x 3 1/8 x 4 1/2" (76.3 x 76.6 x 112.8mm)
Weight 14 oz (400g)

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

by PowerReviews
Sony DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder
 
4.3

(based on 21 reviews)

Ratings Distribution

  • 5 Stars

     

    (13)

  • 4 Stars

     

    (6)

  • 3 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 2 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 1 Stars

     

    (2)

89%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Pros

  • Comfortable to operate (18)
  • Simple controls (18)
  • Great features (13)
  • Great picture quality (13)
  • Great sound (10)

Cons

  • Poor battery life (11)
  • Low-quality recordings (3)

Best Uses

  • Travel (14)
  • Home movies (10)
  • Family (5)
  • Movies/short films (4)
  • Sports (4)
    • Reviewer Profile:
    • Casual user (12), Enthusiast (6)

Most Liked Positive Review

 

Great Camcorder

Taping action sports shots is a breeze with this camcorder. Using it for water skiing is great as the skiers look steady and clear. The zoom is amazing, and it works great with the...Read complete review

Taping action sports shots is a breeze with this camcorder. Using it for water skiing is great as the skiers look steady and clear. The zoom is amazing, and it works great with the waterproof sports case! I love using the touch screen and the hard drive aspect is awesome! One thing I wish it had would be a viewer in addition to the flip-out screen because the flip-out screen spends a lot more battery. Get an extra battery and this camera is perfect. Another gripe is that I wish it was compatible with Apple (Mac) computers, but that's not a big deal either.

VS

Most Liked Negative Review

 

Nice Features, video... not so much

This cam corder has a lot of nice features, but the video quality is terrible, even when its set to HQ. Real fuzzy and grainy at best. I was really disappointed in how ...Read complete review

This cam corder has a lot of nice features, but the video quality is terrible, even when its set to HQ. Real fuzzy and grainy at best. I was really disappointed in how bad the video is. I wouldnt recommend this model for anything other than youtube videos.

Pretty sure this is the last Sony I ever purchase.

REVIEWS

Reviewed by 21 customers

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Displaying reviews 1-20

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4.0

Good for everyday documentation

By mpat

from Glen Mills, PA

About Me Casual User

Verified Buyer

Pros

  • Comfortable to Operate
  • Easy download to Mac
  • Great Features
  • Great Sound
  • Simple Controls

Cons

  • Low-Quality Recordings
  • Whited out spotlit images

Best Uses

  • Filming Musical Shows

Comments about Sony DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder:

Really loved the ease of use and downloading. I had a specific use for the camera, shooting Musical Theatre, It was not so great at, but I am not sure if it was user error or not. Figures were whited out when spotlighted. Image quality was pixelated on the computer (not sure if that was my settings). Picture quality was much better on the TV. I returned it because I only had 14 days to figure out whether my issues were me or the camera, and I didn't have time.

Comment on this review

 
5.0

Awesome camcorder

By Robert

from Kansas City, MO

About Me Casual User

Verified Buyer

Pros

  • Comfortable to Operate
  • Great Picture Quality
  • Simple Controls

Cons

    Best Uses

    • Home Movies
    • Travel

    Comments about Sony DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder:

    The camera has quick and easy controls and the on screen controls are great as well. Very simple to use, and great picture quality (even under gym lights!!) Works great for our family.

    Comment on this review

     
    5.0

    Plain and simple

    By Booz

    from Reading, Pa

    About Me Casual User

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Comfortable to Operate
    • Great Features
    • Simple Controls

    Cons

    • Poor Battery Life
    • Poor Sound

    Best Uses

    • Home Movies

    Comments about Sony DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder:

    If you are looking for something that is easy to use, and you don't want anything fancy than this is your camcorder. We went from no camcorder to this and it is fine. I am sure the HD camacorders are nice, but we were just looking for something basic. It will meet your needs if you need something simple.

    Comment on this review

     
    5.0

    Great bang for the buck

    By Nancy

    from Jacksonville, Illinois

    About Me Semi-pro Videographer

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Comfortable to Operate
    • Great Features
    • Simple Controls
    • Versatile

    Cons

      Best Uses

        Comments about Sony DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder:

        This camera is easy to use, compact, light, and powerful for its size -- its night vision feature (used in recording theatre productions) picks up more than the naked eye. The hard drive also means you can record a lot on it without running out of space. Not having to buy tapes also saves money. [...]

        Comment on this review

        (0 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

         
        5.0

        It is very good product

        By venki

        from PHL,NJ

        About Me Casual User

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Comfortable to Operate
        • Durable
        • Great Features
        • Great Picture Quality
        • Great Sound
        • Simple Controls
        • Versatile

        Cons

          Best Uses

          • Movies/Short Films
          • Travel

          Comments about Sony DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder:

          The camcoder is too good to use.

          Comment on this review

           
          1.0

          Nice Features, video... not so much

          By Joe

          from Everton, AR

          About Me Casual User

          Verified Reviewer

          Pros

          • Great Features
          • Simple Controls

          Cons

          • Low-Quality Recordings
          • Poor Battery Life

          Best Uses

            Comments about Sony DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder:

            This cam corder has a lot of nice features, but the video quality is terrible, even when its set to HQ. Real fuzzy and grainy at best. I was really disappointed in how bad the video is. I wouldnt recommend this model for anything other than youtube videos.

            Pretty sure this is the last Sony I ever purchase.

            Comment on this review

             
            5.0

            Great Product

            By Coach

            from South Georgia

            About Me Casual User

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Comfortable to Operate
            • Durable
            • Great Features
            • Great Picture Quality
            • Simple Controls
            • Versatile

            Cons

              Best Uses

              • Editing
              • Home Movies

              Comments about Sony DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder:

              We use it to film our athletic games. The quality of the camera as well as the footage was great.[...]

              Comment on this review

              (0 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

               
              4.0

              Great Product

              By BJ

              from Waldorf, MD

              About Me Video Enthusiast

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Comfortable to Operate
              • Durable
              • Great Features
              • Great Picture Quality
              • Great Sound
              • Simple Controls

              Cons

              • Poor Battery Life

              Best Uses

              • Documentaries
              • Home Movies
              • Movies/Short Films
              • Travel

              Comments about Sony DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder:

              Very Easy to Use. Nice and Compact. Great Play Back Features. I have not yet burned any video to disk, but am looking forward to not having tapes any more! I would recommend this product. Get a spare battery, the factory one only last 90 minutes. I found one online that lasts 6 hours.

              Comment on this review

              (0 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

               
              5.0

              Great starter camera

              By PC

              from Phoenix Arizona

              About Me Casual User

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Comfortable to Operate
              • Great Features
              • Great Picture Quality
              • Simple Controls
              • Versatile

              Cons

              • Poor Battery Life
              • Poor Sound

              Best Uses

              • Home Movies
              • Travel

              Comments about Sony DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder:

              My wife and I debated about if we should go HD or not. We have never owned a camera before and I'm glad we went this route first. The picture quality is great and the camera is easy to use. In a few years we will probably upgrade to HD. The battery doesn't last long, so I recommend the starter kit with the NP 70 battery.

              Comment on this review

               
              4.0

              Very good value for price

              By Snared1

              from Jacksonville, Fl

              About Me Casual User

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Comfortable to Operate
              • Versatile

              Cons

              • Poor Battery Life

              Best Uses

              • Home Movies
              • Travel

              Comments about Sony DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder:

              Great camera for family events. Easy to use and very good pictures. My only suggestion for improvement that it should come with a slightly larger battery. But still a very good camera for the price.

              Comment on this review

               
              5.0

              Very easy to use

              By Carole

              from Pearl, MS

              About Me Casual User

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Comfortable to Operate
              • Great Picture Quality
              • Great Sound
              • Simple Controls

              Cons

                Best Uses

                • Home Movies
                • Travel

                Comments about Sony DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder:

                I bought this for my husband for Christmas. We could use it right out of the box. The software is easy to use and to install. We took lots of video over Christmas. We used the Memory Stick Pro and that is so nice. Just take in out of the Camcorder and put into the computer to view. So easy.

                Comment on this review

                (0 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                 
                1.0

                Not a great camera

                By tc

                from NYC

                About Me Semi-pro Videographer

                Verified Reviewer

                Pros

                  Cons

                  • Low-Quality Recordings
                  • Poor Battery Life
                  • Uncomfortable

                  Best Uses

                    Comments about Sony DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder:

                    i thought i was upgrading by 7 years of tech adavnacements from a sony trv25 circa 2001 but..1) the indoor picture quality was poor. So every indoor event (birthdays, xmas, etc) is 2) the camera is quite small and crammped my large hands- controls are difficult to find.3) still images are terrible - am not sure why camera companies put these poor still capabilities in thier camcorders.4) software is clunky5) battery life is only about 55 minutes (i got a 155 on my prior trv256) no view finder eyepeice, flip screen only (using an eyepiece conserves the battery power)i give it a 1 star rating simply based on the poor video quality (really, why give it higher the video qality is terrible). My expectations were higher and it failed ot meet them. i will be returnign this item [...]

                    Comment on this review

                     
                    5.0

                    best camcorder I bought

                    By Osama Alyousif

                    from Lafayette Hill, PA

                    About Me Casual User

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Comfortable to Operate
                    • Great Features
                    • Great Picture Quality
                    • Great Sound
                    • Simple Controls

                    Cons

                    • Poor Battery Life

                    Best Uses

                    • Home Movies
                    • Travel

                    Comments about Sony DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder:

                    it is easy to use with good qouilty of recorde

                    Comment on this review

                     
                    5.0

                    Very easy to use

                    By PB

                    from Albany, NY

                    Verified Buyer

                    Comments about Sony DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder:

                    Used primarily for family vacations/milestones. Real simple to use and the picture quality is really good. Battery power could be better, but overall a pretty good camcorder

                    Comment on this review

                     
                    5.0

                    "Awesome Camcorder ,Excellent B&H Price"

                    By Aguie7

                    from Germantown,MD

                    About Me Video Enthusiast

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Comfortable to Operate
                    • Durable
                    • Great Picture Quality
                    • Great Sound
                    • Simple Controls

                    Cons

                    • Poor Battery Life

                    Best Uses

                    • Editing
                    • HD Shooting
                    • Home Movies
                    • Travel

                    Comments about Sony DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder:

                    Home Videos, Great High Def Recording.
                    We love the fact that You can use the Viewfinder as well as the NICE lcd screen.
                    with it's Dolby 5.1 surround recording.
                    Great Buy.

                    Comment on this review

                     
                    5.0

                    Very Happy with this handycam

                    By Rethish

                    from Houston, USA

                    About Me Casual User

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Comfortable to Operate
                    • Great Features
                    • Simple Controls
                    • Versatile

                    Cons

                    • Poor Battery Life

                    Best Uses

                    • Home Movies
                    • Travel

                    Comments about Sony DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder:

                    This is my first handycam. This product is very easy to use and handle. I like it. You may have to buy a additional NH-F100 battery for long video recording.[...]Thanks

                    Comment on this review

                    (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                     
                    5.0

                    perfect for my needs

                    By perry

                    from scotch plains, nj

                    About Me Hobbyist/Enthusiast

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Comfortable to Operate
                    • Durable
                    • Great Features
                    • Great Picture Quality
                    • Great Sound
                    • Simple Controls
                    • Versatile

                    Cons

                      Best Uses

                      • Family
                      • Special Events
                      • Sports
                      • Travel
                      • Weddings

                      Comments about Sony DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder:

                      pleased with user friendly and ability for the price

                      Comment on this review

                       
                      4.0

                      Very Conmfortable

                      By Bimald

                      from Jersey City

                      About Me Casual User

                      Verified Buyer

                      Pros

                      • Comfortable to Operate
                      • Great Picture Quality
                      • Great Sound
                      • Simple Controls
                      • Very Small to Carry

                      Cons

                      • Poor Battery Life

                      Best Uses

                      • Family
                      • Movies/Short Films
                      • Special Events
                      • Sports
                      • Travel

                      Comments about Sony DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder:

                      I found it very convenient and comfortable to shoot with this camcorder. It’s very handy and small. Only -Ve point I found is the battery life. It lasts for ~60 minutes. Everything else including operations, video quality and sound recording is as expected.

                        Comment on this review

                        (4 of 5 customers found this review helpful)

                         
                        5.0

                        Great Camcorder

                        By Water Ski Enthusiast

                        from Eau Claire, Wisconsin

                        About Me Hobbyist/Enthusiast

                        Verified Buyer

                        Pros

                        • Comfortable to Operate
                        • Durable
                        • Great Features
                        • Great Picture Quality
                        • Great Sound
                        • Simple Controls
                        • Versatile

                        Cons

                        • Poor Battery Life

                        Best Uses

                        • Family
                        • Special Events
                        • Sports
                        • Travel

                        Comments about Sony DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder:

                        Taping action sports shots is a breeze with this camcorder. Using it for water skiing is great as the skiers look steady and clear. The zoom is amazing, and it works great with the waterproof sports case! I love using the touch screen and the hard drive aspect is awesome! One thing I wish it had would be a viewer in addition to the flip-out screen because the flip-out screen spends a lot more battery. Get an extra battery and this camera is perfect. Another gripe is that I wish it was compatible with Apple (Mac) computers, but that's not a big deal either.

                        • How long have you owned it:
                        • A month or less

                        Comment on this review

                        (1 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

                         
                        4.0

                        Good Family video camera

                        By Dan

                        from Mead, WA

                        About Me Hobbyist/Enthusiast

                        Verified Buyer

                        Pros

                        • Built-in lense cap
                        • Comfortable to Operate
                        • Compact
                        • Durable
                        • Great Features
                        • Great Picture Quality
                        • Great Sound
                        • Simple Controls
                        • Versatile

                        Cons

                          Best Uses

                          • Family
                          • Movies/Short Films
                          • Sports
                          • Travel

                          Comments about Sony DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder:

                          I use the DCR-SR45 for shooting general family memories. It is very easy to pick up and shoot at a moments notice. Down loading the clips was pretty easy. The back light button was great indoor shots could use a wider field of view.

                          • How long have you owned it:
                          • One-to-three months

                          Comment on this review

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                          Batteries & Power

                          Don't get caught without power, always have a spare battery.

                          Sony -  NP-FH70 H Series Info-Lithium Battery Pack
                          • Price: $25.00
                          Used Dept.
                           

                          Bags & Cases

                          Carry, store, and protect all your equipment with a bag or case.

                          Lowepro -  Edit 110 Camera Shoulder Bag
                          • Price: $14.49
                           

                          Filters

                          Protect your lens or produce a desired visual effect by adding a filter.

                          Hoya -  30mm Introductory Filter Kit
                          • Price: $49.95
                           

                          Lenses & Adaptors

                          Capture the right view with a conversion lens.

                          Impact -  DVS-WA45-30M 30mm .45x Wide Angle Converter Lens w/Macro
                          • Price: $49.95
                           

                          Tripods & Support

                          Stabilize your video with the support you need.

                          Sony -  VCT-60AV Tripod with Remote in Grip
                          • Price: $63.90
                           

                          Care & Cleaning

                          Ensure trouble-free performance through proper camcorder maintenance.

                          Monster Cable -  FlatScreen Screen Clean Cleaning Kit - 2 Pack
                          • Price: $8.89
                           

                          Cables & Adaptors

                          Connect the proper cable to enjoy the full quality of your footage.

                          Sony -  VMC-15FS Handycam Audio Video Cable
                          • Price: $12.90
                           

                          Standard - Remote Control

                          Control your camcorder from a distance, and eliminate hand-vibration in your footage.

                          Sony -  Remote Commander (Silver)
                          • Price: $33.00
                           

                          What's in the Box

                          Sony DCR-SR45 30GB Hybrid HDD/Memory Stick Camcorder
                          • Power Adapter & In-Camera Charger
                          • InfoLITHIUM Rechargeable NP-FH40 Battery
                          • Multi A/V Cable
                          • USB Cable
                          • Application CD-ROM with Driver
                          • Enjoy Handycam DVD
                          • 1-Year Parts & 90-Day Labor Warranty
                           
                           
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