Category: Computers

  • InWin Shift PC Case with Triple Fan Mounts Now Available

    InWin Shift PC Case with Triple Fan Mounts Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. Modern Art Design: The InWin Shift features a unique aesthetic with no visible hardware, aiming to simplify PC building.

    2. Adjustable Wings: The case includes three adjustable wings that can hold multiple fans or a large radiator, enhancing cooling options.

    3. Cable Management System: A dedicated cable management system is included to keep cables concealed and organized for a clean look.

    4. Stability Features: The case has adjustable feet to ensure stability on uneven surfaces and a secure metal bracket for the GPU.

    5. Versatile Usage: Its open design allows for easy component swaps, making it suitable for both a standard build and a test bench setup.

    The InWin Shift appears almost like a piece of modern art, lacking any visible hardware, but it aims to simplify the process of building a PC. Users can install an ATX power supply measuring up to 28cm long underneath the central plate. The motherboard, which can be as large as E-ATX, is positioned on the upper side.

    Unique Winged Design

    One standout feature are the three “wings,” which can be adjusted from 0 to 90 degrees. Each wing has the capability to accommodate three 120mm fans or a single 360mm radiator, making it perfect for an all-in-one CPU cooler. Given the case’s open design, standard fans may serve more as decoration than functionality. A more practical, though less visually appealing, option is to attach a second power supply or hard drives to these wings.

    Enhanced Cable Management

    The case includes a cable management system that is secured to help conceal cables as effectively as possible. Each of the four feet has an adjustable height, designed to ensure the case remains stable even on uneven ground.

    Users can install a graphics card that is up to 35cm long, either horizontally or vertically, with a metal bracket securing the GPU in place, ensuring stability when the case is upright. Thanks to its open design, the InWin Shift is also an excellent choice for a test bench, allowing for quick component swaps.

    The InWin Shift PC case is currently available for €449 directly from the manufacturer’s official European online store.

    InWin Shift PC Case with Triple Fan Mounts Now Available

     

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  • RAM Prices Soar: Community Blames One Key Factor

    RAM Prices Soar: Community Blames One Key Factor

    Key Takeaways

    1. DDR5 RAM prices have surged by 30 to 50% in recent months, with a G.Skill Trident Z5 Neo RGB 32GB kit now costing around €183, up from €120.

    2. The Reddit community is blaming the increased demand from AI data centers, with major companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and OpenAI purchasing large quantities of DRAM.

    3. Adata has reported an “acute supply shortage,” focusing on bulk orders from big clients, which limits options for retail buyers.

    4. Speculation suggests OpenAI may have secured up to 40% of the global DRAM supply, reminiscent of the previous GPU price surge during the crypto-mining craze.

    5. Some users believe manufacturers might be raising prices ahead of Black Friday, and DDR5 prices could potentially rise another 30% by the end of 2026, prompting buyers to consider their options carefully.

    Reddit is filled with anger. In a post named “These RAM prices isn’t funny anymore, guys,” PC fans are airing their worries about the sharp increase in DDR5 RAM prices. Over the last few months, these prices have surged by 30 to 50%. The German comparison website Idealo reports that the G.Skill Trident Z5 Neo RGB 32GB kit is now priced at about €183, including shipping from Swiss retailer Galaxus. This kit was previously sold for around €120, showing a rise of approximately 50%.

    Community Blames AI Demand

    The Reddit users have quickly blamed what they think is the leading cause of these high prices: the boom of AI. Data centers that support artificial intelligence are creating huge demand for DRAM. Major companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and OpenAI are purchasing large amounts of memory to support the training and use of AI models. Adata, a memory manufacturer, has even indicated there’s an “acute supply shortage” and is now focusing on bulk orders from big clients, which is leaving the retail market with fewer options.

    Speculation and Comparisons

    People on Reddit are guessing that OpenAI may have secured up to 40% of the global DRAM supply for an extended period. This scenario feels familiar to many, as it reminds them of the previous crypto-mining craze that caused GPU prices to skyrocket. Although AI demand is viewed as the primary reason, the community thinks there are other factors involved. Some users suspect that manufacturers are raising prices ahead of Black Friday to make future discounts seem more appealing, while others suggest there are changing production focuses – with DDR4 slowly being replaced by DDR5, pushing up costs for older systems as well. According to Adata, DDR5 prices could jump another 30% by the end of 2026. For those planning to upgrade, it may be smart to carefully consider the cost of DDR5 or think about whether being patient might be the better choice this time.

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    RAM Prices Soar: Community Blames One Key Factor

     

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  • Affordable Lenovo LOQ Essential 15ARP10: Ryzen & RTX Gaming Laptop

    Affordable Lenovo LOQ Essential 15ARP10: Ryzen & RTX Gaming Laptop

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lenovo has expanded its laptop lineup from the IdeaPad series to include the Yoga, Legion, and LOQ brands for gaming laptops.
    2. The Lenovo LOQ Essential 15ARP10 is a new budget-friendly gaming laptop featuring a 15-inch design and AMD Ryzen 7035HS processors.
    3. The laptop offers a choice between the AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS with Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 or an older Nvidia RTX 3050 GPU.
    4. Trade-offs for buyers include short battery life and a capped screen resolution of Full-HD (1,920 x 1,200).
    5. The LOQ Essential 15ARP10 is upgradeable with multiple SSD and RAM slots, features a 144 Hz refresh rate, and is expected to be available soon.

    Once upon a time, Lenovo only had IdeaPads. All laptops for everyday users under Lenovo had this name at one point. However, Lenovo took a different route, first introducing the Lenovo Yoga series and then the Lenovo Legion, which became their new gaming laptop range, taking over from the Lenovo IdeaPad Y series. Later, Lenovo went a step further by launching the LOQ brand, which features gaming laptops positioned just below the Lenovo Legion, such as the Lenovo LOQ 15AHP9. Previously, these models were grouped under the Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming label. Now, the most budget-friendly gaming laptops from Lenovo are branded as Lenovo LOQ Essential.

    New Addition to the Family

    The latest model in this category was launched with the recent update to Lenovo’s product database, known as PSREF. This new laptop is called the Lenovo LOQ Essential 15ARP10. The rather awkward name suggests it is a 15-inch device, maintaining the older 15.6-inch design with a 16:9 screen ratio. It also indicates the type of processors used: AMD supplies these, specifically the Rembrandt Refresh CPUs from the Ryzen 7035HS series.

    Specifications and Features

    These CPUs were introduced in 2022 under the Ryzen 6000 series. However, the Nvidia RTX 4000 GPUs for laptops were not released until later. Lenovo combines these two older chip generations to keep the cost down. For the Lenovo LOQ laptop, the top choice is the AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS paired with the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop (65 W TDP, 15 W Dynamic Boost), but there is also an option for the older Nvidia RTX 3050 Laptop.

    Considerations for Buyers

    As a budget laptop, there are some trade-offs for buyers: The battery life is short for such a large laptop, featuring just a 57.5 W battery, making it more suited for stationary use rather than portability. Additionally, the screen resolution is capped at Full-HD (1,920 x 1,200). On the bright side, the Lenovo LOQ Essential 15ARP10 is upgradeable (with 2x M.2 SSD and 2x SO-DIMM slots), includes an SD card slot and RJ45-Ethernet, and offers a refresh rate of 144 Hz, which could make it a strong choice for daily tasks with some gaming potential.

    The Lenovo LOQ Essential 15ARP10 has just shown up on the Lenovo PSREF site, and we anticipate it will be available in the next few weeks.

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  • Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus: Arrow Lake CPU Geekbench Launch

    Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus: Arrow Lake CPU Geekbench Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Intel’s desktop side is currently quiet, with Nova Lake not expected until next year, leaving refreshed Arrow Lake processors as the focus.
    2. The Core Ultra 7 270K Plus scored 3,205 in single-core and 22,206 in multi-core tests on Geekbench 6.5.
    3. The processor features 24 cores (8 performance + 16 efficiency), 24 threads, and a boost clock speed of 5.4 GHz.
    4. It shows a 3% improvement in single-core performance and a 7% improvement in multi-core performance compared to its predecessor.
    5. More benchmark results and details on power consumption are needed for a complete assessment of the Core Ultra 7 270K Plus’ performance.

    While Intel is busy with its Panther Lake for laptops, the desktop side is pretty quiet. Nova Lake isn’t expected until next year, so we are currently stuck with the refreshed Arrow Lake processors. Recently, the Core Ultra 7 270K Plus has surfaced on Geekbench.

    Geekbench Scores

    It has recorded scores of 3,205 in single-core and 22,206 in multi-core tests using Geekbench 6.5. The Core Ultra 7 270K Plus is equipped with 24 cores (8 performance + 16 efficiency), 24 threads, and boasts a boost clock speed of 5.4 GHz. The processor is running in an unknown Lenovo PC that features 48 GB of DDR5-7182 (DDR5-7200) RAM and operates on Windows 11. The Geekbench back-end reveals that it was tested with a GeForce RTX 5090 D, which is a GPU exclusive to China.

    Performance Comparison

    In terms of performance, it is approximately 3% quicker than the Core Ultra 7 265K, which typically scores around 3,085 in Geekbench’s single-core test. When it comes to multi-core performance, there’s about a 7% improvement compared to its Arrow Lake predecessor, which scored 20,581. Although the Core Ultra 7 270K refresh doesn’t seem to promise significant performance gains over Arrow Lake, these numbers might improve once it officially launches.

    Early Insights

    Still, it’s quite premature to make any definitive statements about the Core Ultra 7 270K Plus’ performance without more benchmark results or knowing its power consumption. Nevertheless, the Geekbench listing does verify the name of Intel’s Arrow Lake refresh.

    Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus: Arrow Lake CPU Geekbench LaunchIntel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus: Arrow Lake CPU Geekbench Launch

     

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  • China Launches World’s First Wind-Powered Underwater Data Center

    China Launches World’s First Wind-Powered Underwater Data Center

    Key Takeaways

    1. Data centers consume vast amounts of water daily, often from drinkable supplies, contributing to local water shortages.
    2. Many data centers rely on fossil fuels for power, which can increase air pollution and health risks for nearby communities.
    3. China’s first underwater data center aims to address environmental concerns associated with traditional data centers.
    4. The underwater data center project is expected to use over 95% of its energy from sustainable sources and eliminate water usage completely.
    5. This initiative represents a significant step towards eco-friendly computing, reducing land use by 90% and power consumption by 22.8%.

    While data centers serve as a crucial foundation for the digital realm, they are also becoming a significant public health and environmental issue. A large data center typically uses between 3 to 7 million gallons of water each day to keep cool. This water often comes from drinkable supplies, which can lead to increased water shortages in the area. Moreover, many data centers depend on power from fossil fuel plants, which tend to release harmful air pollutants that can raise the chances of respiratory and heart diseases among those living nearby.

    An Innovative Approach

    In response to these pressing challenges, China has recently unveiled the completion of the world’s first underwater data center (UDC) project in Lin-gang. This initiative, which has seen an investment of 1.6 billion yuan ($226 million), marks a significant advancement in creating eco-friendly and low-carbon computing facilities.

    The design of the project aims to specifically tackle the environmental issues associated with traditional land-based data centers. It is anticipated that this facility will utilize over 95% of its energy from sustainable sources. Additionally, it is set to eliminate water usage by 100%, require 90% less land, and decrease total power use by 22.8%.

    A Major Milestone

    As per the Lin-gang administrative committee, the finishing of this 24-megawatt underwater data center signifies a key milestone in the combined growth of underwater data centers and offshore renewable energy sources.

     

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  • Minisforum G1 & G1 Pro Launch Dates with AMD APUs & RTX 5060 GPU

    Minisforum G1 & G1 Pro Launch Dates with AMD APUs & RTX 5060 GPU

    Key Takeaways

    1. Minisforum introduced the G1 and G1 Pro mini-PCs at the Japan IT Week and IFA 2025 events.
    2. Both models feature the desktop version of Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060, utilizing 145 W of their 350 W power supply.
    3. They support up to 96 GB of DDR5-5200 RAM and 8 TB of PCIe 4.0 storage across two M.2 2280 slots.
    4. The main difference between G1 and G1 Pro is their AMD Ryzen 9 processors: G1 uses the 8940HX, while G1 Pro uses the 8945HX.
    5. Launch is expected at the end of November, but pricing details are not yet available.

    Minisforum has recently revealed more information regarding the G1 and G1 Pro after hinting at these models earlier in the year. Just to remind everyone, the G1 and G1 Pro were first introduced in April during the Japan IT Week Tokyo Spring Show. Following that, the company displayed both devices last month at the IFA 2025 event held in Berlin.

    New Appearances at Japan IT Week

    Currently, Minisforum has presented both mini-PCs at the Japan IT Week in Chiba. There’s not much difference between the G1 and G1 Pro, similar to the previous models N5 and N5 Pro (currently priced at $1,019 on Amazon). Minisforum has confirmed that these two models will feature the desktop version of the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060, which utilizes 145 W of the total 350 W from the built-in power supplies (PSU) of the G1 and G1 Pro.

    Specifications and Features

    Moreover, both models support up to 96 GB of DDR5-5200 RAM and can accommodate 8 TB of PCIe 4.0 storage, divided across two M.2 2280 slots. As shown in the image below, the back of the G1 series is equipped with a variety of ports, including five dedicated for video output.

    In the end, the primary distinction between these models is the type of AMD Ryzen 9 processor they use: the G1 is powered by the 8940HX APU, while the G1 Pro features the 8945HX. These are both Dragon Range refresh APUs, and benchmark tests indicate a mere 3% difference in performance between the two. VideoCardz has reported that Minisforum is set to launch the G1 and G1 Pro ‘at the conclusion of November.’ However, pricing details have not been disclosed yet.

     

    Minisforum G1 & G1 Pro Launch Dates with AMD APUs & RTX 5060 GPUMinisforum G1 & G1 Pro Launch Dates with AMD APUs & RTX 5060 GPU

     

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  • Minisforum MS-02 Ultra Mini-PC with Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX

    Minisforum MS-02 Ultra Mini-PC with Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Minisforum MS-02 Ultra mini-PC was showcased at the Japan Autumn IT Week 2025, highlighting its global launch alongside other models like the G1 and G1 Pro.
    2. It features a compact 4.8 litre casing and is powered by Intel’s Core Ultra 9 285HX, a 24-core processor that reportedly outperforms AMD’s Ryzen AI Max+ 395.
    3. The MS-02 Ultra includes PCIe 5.0 and PCIe 4.0 slots for 2-slot desktop graphics cards, with a maximum system power limited to 350 W due to its integrated Flex PSU.
    4. The mini-PC supports up to 256 GB of RAM and has dimensions of 221.5 × 225 × 97 mm.
    5. It offers various I/O options but is positioned more as a mini server than a standard mini-PC, with unclear pricing and availability details.

    Hardly any time has gone by since the details of the Minisforum MS-02 Ultra were revealed online. Just recently, Minisforum has presented the mini-PC with the same name at the Japan Autumn IT Week 2025 held in Chiba. To provide some background, the company also showcased the G1 and G1 Pro during this event, where it announced global launch information as well.

    Key Features of the MS-02 Ultra

    As per Minisforum, the MS-02 Ultra is built around a 4.8 litre casing, which they claim is a game-changer for ‘what can be achieved with small-form-factor (SFF) workstations.’ Putting the flashy marketing aside, the MS-02 Ultra is powered by Intel’s Arrow Lake-HX family, specifically the Core Ultra 9 285HX. This 24-core processor is said to outperform the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 that is found in high-end mini-PCs such as the GMKtec EVO-X2 (currently priced at $1,499 on Amazon), based on our testing.

    Performance and Compatibility

    Even though the 4-core Arc integrated GPU in the Core Ultra 9 285HX isn’t particularly impressive, the MS-02 Ultra also includes PCIe 5.0 x16 and PCIe 4.0 x16 slots for accommodating 2-slot desktop graphics cards. To support this, Minisforum has added an 8-pin PCIe auxiliary power connector, but it’s important to note that the total system power might be limited to 350 W due to its integrated Flex PSU. Additionally, this mini-PC can handle up to 256 GB of RAM, all packed into a casing with dimensions of 221.5 × 225 × 97 mm.

    I/O and Market Position

    Furthermore, the MS-02 Ultra is equipped with various front-facing and rear-facing I/O options, including a couple of USB v2 ports. As stated by PC Watch, the hardware within the MS-02 Ultra positions it more as a mini server than a typical mini-PC or SFF workstation. Sadly, details regarding pricing and availability are still unclear at this moment.

     

    Minisforum MS-02 Ultra Mini-PC with Intel Core Ultra 9 285HXMinisforum MS-02 Ultra Mini-PC with Intel Core Ultra 9 285HXMinisforum MS-02 Ultra Mini-PC with Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX

     

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  • TerraMaster Launches New NAS Models with 4 HDD Bays and Fast Networking

    TerraMaster Launches New NAS Models with 4 HDD Bays and Fast Networking

    Key Takeaways

    1. TerraMaster has launched two NAS models: F2-425 Plus ($400) and F4-425 Plus ($570), with a discount available for early buyers on Amazon until October 24.
    2. The F4-425 Plus supports four hard drives and three M.2 SSDs, while the F2-425 Plus supports only two hard drives.
    3. Both models are powered by an Intel N150 processor, designed for data tasks rather than gaming.
    4. The F4-425 Plus offers double the memory capacity compared to the F2-425 Plus, and both have dual 5 Gb/s Ethernet ports for fast data transfer speeds.
    5. Both devices feature an HDMI output, support Docker for running applications, and provide cloud service integration for enhanced data security.

    TerraMaster has introduced a new network-attached storage (NAS) solution with two different models. The F2-425 Plus is around $400, while the F4-425 Plus is priced at roughly $570. Those who buy either version on Amazon before October 24 can take advantage of a notable discount. The primary difference between these two models is the number of storage drive bays. The larger F4-425 Plus can hold up to four hard drives and three M.2 SSDs, but the F2-425 Plus only supports two hard drives instead of four. Both devices come with an Intel N150 processor. Although this chip isn’t very powerful, it is designed to manage data tasks instead of demanding activities such as gaming.

    Key Differences in Memory

    A significant difference in these models is their memory capacity. The F4-425 Plus, which measures 150 x 181 x 219 mm (5.91 x 7.13 x 8.62 in), offers double the memory of the F2-425 Plus. Nevertheless, both models come equipped with dual high-speed 5 Gb/s Ethernet ports, allowing for impressive data transfer speeds of up to 1,020 MB/s. Each SSD connects through one PCIe 3.0 lane, which can fully utilize advanced, high-speed drives.

    Connectivity and Features

    For connecting to an external display, there is a single HDMI output available. Both NAS devices are compatible with Docker, enabling users to run various applications. Furthermore, they provide extensive security features and cloud service integration. This integration allows users to back up their data on cloud storage in addition to local devices, enhancing security and protection.

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    TerraMaster Launches New NAS Models with 4 HDD Bays and Fast NetworkingTerraMaster Launches New NAS Models with 4 HDD Bays and Fast Networking

     

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  • 15,947 Drones Set Two World Records in Liuyang Sky Display

    15,947 Drones Set Two World Records in Liuyang Sky Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. A spectacular drone and fireworks display took place in Liuyang, China, on October 17, attracting millions of viewers.
    2. The event achieved two Guinness World Records: most drones launched simultaneously (15,947) and largest drone formation flight carrying fireworks (7,496).
    3. The record-breaking display was a collaboration between Gaoju Innovation from Shenzhen and local fireworks producers in Liuyang.
    4. Thousands of drones formed a massive “Sky Tree,” with fireworks igniting from its base, creating a stunning visual effect.
    5. Liuyang is known for its fireworks shows every Saturday, but this event was a unique and memorable highlight.

    The skies over Liuyang, located in central China’s Hunan province, lit up with a spectacular drone and fireworks display on October 17. This amazing event attracted millions of viewers, both on-site and online. As part of the city’s renowned fireworks festival, two Guinness World Records were achieved: one for “the most drones launched simultaneously by a single computer” and another for “the largest drone formation flight carrying the most fireworks.”

    Record-Breaking Launches

    The first record involved launching an impressive 15,947 drones all at once from one computer. The second achievement saw 7,496 drones soaring through the sky while carrying fireworks. This grand spectacle was brought to life through a partnership between Gaoju Innovation from Shenzhen and local fireworks producers in Liuyang.

    A Dazzling Performance

    Throughout the show, thousands of drones came together to create a massive “Sky Tree,” which radiated brilliantly under the night sky. As the fireworks ignited from the base of this formation, they closely resembled enchanting sprites. While Liuyang is known for its fireworks shows every Saturday night, this particular event was truly one-of-a-kind.

    According to CGTN and The Economic Times, the collaboration and innovation behind this record-setting display made it a memorable highlight for all who witnessed it.

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  • Lenovo ThinkCentre Neo 55A Gen 6 AIO with Ryzen AI 300 Series CPU

    Lenovo ThinkCentre Neo 55A Gen 6 AIO with Ryzen AI 300 Series CPU

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Lenovo ThinkCentre neo 55a Gen 6 is an all-in-one computer featuring a Ryzen AI 300 series APU, aimed at productivity and office use.
    2. It supports up to 32 GB of DDR5 RAM at 5,600 MHz and has a single M.2 PCIe slot for SSDs with a maximum capacity of 1 TB.
    3. The AIO has a 23.8-inch IPS display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution, 100 Hz refresh rate, 250 nits brightness, and 99% sRGB color coverage.
    4. It includes various connectivity options like WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and features such as a 5 MP webcam with Smart Meeting Tools.
    5. The ThinkCentre neo 55a Gen 6 is available starting at a price of $549.

    Lenovo has introduced the ThinkCentre neo 55a Gen 6, a new all-in-one (AIO) computer that can be fitted with a Ryzen AI 300 series APU. The company didn’t exactly specify the exact processor choices available, but since this AIO is aimed at productivity and office work, it’s likely that Strix Point APUs are off the table.

    Memory and Storage

    Lenovo confirmed that the APU in the ThinkCentre neo 55a Gen 6 can be combined with as much as 32 GB of DDR5 RAM that operates at 5,600 MHz. Regarding storage options, this AIO includes just a single M.2 PCIe slot for SSDs, which can hold a maximum of up to 1 TB (currently, a 1 TB Samsung 990 EVO Plus is priced at $74.99 on Amazon).

    Display Features

    On the front side, the AIO features a 23.8-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. Lenovo mentions that the display supports a 100 Hz refresh rate, has a brightness level of 250 nits, and covers 99% of the sRGB color space. These specifications ensure that the screen is more than adequate for everyday use and entertainment.

    Design and Connectivity

    Even though the ThinkCentre neo 55a Gen 6 sports a slim and compact form, it offers a nice variety of ports, including:

    Some other notable features of this AIO are WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, an integrated 5 MP webcam equipped with Smart Meeting Tools, and two 3-watt Harman speakers that support Dolby Audio. The ThinkCentre neo 55a Gen 6 is now up for grabs, starting at a price of $549.

     

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