Powerful internet in the car. Video about connecting the Internet in the car. Features of organizing Wi-Fi connection in the car

Some car enthusiasts managed to calculate how long they have to stand idle in traffic jams. Maybe you are familiar with the situation when passengers start to get bored if the trip is long. All this can be avoided by using the Internet over Wi-Fi. Consider how to conduct WiFi internet in the car with simple solutions.

With the active development of the mobile Internet, there is a need for the convenient use of wireless technologies. Nowadays it is not surprising that access to the network anywhere is commonplace. Special technologies have appeared on the world market, allowing you to be online around the clock from any device that has a Wi-Fi module. Needless to say, the Internet is not available in all places, even public ones, and often the connection is closed with a password. Every owner of a smartphone, tablet or laptop will agree with this. However, it is possible to use a wireless network anywhere, but with the help of operators cellular communication... If you didn’t know, such a solution can be organized via Wi-Fi in the car and any other mode of transport (except air).

Internet via wifi in the car with your own hands using your phone

The easiest and most affordable solution to carry wifi to the car is to use mobile phone as a modem. All modern smartphone models support this function - distribution over wifi Internet received from a mobile operator. I have already described this possibility in detail, so I will not repeat myself, but I will give you links to these articles: on and on the iPhone.

The main disadvantage of this option is that when you turn on WiFi and 3G at the same time, the phone runs out of battery very quickly. But this nuance can be smoothed out by using an additional external battery.

WiFi to the car via 3G / 4G router

In one of the articles, I have already told you that there are, in which the functions of a high-speed modem and a Wi-Fi module are combined. The dimensions of such devices can be identical to a "whistle", the size of a flash drive, or look like a stationary box.

The range often does not exceed 150 meters. The main features of mobile routers for the Internet are the number of supported equipment, the presence of a battery for autonomous work, the ability to connect to various operators (CDMA network as well as GSM), file transfer (HSDPA, Rev A, Rev B). These devices are also equipped with an output for connecting an external car antenna. It is very easy to get Internet via Wi-Fi in the car. To do this, you just need to turn on the device and after 15-20 seconds you can find your own network. The router is powered by a standard car charger. If working equipment identical to Huawei EC 315, it will be possible to connect to the USB port. You will have to pay for such Internet at the rate of your phone number. To govern in cash it is possible using the self-service system. As you can see, there is nothing complicated!

Turnkey solution: CarFi - wifi router with 4g sim card for car

In 2015, Huawei demonstrated a new type of device, the so-called CarFi, to a wide range of users. it ready-made solution- wifi car router with support for SIM cards and 4G LTE networks of mobile operators. CarFi connects to the car's cigarette lighter and distributes over WiFi the Internet received via the SIM card from the cellular connection.

A special feature is the presence of active cooling, which excludes overheating of the modem during operation. CarFi can be controlled from an Android or iOS phone through the Huawei Hilink proprietary program.

By the way, Ford itself has already taken care of the presence of wireless Internet in its cars, having implemented the Sync system with Wi-Fi in them. Its work consists in the fact that the user plugs the 3G / 4G modem into the USB input on the central panel, and the car itself distributes the Internet throughout the car. Hopefully, other manufacturers will pick up on the idea.

WiFi in the car - a ready-made solution

If you have noticed, more and more often on different bus routes and even in some places in the metro in test mode, passengers are able to connect to Wi Fi right in the cabin. Installed in route vehicles different from a simple mobile router. This is already a whole complex communication system, which consists of several components and can simultaneously catch 3G, 4G signals from operators and also Wi-Fi from access points free for connection, automatically switching between them and giving the end user the maximum stable speed.

This decision very convenient for those people who often have to travel by car for work and at the same time constantly have high-quality wifi access to the Internet. The client equipment itself consists of a small modem box that is installed in the car, and external antenna to the roof to improve reception. Anyone can install such a kit in their car by contacting one of the companies that install such a kit. I will not give advertising - you can easily find them on the Internet yourself.

It is hard to imagine modern gadgets without Wi-Fi function, this type of wireless communication is gaining momentum and is being built into all new devices. We will tell you how to equip a Wi-Fi hotspot in your car.

Many modern car manufacturers, starting from the basic configuration, install Wi-Fi access points in conjunction with Internet access. This option is in great demand, especially in family cars. Still, there are a lot of people who want to build the Internet into foreign cars of past years or domestic cars.

Wi-Fi internet options in the car

Manufacturers of modern cars offer an additional option, but what about those cars where this is not possible. Often, the owners of such cars go to various tricks, independently introducing modern technologies.

Smartphone and Wi-Fi

The first and most reliable way can be considered a smartphone. Modern smartphones allow you to quickly convert a device from a phone to a Wi-Fi hotspot. To do this, it is enough to turn on the mobile Internet and make the Internet available via Wi-Fi through the special Wi-Fi Router function. In this case, the smartphone will turn into an access point.

This option can be considered the cheapest and fastest, since it will be enough to understand the smartphone settings. This method is available for any car and not only for a car; it can also be used as a portable access device. The main disadvantage is that at any time they can call a smartphone, and in this case, the Internet will simply turn off.

Another disadvantage is that you need to constantly look for a place to recharge when you actively use your smartphone as a Wi-Fi hotspot. It will not do without eating money from the account. Before enabling such a function, make sure that your tariff plan has enough megabytes in stock. Otherwise, the connected devices will quickly eat up megabytes. If the Internet is with a limit, then it is worth keeping at least 1 GB in stock.

When buying a smartphone, be sure to make sure that the router has a Wi-Fi function. In principle, this is one of the best and most aesthetic options for implementing the Internet in a car.

USB modem for internet

Second implementation option Wi-Fi internet this is USB modems with Wi-Fi hotspot function. If you don't have a smartphone, then this will be the best option. The most common are Huawei modems; they are based on the same GSM connection system and Wi-Fi distribution.

The advantage is that they are less bulky than smartphones, and besides, if the owner of the smartphone leaves the car, the Internet will still remain in the car. It will also be an advantage that the SIM card installed in the modem will be designed specifically for working on the Internet, thereby allowing more use of the network's capabilities.

When choosing a USB modem for Wi-Fi access in the car, you should not take a modem tied to a specific cellular operator, it is best to take a universal one. Thus, you can independently select a tariff for your needs and volumes of use. Also, when I travel to another country or part of the country, it will be possible to change the operator, thereby ensuring the smooth operation of the Wi-Fi access point.

It would be nice to ask the modem manufacturer if the modem can work autonomously without a computer, since the option for a computer will not work because of the configuration peculiarities. Some manufacturers specifically make such Wi-Fi modems for cars and additionally offer an external antenna to enhance the communication signal. Such an antenna is often very useful, when driving on the road there is not always a good connection, and as a result of the signal amplification, access to the Internet will always be.

OBD-II device for Wi-Fi

The third option for creating Wi-Fi Internet in the car is access through an OBD-II device. As a rule, for the most part, this device is used to connect to the diagnostic connector and search for errors. Often, data is transferred via a Wi-Fi access point. A smartphone is used as a monitor, and it also connects via Wi-Fi.

Such devices have a built-in GSM receiver; you will need to insert a SIM card of the provider you need into it. But since there are no clear rules for what the Internet is needed in such a device, you can use it for your own purposes. Such a manufacturer as Delphi Connect allows not only to remove information about errors, but also provides with the help of this device to monitor the location of the car in real time.

Stationary car modem

The most reliable, but at the same time, and expensive option is a fixed Wi-Fi modem for cars. The portable version of the modem is specially made to create a Wi-Fi hotspot in the car. Depending on the manufacturer, the dimensions of the modem can be medium or completely portable, for example, as a radar detector or a video recorder.

Although the pleasure is not cheap, the main advantage of this Wi-Fi access point is the quality of the connection. This is what the manufacturers of such modems are most interested in. The modem will provide the ability to connect to the Internet anywhere and in conditions. Some manufacturers allow using USB to connect a laptop or phone that does not have Wi-Fi functionality.

How much does a Wi-Fi hotspot cost in a car

Internet access in your car is not a small pleasure, but the price will naturally also be not small. The first thing worth looking at is the operator's tariff plan. It is worth choosing one that is mostly designed for using the Internet, and not calls or SMS. It is better to check the price with the operator mobile communications, so they often change prices.

As for the equipment, one of the most profitable options would be to use your smartphone, the price may be free, and in the case of a purchase, reach several tens of thousands of rubles. In the case of using a USB modem with a Wi-Fi access point, the price can range from 300 to 5000 rubles. Some manufacturers' modems can be more expensive.

The third option for Wi-Fi connection is an OBD-II device, the connection price is from 1000 to 7000 rubles, for some cars it may be more expensive. Much will depend on the type of connector and the car manufacturer.

The most expensive is a fixed modem for a car with a Wi-Fi access point. The price of such a modem will be from 3,500 to 10,000 rubles. Indeed, the price is not small, but the reliability and quality are worth the money. Well, it's up to you to decide which of the options to choose, cheaper and worse quality Wi-Fi connection or more expensive and excellent quality of Internet access.

What you need to know about communication

When choosing a modem to work with a GSM network, it is worth knowing a few rules for choosing. First, it is worth looking at the network generation that is using this modem... Most, many countries now use 3G or 4G standards. Therefore, it is better to take one that is capable of working with several standards.

When choosing an operator and a tariff plan for Wi-Fi, you should pay attention to the details, which the operator often tries not to talk about, whether there are limits for megabytes and what is the price in excess of the available megabytes. Often, a statement about unlimited Internet is only in words, in fact, it is a package of several gigabytes, at the end of which you will have to pay extra in excess of the package norm.

Before you get Wi-Fi Internet in your car, do some calculations, choose for yourself and your passengers the most optimal option for accessing the Internet via a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Video of how Wi-Fi works in a car:

The easiest way to connect Wi-Fi internet to your car is to use your smartphone as a dedicated wireless access point. But you can also connect Wi-Fi mobile data network connection and wireless network to any car using a number of different types of Wi-Fi adapters that will act as a modem and router.

All the methods of connecting Wi-Fi to the car described below differ in their high cost, ease of connection and use, as well as their aesthetics. appearance inside the interior of the car. Let's take a look at all the different ways to get a Wi-Fi network in your car!

Internet in the car via phone

Price: From free to 20+ thousand rubles, depending on whether you have a smartphone or how much you are willing to spend on it.

The easiest and cheapest (if you have a phone) way to get Wi-Fi Internet in your car is to turn your phone into an access point. Most smartphones today have the ability "out of the box" to distribute the Internet via Wi-Fi - this ability is possessed by the latest versions of iOS, Android and Windows Phone... The access point turns on in the settings and it looks different depending on operating system... V general outline, look in the settings for words such as "access point", "shared Internet", etc.

The main idea of this method of connecting the Internet in the car is that the phone works both as a modem and as a router. The phone essentially allows other devices such as tablets, MP3 players, or a Wi-Fi-enabled car entertainment system to connect to the network that the phone is sharing.

The downside to using your phone to provide Wi-Fi internet connectivity in your car is that any device that connects to it will relentlessly eat up megabytes from your cell phone. And, since most people use tariffs that include a middle ground between cheap calls and inexpensive Internet, then, as a rule, this Internet will be severely limited in monthly traffic or in speed. Moreover, some operators, without the knowledge of the client, will withdraw money from the balance upon reaching the traffic limit, without warning about it.

So if you use your phone as a hotspot in your car to watch a bunch of Youtube videos during a long road trip, at one point you may find that your monthly traffic has dried up within one day. In any case, before connecting Wi-Fi to the Internet via your phone, read again carefully the agreement you entered into with the cellular operator, especially the small print.

USB modems in the car with Wi-Fi function

Price: From 500 to 3000 rubles.

Another easy way to get Wi-Fi internet in your car is to use a dedicated Wi-Fi modem. These devices basically include the same type of cellular data connection as a phone, but are less bulky than a phone and give the smartphone owner freedom of movement - when the owner of the smartphone leaves the car, the Internet will not go away with him.

Another plus of this method before turning on the access point from the phone settings is that it will be a separate SIM card with its own tariff, designed mainly for the Internet, and not calls, and therefore with a more favorable tariff for using the Internet.

By the way, when choosing a USB modem in a car, do not take modems that are technically tied only to a specific cellular network operator. Simply put, do not buy USB modems in the communication shops of certain operators, but take universal modems. Firstly, the very ability to change the operator is a plus in any case. Secondly, we take a USB modem into the car, which means that when planning a long trip, we will be able to buy a SIM card, which will ensure the most uninterrupted operation of Wi-Fi Internet in the car.

By the way, about the mobility of USB-modems - it is necessary to choose a modem with the possibility of autonomous operation from the car's cigarette lighter. A classic modem that plugs into a laptop's USB socket will not work. Although, the initial configuration of the modem is still done through the computer interface. In any case, you need to check with the seller that you will be connecting the modem to the car and not to the laptop.

Another advantage of a USB modem is that you can additionally buy an antenna amplifier for the signal, and in many cases this is a rather useful thing, especially when it comes to using the Internet while traveling with different signal levels on the way.

Many (more expensive) USB modems for cars also have built-in rechargeable batteries, allowing them to operate autonomously.

Wi-Fi Internet in the car via OBD-II device

Price: from 1,000 to 5,000 rubles

OBD-II devices operating over Wi-Fi are typically designed to interact with an app on a smartphone in addition to providing Wi-Fi networks... These are devices that connect to the OBD-II port of your car - the port that is used technicians to perform diagnostic work in the form of error search. By virtue of its functionality, such a device distributes Wi-Fi, and in most of these Wi-Fi devices you can use not only for its intended purpose, but also just for surfing the Internet.

But the main advantage of such devices is not the very first thing that hijackers notice in a car. And some manufacturers of such devices, such as Delphi Connect, for example, allows not only access to diagnostic information through a smartphone app, but also provides vehicle tracking data. This allows you to track the location of your vehicle in real time, as well as see data about where your vehicle has been in the past.

Fixed Wi-Fi modems and routers

Price: from 3,500 to 10,000 rubles

The most expensive, most reliable and least portable way to connect Wi-Fi Internet in your car is to install a stationary wireless modem and router. These car wireless routers tend to be much more expensive than portable USB modems and require little installation works... However, some car routers have some degree of mobility - much like radar detectors and dash cameras - you can move your router and modem to another car. Other devices are as mobile as your car is - they move only inside one car and are permanently installed there.

The main advantage of this type of device is that the cellular radio will often be more powerful than what you would normally experience in smartphones and USB modems with Wi-Fi function, and the Wi-Fi signal itself may also be stronger.

Another advantage of fixed routers is that they often include USB ports for local connectivity. This provides the ability to connect, for example, a laptop or phone, which simply does not have a Wi-Fi module.

Pay attention to the current expenses for the Internet in the car

Yes, throughput, the power of the network are important factors when buying one or another device for connecting Wi-Fi Internet in the car, but take the tariff seriously and mobile operator... Today the three leaders among operators are MTS, Beeline and Megafon; the newly-minted Tele2 is catching up with the top three. Everyone has different tariffs, but there is plenty to choose from.

First of all, when buying a device, take into account what types of communication they provide. So, 4G communication is already a fairly widespread geographically format, and if you travel often or drive within large cities, then this may be the best choice For you.

Claimed as supposedly unlimited internet, once a certain traffic threshold is reached, the speed drops dramatically.
The tariff is announced as unlimited Internet throughout Russia. In fact, when you enter each region of the Russian Federation, you are removed a certain amount once for the internet.
The internet is honestly described as having limited traffic. In fact, the operator will not notify you about reaching the traffic limit, but will be happy to automatically connect any additional traffic package for additional money.

Using the car as a mode of transport to travel to big city, many have noticed what inconveniences they have to face. First of all, these are traffic jams. Sometimes you have to stand in them for a very long time. To prevent passengers from getting bored, drivers connect wi-fi to the car. This solution can be implemented in several ways.

To use the phone as a modem, there are 3 connection options:

via wi-fi;
via Bluetooth;
using wires.

For everything to work, you need to make some settings on your phone. It is not easy for beginners to deal with this. It's much easier to set up your phone like a router.

The connection options will be as follows:

connect your phone via a SIM card. It will work like a router, distribute the Internet via Wi-Fi in the car. This method of connection will allow you to access the Internet wirelessly from any device;
the phone connects to the Internet and via Bluetooth gives access to the network to other devices;
the phone is connected to the mobile Internet and transmits it via the USB cable.

USB modem with Wi-Fi function.

This method is also considered uncomplicated. The USB modem has a cellular data connection type similar to a telephone. Unlike the latter, it is not bulky, the owner of the smartphone can move freely. When the user gets out of the car, the internet will remain.

Car modem for distribution

USB modem for distribution to the cigarette lighter

Separate tariff. Another positive feature is the presence of a separate SIM card with its own tariff. It is calculated only for the tariff for the Internet in the car, without the ability to make calls.

Universal USB modem. When choosing a USB modem, pay attention to the binding to operators. Buy a universal modem that is independent of certain operators of any network. In this case, it is possible to easily change the operator if he is not satisfied with something. When purchasing a USB modem, consult with the seller, let him know that you need a modem for a car, not a computer.

Wi-Fi to the car, using a special modem for the Internet, will show a stable connection, fast loading.

The second advantage of the universal modem is the uninterrupted operation of the Internet in the car due to an additional SIM card if the user is going on a long journey. Also, for safety on the road, a wi-fi camera is installed for the car.

Choose devices that can function from a car cigarette lighter. The classic version with a connection to the USB-input of a laptop will not work.

Rear row camera

A car camcorder with a wi-fi module transmits an image via the Internet to a smartphone. There is no need to lay any cables in the cabin. Installing a wi-fi camera in a car is quite simple. An on-board voltage of 12V will be sufficient. The mounting system is so simple that you can install it yourself. When a wi-fi camera is mounted in a car, no wiring is required in the cabin.

A car camcorder with wi-fi is installed on the bumper, under the license plate, trunk. With the help of this device, the driver is not afraid to drive onto the curb or collide with another car.

When choosing a Wi-Fi for a car, pay attention to the bandwidth, network power, do not forget about tariffs and operators. Take your purchase choice seriously.

Today, many are interested in how to conduct the Internet via Wi-Fi in a car. There can be many reasons for installing a Wi-Fi hotspot router in your car. Starting from the now fashionable trend to provide access to the World Wide Web in public transport or in a taxi as marketing move and additional service, ending with the provision of high-quality communication for those who need the Internet for work.

V modern world a global network is needed anywhere, cars are no exception

The main advantage of this method over the mobile Internet in a smartphone is the ability to transfer large amounts of data. Since there may be several passengers in the car, accessing the network, a single high-speed access point will become more preferable. A Wi-Fi router in the car provides convenience similar to those that appear with smartphone owners without mobile internet when they come home - their gadget immediately "revives" thanks to the fact that it goes online. Especially these advantages will be felt by passengers on long trips, which will raise the quality of the carrier's service to a higher level.

A bit of history

In the United States, the idea of connecting a car to the Internet first appeared. In 2009, Chrysler car manufacturers began supplying their cars with special equipment that provides communication with the World Wide Web through a Wi-Fi router. This opportunity was realized by connecting the additional option Uconnect Web, and the bandwidth of the connection was at the level of 400-800 Kbps with a Wi-Fi range of about 30 meters. Later, General Motors began to recycle similar solutions in Cadillacs. And at present, every car owner has the opportunity to supply his car with the Internet, and not only by ordering an additional option in a car dealership.

It is not necessary to modify the machine to use the global network

Standalone Wi-Fi hotspot is now one of the most popular options in new cars, and quite expensive at that. From a technical point of view, implementing a Wi-Fi zone in a car is not a difficult task. In cars with an installed Information and Entertainment System (IRS) with GPS, this is also not difficult to do.

Overview of solutions for implementing Wi-Fi in the car

Connection methods

There are several ways to create a Wi-Fi hotspot in your car:

Smartphone as a router;
3G / 4G router with Wi-Fi;
Wi-Fi module for IRS with a navigator;
Tablet with an external 3G modem (like a Wi-Fi router);
Complete car Wi-Fi system.

Choosing a provider

Equipment selection is half the challenge. You also need to decide on the provider. Tip: choose large providers... Thanks to the widest possible coverage, you can be sure that wherever you drive, the connection via Wi-Fi in the car will be stable.

Tariff selection

The choice of tariffs is quite wide - ranging from minimal to unlimited. If we proceed from the fact that you have decided to create comfortable access to the World Wide Web in the car, it makes sense to take a closer look at unlimited tariff... Especially if large amounts of information are downloaded or streaming video is played. But if you just need to ensure the availability of Wi-Fi in the car, limit yourself to the base rate. In this case, it makes sense to use tricks based on a smartphone or tablet as a router. If you need to connect the Internet to create comfortable conditions during rare long trips, there are tariffs that are paid exclusively on the day of use.

Connection technical implementation options

Smartphone as a router

The easiest and cheapest way to get Wi-Fi into your car is to use your smartphone as a router. The vast majority of gadgets have the function of distributing the Internet via Wi-Fi. Its meaning is that the signal received by the phone from the operator is converted into a Wi-Fi signal, with the help of which, through the specified device, other devices can go to the global network. There are two drawbacks: fast battery consumption and speed limits set by the smartphone. You need to study the characteristics of your device and compare them with the tariff plan, and if they suit you, this is the most affordable way. And to prevent a quick battery drain, you can connect your phone to the cigarette lighter.

3G modem / Wi-Fi router

Some models of 3G routers have a built-in Wi-Fi module. In fact, the same as that of the gadget, but it is placed in a separate case and has higher specifications... The modem has its own battery that allows it to work for several hours, which seems to be good, but with prolonged use, the cigarette lighter will still have to be used. There are models of routers specifically designed for connecting to a cigarette lighter. It is possible to connect several devices, which is important (for more details about their number, see the documentation for the device). The range of these routers is several tens of meters. Also, these devices have a connector for connecting an external car antenna.

The advantage is the highest declared data exchange rate, but in practice this is far from always the case. Telecom operators and router developers indicate the speed of access to the modem itself. It is necessary to take into account the limitations of gadgets connected to such a source, as well as the fact that the flow rate is proportionally divided between all client devices.

The actual speed of the Internet will be much lower than the expected one, take this into account when deciding on the choice of the connection method. Also, the speed of the Internet in motion will be slightly lower than when the car is stopped. Usually this is in the order of 1-2 Mbit / s. This is quite enough for video calling via Skype, watching videos and downloading music. But keep in mind that for HD video format, of course, this is not as well suited as home Internet.

In addition to the above, keep in mind that in fact you are not limited by the machine when disposing of the specified router, it can be operated as the notorious "Wi-Fi in your pocket" - with all its advantages and disadvantages. Compact and convenient. As a rule, such routers are flashed by the provider, and you do not need to bother with the settings. From the control, you will only use the on / off button - after all, usually, except for it and the USB connector, there is nothing in these modems.

Wi-Fi module for IRS with a navigator

Some cars are equipped with IRS - Information and Entertainment System, which includes a navigator screen and a radio module for connecting to a telecom operator via a SIM card. You can pay up to $ 1000 to have this IRS with Wi-Fi as an option. But you can also independently connect a module with a Wi-Fi router, which will cost several times cheaper.

Tablet with external 3G modem as a Wi-Fi router

A fairly practical way is to use a device (which can also be disposed of as a kind of IRS) with an external USB modem connected to it without a Wi-Fi module, the cost of which is lower than with a module. There are two standards of routers that differ in speed: Rev A has a speed limit of 3.1 Mbps, and Rev B is limited to 14.7 Mbps. It is also relatively easy to change the operator by changing the modem. The Wi-Fi module of the tablet is used as an access point, similar to how the Internet is distributed from a smartphone using the same function.

You can also replace this bundle of tablet-modem with just a separate old gadget, so as not to load the main one, if you find it inconvenient to use your main phone as a router.

Complete car Wi-Fi system

Some subways and many buses have equipment that allows you to connect to Wi-Fi right in the cabin. Such equipment allows you to simultaneously capture 3G, 4G signals from different operators and even Wi-Fi from free access points, automatically switching between them and giving out the maximum stable speed. This solution is distinguished by high quality of communication and high cost. This system consists of a small modem and an external antenna for high quality communications.

Some new cars are equipped with a Wi-Fi system, the effect of which is that you just plug a 3G / 4G modem into the USB port on the central panel, and the built-in router converts the signal into Wi-Fi.

Conclusion

In fact, the essence of connecting the Internet via Wi-Fi in the car is the combination of a mobile Internet source with a Wi-Fi module. At the same time, you need to choose the best option in terms of price / quality ratio, given that it is inevitable that you need to pay extra for quality and convenience. But as for the ability to combine various options, in the case of organizing a Wi-Fi hotspot in the car, you can save significant money if you delve into the essence of the matter a little. Good luck!

Your experience and opinions matter, and many readers will benefit from your comment.

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