Types of Capsule-Type SCR Thyristors
A capsule-type SCR (Silicon Controlled Rectifier) thyristor is a robust, hermetically sealed semiconductor device widely used in power electronics for controlling high voltage and current in industrial, automotive, and energy systems. These thyristors are encapsulated in a protective housing, offering enhanced durability, thermal stability, and resistance to environmental factors.
There are five main types of capsule-type SCR thyristors, each engineered for specific operational demands, voltage requirements, and application environments. Understanding their differences helps in selecting the right component for optimal system performance and reliability.
Standard SCR Thyristors
Designed for general-purpose power control in industrial and commercial systems.
Advantages
- Reliable performance under normal conditions
- Moderate voltage and current ratings
- Cost-effective for common applications
- Widely available and easy to integrate
Limitations
- Not suitable for extreme voltage/current conditions
- Limited use in high-efficiency or precision systems
- May require additional heat dissipation
Best for: Motor control systems, rectifiers, AC/DC converters, and basic industrial drives
High-Voltage SCR Thyristors
Engineered for operation above 600 V, ideal for high-power transmission and heavy-duty industrial systems.
Advantages
- Supports voltages exceeding 600 V
- Excellent stability in high-voltage environments
- Used in critical infrastructure applications
- High reliability under continuous load
Limitations
- Higher cost compared to standard types
- Requires robust insulation and safety measures
- More complex cooling and mounting requirements
Best for: HVDC transmission, large motor drives, power substations, and industrial furnaces
Low-Voltage SCR Thyristors
Optimized for circuits operating below 150 V, commonly found in consumer and portable electronics.
Advantages
- Efficient at low voltage levels
- Compact design for space-constrained applications
- Energy-efficient operation
- Ideal for battery-powered devices
Limitations
- Not suitable for high-power systems
- Limited surge current handling
- Narrower application scope
Best for: Battery chargers, small motor controllers, power supplies, and consumer electronics
Gate-Controlled SCR Thyristors
Feature precise triggering via a small gate current, enabling accurate power regulation.
Advantages
- High operational flexibility
- Precise control with low-power signals
- Improved switching accuracy
- Enables soft-start and phase-control applications
Limitations
- Requires stable gate drive circuitry
- Sensitive to electrical noise
- More complex control systems needed
Best for: Phase-controlled rectifiers, dimmers, soft starters, and precision power control systems
Integrated SCR Thyristors
Built into IGBT modules or power stacks, combining switching and control in a compact unit.
Advantages
- Enhanced system reliability
- Reduced footprint and wiring complexity
- Optimized thermal management
- Designed for modular power systems
Limitations
- Higher initial cost
- Less flexibility for individual replacement
- Limited availability for custom designs
Best for: Electric vehicle powertrains, hybrid inverters, industrial automation modules, and compact power electronics
| Type | Voltage Range | Key Applications | Control Method | Typical Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard SCR | 150–600 V | Motor control, rectifiers | Basic gate trigger | General industrial equipment |
| High-Voltage SCR | 600 V+ | HVDC, large drives | Robust gate control | Power transmission systems |
| Low-Voltage SCR | Below 150 V | Chargers, PSUs | Simple triggering | Consumer electronics |
| Gate-Controlled SCR | Varies | Dimmers, soft starters | Precise gate signal | Phase control circuits |
| Integrated SCR | Depends on module | EVs, power modules | Module-level control | Automotive & industrial modules |
Expert Tip: When selecting a capsule-type SCR thyristor, always consider the peak voltage, surge current capability, and thermal environment. Proper heat sinking and gate drive design are critical for long-term reliability, especially in high-power or high-frequency applications.
Key Features of Capsule-Type SCR Thyristor
The capsule-type Silicon Controlled Rectifier (SCR) thyristor is a robust semiconductor device widely used in power control applications. Engineered for reliability and high performance, it offers a range of features that make it ideal for demanding environments in industrial, automotive, and commercial systems. Below is a detailed breakdown of its most important characteristics.
Core Design and Physical Attributes
Compact Capsule Design
The SCR thyristor utilizes a sealed, compact capsule housing that protects internal components from environmental contaminants such as dust, moisture, and corrosion. This hermetic design ensures long-term reliability and enables seamless integration into space-constrained electronic assemblies.
With standardized dimensions and axial or radial lead configurations, these devices are compatible with automated PCB mounting and retrofit applications. Their small footprint makes them particularly suitable for automotive electronics, compact power supplies, and embedded control modules where board space is limited.
Durability and Heat Resistance
Constructed using high-temperature-resistant materials such as ceramic or epoxy encapsulation, the capsule-type SCR can operate reliably in extreme thermal conditions. It typically withstands junction temperatures up to 125°C–150°C, depending on the model, ensuring stable performance in high-heat environments like engine compartments or industrial machinery.
The robust packaging also provides excellent mechanical resilience against vibration and thermal cycling, reducing failure rates in mobile and outdoor applications. This durability significantly extends service life and reduces maintenance costs over time.
Electrical and Operational Performance
Excellent Electrical Performance
Capsule-type SCR thyristors are engineered to efficiently control high voltage and current loads, often handling hundreds of volts and tens of amperes in both AC and DC circuits. They offer precise gate triggering, low forward voltage drop, and high reverse blocking capability, contributing to improved energy efficiency.
These characteristics make them ideal for use in motor drives, power rectifiers, and voltage regulators. Their ability to switch large loads with minimal power loss ensures consistent performance in applications ranging from industrial heating systems to renewable energy inverters.
Improved Switching Capabilities
Modern capsule SCRs feature optimized gate structures and doping profiles that enable fast turn-on response and reliable commutation. This results in reduced switching delays and lower power dissipation during transitions, which is crucial in high-frequency switching applications.
Faster switching improves system responsiveness and reduces heat generation, enhancing overall efficiency. Additionally, the controlled turn-on behavior helps minimize electromagnetic interference (EMI), supporting compliance with electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards in sensitive electronic environments.
Application Flexibility and System Integration
Versatile Application Range
Due to their robust design and electrical capabilities, capsule-type SCR thyristors are employed across a wide array of applications. Common uses include:
- Motor Control: Speed regulation in single-phase and three-phase motors
- Power Rectification: Converting AC to DC in welding machines and battery chargers
- Load Switching: Controlling resistive or inductive loads in industrial automation
- Temperature Regulation: Managing heating elements in ovens, furnaces, and HVAC systems
- Lighting Control: Dimming circuits for high-intensity discharge (HID) and incandescent lamps
This versatility allows engineers to standardize on a single component type across multiple systems, simplifying procurement, inventory management, and spare parts logistics.
Reliability and Maintenance Benefits
The sealed capsule construction not only protects against environmental stress but also eliminates the need for periodic maintenance such as cleaning or re-lubrication. Once installed, these thyristors typically operate maintenance-free for thousands of hours.
Additionally, their fail-safe characteristics—such as predictable degradation patterns and resistance to voltage transients—make them a trusted choice in safety-critical and mission-critical systems. Many models also include built-in transient voltage suppression or snubber circuit compatibility for added protection.
| Feature | Benefit | Typical Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Compact Capsule Design | Saves space, easy to mount | Automotive ECUs, compact power modules |
| High Temperature Tolerance | Stable operation in hot environments | Industrial ovens, engine control units |
| High Voltage/Current Handling | Efficient power control | Motor drives, rectifiers |
| Fast Switching Response | Reduced energy loss, improved efficiency | Switching power supplies, lighting controls |
| Sealed, Durable Packaging | Long service life, minimal maintenance | Outdoor equipment, mobile machinery |
Note: While capsule-type SCR thyristors are highly reliable, proper heat sinking and circuit protection (e.g., fuses, snubbers) are essential to prevent thermal runaway and voltage spikes. Always consult the manufacturer’s datasheet for derating curves, mounting torque specifications, and maximum ratings to ensure safe and optimal operation.
Commercial Value and Uses of Capsule-Type SCR Thyristor
Capsule-type Silicon Controlled Rectifiers (SCRs) are essential semiconductor devices in modern power electronics, offering precise control over high-voltage and high-current systems. Their hermetically sealed, robust construction ensures reliability in demanding environments, making them indispensable across a wide range of industrial and technological applications. With superior thermal stability and long operational life, capsule-type SCRs deliver cost-effective power management solutions that enhance system efficiency and reduce downtime.
Industrial Power Control
Capsule-type SCRs are widely used in industrial automation and manufacturing to regulate power delivery to large electric motors, furnaces, and heating elements. By enabling phase-angle control, they allow for smooth and accurate adjustment of motor speed and temperature in processes such as metal rolling, plastic extrusion, and chemical processing.
- Enable soft-start functionality, reducing mechanical stress and extending equipment life
- Improve energy efficiency by matching power output to process requirements
- Withstand harsh factory environments with high vibration and temperature fluctuations
Key benefit: Reduces operational costs through optimized energy use and minimized maintenance
HVDC Power Transmission Systems
In High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) systems, capsule SCRs serve as the core switching elements in converter stations. They facilitate efficient conversion between AC and DC power, enabling long-distance transmission with significantly lower losses compared to traditional AC lines.
- Support grid interconnections across countries and regions
- Enable integration of remote renewable energy sources into the main grid
- Provide fast, reliable switching for fault protection and system stability
Critical advantage: Enables transmission over thousands of kilometers with less than 3% power loss per 1,000 km
Consumer Electronics & Appliances
From power tools to kitchen appliances, SCRs regulate motor speed and heating cycles. Their compact size and high efficiency make them ideal for embedded control in devices requiring variable power output.
- Used in dimmers, washing machines, and HVAC systems for smooth power modulation
- Enhance product longevity by preventing current surges during startup
- Support energy-saving modes in smart appliances
User impact: Improves reliability and performance while reducing electricity bills
Automotive Systems
Modern vehicles, especially hybrids and electric models, use SCRs in battery management, traction control, and auxiliary power systems. These thyristors handle high-current switching with minimal losses, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
- Control regenerative braking energy recovery circuits
- Manage high-power auxiliary systems like air conditioning compressors
- Operate reliably under extreme temperatures (-40°C to +125°C)
Innovation driver: Supports electrification and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)
Renewable Energy Integration
In solar inverters and wind turbine converters, SCRs play a vital role in converting variable DC output into stable grid-compatible AC power. They also assist in synchronization, voltage regulation, and anti-islanding protection.
- Maximize energy harvest by maintaining optimal inverter operation
- Ensure safe disconnection during grid faults or maintenance
- Support microgrid and off-grid energy systems with stable power control
Sustainability impact: Increases renewable energy efficiency by up to 15% in some configurations
Railway & Transportation Systems
Capsule SCRs are critical in electric locomotives and mass transit systems for controlling traction motors and implementing regenerative braking. Their ability to handle high surge currents makes them ideal for the dynamic demands of rail applications.
- Enable smooth acceleration and deceleration of trains
- Recover braking energy and feed it back into the grid
- Reduce wear on mechanical brakes, lowering maintenance costs
Operational savings: Can reduce energy consumption by 20–30% in urban transit systems
Industry Insight: When selecting capsule-type SCRs, consider voltage rating, current capacity, thermal resistance, and dv/dt (voltage rise rate) tolerance. Opting for reputable manufacturers ensures compliance with international standards (IEC, UL) and long-term reliability in critical applications.
| Application Sector | Typical SCR Rating | Key Performance Benefit | Commercial Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial Motor Control | 600V – 2500V / 100A – 1000A | Precise speed and torque regulation | 20–30% energy savings |
| HVDC Transmission | 4.5kV – 8kV / 2000A – 5000A | Low transmission losses over distance | $ millions saved annually in grid operations |
| Solar Inverters | 1200V – 1700V / 200A – 800A | High efficiency in power conversion | Increased ROI for solar farms |
| Rail Traction Systems | 2500V – 6500V / 1000A – 3000A | Robust performance under load cycling | Reduced downtime and maintenance costs |
Additional Considerations for Optimal Deployment
- Thermal Management: Proper heat sinking and cooling are crucial for maintaining SCR performance and longevity, especially in high-power applications
- Snubber Circuits: Recommended to suppress voltage transients and protect SCRs from dv/dt stress
- Monitoring & Diagnostics: Integration with SCADA or IoT systems allows predictive maintenance and real-time performance tracking
- Environmental Resistance: Hermetic sealing protects against moisture, dust, and corrosive elements in industrial settings
- Total Cost of Ownership: While initial cost may be higher than basic components, the long service life and energy savings offer superior ROI
How to Choose the Right Capsule-Type SCR Thyristor: A Comprehensive Guide for Business Owners
Selecting the appropriate capsule-type Silicon Controlled Rectifier (SCR) thyristor is crucial for ensuring reliable, efficient, and safe operation in power control applications. Whether you're supplying components for industrial motor drives, lighting controls, or power supplies, understanding the key selection criteria will help you meet your customers' technical needs and deliver long-term performance. This guide outlines the essential factors to consider when choosing SCR thyristors, with practical insights for bulk buyers and distributors.
Important Note: Incorrect SCR selection can lead to premature failure, system inefficiency, or safety hazards. Always verify compatibility with the customer's specific application requirements before purchase.
Key Factors in Selecting Capsule-Type SCR Thyristors
- Voltage and Current Ratings
The most critical specifications when selecting an SCR are its voltage and current capabilities. Business owners must ensure the chosen device meets or exceeds the customer’s operational demands. Consider both peak (maximum) and average current/voltage levels the SCR will encounter during normal and surge conditions. For example:
- Peak Repetitive Off-State Voltage (VDRM): Must be higher than the maximum voltage in the circuit to prevent unintended triggering or breakdown.
- Average On-State Current (IT(AV)): Should accommodate continuous load requirements without overheating.
- Surge Current Rating (ITSM): Essential for applications with frequent start-up surges or transient loads.
Selecting an SCR with adequate margins ensures reliability, reduces thermal stress, and extends device lifespan—especially in high-power or variable-load environments.
- Gate Trigger Sensitivity
The gate trigger current (IGT) and gate trigger voltage (VGT) determine how easily the SCR turns on. This parameter should align with the customer's control circuit design:
- High Sensitivity SCRs require lower gate current (e.g., 5–10 mA), making them ideal for low-power microcontroller-based systems or battery-operated controls.
- Low Sensitivity SCRs need higher gate current (e.g., 50–100 mA) and are better suited for industrial systems with robust drive circuits, offering improved noise immunity.
Mismatched sensitivity can lead to unreliable triggering—either false turn-ons due to noise (with overly sensitive devices) or failure to fire (with under-sensitive ones). Always cross-reference the SCR’s gate characteristics with the driver circuit specifications.
- Thermal Management
SCRs generate heat during conduction, especially in high-current applications. Effective thermal management is vital to prevent thermal runaway and ensure long-term reliability. Key considerations include:
- Thermal Resistance (Rth): Lower values indicate better heat transfer from junction to case.
- Heat Sink Compatibility: Capsule-type SCRs often mount directly to heat sinks via insulating washers and thermal paste. Ensure the package design supports secure mechanical and thermal contact.
- Ambient Operating Conditions: In high-temperature environments (e.g., industrial ovens, engine compartments), derating the current capacity may be necessary.
Businesses should recommend appropriate heat dissipation solutions based on the customer’s application and enclosure design to avoid overheating-related failures.
- Package Type
The physical package of the capsule-type SCR affects mounting, cooling, and integration. Common variants include stud-mount and bolt-through designs. Consider the following when selecting:
- Mounting Space Constraints: Compact systems may require low-profile packages or specific stud lengths.
- Insulation Requirements: Some applications need electrical isolation between the SCR and heatsink, requiring mica washers or silicone pads.
- Serviceability: Stud-mounted SCRs allow for easy replacement, which is beneficial in maintenance-heavy environments.
- Sealing and Environmental Protection: In dusty or humid conditions, ensure the package offers adequate protection against contamination.
Choosing the right package ensures not only mechanical compatibility but also long-term reliability under real-world operating conditions.
- Electrical Noise and Interference
SCRs can generate electromagnetic interference (EMI) during switching, particularly in phase-controlled applications. This noise can disrupt nearby sensitive electronics such as sensors, communication modules, or control circuits. To mitigate this:
- Select SCRs with soft-turn-on characteristics or those designed for low EMI emissions.
- Recommend the use of snubber circuits (RC networks) across the SCR to suppress voltage transients.
- Encourage proper PCB layout practices, including short gate leads and twisted trigger wires, to reduce noise coupling.
- Consider adding EMI filters or shielding in noise-sensitive environments.
Providing low-noise SCR solutions enhances system stability and helps avoid costly troubleshooting down the line.
| Selection Criteria | Key Parameters | Recommended for Applications Like | Risk of Mismatch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Voltage & Current Ratings | VDRM, IT(AV), ITSM | Motor drives, power supplies, welding equipment | Overheating, catastrophic failure, reduced lifespan |
| Gate Trigger Sensitivity | IGT, VGT | Microcontroller controls, dimmers, battery systems | Unreliable triggering, false turn-ons, control failure |
| Thermal Management | Rth(j-c), max case temperature | High-power inverters, industrial heating | Thermal runaway, solder joint failure |
| Package Type | Stud size, insulation, mounting style | Compact enclosures, serviceable systems | Improper fit, poor heat transfer, electrical shorts |
| Electrical Noise | dV/dt rating, EMI characteristics | Sensitive electronics, medical devices, automation | Signal interference, data corruption, system resets |
Expert Tip: Always refer to the manufacturer’s datasheet and application notes when selecting SCRs. Many suppliers provide online tools or selection guides that can help match devices to specific voltage, current, and thermal requirements—saving time and reducing errors.
Additional Recommendations for Distributors and Resellers
- Maintain a diverse inventory with SCRs across various current ratings (e.g., 10A to 500A) and voltage classes (600V, 800V, 1200V) to serve a broad customer base.
- Offer technical support or consultation services to help customers interpret datasheets and select the right component.
- Partner with reputable manufacturers that provide consistent quality and reliable testing certifications (e.g., ISO, RoHS).
- Educate your sales team on basic SCR functionality so they can ask the right questions and guide customers effectively.
- Consider bundling SCRs with complementary components like heat sinks, mounting hardware, or snubber kits for added value.
Choosing the right capsule-type SCR thyristor goes beyond basic specifications—it involves understanding the full operational context of the customer’s application. By focusing on voltage/current ratings, trigger sensitivity, thermal performance, package compatibility, and noise behavior, business owners can supply components that ensure optimal performance, safety, and customer satisfaction. When in doubt, always recommend professional engineering review for critical or high-power applications.
Frequently Asked Questions About SCR Thyristors in Industrial and Renewable Applications
SCR (Silicon Controlled Rectifier) thyristors play a critical role in modern renewable energy systems, particularly in solar power installations. Their primary function is to precisely manage and regulate current flow within photovoltaic (PV) inverters and charge controllers, ensuring optimal energy conversion from DC to AC.
By acting as high-speed electronic switches, SCRs minimize resistive losses during power transmission and improve overall system efficiency. In commercial solar grid setups, they are often used in phase-controlled rectifiers and automatic voltage regulators to stabilize output under fluctuating sunlight conditions.
- Energy Conversion: SCRs enhance DC-to-AC conversion efficiency in solar inverters by enabling precise switching control.
- Overcurrent Protection: They help protect sensitive components by quickly interrupting excessive current during surges or faults.
- Grid Synchronization: Used in grid-tied systems to synchronize the phase and frequency of generated power with the utility grid.
- MPPT Integration: Work alongside Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) algorithms to maintain optimal operating voltage and current levels.
Their reliability and ability to handle high voltages and currents make SCRs indispensable in large-scale solar farms and hybrid renewable systems where energy efficiency and system stability are paramount.
In industrial environments, SCR thyristors are fundamental components for managing power delivery in motor drives, heating systems, and heavy-duty electrical machinery. Their robust design allows them to operate reliably under high-stress conditions, making them ideal for continuous-duty applications.
One of the key advantages is their ability to provide smooth, stepless control of AC power using phase-angle firing techniques. This enables precise regulation of motor speed and torque in conveyor systems, pumps, compressors, and industrial fans—leading to reduced mechanical stress and extended equipment lifespan.
- Motor Control: SCRs are used in soft starters and variable frequency drives (VFDs) to reduce inrush current and prevent mechanical shock during startup.
- Heating Systems: In industrial furnaces, ovens, and kilns, SCRs regulate power to heating elements with high accuracy, improving temperature consistency and energy efficiency.
- Power Supply Regulation: Employed in DC power supplies for electroplating, welding, and electrolysis processes where stable, ripple-free DC output is essential.
- Energy Savings: By delivering only the required amount of power, SCRs significantly reduce energy waste compared to traditional resistive control methods.
Beyond efficiency, SCRs contribute to process automation and system reliability, reducing downtime and maintenance costs in manufacturing and processing facilities.
Selecting the right SCR thyristor involves a comprehensive evaluation of technical specifications and application-specific requirements. Businesses must ensure compatibility, safety, and long-term performance to meet customer expectations and industry standards.
The following key parameters should be carefully assessed:
| Factor | Description | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical Ratings | Voltage (VDRM/RRM), current (IT(RMS), IT(AV)), and surge current (ITSM) | Must exceed maximum operating conditions with safety margin; undersizing leads to premature failure. |
| Thermal Management | Thermal resistance (Rth), junction-to-case, and heatsink requirements | Proper cooling is essential—especially in high-power applications—to prevent overheating and thermal runaway. |
| Package Type | TO-220, TO-247, stud-mounted, or module-based packages | Determines mounting method, heat dissipation capability, and suitability for panel or chassis integration. |
| Gate Trigger Sensitivity | Gate trigger voltage (VGT) and current (IGT) | Affects compatibility with control circuits; low-sensitivity SCRs require stronger gate signals. |
| dV/dt & dI/dt Ratings | Rate of voltage and current rise tolerance | Higher values indicate better immunity to transient spikes, crucial in noisy industrial environments. |
In addition to these technical aspects, businesses should also consider environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, vibration), regulatory compliance (e.g., UL, CE, RoHS), and availability of technical support and documentation. Matching the SCR to the end-user’s specific needs ensures optimal performance, safety, and customer satisfaction.
The capsule or hermetically sealed design of SCR thyristors offers several engineering and practical benefits that enhance performance, durability, and integration flexibility across diverse applications.
Encapsulating the semiconductor die in a protective housing—typically made of epoxy or ceramic—provides excellent electrical insulation, mechanical protection, and resistance to moisture, dust, and chemical exposure. This makes SCRs suitable for harsh industrial and outdoor environments.
- Compact Size: Modern capsule designs are highly miniaturized, allowing integration into space-constrained electronics such as power modules, embedded controllers, and compact inverters.
- Improved Heat Dissipation: Many capsule types include metal bases or thermal pads that facilitate efficient heat transfer to heatsinks, enhancing thermal performance.
- Vibration Resistance: The solid construction withstands mechanical stress, making them ideal for use in electric vehicles, robotics, and mobile industrial equipment.
- Ease of Installation: Standardized footprints (like TO-220 or TO-247) allow for simple mounting and replacement, reducing assembly time and maintenance complexity.
This design is especially beneficial in advanced applications such as electric vehicle charging systems, portable welding units, and onboard power controls, where reliability, size, and environmental resilience are critical.
Gate control is the cornerstone of SCR thyristor functionality, enabling precise and efficient switching behavior. Unlike standard diodes, SCRs remain non-conductive until a small external current is applied to the gate terminal, at which point they "latch" into conduction and continue conducting until the main current drops below a threshold.
This latching mechanism allows for highly efficient power control with minimal input energy. A tiny gate signal—often just a few milliamps—can trigger the SCR to handle hundreds or thousands of amperes in the main circuit, resulting in exceptional control efficiency.
- Phase Control: By varying the timing (phase angle) of the gate pulse, SCRs can regulate the portion of the AC waveform that passes through, enabling dimming, speed control, and power modulation.
- Fast Response: Gate triggering occurs in microseconds, allowing real-time adjustments in dynamic systems like motor drives and power supplies.
- Isolation Compatibility: Gate signals can be delivered via optocouplers or pulse transformers, providing electrical isolation between control and power circuits for enhanced safety.
- Programmable Control: Easily integrated with microcontrollers, PLCs, and DSPs for automated, feedback-driven power management in smart systems.
Advanced gate drive circuits further improve performance by optimizing trigger pulse width and amplitude, reducing false triggering and improving noise immunity. As a result, gate-controlled SCRs are widely used in high-precision applications including medical equipment, laboratory instruments, and precision manufacturing systems.








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