Types of Thyroid Analyzers
Thyroid analyzers are essential diagnostic tools used in clinical laboratories and healthcare facilities to assess thyroid function and detect disorders such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and autoimmune thyroid diseases. These advanced instruments provide rapid, accurate, and automated analysis of key biomarkers in blood samples, enabling timely diagnosis and effective patient management. Below is a detailed overview of the most common types of thyroid analyzers available today.
Autoimmune Thyroid Disease Analyzer
Specialized for detecting autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease, this analyzer measures specific thyroid autoantibodies such as TPOAb (thyroid peroxidase antibodies) and TgAb (thyroglobulin antibodies).
Advantages
- High specificity for autoimmune markers
- Fast turnaround time for results
- Compact design suitable for small labs
- Low energy consumption
- Improves early diagnosis of autoimmune disorders
Limitations
- Limited to antibody testing only
- May require additional equipment for hormone analysis
- Less useful for general thyroid screening
Best for: Endocrinology clinics, autoimmune research labs, and specialty diagnostic centers
Thyroid Hormone Analyzer
Measures critical thyroid hormones—TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone), Free T4, and Free T3—to evaluate thyroid function and diagnose conditions like hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
Advantages
- High accuracy and reproducibility
- Automated operation reduces manual errors
- High throughput for batch processing
- User-friendly interface
- Compact footprint ideal for space-constrained environments
Limitations
- Does not test for antibodies
- Requires regular calibration
- Reagent costs can add up over time
Best for: General hospitals, outpatient clinics, and primary care labs conducting routine thyroid screening
Thyroid Antibody Test Analyzer
Focused on quantifying thyroid-specific antibodies, including TPOAb, TgAb, and TRAb (TSH receptor antibodies), this device supports the diagnosis and monitoring of autoimmune thyroid diseases.
Advantages
- Precise quantification of multiple antibodies
- High-throughput capability for large labs
- Minimal hands-on time due to automation
- Reliable results for long-term patient monitoring
Limitations
- Narrow diagnostic scope (antibody-only)
- Higher initial investment
- Requires trained personnel for optimal use
Best for: Reference laboratories, endocrinology departments, and research institutions
Thyroid Analyzer (General-Purpose)
A versatile device designed to assess overall thyroid health by measuring TSH, T3, and T4 levels. It serves as a frontline tool in diagnosing both underactive and overactive thyroid conditions.
Advantages
- Fast and accurate hormone level detection
- Handles high sample volumes efficiently
- Energy-efficient and space-saving design
- Easy integration into existing lab workflows
- Enhances diagnostic speed and patient throughput
Limitations
- Lacks antibody testing capability
- May not support advanced immunoassay techniques
- Basic models may have limited connectivity options
Best for: Community health centers, urgent care clinics, and mid-sized medical labs
Multi-Parameter Automated Immunoassay Analyzer
An advanced platform capable of simultaneously analyzing thyroid hormones and a wide range of other endocrine, infectious, and metabolic markers using automated immunoassay technology.
Advantages
- Comprehensive testing across multiple panels
- High precision and reliability
- Full automation reduces labor needs
- Excellent scalability for high-volume labs
- Small footprint despite advanced capabilities
Limitations
- Higher upfront cost
- Requires technical expertise for maintenance
- More complex troubleshooting
Best for: Large hospitals, central laboratories, and diagnostic chains needing integrated, multi-test solutions
| Analyzer Type | Key Parameters Measured | Automation Level | Best Use Case | Ideal Setting |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Autoimmune Thyroid Disease Analyzer | TPOAb, TgAb, TRAb | Medium | Diagnosing Hashimoto’s, Graves’ | Specialty clinics, research labs |
| Thyroid Hormone Analyzer | TSH, Free T3, Free T4 | High | Routine thyroid function tests | Hospitals, primary care labs |
| Thyroid Antibody Test Analyzer | TPOAb, TgAb, TRAb | High | Autoimmune marker quantification | Reference labs, endocrinology |
| Thyroid Analyzer (General) | TSH, T3, T4 | Medium-High | Broad thyroid screening | Clinics, urgent care |
| Multi-Parameter Immunoassay Analyzer | Hormones, antibodies, other biomarkers | Very High | Comprehensive endocrine profiling | Large labs, medical centers |
Expert Tip: When selecting a thyroid analyzer, consider integrating devices with LIS (Laboratory Information System) compatibility to streamline data management, reduce errors, and improve reporting efficiency in clinical settings.
Important Features of Thyroid Analyzers: A Comprehensive Guide for Healthcare Buyers
Selecting the right thyroid analyzer is a critical decision for hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic laboratories. These advanced medical devices play a vital role in diagnosing and managing thyroid disorders, which affect millions of people worldwide. For large-scale buyers—such as hospital networks, public health systems, and multi-site labs—understanding the key features of different thyroid analyzers ensures optimal performance, cost-efficiency, and patient care outcomes.
This guide explores the essential characteristics of four major types of thyroid analyzers: autoimmune thyroid disease analyzers, thyroid hormone analyzers, thyroid antibody test analyzers, and multi-parameter automated immunoassay systems. Each category serves a distinct clinical purpose but shares common performance criteria that influence purchasing decisions.
Key Types and Their Core Features
Autoimmune Thyroid Disease Analyzers
Designed to detect conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease, these analyzers are engineered for speed and efficiency in clinical settings. Their compact footprint allows integration into space-constrained environments such as outpatient clinics or point-of-care testing stations.
A standout feature is rapid turnaround time—many models deliver results in under 30 minutes, enabling timely diagnosis and treatment initiation. Low power consumption makes them ideal for facilities with limited energy resources or mobile health units. Additionally, intuitive user interfaces reduce the learning curve for medical staff, minimizing errors and improving workflow consistency.
Thyroid Hormone Analyzers
These devices measure key hormones such as TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone), T3 (triiodothyronine), and T4 (thyroxine), which are essential for evaluating thyroid function. Compact design enables placement in small laboratories or physician offices without sacrificing functionality.
Fast processing times streamline patient management, particularly in high-volume endocrinology practices. High throughput capability—some models process over 100 samples per hour—makes them suitable for busy diagnostic centers. With minimal maintenance requirements and long service intervals, these analyzers reduce downtime and lower total cost of ownership, a crucial factor for budget-conscious institutions.
Thyroid Antibody Test Analyzers
Specialized in detecting autoantibodies like anti-TPO (thyroid peroxidase) and anti-TG (thyroglobulin), these analyzers support early identification of autoimmune thyroid disorders. Their small size allows seamless integration into both central labs and decentralized testing sites.
Quick result generation accelerates clinical decision-making, especially during initial patient evaluations. High sample capacity ensures labs can manage peak workloads during screening campaigns or seasonal demand spikes. The user-friendly interface supports efficient operation by technicians of varying experience levels, reducing training time and enhancing reproducibility of test results.
Multi-Parameter Automated Immunoassay Analyzers
These advanced platforms offer comprehensive testing capabilities beyond thyroid markers, including fertility hormones, cardiac markers, and infectious diseases. Despite their versatility, they maintain a compact footprint, making them suitable for mid-sized labs with space limitations.
They deliver rapid, accurate results with minimal manual intervention, supporting lab automation goals. Batch processing of numerous samples increases productivity and reduces labor costs. Designed for reliability, these systems require minimal maintenance, contributing to consistent uptime and predictable operational expenses—key considerations for large healthcare providers managing multiple facilities.
| Analyzer Type | Primary Use Case | Key Advantages | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autoimmune Thyroid Disease Analyzer | Diagnosis of Hashimoto’s, Graves’ disease | Compact, fast results, low power use, easy operation | Clinics, POC testing, mobile units |
| Thyroid Hormone Analyzer | Measuring TSH, T3, T4 levels | High throughput, low maintenance, quick turnaround | Hospitals, endocrinology centers |
| Thyroid Antibody Test Analyzer | Detecting anti-TPO, anti-TG antibodies | High sample capacity, rapid results, user-friendly | Diagnostic labs, screening programs |
| Multi-Parameter Immunoassay Analyzer | Broad hormone and disease testing | Versatile, automated, scalable, low upkeep | Large labs, reference centers, networks |
Top Considerations When Purchasing Thyroid Analyzers
Important: Always evaluate analyzers based on clinical accuracy, regulatory approvals (e.g., FDA, CE), and manufacturer support services. Request demonstration units and validate performance with your own sample types before making bulk purchases. Choosing the right thyroid analyzer impacts diagnostic reliability, patient outcomes, and overall laboratory efficiency.
Commercial Uses of Thyroid Analyzers
Thyroid analyzers are essential diagnostic tools in modern healthcare and research environments. Their ability to deliver fast, accurate, and consistent results makes them invaluable across a wide range of commercial applications. From high-volume clinical labs to cutting-edge research facilities, these automated systems enhance diagnostic efficiency, support early disease detection, and improve patient outcomes. Below are the most significant commercial uses of thyroid analyzers, expanded with practical insights and real-world benefits.
Thyroid Hormone Testing
Large laboratories and outpatient clinics rely on thyroid analyzers to perform high-throughput testing of key thyroid hormones—T3 (triiodothyronine), T4 (thyroxine), and TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone). These tests are fundamental in assessing thyroid function and diagnosing hormonal imbalances.
- Automated analyzers process hundreds of samples per day, significantly reducing turnaround time compared to manual methods
- High precision and reproducibility ensure reliable results, minimizing the need for repeat testing
- Integration with laboratory information systems (LIS) enables seamless data transfer and reporting
- Used routinely in primary care, endocrinology, and prenatal screening programs
Key benefit: Enables timely diagnosis of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, supporting prompt treatment initiation.
Autoimmune Thyroid Disease Diagnosis
Thyroid analyzers play a critical role in identifying autoimmune disorders such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease by detecting specific autoantibodies in patient serum.
- Measures antibodies like anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO), anti-thyroglobulin (anti-TG), and TSH receptor antibodies (TRAb)
- Provides quantitative results that help differentiate between autoimmune and non-autoimmune thyroid conditions
- Supports differential diagnosis and long-term monitoring of disease progression
- Essential for confirming suspected cases before referring patients to specialists
Clinical impact: Early antibody detection allows for proactive management and reduces risk of complications like goiter or thyroid storm.
Research in Endocrinology Labs
Academic and pharmaceutical research institutions use thyroid analyzers to conduct large-scale studies on thyroid physiology, disease mechanisms, and therapeutic interventions.
- Supports longitudinal studies by providing consistent, standardized hormone measurements across diverse populations
- Facilitates clinical trials for new thyroid medications or hormone replacement therapies
- Enables correlation of hormone levels with genetic, environmental, or lifestyle factors
- Used in epidemiological research to assess thyroid dysfunction prevalence in different demographics
Research advantage: High-throughput capability accelerates data collection, improving study timelines and statistical power.
Screening for Thyroid Disorders
Hospitals, community health centers, and corporate wellness programs deploy thyroid analyzers for population-level screening to detect asymptomatic or subclinical thyroid conditions.
- Widely used in maternal health programs to screen for hypothyroidism during pregnancy, which can affect fetal development
- Integrated into annual health check-ups for early detection in high-risk groups (e.g., women over 50, individuals with family history)
- Supports public health initiatives aimed at reducing undiagnosed thyroid disease
- Reduces long-term healthcare costs by preventing advanced complications like myxedema or osteoporosis
Preventive benefit: Early screening leads to earlier treatment, improving quality of life and reducing hospitalization rates.
Routine Clinical Testing
In busy clinical settings, thyroid analyzers streamline routine monitoring of patients with known thyroid conditions, ensuring treatment efficacy and dosage adjustments.
- Used to track TSH levels in patients on levothyroxine or antithyroid medications like methimazole
- Allows for quick follow-up testing during patient visits, supporting same-day clinical decisions
- Reduces workload for lab technicians by automating sample processing and result generation
- Improves patient satisfaction through faster service and fewer return visits
Operational efficiency: Automation reduces human error and increases lab throughput, especially in high-volume outpatient clinics.
Point-of-Care and Urgent Care Applications
While traditionally used in central labs, newer compact thyroid analyzers are being adopted in urgent care centers and specialty clinics for near-patient testing.
- Enables rapid assessment of thyroid status in emergency settings (e.g., suspected thyroid storm or myxedema coma)
- Supports immediate clinical decision-making without waiting for off-site lab results
- Particularly valuable in rural or underserved areas with limited access to centralized laboratories
- Improves continuity of care by integrating results directly into electronic health records (EHR)
Emerging trend: Portable and semi-automated analyzers are expanding access to thyroid diagnostics beyond traditional lab environments.
Professional Insight: For optimal performance, laboratories should select thyroid analyzers that offer broad test menus, scalability, and compatibility with existing IT infrastructure. Regular calibration and quality control checks are essential to maintain accuracy. Facilities serving diverse patient populations may benefit from analyzers with reflex testing capabilities—automatically triggering antibody tests when initial hormone levels are abnormal—improving diagnostic efficiency and reducing manual intervention.
| Application | Primary Use Case | Key Hormones/Antibodies Tested | Typical Throughput (Samples/Day) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical Diagnostics | Patient diagnosis and monitoring | TSH, T3, T4 | 200–500 |
| Autoimmune Screening | Differentiating autoimmune causes | Anti-TPO, Anti-TG, TRAb | 100–300 |
| Research Studies | Epidemiological and clinical trials | All major thyroid markers | 500+ |
| Prenatal Screening | Maternal thyroid health assessment | TSH, Free T4 | 150–400 |
| Wellness Programs | Preventive health check-ups | TSH, T4 | 100–250 |
Additional Considerations for Commercial Use
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensure analyzers meet FDA, CE, or ISO standards for clinical diagnostics to maintain accreditation and legal compliance
- Cost Efficiency: High-capacity analyzers reduce cost per test, making large-scale screening economically viable
- Staff Training: Proper training ensures accurate operation and interpretation of results, minimizing errors
- Maintenance & Support: Choose vendors offering reliable technical support and preventive maintenance programs
- Data Security: Systems should comply with HIPAA or equivalent data protection regulations when handling patient information
How to Choose Thyroid Analyzers: A Comprehensive Guide for Laboratory Professionals
Selecting the right thyroid analyzer is a critical decision for laboratories aiming to deliver accurate, timely, and reliable diagnostic results. For large-volume testing facilities, the choice of analyzer directly impacts workflow efficiency, patient outcomes, and regulatory compliance. This guide outlines the key factors to consider when evaluating thyroid function analyzers, with a focus on performance, usability, and long-term operational sustainability.
Important Note: Thyroid testing plays a vital role in diagnosing conditions such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and autoimmune thyroid diseases. Ensuring the reliability of your analyzer is essential for patient safety and clinical decision-making.
Key Selection Criteria for Thyroid Analyzers
- Testing Capacity and Throughput
Select a thyroid analyzer that aligns with your laboratory’s daily, weekly, and peak testing demands. High-throughput systems are ideal for large hospitals and reference labs processing hundreds of samples per day. Look for analyzers with:
- High sample processing rates (e.g., 200+ tests per hour)
- Bulk sample loading capabilities to minimize manual intervention
- Onboard sample storage or carousel systems for continuous operation
- Scalability options to accommodate future growth in test volume
A well-matched analyzer prevents bottlenecks during peak periods, reduces turnaround time, and enhances overall lab productivity.
- Accuracy, Precision, and Clinical Reliability
The clinical value of thyroid testing depends heavily on analytical accuracy. Choose an analyzer that consistently delivers precise results for key markers including:
- TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone): Critical for initial screening and monitoring
- Free T4 and Total T4: Essential for assessing thyroid hormone levels
- Free T3 and Total T3: Useful in diagnosing hyperthyroidism and thyroid resistance
- Thyroid Antibodies (e.g., anti-TPO, TgAb): Important for autoimmune thyroid disease evaluation
Evaluate the analyzer’s performance using:
- Clinical validation studies and peer-reviewed literature
- Participation in external quality assurance (EQA) programs
- User reviews from comparable laboratory settings
- Internal precision testing (CV% values should be <5% for most thyroid assays)
Opt for systems with built-in quality controls, automatic calibration, and real-time error detection to minimize human error and ensure result consistency.
- User-Friendliness and Workflow Integration
An intuitive interface significantly reduces training time and operator errors. Prioritize analyzers with:
- A clear, touch-screen interface with step-by-step guidance
- Automated sample handling, reagent management, and waste disposal
- Pre-programmed protocols for common thyroid panels
- Voice or visual alerts for maintenance, errors, or completed runs
Automation features such as barcode scanning, auto-dilution, and reflex testing streamline operations and allow technicians to focus on higher-value tasks like result interpretation and patient care coordination.
- Regulatory Compliance and Interoperability
Ensure the analyzer meets all relevant regulatory and accreditation standards, including:
- CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments)
- CE-IVD or FDA clearance for thyroid-specific assays
- ISO 15189 or CAP accreditation requirements
- Data security standards (e.g., HIPAA compliance for patient data)
The system should seamlessly integrate with your existing laboratory infrastructure:
- LIS (Laboratory Information System) and EMR/EHR connectivity via HL7
- Middleware compatibility for rule-based result validation
- Firmware and software updates to maintain compliance with evolving standards
This ensures data integrity, audit readiness, and long-term operational compliance.
- Vendor Support, Service, and Training
Reliable technical support is crucial to minimizing instrument downtime. Evaluate the manufacturer’s service network based on:
- Response time for service calls (ideally within 24 hours)
- Availability of on-site engineers or remote diagnostics
- Presence of local service centers and spare parts inventory
- Comprehensive training programs for new operators and refresher courses
- Service contracts with uptime guarantees and preventive maintenance schedules
A responsive vendor partner ensures continuous operation, reduces repair delays, and supports long-term reliability of your diagnostic platform.
| Evaluation Factor | Recommended Features | Potential Risks of Poor Selection | Verification Methods |
|---|---|---|---|
| Testing Capacity | High throughput, batch processing, scalability | Bottlenecks, delayed reports, staff overtime | Review spec sheets, conduct site visits, request demo runs |
| Accuracy & Precision | Low CV%, traceable calibration, EQA participation | Incorrect diagnoses, repeat testing, patient harm | Analyze precision studies, check FDA/CE claims, consult peer labs |
| Usability | Touch interface, automation, minimal training needed | Operator errors, longer training, workflow disruptions | Hands-on demo, staff feedback, usability testing |
| Compliance | CLIA/FDA cleared, LIS integration, audit-ready logs | Accreditation failure, legal liability, data breaches | Review regulatory documentation, validate interface protocols |
| Support & Service | 24/7 support, local technicians, training included | Extended downtime, repair costs, low user confidence | Contact references, evaluate service level agreements (SLAs) |
Expert Tip: Before finalizing your purchase, request a demonstration unit for a trial period. This allows your team to evaluate real-world performance, assess workflow integration, and identify any unforeseen challenges under actual operating conditions.
Additional Considerations for Long-Term Success
- Total Cost of Ownership (TCO): Consider reagent costs, maintenance contracts, and consumables over a 5-year period.
- Assay Menu Flexibility: Choose a platform that supports both thyroid and other endocrine tests (e.g., cortisol, vitamin D) for greater versatility.
- Environmental Requirements: Ensure the analyzer fits within your lab’s space, power, and ventilation constraints.
- Sustainability: Evaluate reagent packaging, waste generation, and energy efficiency for eco-friendly operations.
- Future-Proofing: Select a system with software upgradability and potential for new assay additions.
Choosing the right thyroid analyzer is more than a technical decision—it’s an investment in patient care, operational efficiency, and laboratory reputation. By carefully evaluating capacity, accuracy, usability, compliance, and support, large laboratories can select a system that delivers reliable results today and scales effectively for tomorrow’s challenges. When in doubt, consult with clinical pathologists, lab managers at peer institutions, and independent evaluation services to make an informed, evidence-based decision.
Frequently Asked Questions About Thyroid Analyzers
Yes, thyroid analyzers come in several subtypes, each designed to meet different diagnostic and operational needs. These variations allow medical facilities to select the most appropriate system based on test volume, required parameters, and laboratory setup.
- Immunoassay Analyzers: Most commonly used for measuring thyroid hormones like TSH, T3, and T4 through immunoassay techniques such as chemiluminescence or ELISA.
- Autoimmune Test Analyzers: Specialized systems that detect autoantibodies like anti-TPO and anti-thyroglobulin, crucial for diagnosing Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease.
- High-Throughput Analyzers: Ideal for large labs, these process hundreds of samples per hour with automated workflows and integrated data management.
- Point-of-Care (POC) Devices: Compact, rapid-testing tools used in clinics for immediate results, though with slightly lower precision than lab-based systems.
This diversity ensures flexibility across clinical settings—from small clinics needing basic screening to reference labs performing complex endocrine profiling.
Yes, thyroid analyzers are widely used in hospitals, endocrinology clinics, diagnostic laboratories, and research centers. These instruments play a critical role in evaluating thyroid function by measuring key hormones such as TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone), free T4, free T3, and related antibodies.
- Hospitals: Integrated into central labs for routine screening during general health checkups or inpatient evaluations.
- Endocrinology Clinics: Used for monitoring patients with hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, goiter, or post-thyroidectomy care.
- Diagnostic Labs: Support large-scale testing with high accuracy and reproducibility, often linked to Laboratory Information Systems (LIS) for seamless data transfer.
Modern analyzers offer rapid turnaround times—some delivering results in under 20 minutes—enabling timely diagnosis and treatment adjustments, which is essential in fast-paced clinical environments.
For high-volume testing facilities, thyroid analyzers significantly enhance operational efficiency, accuracy, and scalability. They serve as the backbone of modern endocrine diagnostics by streamlining complex workflows.
- Increased Throughput: Automated systems can process 100–400 samples per hour, allowing labs to manage peak workloads without compromising quality.
- Reduced Human Error: Automation minimizes manual handling, decreasing risks of mislabeling, pipetting errors, and inconsistent readings.
- Integrated Quality Control: Built-in calibration and QC checks ensure consistent, reliable results compliant with regulatory standards (e.g., CLIA, ISO).
- Data Management: Seamless connectivity with electronic health records (EHR) and LIS enables real-time reporting and trend analysis over time.
These capabilities allow large facilities to maintain high standards of patient care while efficiently managing growing demand for thyroid function tests, especially in aging populations where thyroid disorders are more prevalent.
While modern thyroid analyzers are designed for reliability, regular maintenance is essential to ensure long-term performance, accuracy, and compliance with safety standards. The requirements vary by model and manufacturer but generally include the following:
- Daily Tasks: Cleaning sample probes, checking reagent levels, running startup diagnostics, and verifying fluid paths to prevent clogs.
- Weekly/Monthly Procedures: Calibrating sensors, inspecting pumps and tubing, replacing filters, and performing system washes to avoid contamination.
- Software Updates: Installing firmware upgrades to improve functionality, fix bugs, or add new test protocols.
- Preventive Maintenance (PM): Scheduled service by certified technicians every 6–12 months to assess internal components and mechanical integrity.
Following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule not only extends the instrument’s lifespan but also ensures consistent analytical performance. Many labs use service contracts to minimize downtime and maintain compliance with accreditation requirements.
Yes, multi-parameter thyroid analyzers operate on similar principles as standard single-function devices but offer enhanced versatility by measuring multiple hormones and markers in a single run.
- Simultaneous Testing: These systems can assess TSH, free T4, free T3, anti-TPO, and thyroglobulin from one blood sample, reducing the need for repeat draws.
- Workflow Efficiency: By consolidating several tests into one platform, labs save time, reduce reagent waste, and streamline reporting.
- Same Core Technology: They use the same immunoassay methodologies (e.g., chemiluminescent immunoassay) as routine analyzers, ensuring comparable accuracy and sensitivity.
- Scalable Design: Many multi-parameter platforms are modular, allowing labs to expand testing menus (e.g., adding vitamin D or reproductive hormones) as needs grow.
Because of their speed, efficiency, and comprehensive output, multi-parameter analyzers are increasingly preferred in busy endocrinology departments and reference laboratories where broad diagnostic coverage is essential.








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