Struggling to figure out which baby camera monitor is right for your family and where you can actually find one nearby? You’re not alone, it can feel like a maze trying to pick the best fit from all the options out there. This guide is all about cutting through the noise to help you understand what truly matters in a baby monitor and how to track one down, whether you’re shopping online or at a store just around the corner. We’ll talk about everything from cool tech features to crucial safety tips, all so you can get that precious peace of mind. Think of it as your personal roadmap to getting the best eyes and ears on your little one, ensuring they’re safe and sound, and letting you breathe a little easier.
When you’re a parent, especially a new one, that feeling of needing to constantly check on your baby is real. A good baby camera monitor acts like your superpower, giving you an extra set of eyes and ears when you can’t be right there. It’s not just about convenience. it’s about that deep breath of relief knowing you’ll be alerted if your baby needs you, or even just if they’ve shifted in their sleep. With so many choices, from high-tech Wi-Fi models that connect to your phone to simple, secure non-Wi-Fi units with their own screens, picking the right one might seem daunting. But once you find the one that fits your lifestyle, it truly becomes an invaluable tool, offering you a sense of security that’s just priceless.
Why a Baby Camera Monitor is a Game-Changer for Parents
Alright, let’s be real – parenting is a constant juggle. You’re trying to get dinner ready, catch up on laundry, or maybe just enjoy a hot cup of tea for five minutes. That’s where a baby camera monitor truly shines. It’s not about replacing your presence, but extending your watchful eye, giving you that crucial peace of mind when your little one is in another room or even sleeping soundly in their crib.
For many parents, the biggest benefit is the ability to see and hear your baby without disturbing them. Imagine seeing those tiny stretches or hearing a little coo without tiptoeing in and accidentally waking them up. A 2024 survey showed that 88% of new parents prioritize video quality in their baby monitor, highlighting just how much we want to clearly see our little ones.
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Beyond just basic monitoring, these devices have evolved into sophisticated tools. They can help you:
- Ensure safe sleep: You can quickly check if your baby is in a safe sleeping position on their back, free from loose bedding right from your living room. While monitors don’t prevent SIDS, they help you maintain safe sleep practices.
- Respond quickly: Whether it’s a soft whimper or a full-blown cry, you’ll know instantly and can respond, potentially heading off a full meltdown.
- Monitor the nursery environment: Many monitors now come with features like temperature and humidity sensors, so you know if the room is too hot or too cold for your baby’s comfort.
- Maintain your daily routine: You can move around your house, tackle chores, or even spend some quality time with older kids, all while keeping a virtual eye and ear on your baby. It’s about getting a little bit of your own space back without sacrificing vigilance.
So, while some might see it as just another gadget, most parents I talk to agree: a reliable baby camera monitor is an essential tool that genuinely enhances your peace of mind and helps make the daily rhythm of parenting a little smoother.
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Wi-Fi vs. Non-Wi-Fi: Which is Right for You?
This is one of the biggest decisions you’ll face when picking out a baby monitor, and honestly, both types have their fans. It really comes down to what you prioritize: reach and advanced features or simplicity and enhanced security.
Non-Wi-Fi Baby Monitors Digital, DECT, FHSS
Think of these as the reliable, straightforward workhorses. They establish a direct, secure connection between the camera in your baby’s room and a dedicated parent unit you carry around. They don’t use your home internet.
Pros:
- Enhanced Security: This is a big one for many parents. Since they don’t connect to the internet, non-Wi-Fi monitors are virtually unhackable, giving you serious peace of mind when it comes to privacy. There have been plenty of unsettling stories about Wi-Fi monitors being compromised, so if security is your top concern, this is a strong contender.
- Reliable Connection: They tend to offer more stable connections, especially if your home Wi-Fi can be a bit spotty. You won’t be relying on your internet bandwidth, which means less chance of lag or dropped signals.
- Lower Cost: Generally, these models are more affordable than their Wi-Fi counterparts, making them a good option if you’re on a budget.
- Simple Operation: Usually, they’re plug-and-play, super easy to set up, and don’t require any app downloads or complicated network configurations.
- Real-time Transmission: Because it’s a direct link, you often get real-time audio and video with minimal to no delay.
- Dedicated Parent Unit: Many parents love having a separate physical unit with a screen, freeing up their phone for other uses.
Cons:
- Limited Range: The biggest drawback is usually their range. While some offer up to 1,000 feet, this can be impacted by walls and obstacles in your home, limiting how far you can roam. If you have a large house or want to go out into the garden, you might hit a dead zone.
- Fewer Advanced Features: You won’t typically find smart features like sleep tracking, breathing monitors, or integration with smart home systems.
- No Remote Monitoring: You can’t check in on your baby when you’re away from home, as there’s no internet connection.
Wi-Fi Baby Monitors Smart Monitors
These are the tech-savvy options, connecting to your home’s wireless network and usually streaming video and audio to an app on your smartphone, tablet, or a dedicated parent unit or both, in hybrid models. Your Essential Guide to the Rexing B1 Basic: Seeing in the Dark Just Got Simpler!
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Flexibility & Remote Access: This is their standout feature. You can monitor your baby from virtually anywhere – from the next room, across town, or even when you’re traveling, as long as you have an internet connection.
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Advanced Features: Wi-Fi monitors often come packed with extras like motion and sound alerts, sleep tracking, breathing monitoring with additional accessories, two-way audio, digital pan, tilt, and zoom, lullabies, night lights, and integration with smart home systems like Alexa.
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High-Definition Video: Many offer superior video quality, often in 1080p HD or even 2.5K resolution, providing crystal-clear images.
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Multi-User Access: Both parents and other authorized caregivers can often access the feed simultaneously from different devices.
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Unlimited Range with internet: As long as you have a stable internet connection, distance isn’t really an issue. Rexing Dash Cam Connectivity: Understanding Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and How to Connect
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Security Concerns: This is the trade-off for convenience. Wi-Fi monitors are more susceptible to hacking if your network isn’t properly secured or if the device itself has vulnerabilities. It’s crucial to use strong, unique passwords, enable multi-factor authentication MFA, and keep firmware updated.
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Dependence on Wi-Fi: If your internet goes down or your Wi-Fi signal is weak, the monitor’s performance can suffer or stop working altogether.
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Higher Cost: These monitors typically come with a higher price tag, and some might even require subscription fees for certain advanced features or cloud storage.
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Potential Lag: Data transmission over the internet can sometimes lead to a slight delay between what’s happening and what you see on your screen.
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Privacy: If video is stored in the cloud, there are privacy considerations, so look for options with local storage or strong encryption. Mastering Your Drive: The Ultimate Guide to the Rexing FMT2 Bluetooth FM Transmitter
So, which one should you choose? If you’re a tech-savvy parent who travels frequently or wants all the bells and whistles, a Wi-Fi monitor might be your best bet. But if you prioritize simplicity, budget, and absolute privacy, especially if you plan to monitor mainly within your home, then a non-Wi-Fi monitor is probably the way to go. Some brands even offer hybrid models that work with or without Wi-Fi, giving you the best of both worlds. Ultimately, the “best” monitor is the one that gives you the most peace of mind.
Essential Features You Can’t Live Without
now that we’ve talked about the two main types, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty: what features truly make a difference in a baby camera monitor? You’ll find a ton of options out there, but focusing on these key aspects will help you find a monitor that genuinely helps you and your baby.
1. Clear Audio and Video Quality
This one feels obvious, right? But seriously, a grainy picture or fuzzy sound can be more frustrating than helpful. You want to be able to clearly hear every coo, whimper, or cry and see your baby with enough detail to notice their breathing or if they’ve kicked off a blanket.
- High-Definition Video: Look for cameras that offer at least 1080p HD resolution. Some even boast 2.5K, which gives you a super sharp image.
- Night Vision: Your baby sleeps in the dark, so a good night vision feature is non-negotiable. Infrared technology lets you see your little one clearly without turning on a light, which is key for those late-night checks.
- Clear Audio: Make sure the sound is crisp, not garbled, and ideally, look for models with good noise cancellation so you hear your baby, not just background hum.
2. Two-Way Talk Intercom Feature
This is a fantastic feature that lets you speak to your baby through the monitor. It can be super helpful for soothing them back to sleep with your voice without having to physically go into the room, especially if they’re just stirring. It’s also great for communicating with another caregiver in the nursery. Rexing Dash Cam: Your Ultimate Road Companion Guide
3. Temperature and Humidity Sensors
Ensuring your baby’s room is at a comfortable temperature is crucial for their well-being. Many monitors include a built-in sensor that displays the room’s temperature and humidity directly on the parent unit or app. Some will even alert you if it gets too hot or too cold, which is really helpful during those seasonal changes.
4. Range and Connectivity
How far do you need the signal to reach?
- Non-Wi-Fi monitors have a limited range, usually between 300 and 1,000 feet, which is generally fine for most homes. However, thick walls can impact this.
- Wi-Fi monitors offer virtually unlimited range as long as you have a stable internet connection at both ends. If you have a large house or want to check in from outside, a Wi-Fi model might be better. If your Wi-Fi is spotty, look for solutions like placing the monitor closer to the router or using an Ethernet adapter if available.
5. Battery Life
If you’re using a portable parent unit, good battery life is essential. You don’t want it dying on you in the middle of the night or while you’re carrying it around the house. Many parents aim for models that can last at least 8 hours on video, or offer swappable batteries for backup.
6. Motion and Sound Detection
These smart features mean you don’t have to constantly stare at the screen. The monitor will alert you when it detects movement or sound in the nursery, so you’re only notified when something actually happens. Some even let you adjust the sensitivity to avoid false alarms from minor shifts or background noise.
7. Multi-Camera Support & Split Screen
If you have twins, multiple children in different rooms, or want to monitor a nursery and a playroom, a system that supports multiple cameras is a lifesaver. Even better are models with a split-screen function on the parent unit, allowing you to view both feeds simultaneously without having to toggle back and forth. Rexing Body Camera Review: Your Ultimate Guide
8. User-Friendly Interface
Let’s face it, you’re going to be sleep-deprived. You don’t want to wrestle with complicated menus or controls. Look for monitors with an intuitive, easy-to-use interface for zooming, panning, and adjusting settings. The simpler, the better!
While there are even more advanced features like sleep tracking, breathing monitors, or growth tracking often found in Wi-Fi models like Nanit Pro or Owlet Dream Duo, these core features are what most parents find indispensable for daily use. Focus on these, and you’ll be well on your way to finding a great baby camera monitor.
Finding Your Perfect Baby Camera Monitor “Near Me” Online & Physical Stores
When you’re ready to buy, the phrase “baby camera monitor near me” can mean a few things. Are you looking for a store you can visit today, or simply the quickest way to get a monitor delivered to your doorstep? Let’s explore both options.
Shopping in Physical Stores
Sometimes, you just want to see the product, feel its weight, and talk to a real person. Major retailers often carry a decent selection of baby monitors, especially popular brands. Unlocking the Night: A Deep Dive into the Rexing B1 Digital Night Vision Binoculars
- Walmart: Walmart is a go-to for many household essentials, and baby monitors are no exception. You can often find a range of options, from budget-friendly VTech models to more advanced systems. Their website lets you check “baby camera monitor Walmart” to see what’s in stock at your local store for pickup or same-day delivery.
- Target: Similar to Walmart, Target offers a good selection of baby monitors. They frequently have popular brands and various price points. Their app and website are super useful for checking local availability for in-store pickup or drive-up options.
- Best Buy: If you’re looking for more tech-focused monitors, especially Wi-Fi-enabled smart systems, Best Buy is a great place to check. They often carry brands like Owlet, Nanit, and Eufy, and their staff can usually offer insights into different features. You can search “camera monitor near me” on their site to see general inventory.
- Baby Specialty Stores: Local baby boutiques or larger chains like BuyBuy Baby if available in your area will have a curated selection and knowledgeable staff who can help you compare models in person. These stores might not always pop up for a generic “near me” search, but they’re worth seeking out if you prefer a specialized shopping experience.
- Other Retailers: Don’t forget places like Lowe’s and Costco. While not their primary focus, they sometimes stock baby monitors, particularly during sales or as part of their electronics sections.
Quick Tip for Local Shopping: Before you head out, always call ahead or check the store’s website for “in-stock” status. There’s nothing worse than making a trip only to find the item you want isn’t there! Many stores offer “baby monitor near me open now” features on their sites to show real-time availability.
Shopping Online
If you’re less concerned about touching the product right now and more about selection, competitive pricing, and convenience, online shopping is king. This is where “near me” really means “available for quick shipping to my location.”
- Amazon: Unsurprisingly, Amazon has an enormous selection, from top-rated brands like Infant Optics and Nanit to more budget-friendly choices. You can easily compare features, read countless reviews, and often find monitors with fast shipping. Many parents look for the “best selling baby monitor with camera” here.
- Brand Websites: Buying directly from a brand like Nanit, Owlet, Eufy, or VTech can sometimes offer exclusive bundles, extended warranties, or the most up-to-date models.
- Other Online Retailers: Websites like Babylist, The Bump, and Target.com or Walmart.com for online-only stock offer broad selections and often provide useful comparison tools and parent reviews.
Why Online Might Be “Near Me” Too: world, with rapid shipping options, an item ordered online can often arrive at your door just as quickly, if not faster, than driving to a store. Plus, you get a much wider array of choices, making it easier to find that “best baby monitor with camera and app” or a “baby camera monitor with screen” that perfectly matches your needs.
No matter where you choose to shop, doing a little research online beforehand, even for in-store purchases, will definitely make your decision-making process smoother. Rexing Backup Camera Review: Your Clear View for the Road Ahead
Top Brands and Models Parents Love
You know what to look for, but who makes the monitors that actually deliver? The baby monitor market is bustling with brands, and a few have consistently stood out for their innovation, reliability, and features. Here are some of the popular names and models that parents often rave about, covering both Wi-Fi and non-Wi-Fi options, and those beloved “baby camera monitor with screen” models.
For the Tech-Savvy Parent Wi-Fi Monitors
If you love smart features, remote access, and all the data, these brands are often at the top of the list:
- Nanit Pro Smart Baby Monitor: This one frequently earns top spots in “best baby monitor with camera” reviews. Why? It’s a Wi-Fi-based monitor known for its crystal-clear 1080p HD camera, exceptional night vision, and an intuitive app. But the real kicker is its advanced sleep tracking, breathing motion monitoring with a special band, and growth tracking. It mounts above the crib, giving you that perfect “bird’s-eye view.” Parents appreciate its insights into sleep patterns, which can genuinely help improve your baby’s sleep and yours. It even has a feature that can use your Amazon Echo Show as a parent unit.
- Owlet Dream Duo 2: The Owlet brand is famous for its wearable smart socks that track your baby’s heart rate and oxygen levels, offering a whole new layer of peace of mind. The Dream Duo 2 combines this sock with an HD Wi-Fi camera, giving you a comprehensive overview of your baby’s well-being. It’s definitely on the pricier side, but for parents who value vital sign tracking, it’s a strong contender.
- Eufy Spaceview Pro / S340: Eufy offers a great blend of smart features and reliability. The Spaceview Pro is often praised for its excellent picture quality, even in night vision, and a secure Wi-Fi connection. The S340 is another top pick for video monitors, known for its high-resolution detail and impressive sound activation/noise cancellation. Some Eufy models also offer local storage via an SD card, which is a big plus for privacy-conscious parents.
For the Reliable & Secure Non-Wi-Fi Monitors with Screens
If you prefer a closed system, robust security, and a dedicated parent unit, these models often come highly recommended:
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- Infant Optics DXR-8 Pro: This monitor has a loyal following and is frequently cited as a best-seller. It’s a non-Wi-Fi monitor with a dedicated parent unit and a focus on reliability. Parents love its swappable battery a lifesaver for all-night use, good range, and the ability to pan, tilt, and zoom directly from the parent unit. The DXR-8 Pro is an upgrade from its predecessor, offering better performance.
- Babysense MaxView 1080p Full HD Split-Screen Baby Monitor: If you need to monitor multiple children or areas, this is often a top pick. It comes with two cameras and a split-screen display on a 5.5-inch LCD parent unit, meaning you can see both feeds simultaneously. It’s praised for its crisp picture quality, even in night mode, and responsive controls for panning, tilting, and zooming. It’s a dedicated non-Wi-Fi unit, offering great security and ease of use.
- HelloBaby HB6550 / HB30: These models are often recommended as budget-friendly non-Wi-Fi options that still offer a strong suite of features. The HB6550, for example, boasts good range, a temperature sensor, two-way talk, lullabies, and decent battery life, all often found for under $100. They prove you don’t have to break the bank for a reliable “baby camera monitor with screen.”
- VTech various models: VTech offers a wide array of baby monitors, both audio-only and video, with many non-Wi-Fi options. They are known for being affordable and user-friendly. Models like the VTech DM221 audio-only are fantastic for simplicity and excellent range if video isn’t a priority. For video, they have models with decent screen sizes and features like two-way talk and temperature sensors.
When you’re looking for the “best baby monitor with camera and audio” or simply a “baby camera near me,” checking out the latest models from these trusted brands can give you a great starting point. Remember to read recent reviews, as features and performance can always evolve!
Safety First: Important Considerations for Your Baby Monitor
Having a baby camera monitor can bring immense peace of mind, but it’s crucial to use it safely. Just like any electronic device in a nursery, there are important guidelines to follow to keep your little one secure.
1. Proper Placement is Key
This is probably the most critical safety rule. You absolutely need to keep the monitor camera and its cords out of your baby’s reach.
- At least three feet away: Experts recommend positioning the monitor at least three feet about a meter away from any part of the crib, bassinet, or play yard. This distance helps prevent any potential strangulation hazards from the cords.
- Secure Mounting: Place the camera on a stable surface or, even better, securely mount it to a wall or high shelf. Make sure it’s anchored properly so curious little hands can’t pull it down as your baby grows.
- No Cords in the Crib: This should be a given, but never position a monitor inside or on the edge of a crib. Any loose cords are a serious strangulation risk. Always ensure all cords and wires are neatly secured and tucked away.
- Adjust as Baby Grows: What’s a safe distance today might not be tomorrow. As your baby starts to sit up, stand, and eventually climb, regularly check the monitor’s placement to ensure it remains out of reach.
2. Digital Security for Wi-Fi Monitors
If you choose a Wi-Fi-enabled monitor, cybersecurity becomes a vital concern. Unfortunately, stories about baby monitors being hacked are real, and it’s almost always related to Wi-Fi devices. But don’t worry, there are concrete steps you can take: Rexing P1: Your Ultimate Guide to This Tough Body Camera
- Change Default Passwords: If your monitor came with a default password, change it immediately to a strong, unique one. Avoid monitors that don’t allow password changes.
- Strong, Unique Passwords: Use complex passwords for your monitor and your home Wi-Fi network. Think a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication MFA: If your monitor’s app offers it, turn on MFA. This adds an extra layer of security, making it much harder for unauthorized access, even if someone guesses your password.
- Keep Software Updated: Regularly check for and install any software or firmware updates from the manufacturer. These updates often include critical security patches to protect against new vulnerabilities.
- Local Storage Options: If you’re concerned about video footage being stored in the cloud, look for monitors that offer local storage via an SD card. If cloud storage is used, ensure the company has robust encryption like AES 256-bit.
- Turn it Off When Not Needed: If you don’t need the camera enabled, consider powering it down to reduce any potential risks.
- Secure Your Home Network: Beyond the monitor, ensure your home Wi-Fi network itself is secure with a strong password and up-to-date router firmware.
3. Baby Monitor is Not a Substitute for Supervision
It’s really important to remember that a baby monitor is a helpful tool, not a replacement for parental supervision. While it offers peace of mind, it doesn’t directly assess critical factors like breathing patterns unless it’s a specific wearable monitor with medical-grade sensors or prevent Sudden Infant Death Syndrome SIDS. Always continue to follow safe sleep guidelines, such as placing your baby on their back to sleep and keeping the crib clear of loose bedding.
4. Electromagnetic Fields EMFs
Some parents worry about electromagnetic radiation EMFs from electronic devices, including baby monitors. The good news is that organizations like the World Health Organization haven’t found clear evidence linking short-range EMFs at the levels produced by baby monitors to harm in babies. If you’re cautious, you can choose a monitor with a “power-save” or “eco” mode, which only transmits when it detects sound, rather than constantly. Non-Wi-Fi monitors often have lower signal strengths.
By keeping these safety tips in mind, you can confidently use your baby camera monitor as a valuable tool to watch over your little one, ensuring their comfort and your peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the main difference between Wi-Fi and non-Wi-Fi baby monitors?
The biggest difference is how they connect. Wi-Fi baby monitors use your home internet to stream video and audio, usually to an app on your smartphone, tablet, or a dedicated parent unit. This means you can often monitor your baby from anywhere with an internet connection. Non-Wi-Fi baby monitors sometimes called digital or DECT monitors create a direct, closed connection between the camera and a dedicated parent unit, without using your home internet. They’re typically more secure against hacking but have a limited range within your home. Upgrade Your Ride: The Ultimate Guide to Rexing Bluetooth FM Transmitters
Are baby camera monitors safe from hacking?
Non-Wi-Fi monitors are generally considered virtually unhackable because they don’t connect to the internet. For Wi-Fi monitors, there is a potential risk of hacking if your device or network isn’t properly secured. However, you can significantly reduce this risk by using strong, unique passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication, keeping the monitor’s software updated, and ensuring your home Wi-Fi network is secure.
How far away should a baby monitor be from the crib?
It’s really important to place the baby monitor camera and its cords at least three feet about one meter away from any part of the crib, bassinet, or play yard. This prevents your baby from reaching the cords, which could be a strangulation hazard. Always ensure the camera is securely mounted on a wall or high shelf, not inside or on the edge of the crib.
Do I need a baby monitor with a screen, or can I just use my phone?
It depends on your preference! Many parents like a baby camera monitor with a dedicated screen a non-Wi-Fi model or a Wi-Fi model with a parent unit because it frees up their phone, often has physical buttons for quick adjustments, and can be handed off easily to other caregivers. Other parents prefer Wi-Fi monitors that connect directly to their smartphone via an app, as it offers greater flexibility, remote monitoring, and often higher resolution on their phone screen. Some hybrid models offer both a dedicated screen and app access.
What features should I prioritize in a baby monitor?
When looking for the best baby monitor with a camera, prioritize clear audio and video quality especially with night vision so you can see and hear your baby clearly. Two-way talk is super helpful for soothing. A temperature sensor helps ensure the room is comfortable. Good range and battery life are crucial for portability and reliability. And of course, for Wi-Fi models, strong security features are a must.
Are wearable baby monitors, like those that track breathing, necessary?
Wearable baby monitors, such as smart socks that track heart rate and oxygen levels, can offer an extra layer of monitoring and peace of mind for some parents. However, it’s important to know that these devices are typically sold as consumer products and do not have proven use in preventing SIDS. While they can provide data, they are not a substitute for medical devices or direct parental supervision. Many parents find a standard video and audio monitor sufficient. What is Apple CarPlay Device: Your Ultimate Guide to a Smarter Drive
Where can I find baby camera monitors near me?
You can find baby camera monitors at major retailers like Walmart, Target, Best Buy, and sometimes even hardware stores like Lowe’s or warehouse clubs like Costco. For the widest selection and competitive pricing, online retailers like Amazon and dedicated baby gear websites are great options, often offering quick delivery that makes them “near you” in terms of accessibility. Always check online inventory or call ahead before visiting a physical store.
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