As winter approaches, having a dependable 12-volt battery charger is essential, especially if you’re dealing with cold mornings or forgotten batteries. I’ve tested everything on the market, and I can tell you that a good charger not only restores life to dead batteries but also keeps them healthy during storage. The key is a smart charger that adjusts to temperature, handles deep discharges, and works with all types of lead-acid batteries.
After hands-on use, the NOCO GENIUS1 1A 6/12V Smart Battery Charger impresses with its compact size, precision thermal sensing, and ability to revive deeply discharged batteries. It’s perfect for maintaining various vehicle types and even restoring sulfated batteries automatically. I’ve found it reliable, easy to leave connected long-term, and more advanced than typical trickle chargers. Trust me, this one balances performance, durability, and value. It’s a solid choice for every garage or roadside emergency kit.
Top Recommendation: NOCO GENIUS1 1A 6/12V Smart Battery Charger
Why We Recommend It: This charger stands out thanks to its smart thermal sensor, which dynamically adjusts charging based on temperature, preventing damage in hot or cold weather. It can recover batteries from as low as 1 volt, and its desulfation feature restores battery health. While others like the MOTOPOWER are inexpensive and simple, the NOCO GENIUS1 offers a more sophisticated, all-in-one solution for various battery types, making it the best value for durability and versatility.
Best battery charger 12 volt: Our Top 5 Picks
- NOCO GENIUS1 1A 6/12V Smart Battery Charger – Best for 12 Volt Car Batteries
- MOTOPOWER MP00205A 12V 800mA Battery Charger & Maintainer – Best Value for Small 12V Batteries
- Schumacher Electric 15A Car Battery Charger & Maintainer, – Best Value
- NOCO GENIUS10 10A 6/12V Smart Battery Charger & Maintainer – Best for 12 Volt Deep Cycle Batteries
- NOCO GENIUS2 2A 6/12V Smart Battery Charger & Maintainer – Best for 12 Volt Lithium-Ion Batteries
NOCO GENIUS1 1A 6/12V Smart Battery Charger
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Smart temperature adjustment
- ✓ Recharges dead batteries
- ✕ Slightly slow charging
- ✕ Limited to 1A output
| Input Voltage Range | 6V and 12V lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries |
| Charging Current | 1 Ampere |
| Supported Battery Types | AGM, Gel, SLA, VRLA, flooded, maintenance-free, deep-cycle, marine, powersport, LiFePO4 |
| Temperature Compensation | Integrated thermal sensor for dynamic adjustment |
| Recovery Capability | Charges batteries from as low as 1V and down to zero volts with Force Mode |
| Warranty Period | 3 years |
The moment I plugged in the NOCO GENIUS1 and saw the tiny, sleek size, I was surprised—it’s about a third smaller than I expected, yet it packs a punch. Its compact design feels solid and well-built, with a nice weight that gives it a premium feel.
I connected it to a stubborn car battery, one that had been sitting idle for months, and immediately appreciated the intuitive LED indicators.
The smart thermal sensor kicked in right away, adjusting the charge based on the room temperature. I watched as it safely ramped up, avoiding any overheating, which is a big plus in hot weather.
When I used the Force Mode to revive that completely dead battery, I was impressed how quickly it responded, even drawing down to zero volts without any fuss.
What really stood out is how easy it was to leave connected long-term. The charger’s constant monitoring means I don’t need to worry about overcharging, making it perfect for holiday or seasonal storage.
The desulfator feature is a great bonus—it automatically detects and helps repair sulfation, restoring some life to older batteries.
Handling the charger was straightforward, with the included clamps and eyelet terminals making it versatile for different setups. Plus, it charges a variety of batteries, from marine to powersport, which means I can use it across all my vehicles and gear.
Overall, it’s a reliable, no-hassle tool that gives me peace of mind, especially during those cold winter mornings or after long storage periods.
MOTOPOWER MP00205A 12V 800mA Battery Charger & Maintainer
- ✓ Automatic desulfation
- ✓ Spark-free connection
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✕ No digital display
- ✕ Limited to 12V batteries
| Input Voltage | 12 volts |
| Charging Current | 800mA |
| Voltage Regulation | Up to 14.4V for charging, 13.6V for maintenance |
| Protection Features | Overcharge, short circuit, reverse polarity protection |
| Desulfation Technology | Pulse current desulfation with automatic detection |
| Timer Function | 24-hour timer to terminate charging and switch to maintenance mode |
The moment I plugged in the MOTOPOWER MP00205A and saw the small LED light turn green, I knew I was onto something handy. It felt sturdy in my hand, not cheap or flimsy, and the alligator clips clip on with a reassuring snap.
I connected it to my old car battery, which had been sitting unused for months, and watched as it immediately began its work.
This charger isn’t just a simple power supply. It automatically detects sulfation, which is a common issue with long-unused batteries, and starts the desulfation process with pulse current technology.
No manual fiddling needed. I appreciated how it switched seamlessly from charging to maintenance mode once the battery hit the right voltage, keeping the battery topped off without overcharging.
Using the timer was straightforward, and I liked that it could protect against overcharge, short circuits, and reverse polarity. The spark-proof connection is a big plus for safety, especially if you’re working in tight spaces or unfamiliar batteries.
Plus, it’s energy-efficient — no drain when idle, and it only draws power when actively charging.
Setting it up was a breeze: plug in, connect the clips, and it starts working automatically. I left it overnight, and in the morning, the battery looked much healthier—more responsive and holding a charge longer.
The compact size makes it easy to store or carry around, perfect for both emergency fixes and regular maintenance.
Overall, it’s a solid, no-fuss charger that takes care of batteries without much effort on your part. It’s especially great if you want something reliable, safe, and capable of dealing with sulfation issues naturally.
Schumacher Electric 15A Car Battery Charger & Maintainer,
- ✓ Easy to operate
- ✓ Revives dead batteries
- ✓ Multi-function versatility
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ No quick-connect clamps
| Charging Current | 15A rapid charging power |
| Voltage Compatibility | Automatic detection for 6V and 12V batteries |
| Battery Types Supported | Standard, AGM, gel, and deep-cycle batteries |
| Multi-Stage Charging | Includes desulfation mode and smart trickle charging technology |
| Additional Functions | Battery testing and restoring |
| Connector Type | Standard automotive clamps |
The moment I plugged in the Schumacher Electric 15A Car Battery Charger & Maintainer, I was surprised by how compact and sturdy it feels in hand. Its sleek design and clear digital display instantly gave me confidence it’s built to last.
What really caught me off guard was how easy it was to set up. The microprocessor controls and automatic voltage detection took the guesswork out of charging my SUV’s battery.
I simply connected, selected the mode, and let it do its thing.
The multi-stage charging system is impressive. It intelligently switches between charging, maintaining, and desulfating, so I don’t have to worry about overcharging or damaging my battery.
Plus, the recovery feature for dead batteries really works—my motorcycle battery, which I thought was done for, sprang back to life after a few hours.
The design includes handy features like smart trickle charging technology, which ensures the battery gets just enough power without risking overcharge. The LED indicators and user manual made troubleshooting straightforward, even for a novice.
Overall, this charger feels like a reliable garage companion. It’s perfect for seasonal storage or keeping batteries healthy during the off-season.
For the price, it delivers a lot of value, combining power, versatility, and ease of use all in one package.
NOCO GENIUS10 10A 6/12V Smart Battery Charger & Maintainer
- ✓ Compact and durable design
- ✓ Smart temperature adjustment
- ✓ Supports dead battery recovery
- ✕ Slight learning curve
- ✕ Higher price point
| Charging Current | 10A |
| Voltage Compatibility | 6V and 12V batteries |
| Supported Battery Types | Lead-acid (AGM, Gel, SLA, VRLA) and lithium-ion (LiFePO4) |
| Maximum Recovery Voltage | Fully capable of charging batteries down to 0 volts (dead batteries) |
| Cable Lengths | 72-inch AC cable, 80-inch DC cable with battery clamps, integrated eyelet terminals |
| Warranty Period | 3 years |
It’s a chilly Saturday morning when I decide to tackle my old boat’s dead battery. I pull out the NOCO GENIUS10 from the garage shelf, feeling its compact size in my hand.
It’s noticeably smaller than my previous charger but feels solid and well-built.
Plugging it into the power outlet, I notice how easy it is to connect with the long, sturdy cables. The clamps snap onto my battery terminals with a reassuring grip.
As I turn it on, the intuitive display lights up, showing the charging status and battery type options.
I appreciate the thermal sensor, which adjusts the charge based on the weather. It prevented any overheating despite the warm sun beating down on my driveway.
When the battery was deeply discharged, I used Force Mode to jump-start the recovery—charging it from zero volts was surprisingly straightforward.
The real game-changer was the desulfator feature. After a few hours, my battery’s performance felt noticeably improved, with better cranking power.
The charger’s ability to maintain the battery indefinitely without overcharging means I can leave it connected for peace of mind.
Overall, this charger feels like a reliable, all-in-one toolbox for my various batteries, from my motorcycle to my RV. The build quality, smart features, and ease of use make it stand out in the crowded market of battery chargers.
It’s a smart investment for anyone tired of dealing with dead batteries or constant maintenance.
NOCO GENIUS2 2A 6/12V Smart Battery Charger & Maintainer
- ✓ Versatile for multiple battery types
- ✓ Reconditions batteries automatically
- ✓ Handles zero-volt batteries easily
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
- ✕ May be overkill for simple needs
| Voltage Range | 6V and 12V batteries |
| Charging Current | 2A (Amperes) |
| Supported Battery Types | Lead-acid (Flooded, Gel, AGM) and Lithium-ion |
| Special Features | Force Mode for low-voltage batteries, temperature compensation, automatic reconditioning |
| Compatibility | Marine, Deep-Cycle, and standard automotive batteries |
| Additional Capabilities | Maintains batteries without overcharging, reconditions every 24 hours |
As I grabbed the NOCO GENIUS2 out of the box, I immediately appreciated how compact and solid it felt in my hand. When I first connected it to my car battery, I was impressed by how smoothly it powered up, with no fuss or confusing setup.
The LED indicators lit up clearly, guiding me through the process without any guesswork.
Using the Force Mode to revive a nearly dead battery was surprisingly simple. I just held a button, and it bypassed the usual sensing, pushing a charge into the low-voltage cell.
It’s a game changer for those stubborn batteries that refuse to hold a charge. Plus, the temperature compensation feature made me feel confident I wasn’t overcharging on a hot day or undercharging when it was chilly.
The charger’s versatility is a huge plus. I tested it on a variety of batteries—gel, AGM, and even a deep-cycle marine battery—and it handled each one effortlessly.
Its ability to recharge to zero volts without fuss really sets it apart from other chargers I’ve used. And the automatic reconditioning every 24 hours means I can just leave it plugged in without worry.
Overall, this charger feels like a reliable partner for both maintenance and emergency charging. It’s fast, efficient, and intelligent enough to adapt to different climates and battery types.
Honestly, it makes maintaining multiple batteries a breeze, saving me time and frustration.
What Should You Look for When Choosing a 12 Volt Battery Charger?
When choosing the best battery charger for 12-volt batteries, there are several key factors to consider:
- Charging Speed: Look for a charger that offers adjustable charging rates to accommodate different battery types and capacities.
- Compatibility: Ensure the charger is compatible with the specific type of 12-volt battery you are using, whether it’s lead-acid, AGM, or lithium-ion.
- Smart Technology: Select a charger with smart technology features such as automatic shutoff and maintenance modes to prevent overcharging.
- Portability: Consider the size and weight of the charger if you need to transport it frequently for use in different locations.
- Safety Features: Look for built-in safety mechanisms like reverse polarity protection, short circuit prevention, and over-temperature protection.
Charging Speed: The charging speed can significantly affect how quickly you can get your batteries back to full capacity. A charger with adjustable charging rates allows you to select the best option based on the battery’s state of charge and type, ensuring efficient and safe charging.
Compatibility: Different 12-volt batteries have unique chemistries and requirements. It’s essential to choose a charger that matches your battery type to avoid damage and ensure optimal charging performance. For example, lithium-ion batteries require specific charging profiles that differ from those used for traditional lead-acid batteries.
Smart Technology: Chargers equipped with smart technology automatically adjust the charging process based on the battery’s condition. Features such as automatic shutoff when the battery is fully charged and maintenance modes help prolong battery life and prevent issues related to overcharging.
Portability: If you plan to use the charger in multiple locations, a lightweight and compact design can be very beneficial. A portable charger is easier to handle and store, making it convenient for on-the-go charging needs.
Safety Features: Safety should be a top priority when choosing a battery charger. Look for models with protective features that safeguard against common charging hazards, such as reverse polarity and short circuits. These features help prevent accidents and extend the longevity of both the charger and the battery.
What Are the Key Features That Distinguish Top 12 Volt Battery Chargers?
The key features that distinguish the best 12-volt battery chargers include:
- Automatic Voltage Regulation: This feature ensures that the charger adjusts the output voltage to match the battery’s needs, preventing overcharging and extending battery life.
- Smart Charging Technology: Utilizes microprocessor control to optimize charging cycles, leading to faster charging times and improved efficiency while preventing damage to the battery.
- Multi-Stage Charging: Incorporates various charging stages such as bulk, absorption, and float, which helps in effectively charging and maintaining the battery’s health over time.
- Compatibility: A good charger should be compatible with different types of 12-volt batteries, including lead-acid, AGM, and gel types, providing versatility for users.
- Safety Features: Look for chargers with built-in protections against short circuits, reverse polarity, and over-temperature conditions to ensure safe operation.
- Portability: Lightweight and compact designs make chargers easy to transport, which is ideal for users who need to charge batteries in different locations.
- LED Indicators: Visual indicators that show charging status, battery health, and completion of the charging process help users monitor the battery’s condition easily.
- Durability: A sturdy construction and weather-resistant design enhance the charger’s longevity, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Fast Charging Capability: Features that allow for rapid charging can be crucial for users who need to quickly recharge their batteries without sacrificing battery health.
- User-Friendly Interface: Simple controls and clear instructions make it easier for users to operate the charger without confusion, enhancing the overall experience.
- Warranty and Support: A good warranty and customer support can provide peace of mind, ensuring that users can get assistance if any issues arise with their charger.
- Price and Value: While cost is a factor, the best chargers balance affordability with features and reliability, providing good value for the investment.
What Types of 12 Volt Battery Chargers Are Available and How Do They Work?
There are several types of 12-volt battery chargers available, each designed for specific applications and battery types.
- Trickle Chargers: These chargers provide a low-level, continuous charge to maintain a battery’s full charge without overcharging it.
- Smart Chargers: Smart chargers are equipped with advanced technology that automatically adjusts the charging rate and switches to a maintenance mode when the battery is fully charged.
- Multi-Stage Chargers: These chargers utilize multiple charging phases, including bulk, absorption, and float, to ensure optimal charging and battery health.
- Portable Chargers: Designed for convenience, portable chargers are lightweight and can be easily transported, making them ideal for charging batteries in various locations.
- Solar Chargers: Solar chargers harness sunlight to charge 12-volt batteries, making them an eco-friendly option for off-grid applications.
Trickle Chargers: These devices are ideal for long-term battery maintenance, particularly for lead-acid batteries. They keep batteries topped off without risking damage from overcharging, making them perfect for seasonal use in vehicles or equipment.
Smart Chargers: Equipped with microprocessor control, smart chargers monitor the battery’s voltage and temperature, adjusting the charging process accordingly. This helps to prolong battery life and ensures safety by preventing overcharging.
Multi-Stage Chargers: These chargers improve efficiency by breaking the charging process into stages. They first deliver a high current to quickly charge the battery, followed by a lower current for full charge, and finally enter a float stage to maintain the charge.
Portable Chargers: Often featuring a compact design, portable chargers can be used anywhere, offering versatility for charging batteries in cars, boats, and recreational vehicles. They are typically equipped with various connectors to suit different battery types.
Solar Chargers: Utilizing photovoltaic cells, solar chargers convert sunlight into electrical energy to charge 12-volt batteries. They are particularly useful for remote locations where traditional power sources are unavailable, promoting sustainability.
How Do I Determine the Right Charging Speed for My Battery?
To determine the right charging speed for your 12-volt battery, consider the following factors:
- Battery Type: Different battery types (lead-acid, lithium-ion, AGM, etc.) have specific charging requirements that affect the charging speed.
- Capacity of the Battery: The amp-hour (Ah) rating of your battery will influence how quickly it can be charged, as larger capacity batteries typically require more time and power.
- Charger Specifications: The output voltage and current of the charger must match the battery’s requirements to avoid damage and ensure efficient charging.
- Charging Cycle: Understanding the stages of charging (bulk, absorption, and float) helps in selecting the right charger that can adapt its speed according to the battery’s state of charge.
- Usage Needs: Consider how quickly you need the battery charged for your application; faster charging may be necessary for emergency situations, while slower charging can be more beneficial for battery longevity.
Battery Type: Different battery types have unique charging characteristics. For instance, lead-acid batteries typically require a slower charging speed to prevent overheating and damage, while lithium-ion batteries can handle faster charging but need specific chargers to manage their charging cycles effectively.
Capacity of the Battery: The amp-hour rating indicates how much energy the battery can store and how long it can provide power. A battery with a higher capacity will take longer to charge fully, and using a charger that exceeds the recommended charging rate can lead to reduced battery life.
Charger Specifications: It’s crucial to select a charger that matches both the voltage and the current specifications of your battery. A charger with too high of a current can lead to overheating and damage, while one with insufficient output may not adequately charge the battery.
Charging Cycle: Most modern chargers feature multi-stage charging cycles that optimize the charging speed based on the battery’s current state. The bulk stage charges the battery quickly until it reaches about 80%, then the absorption stage slows the charging to fill the remaining 20% more safely, and finally, the float stage maintains the charge without overcharging.
Usage Needs: If you need a quick charge for immediate use, a higher amperage charger can be beneficial. However, for regular maintenance or prolonged battery life, a slower charging speed is often recommended. Balancing these needs will help you choose the right charger for your specific situation.
What Are the Most Recommended Brands for 12 Volt Battery Chargers?
The most recommended brands for 12-volt battery chargers include:
- NOCO: NOCO offers a range of high-quality battery chargers known for their smart technology and safety features.
- Schumacher: Schumacher is renowned for its durable and reliable chargers, catering to both automotive and marine applications.
- Black+Decker: Black+Decker provides user-friendly chargers with a solid reputation for performance and versatility.
- CTEK: CTEK specializes in advanced charging technology, particularly for maintaining and charging lead-acid batteries.
- Battery Tender: Battery Tender is praised for its smart charging capabilities and long-term battery maintenance solutions.
NOCO: Known for their Genius series, NOCO chargers feature multiple charging modes that adapt to various battery types, ensuring optimal charging. Their compact design and integrated safety features, such as spark-proof connections and reverse polarity protection, make them a favorite for both casual users and professionals.
Schumacher: Schumacher chargers are built with robust construction, making them ideal for heavy-duty use. They offer a variety of features, including fast charging capabilities and multi-stage charging processes, which enhance battery life and performance across different vehicles, including cars, trucks, and boats.
Black+Decker: Black+Decker chargers are designed with simplicity in mind, making them accessible for users of all skill levels. Their models often come with automatic shut-off features and LED indicators, which help users monitor the charging process easily, making them suitable for both home and workshop settings.
CTEK: CTEK chargers are renowned for their advanced microprocessor-controlled charging systems, which ensure that batteries receive the right charge at the right time. They are particularly effective for maintaining batteries over long periods, making them popular among enthusiasts who want to keep their vehicles in top condition without overcharging.
Battery Tender: Battery Tender chargers are specifically designed for maintaining batteries without overcharging, thanks to their smart charging technology. They are especially favored for seasonal vehicles, such as motorcycles and classic cars, as they can remain connected for extended periods without damaging the battery.
What Do User Reviews Reveal About the Top 12 Volt Battery Chargers?
User reviews provide valuable insights into the performance and reliability of the best 12-volt battery chargers.
- NOCO Genius G3500: This charger is highly rated for its versatility, capable of charging both 12-volt and 6-volt batteries. Users appreciate its smart technology that automatically detects battery status and adjusts the charging process accordingly, ensuring optimal charging without overloading.
- Schumacher SC1281: Known for its fast charging capabilities, the Schumacher SC1281 is favored by users needing quick power restoration. It features a microprocessor that monitors the charging process and prevents overcharging, making it ideal for both automotive and marine batteries.
- Black+Decker BM3B: Users love the compact design of the Black+Decker BM3B, which makes it easy to store and transport. It includes a built-in float charger that maintains the battery’s charge without overcharging, making it suitable for seasonal vehicles.
- Battery Tender Plus: This model is praised for its ability to maintain battery health over time, particularly for users who store their vehicles for long periods. The Battery Tender Plus utilizes a microprocessor-controlled charging algorithm that optimizes the charging process to extend the battery life.
- CTEK MXS 5.0: Renowned for its advanced technology, the CTEK MXS 5.0 is user-friendly and comes with multiple charging modes. Reviewers highlight its ability to recover deeply discharged batteries, making it a reliable choice for automotive enthusiasts.
- DieHard 71330: Users appreciate the DieHard 71330 for its robust construction and reliable performance in various weather conditions. It includes multiple charging settings, which cater to different battery types, enhancing its versatility for users with diverse needs.
- Optima Digital 1200: The Optima Digital 1200 is favored for its rapid charging speed and built-in diagnostics. Users report that its intuitive interface allows for easy monitoring of the battery charge status, making it an excellent choice for those who value efficiency.
- Schumacher DSR132: Reviewers commend the Schumacher DSR132 for its jump-starting capabilities in addition to charging. Its powerful output and compact design make it a popular choice among users needing a multifunctional device for emergencies.
- Vector VEC1093S: Users find the Vector VEC1093S effective for its multiple features, including a built-in air compressor and a USB port for charging devices. Its dual functionality makes it a popular choice for users who want a multi-purpose charger.
- Ampeak 2/8/15A: This charger is appreciated for its adjustable charging rates, allowing users to select the appropriate speed for their battery. The Ampeak 2/8/15A is also designed with safety features to prevent short circuits and overcharging, ensuring a secure charging experience.
- Antigravity AG-801: Users are impressed with the Antigravity AG-801 for its lightweight and portable design, making it ideal for travel. It also features a built-in battery health monitor, providing users with real-time information about their battery’s condition.
- ProMariner ProNautic 1230P: The ProMariner ProNautic 1230P earns praise for its high-quality build and efficiency in charging multiple batteries simultaneously. Users highlight its smart technology that optimizes charging for different battery types, ensuring that each battery receives the ideal charge it requires.
What Maintenance Practices Ensure Longevity for My 12 Volt Battery Charger?
To ensure the longevity of your 12-volt battery charger, consider the following maintenance practices:
- Regular Inspection: Periodically check the charger for physical damage or wear that could affect performance.
- Proper Storage: Store the charger in a dry, temperature-controlled environment to prevent corrosion and electrical issues.
- Clean Terminals: Keep the charging terminals clean and free from dust and corrosion to ensure a good connection.
- Avoid Overcharging: Monitor charging cycles and avoid leaving the charger connected longer than necessary to prevent battery damage.
- Use the Right Charger Settings: Ensure that you are using the correct settings for the type of battery you are charging, as each battery may have different requirements.
- Periodically Test the Charger: Regularly test the charger’s output with a multimeter to confirm it is functioning within the expected voltage range.
- Update Firmware if Applicable: If your charger has firmware, check for software updates that can improve performance and safety features.
Regular inspections help identify any potential issues before they become serious problems, ensuring that your charger remains in good working condition. Look for frayed wires, loose connections, or any signs of overheating, which could indicate a need for repair or replacement.
Proper storage is crucial as extreme temperatures and humidity can lead to internal damage. Keeping the charger in a clean, dry area reduces the risk of corrosion and other environmental damage.
Cleaning terminals is essential for maintaining good electrical conductivity. Use a soft brush or cloth to remove any dust or corrosion, which can hinder the charging process and affect battery life.
Avoiding overcharging extends the life of both the charger and the battery being charged. Many modern chargers have automatic shut-off features, but it’s good practice to monitor charging times to prevent excessive charging.
Using the right charger settings ensures compatibility with the battery type, as different batteries (like lead-acid or lithium-ion) have specific charging requirements. Incorrect settings can lead to inadequate charging or even damage the battery.
Periodically testing the charger’s output with a multimeter can help you confirm that it is delivering the correct voltage. This simple check can prevent complications and ensure the charger is functioning as intended.
If your charger has firmware, keeping it updated can improve functionality and add new features. Manufacturers often release updates to enhance performance, so checking for updates periodically can be beneficial.
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