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23 Jul

PART 1: Digital Electronics & Basic Electrical Notes


1. Extending a Half Adder to Handle Multi-Bit Binary Addition

A Half Adder is a basic combinational logic circuit used to add two single-bit binary numbers. It produces two outputs:

  • Sum – generated using an XOR gate
  • Carry – generated using an AND gate

Although a half adder performs single-bit addition efficiently, it cannot propagate carry from one bit position to another. Therefore, it cannot independently perform multi-bit binary addition.

Need for Carry Propagation

During multi-bit binary addition, the carry generated from one bit must be transferred to the next higher bit. Since a half adder has no carry input, it is incapable of handling this operation.To overcome this limitation, Full Adders are introduced.

Role of Full Adder

A Full Adder adds:

  • First binary input
  • Second binary input
  • Carry input from the previous stage

It generates:

  • Sum output
  • Carry output

This makes it suitable for multi-bit binary addition.

Extension Method

The extension of a half adder for multi-bit addition is achieved by combining Half Adders and Full Adders.

Working

  • The Least Significant Bit (LSB) is added using a Half Adder, as no previous carry exists.
  • All remaining higher bits are added using Full Adders, which accept the carry generated from the previous stage.
  • The carry output of one Full Adder becomes the carry input of the next Full Adder, ensuring proper carry propagation.

Advantages

  • Enables efficient multi-bit binary addition
  • Provides proper carry propagation
  • Reduces circuit complexity by using a Half Adder only for the LSB
  • Easily scalable for larger binary numbers

Applications

This combination is widely used in:

  • Arithmetic Logic Units (ALUs)
  • Microprocessors
  • Digital Signal Processors (DSPs)
  • Digital Computing Hardware

Incorrect Approaches

OptionReason
Using multiple Half Adders in seriesCarry cannot propagate between stages.
Cascading only Half AddersHalf Adders do not accept carry input.
Adding more XOR gatesXOR gates only calculate Sum and cannot handle Carry propagation.

Correct Answer

By combining Half Adders and Full Adders.


2. Buffered Parallel I/O Ports

A Buffered Parallel I/O Port contains buffer registers (such as latches or FIFOs) placed between the CPU and the external device.These buffers temporarily store data, allowing the CPU and external device to operate independently without requiring perfect synchronization.

Working

  • Data is first stored inside the buffer.
  • The CPU can continue executing other operations.
  • The external device reads or writes data from the buffer whenever required.

Advantages

  • Faster data transfer
  • Reduced synchronization requirements
  • Lower risk of data loss
  • Reduced chances of data corruption
  • Reliable communication between devices operating at different speeds

Correct Answer

Buffered I/O ports provide faster data transfer with a lower risk of data loss or corruption.


3. Full-Wave Rectifier

A Full-Wave Rectifier converts both positive and negative half-cycles of an AC waveform into a unidirectional pulsating DC output.It can be constructed using:

  • Centre-Tapped Transformer with Two Diodes, or
  • Bridge Rectifier using Four Diodes

Working Principle

Positive Half Cycle

  • Appropriate diode(s) become forward biased.
  • Current flows through the load in one direction.
  • Positive output voltage is produced.

Negative Half Cycle

  • Another set of diode(s) conducts.
  • The negative half-cycle is effectively inverted.
  • Current still flows through the load in the same direction.

Thus, both half-cycles contribute to the output, increasing efficiency.

Advantages

  • Utilizes both half-cycles of AC input
  • Higher efficiency than Half-Wave Rectifier
  • Higher average DC output voltage
  • Higher average output current
  • Reduced ripple frequency
  • Easier filtering
  • Suitable for higher power applications

Applications

  • Power supplies
  • Battery chargers
  • DC motor drives
  • Industrial DC power circuits

Correct Answer

Full-Wave Rectifier


4. Measuring Resistance in a Powered Circuit

A Digital Multimeter measures resistance by supplying a small internal voltage.If resistance is measured while the circuit is powered, the external voltage interferes with the measurement process.

Effects

External Voltage Interference

The external circuit voltage combines with the multimeter's internal voltage, producing incorrect resistance readings.

Excessive Current

The external voltage may force excessive current through the multimeter's resistance measurement circuit.

Damage to Multimeter

Excess current can damage:

  • Internal circuitry
  • Protection circuits
  • Internal fuse
  • Sensitive electronic components

Precautions

  • Always switch OFF the circuit before measuring resistance.
  • Discharge all capacitors.
  • Select the correct resistance range.

Correct Answer

The multimeter may get damaged.


5. Logic Circuit Using SPST Switches

When SPST (Single Pole Single Throw) switches are connected in series, the circuit behaves exactly like an AND Gate.Current flows only if every switch is closed.

Operation

All Switches Closed

  • Circuit becomes complete.
  • Current flows.
  • Output = 1 (TRUE)

Any One Switch Open

  • Circuit becomes open.
  • Current stops flowing.
  • Output = 0 (FALSE)

Logic Representation

Switch ConditionOutput
All Closed1
Any One Open0

Correct Answer

Output = 1 (All switches closed).


6. Non-Functional Dimensions in Engineering Drawing

Non-Functional Dimensions (NF Dimensions) are dimensions that do not affect the functionality, performance, or assembly of a component.They are mainly included for reference purposes.

Purpose

They help in:

  • Understanding the design
  • Manufacturing reference
  • Inspection reference
  • Assembly guidance

These dimensions do not influence the working or performance of the product.

Statement Analysis

Statement 1

Non-functional dimensions are shown without limits.IncorrectThey may still include limits or tolerances depending upon manufacturing or inspection requirements.

Statement 2

Non-functional dimensions are used only for reference and do not affect assembly or performance.Correct

Correct Answer

Only Statement 2 is true.


7. Line Standard

A Line Standard is a measurement standard in which the distance between two engraved lines represents the measured length.Examples include:

  • Steel Rule
  • Vernier Caliper
  • Measuring Scale

Characteristics

  • Based on engraved parallel lines
  • Suitable for short-distance measurement
  • Accuracy depends on engraving quality
  • Affected by surface finish
  • Affected by visibility

Sources of Error

Line Thickness

The thickness of engraved lines creates uncertainty regarding the exact reference point.

Parallax Error

Improper viewing angle produces measurement errors.Hence, line standards are less accurate, not more accurate.

Incorrect Statement

More accurate due to line thicknessLine thickness actually reduces measurement accuracy.


8. Zero Crossing Detector (ZCD)

A Zero Crossing Detector (ZCD) is a Voltage Comparator used to detect the instant when an input signal crosses 0 Volt.It is also called a Sine-to-Square Wave Converter.

Working Principle

  • Reference voltage = 0 V
  • When input crosses zero in the positive direction, output switches to negative saturation.
  • When input crosses zero in the negative direction, output switches to positive saturation.

The output changes instantly whenever the input crosses zero.

Features

  • Uses an Operational Amplifier (Op-Amp)
  • Can use either:
    • Inverting Comparator
    • Non-Inverting Comparator
  • Output drives:
    • LED
    • Relay
    • Control Gate

Protection

Clamp Diodes (D1 and D2) protect the Op-Amp by limiting the differential input voltage to approximately:

  • +0.7 V
  • −0.7 V

9. SP:46 (2003) – Borders and Frames

SP:46 (2003) is the Indian Standard Code of Practice for Engineering Drawing.It specifies standardized practices for engineering drawings.

Recommendation

For sheet sizes:

  • A0
  • A1

the recommended border margin is 20 mm.

Purpose

  • Improves visual organization
  • Defines drawing limits
  • Enhances clarity
  • Facilitates reproduction
  • Ensures compliance with engineering standards

Correct Answer

Borders and Frames – SP:46 (2003)


10. Program Status Word (PSW) – 8051 Microcontroller

The Program Status Word (PSW) stores:

  • Arithmetic Flags
  • Register Bank Selection Bits

It enables arithmetic decision-making and register bank selection.

PSW Bit Structure

BitNameFunction
7CYCarry Flag
6ACAuxiliary Carry Flag
5F0User-defined Flag
4RS1Register Bank Select Bit 1
3RS0Register Bank Select Bit 0
2OVOverflow Flag
1ReservedUndefined
0PParity Flag

Important Functions

Carry Flag (CY)

Indicates carry during addition or borrow during subtraction.

Auxiliary Carry (AC)

Indicates carry from lower nibble to upper nibble during BCD addition.

Register Bank Selection

  • RS1
  • RS0

select one of the four register banks.

Overflow Flag (OV)

Indicates arithmetic overflow.

Parity Flag (P)

Represents the parity of the accumulator.

  • Even number of 1s → Parity = 1
  • Otherwise → Parity = 0

PART 2: Engineering Drawing, 555 Timer, Logic Gates, Sensors & Measurement Notes


11. ISO A-Series Drawing Sheet Sizes

The ISO A-Series is a standardized system of drawing sheet sizes used in engineering drawings. Each successive sheet size is obtained by halving the longer side of the previous sheet while maintaining the same aspect ratio.

Standard Sheet Sizes

Sheet SizeDimensions (mm)
A0841 × 1189
A1594 × 841
A2420 × 594
A3297 × 420

Correct Matching

SheetDimensions
A0841 × 1189 mm
A1594 × 841 mm
A2420 × 594 mm
A3297 × 420 mm

12. IC 555 Timer as a Monostable Multivibrator

A Monostable Multivibrator (One-Shot Multivibrator) has:

  • One Stable State
  • One Quasi-Stable State

When triggered, the output temporarily changes to the quasi-stable state and automatically returns to the stable state after a predetermined time.


Working Principle

  1. Initially, the output remains LOW (0).
  2. A trigger pulse is applied to Pin 2 (Trigger Pin).
  3. The trigger voltage must fall below 1/3 VCC.
  4. The internal flip-flop is set.
  5. The output at Pin 3 becomes HIGH (1).
  6. The capacitor starts charging through the external resistor.
  7. When the capacitor voltage reaches 2/3 VCC, the threshold comparator resets the flip-flop.
  8. The output returns to the stable LOW state.

Output Pulse Duration

The output pulse width is determined by the RC Time Constant.

Formula

T = 1.1 × R × CWhere:

  • T = Time (seconds)
  • R = Resistance
  • C = Capacitance

Trigger Condition

The IC 555 monostable multivibrator is triggered by:Applying a pulse whose voltage falls below 1/3 VCC.

Correct Answer

Applying a pulse with voltage going below 1/3 VCC


13. Role of Resistor Connected Between Pin 7 and VCC in a 555 Monostable Multivibrator

In a 555 Monostable Multivibrator, the resistor connected between Pin 7 (Discharge Pin) and VCC controls the charging process of the capacitor.


Working

  • After triggering, the capacitor begins charging through the resistor.
  • The charging speed depends upon the RC Time Constant.

Time Constant

τ = R × CWhere:

  • R = Resistance
  • C = Capacitance

As the capacitor charges:

  • Capacitor voltage gradually increases.
  • When it reaches 2/3 VCC, the timer resets.
  • The output pulse ends.

Thus, the resistor directly determines the pulse width.


Advantages

  • Precise timing control
  • Adjustable pulse duration
  • Stable operation
  • Flexible circuit design

Applications

  • Pulse generation
  • Time-delay circuits
  • Switch debouncing
  • Trigger pulse generation
  • Sequencing circuits

Correct Answer

It controls the charging time of the capacitor.


14. Implementation of OR Gate Using NAND Gates

A NAND Gate is a Universal Gate, meaning all basic logic gates can be implemented using only NAND gates.


Principle

Using De Morgan's Theorem:An OR Gate can be realized by first inverting both inputs and then applying a NAND operation.


Implementation

Step 1

Use the first NAND gate as a NOT Gate by connecting both inputs together.Output:


Step 2

Use the second NAND gate as another NOT Gate.Output:


Step 3

Feed both outputs into a third NAND gate.The final output becomes:A + B


Total NAND Gates Required

PurposeNumber
NOT Gate for A1
NOT Gate for B1
Final NAND Gate1

Total = 3 NAND Gates

Correct Answer

Three NAND Gates (Two as NOT gates and One as NAND gate)


15. NTC Thermistor with Fixed Resistor

An NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) Thermistor is a temperature-sensitive resistor whose resistance decreases as temperature increases.This behaviour occurs because increasing temperature increases the number of available charge carriers.


Circuit Behaviour

When connected in series with a fixed resistor:

  • Temperature increases.
  • Thermistor resistance decreases.
  • Voltage across the thermistor decreases.
  • Voltage across the fixed resistor increases.

Output Voltage

Therefore,As temperature increases, the output voltage across the fixed resistor increases.


Applications

  • Temperature sensing
  • Temperature compensation
  • Temperature control systems

Correct Answer

The output voltage will increase.


16. Linear Variable Differential Transformer (LVDT)

An LVDT is an electromechanical transducer used to measure linear displacement.It consists of a freely moving iron core inside transformer windings.


Incorrect Characteristics

The following statements are incorrect regarding an LVDT:

Prone to More Friction

Incorrect.The iron core moves without physical contact, making the device practically frictionless.


Low Sensitivity

Incorrect.LVDTs possess high sensitivity, enabling accurate measurement of very small displacements.


Less Rugged

Incorrect.LVDTs are highly rugged and can withstand:

  • Shock
  • Vibration
  • Harsh environments

Most Incorrect Statement

Prone to more friction


17. Electrical Energy

Electrical Energy is the energy associated with the movement of electrons through a conductor due to electric potential.


Standard Unit

The commercial unit of electrical energy is:Kilowatt-hour (kWh)


Relation

1 kWh= 1 kW × 1 hour= 1000 W × 3600 s= 3.6 × 10⁶ Joules


Applications

Electrical energy consumption is measured in:

  • Houses
  • Industries
  • Commercial buildings

Electricity bills are prepared using kWh.


18. Sensor Selection Criteria

Proper sensor selection depends upon various performance characteristics.


Matching

ParameterRequirement
Operating RangeMust satisfy operating range requirements.
SensitivityMust provide sufficient output.
Frequency ResponseMust remain flat over the required frequency range.

Operating Range

Defines the range within which the sensor can operate accurately without failure.


Sensitivity

Represents how effectively the sensor responds to changes in the measured quantity.Higher sensitivity ensures better resolution and output.


Frequency Response

Indicates the ability of a sensor to measure varying signals across different frequencies.A flat frequency response provides consistent measurement accuracy.


19. Shielding in Electrical Cables

Cable shielding consists of a metallic foil or braided conductor surrounding the signal conductors.


Primary Purpose

To protect the cable from External Electromagnetic Interference (EMI).


Functions

  • Blocks external EMI
  • Prevents signal radiation
  • Improves signal quality
  • Enhances signal integrity
  • Reduces interference between nearby cables

Applications

  • Communication cables
  • Instrumentation cables
  • Control cables
  • Data transmission systems

Correct Answer

To protect the cable from external electromagnetic interference.


20. Parallel I/O Ports

A Parallel I/O Port transfers multiple bits simultaneously using multiple data lines.Unlike Serial I/O, which transfers one bit at a time, Parallel I/O provides much faster communication.


Advantages

  • High-speed data transfer
  • Simultaneous transmission of multiple bits
  • Efficient communication
  • Suitable for high-speed devices

Applications

Parallel ports were commonly used with:

  • Printers
  • Scanners
  • External storage devices
  • Older computer systems

Correct Answer

They are faster due to simultaneous transmission of data bits.


21. Cross-Recess (Phillips) Screwdriver

A Cross-Recess Screwdriver, commonly known as a Phillips Screwdriver, is designed for screws having a cross-shaped recess.


Features

Self-Centring

The cross-shaped tip automatically centres itself inside the screw head.


Reduced Slippage

Provides four-point contact, reducing the chances of cam-out (slipping).


Better Torque Transfer

Allows efficient transmission of torque during manual or powered tightening.


Applications

  • Mechanical assembly
  • Electrical equipment
  • Electronic devices
  • Manufacturing industries

22. Pulse Width Modulation (PWM)

Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) is a technique in which the width (duration) of pulses is varied while keeping the carrier frequency constant.


Characteristics

  • Carrier frequency remains constant.
  • Pulse amplitude remains constant.
  • Pulse width changes.
  • Duty cycle changes.

Duty Cycle

The Duty Cycle is the ratio of:Pulse Width / Pulse PeriodChanging the duty cycle changes the average output voltage.


PART 3: Precision Measurement, Electrical Instruments, Sensors & Workshop Practice


23. Sine Bar

A Sine Bar is a high-precision angle measuring instrument used along with Slip Gauges (Gauge Blocks) and a Surface Plate to measure or set angles with very high accuracy. It is preferred when the required accuracy is beyond the capability of ordinary angle-measuring instruments.

Principle

A sine bar works on the sine principle, where the required angle is obtained by raising one roller of the sine bar using slip gauges.


Accuracy

  • Used for very high precision angle measurement.
  • Suitable when the permissible error is less than 1 minute.
  • Provides much greater accuracy than a universal bevel protractor.

Comparison with Universal Bevel Protractor

InstrumentAccuracy
Universal Bevel ProtractorAbout 5 minutes
Sine BarBetter than 1 minute

Functional Range

Although highly accurate, the sine bar is generally preferred for angles up to 45°.For angles greater than 45°, accuracy decreases because the sine function becomes less sensitive to small height variations.


24. Four-Band Resistor Colour Code

The resistor has the following colour bands:

BandColourMeaning
FirstYellow4
SecondViolet7
ThirdRedMultiplier ×100
FourthSilver±10% Tolerance

Nominal Resistance

Resistance is calculated as:(47 × 100)= 4700 Ω= 4.7 kΩ


Maximum Resistance

Tolerance = ±10%Maximum Resistance= 4700 × 1.10= 5170 Ω= 5.17 kΩ


Summary

ParameterValue
Nominal Resistance4700 Ω (4.7 kΩ)
Tolerance±10%
Maximum Resistance5170 Ω (5.17 kΩ)

25. Braking System in an Induction Type Energy Meter

An Induction Type Energy Meter measures electrical energy using a rotating aluminium disc.The disc rotates due to the interaction of the magnetic fields produced by the:

  • Current Coil
  • Voltage Coil

Need for Braking System

Without a braking system:

  • Disc rotates excessively fast.
  • Incorrect energy readings are obtained.
  • Measurement becomes inaccurate.

Working

A Permanent Magnet produces a braking torque.The braking torque is:

  • Directly proportional to the speed of the aluminium disc.
  • Opposes disc rotation.
  • Maintains a steady speed.

Functions

  • Controls disc speed.
  • Ensures speed is proportional to power consumption.
  • Provides accurate energy measurement.

26. Case Sensitivity

Case Sensitivity refers to the ability of a programming language or computer system to distinguish between uppercase and lowercase letters.The computer treats characters with different ASCII or Unicode values as different symbols.


Example

CharacterASCII Value
Y89
y121

Since the values are different,

  • YES
  • Yes
  • yes

are considered three different strings.


Key Point

Case-sensitive systems distinguish between capital and small letters.


27. Centre Punch

A Centre Punch is a marking tool used before drilling to create a small indentation on the workpiece.The indentation prevents the drill bit from slipping during drilling.


Material

Centre punches are generally made from hardened steel to withstand repeated hammer blows.


Point Angle

The point of a centre punch is ground to an angle of:90°


Applications

  • Marking drilling locations
  • Guiding drill bits
  • Layout work
  • Metalworking operations

28. Two Voltage Coils in a Power Factor Meter

A Power Factor Meter uses two voltage coils to create a rotating magnetic field.The rotating field is essential for measuring the phase angle between voltage and current.


Coil Arrangement

  • Two coils are placed 90° apart.
  • One coil is connected directly to the voltage supply.
  • The second coil is connected through a phase-shifting network (capacitor or resistor).

Working

  • The two magnetic fields combine to produce a rotating magnetic field.
  • The rotating field acts on the movable element.
  • The position of the movable element indicates the power factor.

Scale

The meter is generally calibrated from:

  • 0 → Purely Reactive Load
  • 1 → Purely Resistive Load

Purpose

The rotating magnetic field enables accurate phase angle measurement.

Correct Answer

To create a rotating field for phase angle measurement.


29. Spring Joint Caliper

A Spring Joint Caliper is a precision measuring tool in which the legs are connected by a flat spring.A screw and adjusting nut are used for fine adjustment.


Construction

  • Flat spring joins the legs.
  • Lead screw passes through the legs.
  • Knurled adjusting nut controls the opening.

Working

The spring attempts to push the legs apart.Turning the adjusting nut changes the opening gradually, enabling extremely fine adjustments.


Advantage

Provides much greater precision than manually adjusted calipers.


30. 'OL' Indication on a Digital Multimeter

While measuring voltage, a digital multimeter may display:

  • OL
  • 1 (on the extreme left)

Meaning

It indicates that:The measured voltage exceeds the selected measurement range.


Action Required

Select a higher voltage range to obtain the correct reading.


31. Output Voltage of an LVDT

Within its linear operating range, the output voltage of an LVDT is directly proportional to the displacement of its movable core.


Given

Maximum Voltage = 5 VMaximum Displacement = 10 mmRequired Displacement = 6 mm


Sensitivity

Sensitivity= Maximum Voltage / Maximum Displacement= 5 / 10= 0.5 V/mm


Output Voltage

Output Voltage= Sensitivity × Displacement= 0.5 × 6= 3 V


Result

For a 6 mm displacement, the output voltage is:3 V


32. Purpose of Modulation

Modulation shifts a low-frequency message signal onto a high-frequency carrier signal.


Purpose

  • Enables efficient transmission.
  • Allows the signal to occupy only a very small portion of the available spectrum.
  • Reduces interference.
  • Allows multiple signals to share the same communication channel.

Key Point

Modulation shifts the message signal to a very high frequency, occupying only a very small percentage of the available spectrum.


33. Effect of Amplifier Gain in a Positive Feedback Oscillator

A Positive Feedback Oscillator satisfies the Barkhausen Criterion for sustained oscillations.The frequency of oscillation is determined by the frequency-selective network, not by the amplifier gain.


Frequency Depends On

  • LC Network
  • RC Network
  • Crystal Network

Effect of Increasing Amplifier Gain

Increasing amplifier gain:

  • Increases the amplitude of oscillations (until limited by nonlinearities).
  • Does not change the frequency of oscillation.

Key Point

Frequency depends upon the reactive components (L, C, R), not on amplifier gain.


34. Try Square

A Try Square is a precision measuring tool used to check the squareness (90°) of surfaces, edges and components.It consists of:

  • A steel blade
  • A handle fixed at an exact 90°

Purpose

  • Checking perpendicularity
  • Checking squareness
  • Alignment during fabrication
  • Inspection work

Accuracy

The standard accuracy of a try square is:0.002 mm per 10 mm length


Importance

This high accuracy ensures dimensional precision in manufacturing and engineering applications.


End of Part 3

Digital Electronics Half Adder Full Adder Multi-bit Binary Addition Carry Propagation Combinational Circuits Logic Gates XOR Gate AND Gate NAND Gate OR Gate Implementation De Morgan's Theorem Buffered I/O Ports Parallel I/O Serial I/O Full-Wave Rectifier Bridge Rectifier Centre-Tapped Rectifier Resistance Measurement Digital Multimeter Powered Circuit SPST Switch AND Logic Engineering Drawing Non-Functional Dimensions Line Standard Zero Crossing Detector ZCD Op-Amp Comparator SP 46:2003 Borders and Frames 8051 Microcontroller Program Status Word (PSW) Register Bank Carry Flag Overflow Flag ISO A-Series Sheet Sizes A0 Sheet A1 Sheet A2 Sheet A3 Sheet IC 555 Timer Monostable Multivibrator One-Shot Multivibrator RC Time Constant Trigger Pulse Pin 7 Capacitor Charging Pulse Width Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) Duty Cycle NTC Thermistor Temperature Sensor LVDT Linear Variable Differential Transformer Electrical Energy Kilowatt-hour (kWh) Sensor Characteristics Operating Range Sensitivity Frequency Response Cable Shielding Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Phillips Screwdriver Cross-Recess Screwdriver Sine Bar Slip Gauges Universal Bevel Protractor Resistor Colour Code Tolerance Induction Type Energy Meter Braking Torque Permanent Magnet Case Sensitivity ASCII Centre Punch Power Factor Meter Rotating Magnetic Field Spring Joint Caliper Voltage Range OL Indication LVDT Output Voltage Modulation Positive Feedback Oscillator Barkhausen Criterion Try Square Precision Measurement Workshop Practice Electrical Measuring Instruments Electronic Components Engineering Metrology RRB ALP RRB Technician SSC JE DRDO ISRO BHEL BEL HAL NPCIL GATE EE GATE EC Diploma Engineering ITI Electrician Electronics Engineering Electrical Engineering Objective Questions Technical Notes Competitive Exam Notes.
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