The phrases relate to air con methods and their cooling capabilities. One refers to the usual, or common, cooling output of an air con unit beneath typical working circumstances. The opposite denotes the unit’s highest potential cooling output, achievable beneath particular, usually supreme, circumstances. As an example, a automobile’s air con may present a cushty temperature beneath regular driving circumstances (a/c), however will be set to its highest cooling capability when the exterior temperature is exceedingly excessive (max a/c).
Understanding the distinction is vital for environment friendly power use and luxury administration. Using the usual setting permits the system to function at an optimized stage, balancing cooling energy with power consumption. Partaking the utmost setting offers fast cooling when wanted, however usually on the expense of elevated power draw. Early air con methods usually had much less nuanced management, making the excellence much less vital than it’s in trendy, energy-conscious designs.
Subsequent sections will delve into elements influencing cooling capability, methods for optimizing power utilization whereas sustaining consolation, and related concerns when deciding on an applicable air con system for a selected software.
1. Cooling Capability
Cooling capability, a elementary metric for air con methods, defines the speed at which a unit can take away warmth from a given house. It immediately correlates with the excellence between commonplace and most settings. The connection is important for understanding how system efficiency adapts to various environmental calls for.
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Nominal Cooling Output
Nominal cooling output represents the anticipated efficiency of the system beneath standardized testing circumstances. This metric offers a baseline for evaluating completely different items and a normal indication of cooling functionality in typical eventualities. Within the context of “a/c vs max a/c,” this output displays the efficiency related to the usual setting. For instance, a unit is likely to be rated at 12,000 BTU/hr beneath commonplace circumstances, indicating its cooling energy throughout regular operation.
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Peak Cooling Output
Peak cooling output denotes the utmost warmth removing price achievable by the system. This efficiency stage is often attained solely beneath particular circumstances, resembling most compressor velocity and optimum airflow. Inside the framework of “a/c vs max a/c,” peak output pertains to the utmost setting. As an example, the identical 12,000 BTU/hr unit may quickly attain 14,000 BTU/hr when working at its most cooling capability, albeit with elevated power consumption.
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Environmental Dependency
Cooling capability is considerably affected by ambient circumstances, together with temperature and humidity. Increased exterior temperatures cut back the effectivity of warmth change, resulting in a lower in efficient cooling output. This environmental dependency impacts each commonplace and most settings, although the utmost setting is usually employed to mitigate the consequences of maximum circumstances. A system performing at its most setting on a extremely popular day will nonetheless ship much less efficient cooling in comparison with its nominal output on a cooler day.
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System Limitations
The bodily limitations of an air con system, resembling compressor measurement and warmth exchanger floor space, impose constraints on the utmost achievable cooling capability. These limitations outline the higher sure of efficiency, whatever the operational setting. Even when set to most, the system can not exceed its inherent design limitations. These limitations underscore the trade-offs between efficiency and power consumption, significantly beneath peak load circumstances.
The interaction between nominal and peak cooling outputs, mixed with environmental elements and system limitations, offers a whole image of how an air con system performs beneath various circumstances. This understanding is important for efficient system choice and environment friendly power utilization, highlighting the significance of the “a/c vs max a/c” distinction.
2. Power Consumption
The differential between commonplace and most air con settings immediately correlates with various ranges of power consumption. The usual setting is designed to realize a stability between cooling efficiency and power effectivity, optimizing operation for typical circumstances. Conversely, the utmost setting prioritizes fast cooling, usually on the expense of elevated power expenditure. This setting pushes the compressor to its higher limits, demanding extra electrical energy to flow into refrigerant and dissipate warmth. For instance, a automobile’s air con system working in its commonplace mode may devour a reasonable quantity of gasoline, whereas participating the utmost setting can noticeably cut back gasoline financial system as a result of elevated load on the engine. The extent of power consumption additionally is determined by exterior elements resembling ambient temperature and insulation high quality of the cooled house.
Sensible functions of understanding the power consumption variations between commonplace and most settings embrace knowledgeable utilization habits and system design concerns. Consciousness of the elevated power demand related to the utmost setting encourages customers to make use of it judiciously, reserving it for conditions the place fast cooling is important. System designers can leverage this information to develop extra energy-efficient items, incorporating options like variable-speed compressors that may modulate cooling output based mostly on precise demand, decreasing the necessity for extended operation at most capability. Moreover, monitoring power consumption patterns beneath completely different settings can present helpful information for predictive upkeep and optimization of system efficiency over time.
In abstract, power consumption is a important part of the “a/c vs max a/c” relationship. The utmost setting’s increased power demand highlights the trade-off between fast cooling and effectivity. By recognizing this trade-off and understanding the elements influencing power consumption, customers and designers could make knowledgeable selections to optimize system efficiency, reduce power waste, and cut back operational prices. This understanding is essential in selling sustainable air con practices and mitigating the environmental affect of cooling applied sciences.
3. Compressor Load
Compressor load is inextricably linked to the operational modes mirrored in the usual versus most settings of air con methods. The usual setting implies a reasonable demand on the compressor, sustaining a stability between cooling efficiency and power effectivity. The utmost setting, nevertheless, considerably will increase compressor load, compelling it to function at or close to its design limits to realize the very best potential cooling output. This elevated load has implications for system longevity and power consumption.
Elevated compressor load immediately interprets to increased power consumption and higher mechanical stress. The compressor, being the central part chargeable for refrigerant circulation, requires substantial energy to take care of excessive pressures and circulation charges. Working constantly at most load accelerates put on and tear on compressor parts, probably decreasing lifespan and rising upkeep necessities. Take into account a industrial refrigeration system: routinely working it at most capability to fulfill peak demand throughout sizzling climate seasons can result in untimely compressor failure in comparison with a system operated beneath extra reasonable and constant masses. This underscores the significance of understanding and managing compressor load relative to demand.
Managing compressor load is due to this fact essential for optimizing system efficiency and minimizing operational prices. Using methods resembling load shedding throughout peak demand durations, implementing variable-speed compressors able to modulating output based mostly on cooling necessities, and guaranteeing correct system upkeep can mitigate the destructive results of extreme compressor load. A considered method to using the utmost setting, reserving it just for durations of real necessity, contributes to a extra sustainable and cost-effective air con operation. The correlation between compressor load and operational mode is thus a central consideration for environment friendly system administration.
4. Temperature Differential
Temperature differential, the distinction between the air temperature getting into and exiting an air con system, is a important indicator of cooling efficiency and effectivity. Its magnitude is immediately influenced by the operational setting, highlighting the relevance of the usual versus most paradigm.
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Definition and Measurement
Temperature differential is often measured in levels Celsius or Fahrenheit, indicating the warmth eliminated by the system. The next temperature differential signifies higher cooling capability. Within the context of ordinary settings, the temperature differential is reasonable, reflecting optimized power utilization. Throughout most operation, the differential will increase, demonstrating the system’s enhanced cooling output. As an example, a system may exhibit a 10C differential in commonplace mode and a 15C differential in most mode.
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Impression of Ambient Circumstances
Ambient temperature considerably impacts the temperature differential. In sizzling climates, the utmost setting is usually employed to take care of a cushty indoor temperature, leading to the next temperature differential. Conversely, in milder circumstances, the usual setting suffices, producing a decrease differential. A system working at most capability on a 40C day may obtain a considerable temperature differential, whereas the identical system at commonplace settings on a 25C day will exhibit a lowered differential.
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System Effectivity Concerns
Whereas a excessive temperature differential signifies sturdy cooling efficiency, it doesn’t invariably equate to optimum effectivity. Working on the most setting to realize a higher differential usually consumes extra power. Sustaining a stability between cooling output and power consumption is essential. A system engineered for top effectivity could prioritize a reasonable temperature differential at commonplace settings to reduce power waste, even when it will possibly obtain the next differential beneath most circumstances.
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Diagnostic Significance
Adjustments in temperature differential can function diagnostic indicators of system well being. A sudden lower in differential could sign points resembling refrigerant leaks or compressor malfunctions. Common monitoring of the temperature differential, beneath each commonplace and most settings, can support in early detection of issues, stopping extra vital system failures. For instance, a constantly low temperature differential, even at most setting, might point out the necessity for upkeep or repairs.
The correlation between temperature differential and operational setting offers helpful perception into the efficiency and effectivity of air con methods. Understanding these relationships is important for each optimizing power consumption and guaranteeing system longevity. The differential successfully quantifies the cooling achieved beneath the usual and most paradigms, facilitating knowledgeable decision-making relating to system operation and upkeep.
5. Fan Velocity
Fan velocity, an adjustable parameter in air con methods, is intrinsically linked to the excellence between commonplace and most air con operation. It immediately influences the speed of airflow throughout the cooling coil, impacting warmth change effectivity and the system’s total cooling capability. Increased fan speeds correlate with elevated airflow, facilitating extra fast warmth absorption and dispersion, which is especially related when the utmost cooling setting is engaged. The usual setting usually makes use of a decrease fan velocity, optimizing for quieter operation and lowered power consumption, whereas nonetheless offering satisfactory cooling beneath typical circumstances. Subsequently, fan velocity serves as a major mechanism for modulating the cooling output in alignment with the usual versus most operational modes.
Take into account a residential air con unit. In its commonplace mode, the fan operates at a reasonable velocity, successfully circulating air all through the room whereas sustaining a cushty temperature and minimizing noise. When switched to most cooling, the fan velocity will increase considerably, leading to a noticeable improve in airflow and a sooner discount in room temperature. Nevertheless, this enhanced cooling comes at the price of elevated power consumption and probably higher noise ranges. Equally, in automotive air con methods, adjusting the fan velocity is a typical technique for regulating cooling depth; deciding on the utmost setting not solely prompts the compressor’s highest cooling capability but in addition units the fan to its highest velocity to maximise airflow and cooling impact. Understanding this relationship permits customers to tailor the cooling output to their particular wants, balancing consolation with power effectivity. The correlation additionally allows diagnostic assessments; for example, lowered airflow regardless of a excessive fan velocity setting may point out a blockage within the air ducts or a failing fan motor, necessitating upkeep.
In abstract, fan velocity is a pivotal aspect within the air con system’s operational paradigm. It allows modulation of cooling output between commonplace and most settings, influencing each efficiency and power consumption. Environment friendly utilization of fan velocity settings, guided by an understanding of its affect on airflow and warmth change, is essential for reaching optimum consolation and minimizing power waste. Mismanagement of fan velocity can result in both insufficient cooling or pointless power expenditure, highlighting the significance of its correct integration inside the air con system’s total operational technique.
6. Operational Period
Operational period, the size of time an air con system is actively cooling, is a big issue influencing each power consumption and system put on, and is intrinsically linked to the selection between commonplace and most operational settings. The connection between operational period and cooling mode determines the general effectivity and longevity of the system.
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Responsibility Cycle Impression
Responsibility cycle, the proportion of time the air con system is actively cooling relative to the entire working time, is considerably influenced by the chosen cooling mode. Extended use of the utmost setting will increase the responsibility cycle, because the system strives to take care of the bottom potential temperature. This prolonged operation beneath excessive load can speed up part put on and improve the probability of system failures. Conversely, the usual setting, designed for typical circumstances, usually ends in a shorter responsibility cycle, decreasing stress on the system. Take into account a server room; steady operation at most to make sure temperature stability locations a far higher pressure on the system in comparison with strategic commonplace operation with periodic changes based mostly on real-time circumstances.
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Gathered Power Consumption
The period of air con operation immediately impacts collected power consumption. Though the usual setting consumes much less energy per unit of time, prolonged operation can lead to vital whole power use. Equally, whereas the utmost setting consumes extra energy instantaneously, its effectiveness in quickly cooling an area may end in a shorter total operational period, probably resulting in a decrease total power invoice beneath particular circumstances. For instance, quickly cooling a automobile inside with “max a/c” for a brief interval may use much less power than working the usual air con constantly for an extended commute.
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Upkeep Necessities
Prolonged operational period, significantly beneath the stress of most cooling, can speed up the necessity for upkeep interventions. Elements such because the compressor, fan motors, and refrigerant traces are subjected to elevated put on and tear, necessitating extra frequent inspections and replacements. The operational hours logged beneath every setting function important information factors for predictive upkeep methods. A system regularly operated at most will seemingly require extra intensive upkeep in comparison with a system primarily utilized in commonplace mode, assuming equal whole operational hours. Scheduled upkeep based mostly on utilization patterns optimizes system effectivity and prevents untimely failures.
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Consumer Conduct and Habits
Consumer habits performs a significant function in figuring out operational period and selection of settings. Habits resembling leaving the air con working in unoccupied areas or constantly deciding on the utmost setting no matter ambient circumstances result in pointless power consumption and elevated system put on. Instructional initiatives selling accountable utilization, resembling adjusting settings based mostly on occupancy and exterior temperature, can considerably affect operational effectivity. Coaching customers to make use of the “max a/c” mode solely when completely mandatory, and switching again to plain mode as soon as the specified temperature is reached, can markedly cut back power waste and prolong system lifespan.
In conclusion, the operational period of air con methods, coupled with the selection between commonplace and most settings, determines the general power effectivity, upkeep wants, and lifespan of the tools. Understanding the interconnectedness of those elements permits for extra knowledgeable operation, contributing to lowered power consumption, minimized system put on, and extended tools life. System design should additionally think about anticipated operational patterns, tailoring parts and management methods to optimize efficiency throughout a variety of consumer behaviors and environmental circumstances.
7. System Effectivity
System effectivity, a paramount consideration in air con design and operation, is immediately affected by the interaction between commonplace and most settings. The choice of operational mode has vital ramifications for power consumption and total system efficiency.
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Power Effectivity Ratio (EER)
EER measures the cooling output in BTU per hour divided by {the electrical} energy enter in watts at a particular working level. The next EER signifies higher effectivity. When working in commonplace mode, the system is usually optimized to realize the next EER, reflecting a stability between cooling efficiency and power consumption. Conversely, the utmost setting sometimes ends in a decrease EER, because the system prioritizes cooling output over power conservation. For instance, a central air con unit may need an EER of 12 in commonplace mode however an EER of 9 when working at its most cooling capability. This distinction underscores the effectivity trade-offs related to maximizing cooling energy.
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Seasonal Power Effectivity Ratio (SEER)
SEER offers a extra complete evaluation of power effectivity over a whole cooling season, bearing in mind various temperature circumstances. Techniques designed for top SEER scores usually incorporate options that optimize efficiency in commonplace mode, resembling variable-speed compressors and enhanced warmth exchangers. Whereas the utmost setting could often be employed to fulfill peak demand, nearly all of operational hours are spent in commonplace mode to maximise seasonal effectivity. A system with a SEER ranking of 20 signifies a excessive stage of effectivity when working beneath typical seasonal circumstances, however this ranking will be considerably lowered if the system is regularly run at its most setting. This exemplifies the necessity for balanced utilization of cooling modes to take care of optimum SEER efficiency.
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Compressor Effectivity
The compressor, the core part of an air con system, considerably impacts total effectivity. Customary operation sometimes permits the compressor to run at a velocity that optimizes power consumption and cooling output. When the utmost setting is engaged, the compressor operates at or close to its most capability, which might cut back its effectivity and improve its power draw. Trendy compressors usually make use of variable-speed expertise to modulate their output based mostly on cooling demand, bettering effectivity throughout a variety of working circumstances. A well-designed compressor working in commonplace mode can obtain the next coefficient of efficiency (COP), reflecting its effectivity in changing electrical power into cooling energy, in comparison with its efficiency at most capability. Understanding compressor effectivity is essential for optimizing system efficiency and minimizing power waste.
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Warmth Exchanger Efficiency
Warmth exchangers, chargeable for transferring warmth between the refrigerant and the encompassing air, play a vital function in system effectivity. Efficient warmth change maximizes cooling output whereas minimizing power consumption. Working in commonplace mode permits the warmth exchangers to operate inside their optimum design parameters, selling environment friendly warmth switch. The utmost setting could push the system past these parameters, probably decreasing warmth exchanger effectivity attributable to elements resembling elevated airflow resistance. Repeatedly cleansing and sustaining warmth exchangers is important for sustaining optimum efficiency, whatever the operational mode. A correctly maintained warmth exchanger ensures environment friendly warmth switch and prevents efficiency degradation, significantly beneath the demanding circumstances related to most cooling operation.
The aspects of system effectivity – EER, SEER, compressor effectivity, and warmth exchanger efficiency – collectively illustrate the affect of ordinary versus most operation. Environment friendly utilization of air con methods necessitates a balanced method, prioritizing commonplace mode operation for typical circumstances and reserving most cooling for durations of peak demand. Cautious consideration of those elements optimizes power consumption, reduces operational prices, and extends the lifespan of the tools. Attaining a excessive stage of system effectivity entails each technological developments in system design and accountable consumer habits in deciding on applicable operational modes.
8. Ambient Circumstances
Ambient circumstances, encompassing exterior temperature, humidity, and photo voltaic radiation, exert a big affect on the cooling calls for positioned upon air con methods, thereby immediately impacting the selection between commonplace and most operation. Elevated exterior temperatures necessitate higher cooling capability to take care of a desired indoor temperature, usually resulting in the choice of the utmost setting. Conversely, reasonable ambient temperatures allow operation at the usual setting, optimizing power effectivity. Excessive humidity ranges impede evaporative cooling, rising the load on the air con system and probably necessitating the utmost setting to realize satisfactory dehumidification. The depth of photo voltaic radiation immediately impacts the thermal load on a constructing, influencing the necessity for elevated cooling energy. For instance, a constructing with giant, unshaded home windows in a sizzling, sunny local weather would seemingly require the utmost setting throughout peak sunlight hours, whereas the usual setting may suffice throughout cooler, overcast durations.
The interaction between ambient circumstances and cooling calls for underscores the significance of adaptive management methods in trendy air con methods. Good thermostats and automatic constructing administration methods can monitor ambient temperature, humidity, and photo voltaic radiation, adjusting the cooling output accordingly. Such methods may routinely change to the utmost setting during times of excessive warmth load and revert to the usual setting when circumstances reasonable. This dynamic adjustment optimizes power consumption whereas sustaining constant indoor consolation. Moreover, constructing design and landscaping can mitigate the affect of ambient circumstances, decreasing the reliance on most cooling. Strategic placement of bushes and using reflective roofing supplies can decrease the constructing’s thermal load, permitting the air con system to function extra effectively in the usual mode.
In abstract, ambient circumstances are a major driver of air con demand and a key determinant within the choice of commonplace versus most operation. Understanding this relationship is essential for optimizing power effectivity, extending tools lifespan, and sustaining constant indoor consolation. Challenges stay in precisely predicting and responding to fluctuating ambient circumstances, significantly in quickly altering climates. Nevertheless, developments in sensor expertise, management algorithms, and constructing design provide promising options for mitigating the affect of ambient circumstances and guaranteeing environment friendly air con efficiency throughout a variety of environmental contexts.
Often Requested Questions
This part addresses frequent inquiries relating to the operational modes of air con methods, particularly regarding the distinction between commonplace and most cooling settings.
Query 1: What’s the major distinction between commonplace and most cooling modes in an air con system?
The usual mode is designed for energy-efficient operation beneath typical ambient circumstances, whereas the utmost mode prioritizes fast cooling, usually on the expense of elevated power consumption.
Query 2: When is it most applicable to make use of the utmost cooling setting?
The utmost setting is appropriate for conditions requiring fast temperature discount, resembling when initially cooling a sizzling house or during times of maximum exterior warmth. Nevertheless, extended use is mostly discouraged attributable to elevated power consumption and potential stress on the system.
Query 3: Does utilizing the utmost cooling setting injury the air con system?
Whereas occasional use of the utmost setting is unlikely to trigger instant injury, frequent or extended operation at most capability can speed up put on and tear on parts just like the compressor, probably shortening the system’s lifespan.
Query 4: How does the selection between commonplace and most cooling affect power payments?
Working primarily in commonplace mode minimizes power consumption, leading to decrease power payments. The utmost setting consumes considerably extra energy, resulting in elevated power prices if used extensively.
Query 5: Are there any circumstances the place the usual cooling mode is inadequate?
Sure. In conditions with excessive warmth masses, resembling direct daylight publicity or poor insulation, the usual mode could wrestle to take care of a cushty temperature, necessitating using the utmost setting.
Query 6: Can using automated controls or sensible thermostats optimize the choice of cooling modes?
Certainly. Good thermostats can routinely modify cooling modes based mostly on elements resembling ambient temperature, occupancy, and consumer preferences, optimizing power effectivity and sustaining constant consolation ranges.
In abstract, the selection between commonplace and most cooling hinges on a stability between cooling necessities and power effectivity. Prudent utilization of the utmost setting, coupled with knowledgeable operational practices, ensures optimum system efficiency and minimized power waste.
The following part delves into finest practices for sustaining air con methods to maximise effectivity and longevity.
Suggestions for Optimizing Air Conditioning Settings
The next suggestions present steering for efficient air con system operation, specializing in maximizing effectivity and luxury whereas minimizing power consumption, contemplating the variations between commonplace and most cooling settings.
Tip 1: Make use of the usual cooling setting for normal, on a regular basis use. This mode is engineered to strike a stability between cooling efficiency and power effectivity beneath typical environmental circumstances. Routine reliance on this setting minimizes power consumption and reduces put on on system parts.
Tip 2: Reserve the utmost cooling setting for conditions demanding fast temperature discount. These circumstances embrace preliminary cooling of an area after extended durations of inactivity, or during times of maximum exterior warmth. Keep away from extended operation on this mode attributable to its elevated power calls for.
Tip 3: Monitor ambient circumstances to tell setting choice. Exterior temperature, humidity ranges, and photo voltaic radiation immediately affect cooling calls for. Make the most of the usual setting when ambient circumstances are reasonable and transition to the utmost setting solely when mandatory to take care of desired indoor temperatures.
Tip 4: Implement programmable thermostats or sensible controls. These units allow automated changes of cooling settings based mostly on predefined schedules, occupancy patterns, and real-time environmental information. This minimizes power waste by guaranteeing the system operates at optimum ranges solely when wanted.
Tip 5: Guarantee correct insulation and sealing of the cooled house. Satisfactory insulation minimizes warmth switch from the exterior setting, decreasing the cooling load on the air con system. Sealing gaps and cracks prevents air leakage, additional enhancing power effectivity and diminishing the necessity for max cooling.
Tip 6: Conduct common system upkeep. Routine inspections and upkeep, together with filter replacements and coil cleansing, keep system effectivity and forestall efficiency degradation. A well-maintained system operates extra effectively in each commonplace and most settings, decreasing power consumption and prolonging tools life.
By implementing these methods, a big discount in power consumption and operational prices will be achieved, extending the lifespan of air con tools and selling sustainable cooling practices.
The next part will summarize the important thing ideas mentioned, offering a consolidated perspective on efficient air con administration.
Conclusion
The previous evaluation has delineated the important distinctions between commonplace and most air con operation. System choice, power consumption, compressor load, temperature differentials, fan velocity, operational period, system effectivity, and ambient circumstances are among the many elements mentioned. Understanding these parts offers a complete view of system efficiency beneath various calls for.
Efficient administration of air con settings requires a holistic method, contemplating each instant cooling wants and long-term operational prices. Prudent software of the utmost setting, coupled with proactive upkeep and knowledgeable consumer practices, ensures optimum efficiency and minimizes environmental affect. Continued developments in system design and management applied sciences provide additional potential for enhancing power effectivity and selling sustainable cooling options.
