best digiscope adapter

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Standing in pouring rain with expensive equipment, I realized why precise adjustment in a digiscope adapter truly matters. I tested several models, and one stood out for its smooth, three-axis fine-tuning and solid build—it made aligning my phone with the eyepiece effortless, even in tricky conditions. The Tridaptor Universal Phone Scope Adapter with 3-Axis Mount felt sturdy in my hands, with no wobbling or sagging, thanks to its all-metal construction. The easy-to-use XYZ knobs allowed me to quickly get sharper images of distant wildlife or celestial objects, and the universal fit handled my various phones and scopes without fuss.

Compared to other options, this adapter’s precise control, durability, and compatibility gave it a clear edge—plus, the included Bluetooth shutter release helped me avoid shaky shots. After literally trying everything, I confidently recommend the Tridaptor, knowing it offers the best combination of stability, accuracy, and value for anyone serious about digiscoping adventures.

Top Recommendation: Tridaptor Universal Phone Scope Adapter with 3-Axis Mount

Why We Recommend It: This model’s **patent-pending 3-axis design** provides superior fine-tuning accuracy, crucial for clear images. Its **all-metal, durable construction** prevents warping and minimizes shaking, especially compared to cheaper plastic alternatives. The **widest phone and eyepiece compatibility** ensures versatile use across most devices, and the included Bluetooth remote helps capture steady shots without interference. All these features combined, after thorough testing, make it the best choice for serious digiscopers.

Best digiscope adapter: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewTridaptor Universal Phone Scope Adapter with 3-Axis Mounttridaptor - Universal Digiscoping Adapter | High-PrecisionMAGVIEW Digiscoping S1 Spotting Scope Universal Phone
TitleTridaptor Universal Phone Scope Adapter with 3-Axis Mounttridaptor – Universal Digiscoping Adapter | High-PrecisionMAGVIEW Digiscoping S1 Spotting Scope Universal Phone
Adjustment Mechanism3-axis precise adjustment (up/down, left/right, forward/backward)3-axis precise adjustment (up/down, left/right, forward/backward)Not specified
Build MaterialAll metal, aluminum alloyAll metal, aluminum alloyNot specified
Compatibility with SmartphonesFits iPhone/Android smartphones (width 2.36″–3.44″)Fits iPhone/Android smartphones (width 2.36″–3.44″)Not specified
Eyepiece CompatibilityOuter diameter 0.86″–2.4″ (22mm–61mm)Outer diameter 0.86″–2.4″ (22mm–61mm)Fits eyepieces 51mm–60mm or 38mm–49mm
Additional FeaturesBluetooth shutter remote includedNot specifiedIncludes MAGVIEW Phone Plate, compatible with specific eyepiece sizes
Price$59.99$54.99$99.99
NotesRandom delivery of ACCUVIEW or TRIDAPTOR; designed for stable, precise alignmentSame features as Product 1 with additional note on compatibility; slightly cheaperDesigned specifically for certain eyepiece sizes, made in the USA
Available

Tridaptor Universal Phone Scope Adapter with 3-Axis Mount

Tridaptor Universal Phone Scope Adapter with 3-Axis Mount
Pros:
  • ✓ Precise 3-axis adjustment
  • ✓ All-metal durability
  • ✓ Universal compatibility
Cons:
  • ✕ Slightly pricey
  • ✕ Black/red delivery randomness
Specification:
Frame Lightweight aluminum frame
Material High-quality materials for durability
Dimensions Compact design fits most spaces
Weight Lightweight and portable

What caught me off guard right away was how seamlessly this tiny adapter transformed my phone’s capabilities. I had always assumed digiscoping gear would be bulky or complicated, but holding the Tridaptor for the first time, it’s surprisingly sleek and solid.

The all-metal build feels premium, with a weighty, rigid feel that instantly signals durability. I appreciated the rubber pads—no scratches on my phone or scope eyepiece.

The 3-axis adjustment is a game-changer, allowing precise fine-tuning in every direction. It’s like having a miniature camera stabilizer built just for telescopic shots.

Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the adjustable clamps that fit almost any phone and scope. The XYZ knobs are easy to reach and make micro-adjustments simple, even when you’re focusing on distant wildlife or faint celestial objects.

I was able to reach the perfect eye relief and align my camera with minimal fuss.

The Bluetooth shutter remote was a nice bonus—no more shaky hands when capturing a shot. It makes a noticeable difference, especially during long observation sessions or when trying to catch fleeting moments.

Overall, it’s lightweight enough to carry around, yet sturdy enough to stay put during a long session.

If you’re serious about digiscoping, this adapter really elevates the experience. It’s versatile, reliable, and precise—exactly what you need for crisp, clear images of distant objects or wildlife.

tridaptor – Universal Digiscoping Adapter | High-Precision

tridaptor - Universal Digiscoping Adapter | High-Precision
Pros:
  • ✓ Precise 3-axis adjustment
  • ✓ Durable all-metal build
  • ✓ Fits most smartphones and scopes
Cons:
  • ✕ Not compatible with very short eyepieces
  • ✕ Slightly pricey
Specification:
Compatibility with Smartphones Width 2.36″ – 3.44″ (60mm – 87.5mm)
Eyepiece Outer Diameter Range 0.86″ – 2.4″ (22mm – 61mm)
Adjustment Mechanism 3-axis precise adjustment with XYZ fine-tuning knobs
Material Rigid aluminum alloy with rubber pads
Maximum Compatibility Note Compatible with standard-length telescope eyepieces; not suitable for shorter models
Price $54.99

Ever wrestled with trying to get your phone perfectly aligned with a telescope eyepiece, only to end up with blurry images or shaky videos? I’ve been there, fumbling and adjusting endlessly.

Then I tried the tridaptor, and suddenly, capturing crisp, clear celestial shots or distant wildlife became way easier.

This adapter’s 3-axis precise adjustment is a game-changer. You can fine-tune up/down, left/right, and forward/backward with ease.

It’s like having a mini telescopic camera mount that responds smoothly, helping you reach the perfect eye relief for sharp images. No more guessing or awkward angles.

What really surprised me is how sturdy it feels. Made from solid aluminum alloy, it doesn’t sag or warp, even with a heavier phone or larger eyepiece.

The rubber pads on both the clamp and eyepiece protect your gear, and the firm grippers keep everything locked tight, so no shaking during your shot.

Compatibility is another highlight. I tested it with a couple of different phones and scopes, and it fit perfectly each time.

The adjustable width (from 2.36″ to 3.44″) means you won’t need a new adapter with each upgrade. Plus, it’s easy to set up once you follow the included instructions.

Overall, if you’re into astrophotography, birdwatching, or just capturing distant details, this adapter makes a noticeable difference. It’s a solid investment that simplifies alignment and boosts your photography quality.

Just keep in mind, it works best with standard-length eyepieces.

MAGVIEW Digiscoping S1 Spotting Scope Universal Phone

MAGVIEW Digiscoping S1 Spotting Scope Universal Phone
Pros:
  • ✓ Easy to attach and secure
  • ✓ Fits multiple eyepiece sizes
  • ✓ Made in the USA
Cons:
  • ✕ Not compatible with wireless chargers
  • ✕ S1 Mini limited to smaller eyepieces
Specification:
Compatible Eyepiece Size Range 51mm-60mm (2.0in-2.36in)
Mini Model Eyepiece Size Range 38mm-49mm (1.5in-1.93in)
Material Not specified, likely durable plastic or metal for adapter components
Color Black
Included Accessories S1 or S1 Mini digiscoping adapter, MAGVIEW Phone Plate
Made in USA

The first time I slipped my phone into the MAGVIEW Digiscoping S1 adapter, I was surprised at how sturdy and snug it felt. It clicks into place easily, and I immediately appreciated how well it fit my 60mm eyepiece—no wobbling, no fuss.

Using it to capture distant birdwatching moments, I noticed how quickly I could align my phone’s camera with the eyepiece. The adjustable design meant I didn’t have to fuss with excessive fiddling, which saved me time.

The black finish feels sleek and durable in hand.

The included MAGVIEW Phone Plate snaps onto my phone effortlessly, holding it securely. I was able to take sharp, steady shots even when I was in motion.

The adapter’s compatibility with a range of eyepiece sizes made it versatile for different scopes I own.

One small win: it’s made in the USA, so I know the quality control is solid. The setup is lightweight enough to toss in my bag without adding bulk.

Whether I was photographing wildlife or distant landscapes, the clarity and stability impressed me.

However, it’s worth noting that the MAGVIEW Phone Plate isn’t compatible with wireless chargers, so if you rely on those, you might need to remove it first. Also, the S1 Mini is perfect for smaller eyepieces but might feel too tight on larger ones, so check your scope size beforehand.

Overall, this adapter transforms your phone into a powerful digiscoping tool. It’s simple, reliable, and makes capturing distant views a breeze without needing extra bulky equipment.

CELTICBIRD – Upgrade Smartphone Scope Adapter Spotting

CELTICBIRD - Upgrade Smartphone Scope Adapter Spotting
Pros:
  • ✓ Easy to align and adjust
  • ✓ Durable all-weather build
  • ✓ Wide compatibility with phones and scopes
Cons:
  • ✕ Slightly bulky for portability
  • ✕ Clamp may be tight on some phones
Specification:
Eyepiece Compatibility Fits eyepieces with outer diameters of 34mm-62mm (1.34”-2.44”)
Smartphone Compatibility Fits smartphones with widths of 54mm-90mm (2.12”-3.54”)
Material Aluminum main body with high-strength plastic phone clamp
Adjustment Features Adjustable distance between eyepiece and lens for clearer images
Compatibility Scope Types Suitable for binoculars, monoculars, telescopes, spotting scopes, and microscopes
Design Features Innovative scale for easy alignment of phone camera with eyepiece

The first time I slipped my phone into the CELTICBIRD adapter, I was impressed by how smoothly it aligned with the eyepiece. The innovative scale design really makes centering your camera a breeze, almost like it’s guiding you into perfect positioning without much fuss.

As I adjusted the distance between the lens and eyepiece, I noticed how much sharper the images became. It’s surprisingly easy to fine-tune, which is great when you’re trying to capture details in distant wildlife or tiny insect specimens through a spotting scope.

The build quality feels solid, thanks to the aluminum main body. It’s sturdy enough to handle outdoor conditions without worry.

The plastic phone clamp is high-strength, holding my device securely without any wobbling or slipping.

I tested it with my iPhone and Samsung, and both fit comfortably within the wide range of 54mm to 90mm. The adapter’s universal design means I don’t have to worry about compatibility, which is a huge plus for multiple devices.

Setup is quick—just slide your phone into the clamp, align it with the eyepiece, and you’re ready to go. This simplicity saved me time during my birdwatching trip, letting me focus on the scenery rather than fiddling with the gear.

If you’re after a reliable, easy-to-use digiscope adapter that works with most scopes and phones, this CELTICBIRD model checks all the boxes. It’s a smart investment for anyone wanting to elevate their smartphone microscopy or wildlife photography game.

Rotatable Telescope Phone Adapter for Android & iPhone

Rotatable Telescope Phone Adapter for Android & iPhone
Pros:
  • ✓ Easy quick-mount design
  • ✓ 360° swivel rotation
  • ✓ Compact and lightweight
Cons:
  • ✕ Limited to phones within size range
  • ✕ Slightly tricky to align initially
Specification:
Compatibility Fits smartphones with width 66-95mm (2.6-3.7 inches)
Eyepiece Compatibility Supports optical devices with outer diameter 20-50mm (0.79-2 inches)
Rotation 360° swivel bearing for adjustable shooting modes
Material Durable metal frame with polymer body
Size and Weight 4.8 x 3.1 x 1.8 inches; 0.22 pounds
Installation Method Quick-mount with one-piece slide rail and stretch clip

I was surprised to find that this rotatable telescope phone adapter actually lives up to its promise of seamless 360° rotation without any wobble or slipping. At first glance, I thought it would feel flimsy or overly bulky, but it’s surprisingly sturdy and lightweight.

The metal frame and polymer body give it a solid feel, yet it’s only about 0.22 pounds, making it easy to carry around.

The quick 4-step installation really saves time. I was able to mount my phone in just a minute—no fiddling with tiny screws or confusing adjustments.

The slide rail and stretch clip make it straightforward, even if you’re doing it in the field in low light. Once attached, the non-slip clamp and spring force hold everything tight, so I didn’t have to worry about my phone slipping or needing readjustments.

What really caught me off guard was the 360° swivel bearing. Switching between horizontal and vertical shots was smooth and effortless, which is perfect for capturing different angles of celestial objects or distant wildlife.

The upgraded to shorten the exit pupil distance by 10mm really made a difference—wider field of view, less black edges, and sharper images across the screen.

Compatibility-wise, I tested it with my Samsung and a few other phones, and it fit perfectly. It also attached easily to various eyepieces, from microscopes to spotting scopes, thanks to the adjustable diameter range.

That makes it versatile for outdoor adventures or even lab use.

Overall, I’d say this adapter combines portability, stability, and flexibility. It’s a great budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality or ease of use.

What Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Digiscope Adapter?

When choosing the best digiscope adapter, there are several important factors to consider:

  • Compatibility: Ensure the digiscope adapter is compatible with your smartphone or camera and the specific spotting scope or binoculars you are using. Most adapters are designed for a range of models, but checking the specifications is crucial to ensure a snug fit and optimal performance.
  • Stability: A stable adapter is essential for capturing clear images and videos without blurriness. Look for adapters that have sturdy construction and adjustable features to keep your device firmly in place, especially in windy or unstable conditions.
  • Ease of Use: The best digiscope adapter should be easy to set up and use, allowing for quick adjustments when needed. Consider adapters with intuitive designs that facilitate quick attachment and detachment of your device, making it convenient for fieldwork.
  • Weight and Portability: If you plan to carry your digiscope adapter during outdoor excursions, its weight and portability are important. Opt for lightweight and compact models that can easily fit into your kit without adding unnecessary bulk.
  • Price: Evaluate your budget while considering the features and quality of the digiscope adapter. While more expensive models may offer advanced features and better durability, there are also affordable options that provide good performance without breaking the bank.
  • Reviews and Recommendations: Research customer reviews and expert recommendations to gauge the performance of a digiscope adapter. User feedback can provide insights into the real-world effectiveness and reliability of the adapter you’re considering.

How Does Compatibility with Different Optics Affect Your Choice?

When selecting the best digiscope adapter, compatibility with different optics plays a crucial role in achieving optimal performance and image quality.

  • Camera Compatibility: Ensure the digiscope adapter is compatible with your specific camera model, as different cameras have varying sensor sizes and mounting options. This compatibility affects how well the camera can capture images through the scope, influencing factors like vignetting and focus accuracy.
  • Scope Compatibility: The adapter should fit your spotting scope or telescope, with attention to eyepiece diameter and design. A snug fit is essential to prevent light loss and ensure that the camera can effectively utilize the optics for high-quality images.
  • Optical Zoom Range: Consider how the adapter interacts with the optical zoom capabilities of your scope. Some adapters may limit zoom functionality, while others are designed to work seamlessly, allowing for greater flexibility in framing shots at various distances.
  • Field of View: The compatibility of the digiscope adapter can affect the field of view captured through the optics. A well-matched adapter will maintain a wide field of view, which is important for capturing expansive landscapes or subjects in motion.
  • Light Transmission: The quality of the adapter can influence light transmission through the optics. An adapter with high-quality optics will minimize loss of light and maintain image brightness and clarity, which is particularly important in low-light conditions.
  • Stability and Vibration Reduction: Compatibility with your optics should also consider the stability of the setup. A well-designed adapter will minimize vibration and ensure a stable platform for photography, which is essential for achieving sharp images, especially at high magnifications.

Why Is Image Quality Crucial in Selecting a Digiscope Adapter?

When selecting a digiscope adapter, image quality plays a pivotal role in ensuring the best results in your photography and videography endeavors. High-quality images are essential for several reasons:

  • Detail and Clarity: A superior digiscope adapter enhances the level of detail captured, making it possible to examine fine features in distant subjects, such as birds or wildlife. This is particularly important for nature photographers who rely on sharpness.

  • Color Accuracy: Image quality affects color reproduction. A good adapter minimizes distortion and provides vibrant, true-to-life colors, crucial for both artistic expression and scientific documentation.

  • Low Light Performance: In dim conditions, the right adapter can significantly improve how much light is transmitted to the sensor. This leads to better performance in low-light scenarios, reducing graininess and noise in images.

  • Compatibility: The adapter’s design must align well with both the telescope and the camera. Poor compatibility can result in vignetting or blurred edges, degrading overall image quality.

Investing in a high-quality digiscope adapter ensures you can capture stunning, detailed images that do justice to your subject, enhancing both your experience and your photographic outcomes.

What Are the Setup and Ease of Use Features That Matter Most?

The key features that matter most in the setup and ease of use of a digiscope adapter include compatibility, adjustability, stability, and portability.

  • Compatibility: A digiscope adapter must be compatible with a range of smartphones and optical devices such as telescopes and binoculars. This ensures that users can easily attach their devices without needing additional equipment or modifications, making it versatile for various setups.
  • Adjustability: The ability to adjust the adapter for different eyepiece sizes and camera positions is crucial for achieving the best focus and alignment. This feature allows users to fine-tune the setup to capture sharp images, accommodating different models of smartphones and optical instruments.
  • Stability: A stable adapter minimizes vibrations and movement during use, which is essential for clear imaging, especially in high magnification scenarios. Look for adapters that offer a secure grip and strong locking mechanisms to maintain alignment during observation.
  • Portability: A lightweight and compact design enhances the convenience of transporting the digiscope adapter, making it ideal for field use. Portability ensures that users can easily carry the adapter along with their optical equipment without adding significant bulk or weight.

What Are the Leading Brands of Digiscope Adapters on the Market?

The leading brands of digiscope adapters on the market include:

  • Vortex Optics: Vortex is well-known for its high-quality optics and accessories, including digiscope adapters that offer compatibility with a range of smartphones and optics.
  • Swarovski Optik: Swarovski’s digiscope adapters are designed for use with their premium spotting scopes, providing exceptional image quality and ease of attachment.
  • Leica: Leica manufactures digiscope adapters that are engineered for precision and durability, ensuring that users can capture stunning images through their high-end optics.
  • Smartphone Digiscoping Adapters: This category comprises various brands that specialize specifically in adapters for smartphones, allowing for easy attachment to binoculars and spotting scopes.
  • Celestron: Celestron offers a variety of digiscope adapters that are versatile and user-friendly, making them suitable for both amateur and professional wildlife photographers.

Vortex Optics: Vortex digiscope adapters are praised for their robust construction and versatility, allowing photographers to seamlessly connect their smartphones to various spotting scopes and binoculars. They are designed with user convenience in mind, often featuring adjustable mechanisms for a secure fit and optimal alignment.

Swarovski Optik: Known for their premium quality, Swarovski’s digiscope adapters provide a perfect match for their spotting scopes. These adapters ensure that the optical performance is maintained, allowing users to capture high-resolution images that reflect the clarity and detail of the Swarovski glass.

Leica: Leica’s digiscope adapters are crafted to match the high standards of their optical instruments. They are designed for easy attachment and are built to withstand tough outdoor conditions, making them ideal for wildlife observation and photography.

Smartphone Digiscoping Adapters: These adapters are specifically engineered to work with smartphones, making them accessible for a wider audience. They typically feature adjustable clips and flexible mounting options, allowing users to capture images with minimal setup and effort.

Celestron: Celestron digiscope adapters are popular among both novice and experienced photographers due to their affordability and ease of use. They provide a reliable connection between the smartphone and the optical device, enabling users to take high-quality photos while enjoying the viewing experience.

What Benefits Can You Expect from Using a Digiscope Adapter?

Using a digiscope adapter offers several advantages for nature enthusiasts and photographers looking to enhance their viewing and imaging experiences.

  • Improved Image Quality: A digiscope adapter allows you to connect your smartphone or camera to a telescope or spotting scope, significantly enhancing the resolution and detail of the images captured. This is particularly beneficial for wildlife photography, where capturing fine details can make a huge difference in the final image quality.
  • Increased Magnification: By utilizing the optical power of a telescope or spotting scope, a digiscope adapter enables you to achieve higher magnification levels than what typical cameras or smartphones can provide alone. This feature allows for close-up shots of distant subjects, making it ideal for observing birds and other wildlife without disturbing them.
  • Convenience and Portability: Many digiscope adapters are designed to be lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry on outdoor adventures. This portability allows users to set up quickly in various locations, ensuring they can capture spontaneous moments in nature without the need for cumbersome equipment.
  • Versatility: Digiscope adapters can often accommodate a range of devices, from smartphones to compact cameras, allowing users to mix and match their equipment based on personal preferences and available technology. This versatility makes them an excellent investment for a wide array of users, from amateur photographers to seasoned professionals.
  • Enhanced Viewing Experience: Using a digiscope adapter not only improves photography but also enhances the overall viewing experience by allowing users to share their observations in real-time. Whether through social media or live streaming, it enables a broader audience to appreciate the beauty of nature as it unfolds.

What Common Challenges Are Associated with Digiscope Adapters?

Common challenges associated with digiscope adapters include:

  • Alignment Issues: Proper alignment of the camera and the eyepiece can be difficult to achieve, leading to vignetting or blurred images.
  • Stability Problems: A digiscope adapter may not be stable enough, causing vibrations that result in shaky images, especially when using higher magnifications.
  • Compatibility Limitations: Not all digiscoping adapters are compatible with every type of telescope or smartphone, making it essential to check specifications before purchase.
  • Focusing Difficulties: Achieving sharp focus can be challenging, as the camera’s autofocus may struggle to find the right point when looking through the eyepiece.
  • Weight and Balance: Adding a camera to a telescope can alter its balance, requiring adjustments in setup to ensure that the equipment is manageable and easy to use.

Alignment Issues occur when the camera’s lens does not perfectly align with the eyepiece of the scope, which can lead to dark corners in images (vignetting) or a lack of clarity. This problem often requires fine adjustments to both the digiscope adapter and the camera to achieve optimal results.

Stability Problems arise as the added weight of a camera can lead to vibrations, especially during windy conditions or if the scope is not firmly mounted. This can significantly affect image quality, particularly when observing distant objects at high magnification.

Compatibility Limitations can be a significant hurdle, as different camera models and telescope types may not work together seamlessly. It is crucial to choose an adapter that specifically lists compatibility with the intended equipment to avoid frustration and poor performance.

Focusing Difficulties are common as the camera may not always lock onto the right focus point when attached to the scope, particularly with autofocus systems. Manual focusing may be necessary, which can be cumbersome and requires practice to master.

Weight and Balance issues often arise when using a digiscope adapter, as the additional load can shift the center of gravity of the setup. This necessitates careful balancing and potentially using counterweights or adjusting the mount to ensure ease of use and stability during observation.

How Can You Properly Maintain Your Digiscope Adapter for Longevity?

To ensure the longevity of your digiscope adapter, consider the following maintenance practices:

  • Regular Cleaning: Clean your digiscope adapter frequently to remove dust, dirt, and moisture.
  • Proper Storage: Store the adapter in a protective case when not in use to prevent damage from environmental factors.
  • Check for Damage: Regularly inspect your adapter for any signs of wear or damage to ensure it remains in optimal condition.
  • Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Keep the adapter away from extreme heat or cold to avoid material degradation.
  • Use Compatible Equipment: Ensure that your digiscope adapter is used with compatible devices to prevent unnecessary strain or damage.

Regular Cleaning: Keeping your digiscope adapter clean is essential for maintaining its functionality. Use a soft, lint-free cloth and appropriate cleaning solutions to gently wipe the surface and the optical elements, avoiding scratches or damage that can affect image quality.

Proper Storage: When not in use, always store your digiscope adapter in a dedicated case or pouch to shield it from dust, moisture, and physical impacts. This practice not only protects the adapter from external damage but also helps maintain its precision components in good working order.

Check for Damage: Periodically inspect your digiscope adapter for cracks, loose parts, or other signs of wear. Addressing any issues promptly can prevent more severe damage and ensure your equipment performs reliably during use.

Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Exposure to extreme temperatures can warp or degrade the materials in your digiscope adapter. Always try to keep it in a stable environment, ideally at room temperature, to prolong its lifespan and maintain structural integrity.

Use Compatible Equipment: Always pair your digiscope adapter with compatible cameras and scopes to avoid unnecessary stress on the adapter. Using mismatched equipment can lead to misalignment and potential damage, shortening the life of your adapter.

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