Little Giant inlet question

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I just got my new 3 MD HC today and read the instructions which said not to use a different diameter pipe or hose on the inlet side, which is 3/4". I've seen numerous threads where people reduce the 3/4" to 1/2". Does this affect the pump in any way besides slowing the flow down? Is the only way of keeping it at 3/4" is by all 3/4" hardware and tubing? It wouldn't make sense to use 1/2" tubing connected to a 3/4" camlock would it?