The tariff classification of optical fiber connectors from Taiwan.

N037285 September 26, 2008 CLA-2-85:OT:RR:NC:1:110 CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 8536.70.0000 Mr. Nicholas D’Andrea Delmar International Inc. 147-55 175th Street New York, NY 11434 RE: The tariff classification of optical fiber connectors from Taiwan. Dear Mr. D’Andrea: In your letter dated August 29, 2008, you requested a tariff classification ruling on behalf of your client Legrand d/b/a Pass & Seymour. The merchandise under consideration is a duplex fiber optic connector, Part Number 2A-2SC. A sample of this connector was submitted with your ruling request and will be returned to you. The fiber optic connector consists of two plastic molded components with bronze sleeves. The main component is molded into a rectangular housing measuring approximately 1 inch wide by ¼ high and 1 inch deep, comprising two input and two output subscriber connectors (SC). This housing is contained within an outer plastic bezel for mounting into a face plate panel and includes four plastic dust covers to protect the internal sleeves. Internally, the connector is fitted with phosphor bronze sleeves to accommodate the insertion of individual optic fibers, and is designed to mechanically align duel optic fibers end to end, enabling the transmission of light signals. This duplex fiber optic connector is not capable of or designed to enhance, amplify, or alter the signal in any way. It simply facilitates the connection of two optical fibers for the transmission of data communications. The applicable subheading for the fiber optic connector, Part Number 2A-2SC, will be 8536.70.0000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), which provides for “Electrical apparatus for switching or protecting electrical circuits, or for making connections...for a voltage not exceeding 1,000 V; connectors for optical fibers, optical fiber bundles or cables: Connectors for optical fibers, optical fiber bundles or cables.” The general rate of duty will be Free. Duty rates are provided for your convenience and are subject to change. The text of the most recent HTSUS and the accompanying duty rates are provided on World Wide Web at http://www.usitc.gov/tata/hts/. This ruling is being issued under the provisions of Part 177 of the Customs Regulations (19 C.F.R. 177). A copy of the ruling or the control number indicated above should be provided with the entry documents filed at the time this merchandise is imported. If you have any questions regarding the ruling, contact National Import Specialist Thomas Campanelli at (646) 733-3016. Sincerely, Robert B. Swierupski Director National Commodity Specialist Division