The tariff classification of Input/Output Adapters from China

N125880 October 29, 2010 CLA-2-84:OT:RR:NC:1:120 CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 8471.80.1000 Mr. Michael Roybal Roybal Global P.C. 8701 West Lovers Lane Dallas, Texas 75209 RE: The tariff classification of Input/Output Adapters from China Dear Mr. Roybal: In your letter dated October 1, 2010, you requested a tariff classification ruling on behalf of your client Integrated Device Technology, Incorporated. The merchandise under consideration includes two input/output (I/O) adapters. The first is a “Display Port to Display Port” adapter and the second is a “Display Port to Digital Video Input (DVI)” adapter. The adapters allow for electrical signal connection of a single personal computer (PC) to multiple monitors. Each adapter incorporates an integrated circuit (IC) and connectors within a molded case. The Display Port to Display Port adapter incorporates three 20-pin DP-Type connectors, whereas the Display Port to DVI adapter incorporates three 30-pin DB-Type connectors. The IC is a pre-programmed chip that actively translates the PC’s Display Port Video output signal connection to Display Output. One adapter translates to a monitor’s DVI port, while the other allows for connection to a monitor’s Display Port. A Display Port cable for video output connection to the computer is attached to each adapter. Only the Display Port to Digital Video Input (DVI) adapter has an additional USB Type-A cable attached for 5 volt power connection to the computer. The input/output adapters meet the definition of a "unit" of an automatic data processing (ADP) machine as noted in Legal Note 5 (C) of Chapter 84 to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). The USB and Display Port is connectable to the central processing unit (CPU), and is able to accept or deliver data. The principal function of inter-connecting a CPU unit to other units of ADP machines, such as monitors, provides "control" and "adaption" functions. The applicable subheading for the input/output adapters will be 8471.80.1000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), which provides for “Automatic data processing machines and units thereof: Other units of ADP processing machines: Control or adapter units.” The 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 Denise Faingar at (646) 733-3010. Sincerely, Robert B. Swierupski Director National Commodity Specialist Division