CLA-2-85:RR:NC:1:108 G88620
Mr. Richard J. Housman
SHARP
5700 N.W. Pacific Rim Blvd., M/S
Camas, Washington 98607
RE: The tariff classification of a low noise block down converter and its housing from Japan.
Dear Mr. Housman:
In your letter dated March 26, 2001 you requested a tariff classification ruling.
The items in question are denoted as a Low Noise Block Down Converter (LNB) and its particular housing made of either injection molded plastic or aluminum.
The LNB is a specially designed component of an antenna assembly, which consists of the LNB and a parabolic reflector. It is designed to receive television signals broadcast from orbit satellites. It is an outdoor radio frequency apparatus that provides the first frequency down conversion of the downlink satellite signal. The parabolic reflector focuses the satellite signal into the LNB, which receives the signal in an 11-12 GHz range. This signal, because of its frequency, cannot be sent over standard coaxial cable to the television. The LNB therefore converts the signal into a 1000-2000 MHz signal, which can be sent over standard coaxial cable to the television/television tuner.
Also this particular apparatus is equipped with a specially designed housing that can only be fitted to the particular model type of LNB. It is made from either injection-molded plastic or of aluminum.
In accordance with HQ Ruling 958422 this office is in agreement that the current LNB’s, models BS1D1UP201M, BS1H1SP107M and BS1H1SP207M are similar in function and operation and would apply that classification to the current models.
The applicable subheading for the Low Noise Block Down Converter (LNB) will be 8525.10.3015, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for Transmission apparatus for radiotelephony, radiotelegraphy, radiobroadcasting or television, whether or not incorporating reception apparatus or sound recording or reproducing apparatus; television cameras; still image video cameras or other video camera recorders; Transmission apparatus: Television: Other … Apparatus for the reception of television signals relayed by television satellite. The rate of duty will be 1.8 percent ad valorem.
The applicable subheading for the specific LNB housing will be 8529.90.9900, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for Parts suitable for use solely or principally with the apparatus of headings 8525 to 8528: Other: Other: Other. The rate of duty will be free.
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 Michael Contino at 212-637-7039.
Sincerely,
Robert B. Swierupski
Director,
National Commodity
Specialist Division