CLA-2-85:RR:NC:1:108 G80471

Ms. Madeline B. Kuflik
Panasonic
One Panasonic Way, 3B-6
Secaucus, New Jersey 07094

RE: The tariff classification of a set top terminal.

Dear Ms. Kuflik:

In your letter dated July 27, 2000, on behalf of your client Matsushita Television and Network Systems Company, you requested a tariff classification ruling.

The item in question is a set top terminal box designated as model number TU-HDS20B. This set top terminal box is designed primarily for the reception of Television Satellite Signals, NTSC Television Broadcast Signals and also the newly designated Digital Television Broadcast Signal (ATSC). The set top terminal has a tuner which demodulates the various television signals and is also capable of converting and decoding such signals for direct viewing on either a television receiver or video monitor. It also has a modem which when in the satellite mode will enable the viewer to select DIRECTV programming. This set top terminal is specially designed to receive and automatically tune to a television broadcast program, which is analog, digital or satellite transmitted.

The applicable subheading for the set top terminal, model number TU-HDS20B will be 8528.12.9200, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for Reception apparatus for television, whether or not incorporating radiobroadcast receivers or sound or video recording or reproducing apparatus; video monitors and video projectors: Reception apparatus for television, whether or not incorporating radiobroadcast receivers or sound or video recording or reproducing apparatus: Other: Other: Other: Set top boxes which have a communications function. 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