CLA-2-84:S:N:N1:110 891571
Mr. Stephen R. Handy
Digital Equipment Corporation
50 Nagog Park
Acton, Mass. 01720-3499
RE: The tariff classification of a "VXT4000 Video Controller from
Taiwan
Dear Mr. Handy:
In your letter dated October 14, 1993, you requested a tariff
classification ruling.
The merchandise under consideration involves a model VXT4000
video controller that is designed and used with video terminals for
controlling the way each page is displayed on the video screen.
The VXT4000 is an enhancement over model VT1000 which was
previously classified under HTS number 8471.99.15 in NY Ruling
letter 848943 of January 30, 1990.
The controlling function in the VXT4000 has been enhanced to
allow for multiple terminal emulations, which means that one
terminal can now act as many different terminals, but remains
basically a terminal controller. It consists essentially of a box
that contains a printed circuit board assembly, and a dedicated
power supply assembly. This model also has the ability to download
a limited program from a host CPU to the controller, and use that
program to enhance the operation of the terminal. It cannot
however store a processing program and is also not freely
programmable in accordance with the requirements of the user.
Noting Legal Note 5 (A) to Chapter 84 of the HTS, this controller
would not meet the definition of an "automatic data processing
machine". It appears to be principally designed and used as a
controller for video terminals.
The applicable subheading for the VXT4000 Video Controller will
be 8471.99.1500, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States
(HTS), which provides for control and adapter units. The rate of
duty will be free.
This ruling is being issued under the provisions of Section
177 of the Customs Regulations (19 C.F.R. 177).
A copy of this ruling letter should be attached to the entry
documents filed at the time this merchandise is imported. If the
documents have been filed without a copy, this ruling should be
brought to the attention of the Customs officer handling the
transaction.
Sincerely,
Jean F. Maguire
Area Director
New York Seaport