CLA-2-84:RR:NC:1:110 C86674
Mr. James Shaw
Panasonic Logistics Co.
2 Panasonic Way
Secaucus, N.J. 07094
RE: The tariff classification of a Lan Hub, Video Server PC
control, and Audio Server PC control from Japan.
Dear Mr. Shaw:
In your letter dated April 17, 1998, you requested a tariff
classification ruling.
The merchandise under consideration involves a Lan Hub,
Video Server PC control and Audio Server PC control all of which
are components of an in-flight entertainment system for
commercial airlines.
The model RD-AA8061-XX LAN Hub provides a central
concentration of all token ring local networks. This LAN hub
serves as a distribution center for 12 ports that interface with
S2777 control units, i.e. CMT, EPESC, CMEU, etc. It allows
expansion of the LAN without daisy chaining from one unit to
another. Data communications from the LAN hub to the CMT is over
a single shielded twisted pair, RS-232 data bus.
The LAN hub meets the definition of a "unit" of an ADP
system, and is principally used for the interconnection of ADP
units, noting Legal Note 5 (B) to Chapter 84 of the HTS.
The model RD-AA8007-XX Video server PC control is
responsible for interpreting the commands of the audio/video on
demand system (AVOD). The VSPC includes a MPEG decoder/modulator
and an AVOD hard disk array. It also includes a LAN interface
and VGA adapter.
The model RD-AA8006-XX Audio server PC control (ASPC) is
used to provide 12 channels of stereo broadcast audio under the
audio/video on demand (AVOD) aboard the aircraft. A token ring
interface provides the link to the system via the LAN. It
incorporates a Pentium 75 Mhz CPU, and includes a 2 RS232 ports
for communication of commands and status between the ASPC and 2
of the AVOD systems, video server PC control, LAN interface and
other network connections. The unit is connected to the 4 Gbyte
drives that contain the broadcast audio program material. This
unit weighs 26 pounds, and is contained in a metal case
approximately 16 inches in width.
The ASPC and VSPC devices both meet the definition of a unit
of an ADP system noting Legal Note 5 (B) to Chapter 84 of the
HTS.
The applicable subheading for the LAN Hub will be
8471.80.1000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States
(HTS), which provides for control or adapter units. The rate of
duty will be free.
The applicable subheading for the Video and Audio Server PC
control devices will be 8471.80.9000, HTS, which provides for
other units of automatic data processing machines. 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 Art
Brodbeck at 212-466-5490.
Sincerely,
Robert B. Swierupski
Director,
National Commodity
Specialist Division