CLA-2-84:S:N:N1:103 898413
Mr. David Pritchard
Creo Products, Inc.
3700 Gilmore Way
Burnaby, B.C., Canada V5G 4M1
RE: The tariff classification of the Platesetter from Canada
Dear Mr. Pritchard:
In your letter dated April 15, 1994 and received by this
office on May 26, 1994 you requested a tariff classification
ruling.
The Creo model 3244 Platesetter is a fully automatic computer
to plate imaging machine. It is used to "write" digital
information which is to be printed directly onto pre-sensitized
printing plates. The digital data is loaded into the Platesetter,
processed by a computer workstation and raster image processor
incorporated in the unit utilizing specialized software, and imaged
onto the photo-sensitive receiving plate by multiple laser beams.
Subsequently, the imaged plate is fixed in a developer and then
mounted onto the cylinder of a printing press. Direct digital
imaging onto a printing plate enables large commercial printers to
eliminate traditional intermediate platemaking steps involving
imaging and imposing photographic film, thus saving both time and
money.
The Platesetter model 3244 works with aluminum plates ranging
in size from 17 inches by 22 inches to 32 inches by 44 inches. It
features automatic plate loading and unloading, even while in
operation, and has a maximum storage capacity of 1000 plates held
in as many as 10 plate bins. Up to 10 different plate
configurations can be on-line at any given time. Resolution varies
from 1000 to 3200 dots per inch over a maximum image area of 31
inches by 44 inches. Depending on resolution, the Platesetter can
produce an imaged plate in 2-4 minutes.
The applicable subheading for the model 3244 Platesetter will
be 8442.10.0000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States
(HTS), which provides for machinery, apparatus and equipment...,
for type-founding or typesetting, for preparing or making printing
blocks, plates, cylinders and other printing components:
phototypesetting and composing machines. The rate of duty will be
free.
The applicable heading for any software disks entered with the
Platesetter will be 8524.90.4080, HTS, which provides for recorded
media, whether or not entered with the Platesetter. The rate of
duty is 9.7 cents/m2 of recording surface.
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