CLA-2-85:OT:RR:NC:N1:112
Mr. Joseph R. Hoffacker - Customs Compliance Associate
W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc.
295 Blue Ball Road
P.O. Box 729
Elkton, MD 21922
RE: The tariff classification of a hybrid electronic cable from Germany, the United Kingdom, or China
Dear Mr. Hoffacker:
In your letter dated August 31, 2010, you requested a tariff classification ruling.
The item concerned is referred to as a hybrid “medical” cable (part # MCN1294). The cable contains one coaxial cable and 5 shielded, insulated, twisted pair cables, all of which is surrounded by an outer shield and insulating jacket.
This cable is exclusively used in the medical industry for monitoring a patient’s pulse and oxygen level. The cable carries a pulse monitoring signal through the twisted pair cables and an oxygen sensing signal through the coaxial cable. The cable transmits pulse and oxygen data from a patient’s finger clamp sensor to an “oximeter”.
It is stated that the twisted pair cables are approximately twice the value of the coaxial cable but both serve equal functions as the pulse and oxygen readings are taken simultaneously. Neither component clearly defines the cables overall essential character. The cable is rated for a maximum voltage of 100 V. At time of importation the cable does not incorporate connectors.
The applicable subheading for the hybrid “medical” cable (part # MCN1294) will be 8544.49.3080, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), which provides for “Insulated wire, cable and other insulated electric conductors…: Other electric conductors, for a voltage not exceeding 1,000 V: Other: Other: Of copper: Other”. The rate of duty will be 5.3%.
Duty rates are provided for your convenience and are subject to change. The text of the most recent HTSUS and the accompanying duty rates are provided on World Wide Web at http://www.usitc.gov/tata/hts/.
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 Steven Pollichino at (646) 733-3008.
Sincerely,
Robert B. Swierupski
Director
National Commodity Specialist Division