The tariff classification of thermal imaging surveillance cameras

N233458 October 5, 2012 CLA-2-90:OT:RR:NC:N4:414 CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 9013.80.9000 Ms. Laura Callesano CBC America Corp. 55 Mall Drive Commack, NY 11725 RE: The tariff classification of thermal imaging surveillance cameras Dear Ms. Callesano: In your letter dated September 16, 2012 you requested a tariff classification ruling. The ZT-W Series, ZT-PTS 0731 and ZT-M Series are thermal imaging surveillance cameras. They are designed to capture moving images and still images which are recorded on standard digital video recorders. The cameras capture infrared wavelengths in the 8 um (micrometer) to 14 um wavelength range, using an uncooled type thermal sensor. They capture two dimensional thermal images and operate in heavy mist, smoky conditions and complete darkness by recognizing temperature differences. The cameras do not capture normal daylight images. There are two types of lenses used in the thermal imaging cameras. One type of lens is composed of germanium and the other type of lens is composed of zinc sulfide. The typical customers for thermal imaging cameras are security companies, such as port security companies. The cameras are used in parking lots, power plants, in railroad yards, etc, to provide thermal imaging under any visibility condition. The applicable subheading for the ZT-W Series, the ZT-PTS 0731 and the ZT-M Series thermal imaging cameras will be 9013.80.9000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), which provides for liquid crystal devices not constituting articles provided for more specifically in other headings; lasers, other than laser diodes; other optical appliances and instruments, not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter, other devices, appliances and instruments; other. The rate of duty will be 4.5 percent ad valorem. 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 Barbara Kiefer at (646) 733-3019. Sincerely, Thomas J. Russo Director National Commodity Specialist Division