8533.21.00.20 - Other (including flat packs)

This HTS category, 8533.21.00.20, specifically covers "Other" fixed electrical resistors designed for surface mounting (SMD) by contact, with a power handling capacity not exceeding 20 Watts, and featuring more than two terminals, commonly known as resistor networks. These components are integrated circuits or modular assemblies where multiple individual resistors are packaged together to perform complex resistance functions within electronic circuits. The term "other (including flat packs)" indicates that this category encompasses various configurations of resistor networks beyond specific types, such as dual-in-line packages, and includes compact, flat configurations often used in miniaturized electronic devices.

In contrast to its sibling category, 8533.21.00.10 which is designated for "Dual-in-line package" resistor networks, this category captures a broader range of resistor network designs. While both fall under the umbrella of surface-mounted resistor networks with more than two terminals, the distinction lies in the physical packaging and construction. This category is intended for those resistor networks that do not conform to the specific dual-in-line footprint, such as quad flat packs (QFPs) or other custom or non-standard SMD resistor network configurations.

As this HTS code represents a leaf node, there are no further subcategories within this specific classification. Therefore, the classification decision hinges on accurately identifying the components as fixed resistors with a power capacity not exceeding 20W, designed for surface mounting, and possessing more than two terminals in a network configuration that is not a dual-in-line package. Examples include multi-resistor arrays within a single surface-mountable component designed for integrated circuit boards, offering designers flexibility in achieving specific resistance values and voltage divisions in a compact form factor.