8536.69.40 - Coaxial connectors; cylindrical multicontact connectors; rack and panel connectors; printed circuit connectors; ribbon or flat cable connectors

This HTS category, 8536.69.40, encompasses a variety of electrical connectors designed for making connections within electrical circuits, specifically those rated for voltages not exceeding 1,000 volts. It includes specialized connectors such as coaxial connectors, essential for high-frequency signal transmission in applications like telecommunications and broadcasting, and cylindrical multicontact connectors, often found in industrial equipment and heavy-duty applications due to their robust design and multiple connection points. Additionally, rack and panel connectors, utilized for secure and easy mating of equipment mounted in racks or panels, and printed circuit connectors, used to interface components directly onto printed circuit boards, fall under this heading.

This specific classification differentiates itself from its sibling, 8536.69.80.00, by focusing on a defined set of connector types, rather than a broader "other" category. While 8536.69.80.00 would capture any connectors not specifically enumerated, 8536.69.40 is reserved for the previously mentioned types. This ensures that connectors with distinct physical characteristics and primary functions are accurately categorized.

Within 8536.69.40, further subcategories exist to provide granular classification based on the specific type of connector. These include coaxial connectors (8536.69.40.10), cylindrical multicontact connectors (8536.69.40.20), rack and panel connectors (8536.69.40.30), printed circuit connectors (8536.69.40.40), and ribbon or flat cable connectors (8536.69.40.51). This subdivision allows for precise identification of the connector's intended application and design, aiding in accurate tariff assessment.