8542.39.00.40 - Digital to analog converters (DACs)

This category specifically encompasses digital-to-analog converters (DACs). DACs are crucial electronic components that translate digital signals, represented as binary code, into analog signals, such as varying voltage or current levels. These analog signals are necessary for outputting information to a wide range of electronic devices, including audio equipment, displays, and control systems. The core function of these devices is the conversion of discrete digital values into continuous analog waveforms.

It is important to distinguish this classification from its sibling category, 8542.39.00.30, which covers analog-to-digital converters (ADCs). While both are data converters, their functional direction is opposite: ADCs convert analog signals into digital signals, whereas DACs perform the reverse operation. This distinction is critical for accurate tariff classification based on the primary function of the integrated circuit.

As this node represents a leaf category within the HTS database, there are no further subcategories. Therefore, classification under 8542.39.00.40 is final for devices whose sole or primary function is the conversion of digital data into analog signals, such as those found in audio output circuits, video signal generation, and high-precision measurement systems where digital control is translated into analog outputs.