9001.10.00 - Optical fibers, optical fiber bundles and cables

This HTS category, 9001.10.00, specifically covers optical fibers, optical fiber bundles, and optical fiber cables. These are distinct from other categories within heading 9001. For instance, they are differentiated from sheets and plates of polarizing material (9001.20.00.00), contact lenses (9001.30.00.00), and spectacle lenses of glass or other materials (9001.40.00.00 and 9001.50.00.00). The key defining characteristic of goods classified here is their function as conduits for transmitting light, typically through internal reflection, for communication, sensing, or illumination purposes.

The subcategories within 9001.10.00 further delineate these optical fiber products. "Optical fibers" refers to single strands of glass or plastic designed to transmit light. "Optical fiber bundles" are collections of these individual fibers grouped together, often for increased light transmission capacity. Finally, "optical fiber cables" are bundles of optical fibers that are further protected by an outer sheathing, making them suitable for installation in various environments and distinct from cables classified under heading 8544, which typically refers to electrical cables. This structure allows for precise classification based on the construction and assembly of the light-transmitting elements.