9033.00.30.00 - Touch-sensitive data input devices (so-called “touch screens”) without display capabilities, for incorporation into apparatus having a display, which function by detecting the presence and location of a touch within the display area (such sensing may be obtained by means of resistance, electrostatic capacity, acoustic pulse recognition, infrared lights or other touch-sensitive technology)
Details
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Unit of Quantity | No. |
| General Rate of Duty | Free |
| Special Rate of Duty | N/A |
| Column 2 Rate of Duty | 40% |
| Quota Quantity | N/A |
| Additional Duties | N/A |
Overview
This HTS category, 9033.00.30.00, specifically addresses touch-sensitive data input devices, commonly known as "touch screens." These devices are designed to be integrated into apparatus that already possess a display capability. Their core function is to detect the presence and precise location of a user's touch within the display area. The technology employed for this detection can vary widely, including resistive, electrostatic capacitive, acoustic pulse recognition, infrared light, or other touch-sensitive mechanisms. Crucially, these devices *do not* have their own display capabilities.
When classifying items within heading 9033, it is important to distinguish this category from its siblings. Unlike the LED backlight modules classified under 9033.00.20.00, which are solely for illuminating displays, these touch screens are active input devices. They are also distinct from the "Other" category (9033.00.90.00), which serves as a residual classification for any parts or accessories of Chapter 90 instruments and apparatus not specifically enumerated elsewhere. Therefore, if a component functions as a touch-sensitive input mechanism for a display-equipped apparatus and lacks its own display, it would fall under this specific HTS code.
As this is a leaf node within the HTS structure, there are no further subdivisions. Classification under 9033.00.30.00 is definitive for touch-sensitive data input devices without display capabilities, when intended for incorporation into apparatus with an existing display. This classification is applied irrespective of the specific touch-detection technology employed, provided the primary function remains data input via touch detection within the display area of the host apparatus.