Photocathode Image Converter Tube
A photocathode image converter tube that transforms infrared or ultraviolet photons into visible light by using a photocathode to emit electrons, which are then accelerated and converted to a visible image on a phosphor screen. It falls under tariff item 8540.20.00 because it is explicitly an image converter, a type of photo-cathode tube, used for spectrum conversion in scientific and military applications.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Tariff | Surtaxes | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | Free | — | Free |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | Free | — | Free |
| 🇺🇸United States | Free | — | Free |
| 🇩🇪Germany | Free | — | Free |
| 🇯🇵Japan | Free | — | Free |
More Specific Codes
This product may fall under a more specific subheading:
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If the converter is incorporated into an optical instrument or appliance
Optical devices and instruments are classified in Chapter 90, which takes precedence over parts.
If the tube is not specifically a camera tube, image converter, or intensifier
Other thermionic, cold cathode, or photo-cathode tubes fall under the residual subheading.
If sold as a complete infrared camera
Complete cameras with image conversion capability are classified under television cameras.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right tariff item — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Classify the tube as an image converter under 8540.20.00 and provide a datasheet confirming the photocathode material and spectral response
• If the tube is part of a larger optical instrument, check if it should be classified with the instrument under Chapter 90
• Keep records of the end-use to support duty rate claims under tariff preference programs
Related Products under Tariff item 8540.20.00
3-CCD Color Prism Camera Tube
A 3-CCD color prism camera tube uses a prism to split incoming light into RGB components, each captured by separate color cathode-ray tubes for superior broadcast quality. It qualifies as a color television camera tube under this tariff item.
Broadcast Studio Color Camera CRT
A broadcast studio color camera CRT is designed for professional TV studios, capturing live color footage with high resolution via electron beam scanning on a color target. It falls under this tariff item as a specialized television camera tube.
Color Camera Tube with Shadow Mask
A color camera tube with shadow mask incorporates a shadow mask for precise electron beam alignment to color phosphors, essential for accurate RGB reproduction. It is classified under this tariff item as a color television camera tube.
Color Field Sequential Camera Tube
A color field sequential camera tube uses field-sequential color filtering with a single high-speed color CRT for television cameras, common in early color TV systems. It qualifies under this tariff item as a color television camera tube.
Color Image Orthicon Tube
A color Image Orthicon tube is an advanced cathode-ray tube for television cameras using low-velocity electron scanning for high-sensitivity color imaging in low light. It is classified under this tariff item for its color photocathode technology.
Color Security Surveillance Camera Tube
A color security surveillance camera tube is a color cathode-ray tube for CCTV security cameras providing 24/7 color monitoring for television-style surveillance systems. It falls under this tariff item as a color television camera tube.