HS Code for Camera tube

The HS code 8540.20 is designated for television camera tubes, image converters, and intensifiers. This classification falls under Chapter 85, which covers electrical machinery and equipment. Heading 8540 specifically addresses thermionic, cold cathode, or photo-cathode valves and tubes. Camera tubes are vacuum tubes used in older television cameras to convert an optical image into an electrical signal. Although modern digital cameras primarily use solid-state sensors, the classification for traditional vacuum-based camera tubes remains under 8540.20. This includes specialized tubes like vidicons, plumbicons, or image orthicons. The classification is based on the physical construction of the device as a vacuum tube rather than its function as a general sensor, which distinguishes it from semiconductor-based imaging components. According to GRI 1, the product must be classified according to the heading text, and 8540 is the only heading that explicitly mentions photo-cathode tubes. Image intensifiers, which amplify low light levels for night vision, also fall under this code because they operate on the same vacuum tube and photo-cathode principles. This classification is vital for distinguishing legacy analog broadcasting equipment and specialized military or scientific imaging tubes from consumer-grade digital electronics.

Products Included

• Vidicon and Plumbicon tubes
• Image orthicon tubes
• Image intensifier tubes for night vision
• Photo-cathode tubes
• Television camera tubes for analog broadcasting

Common Misclassification

The most frequent misclassification is with HS code 8541.41 or 8541.43, which covers modern CMOS and CCD sensors. These are semiconductor devices, not vacuum tubes, and must not be classified under 8540.20. Another error involves HS code 8525, which covers the entire television camera. 8540.20 is only for the internal tube component, not the complete camera assembly.

FAQ

What is the HS code for camera tube?

The HS code for television camera tubes and image intensifiers is 8540.20.

Are digital camera sensors classified under 8540.20?

No, digital sensors like CCD or CMOS are classified under HS code 8541 as semiconductor devices, as they do not utilize vacuum tube technology.