Find HS Code and trade information for Portableautomaticdataprocessingmachines

Portable Automatic Data Processing Machines

Portable automatic data processing machines represent a category of devices capable of accepting, processing, storing, and outputting data outside of a fixed location. These machines evolved significantly throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, encompassing a wide range of technologies and form factors.

History and Evolution

The earliest forms were electromechanical devices, progressing through vacuum tubes, transistors, integrated circuits, and ultimately microprocessors. Early iterations were large and heavy, requiring significant power and cooling. Advances in miniaturization and battery technology led to increasingly portable and user-friendly designs.

Materials

Construction materials varied depending on the era and intended use:

• Early Machines (1950s-1970s): Primarily utilized metal chassis (steel, aluminum), discrete electronic components (vacuum tubes, transistors), magnetic core memory, and electromechanical relays. Input/output devices used paper, magnetic tape, and early forms of cathode ray tubes (CRTs).
• Mid-Range Machines (1980s-1990s): Incorporated integrated circuits, floppy disks, and LCD screens. Plastic casings became more common alongside metal components.
• Modern Machines (2000s-Present): Employ microprocessors, solid-state drives (SSDs), LCD/LED/OLED screens, and utilize materials like aluminum alloys, carbon fiber composites, and high-strength plastics for lightweight and durability.

Purpose

The primary purpose of these machines is to perform computations and manage data remotely. Specific applications include:

• Scientific Research: Data logging, analysis, and modeling in field studies.
• Business: Sales tracking, inventory management, point-of-sale systems, and mobile accounting.
• Military: Navigation, communication, and battlefield data processing.
• Healthcare: Patient monitoring, data collection, and diagnostics.
• General Computing: Personal productivity, communication, and entertainment.

Function

These machines perform a range of functions, including:

• Data Input: Accepting data through keyboards, touchscreens, scanners, microphones, and network connections.
• Data Processing: Performing arithmetic operations, logical comparisons, and data manipulation.
• Data Storage: Retaining data in memory (RAM, SSDs, hard drives, cloud storage).
• Data Output: Presenting data through screens, printers, speakers, and network connections.
• Communication: Transmitting and receiving data over networks (wired or wireless).
• Control: Managing peripherals and external devices.

Usage Scenarios

• Field Work: Geologists using handheld devices for data logging and analysis in remote locations.
• Retail: Cashiers utilizing point-of-sale terminals for sales transactions.
• Transportation: Pilots employing flight management systems for navigation and control.
• Healthcare: Doctors utilizing portable diagnostic equipment for patient monitoring.
• Office Environments: Professionals using laptops for presentations, data analysis, and communication.
• Personal Use: Individuals utilizing smartphones, tablets, and laptops for communication, entertainment, and productivity.

Common Types

• Early Portable Computers: Osborne 1, Kaypro II (early 1980s - bulky, limited functionality).
• Laptop Computers: Versatile, clamshell-style computers with integrated screen and keyboard. (Dominant form factor since the 1990s).
• Notebook Computers: Smaller and lighter than laptops, focusing on portability.
• Tablets: Touchscreen-based devices with limited keyboard functionality. (Popularized in the 2010s).
• Smartphones: Mobile phones with advanced computing capabilities. (Ubiquitous personal devices).
• Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs): Early handheld devices for scheduling and contact management (precursors to smartphones).
• Handheld Terminals: Rugged devices for specific applications (e.g., barcode scanning, inventory management).
• Ultra-Mobile PCs (UMPCs): Smaller, more compact laptops with limited functionality.
• Wearable Computers: Smartwatches, fitness trackers, and other devices worn on the body.

Portable automatic data processing machines are machines weighing not more than 10 kg, consisting of at least a central processing unit, a keyboard and a display. These machines are designed for mobile use and incorporate data processing capabilities.

The following HS codes are relevant to portable automatic data processing machines:

• 8471300100: Automatic data processing machines and units thereof; magnetic or optical readers, machines for transcribing data onto data media in coded form and machines for processing such data, not elsewhere specified or included: Portable automatic data processing machines, weighing not more than 10 kg, consisting of at least a central processing unit, a keyboard and a display.
  • 84: Chapter 84 covers nuclear reactors, boilers, machinery and mechanical appliances; parts thereof.
  • 71: Heading 71 specifically covers automatic data processing machines and their units.
  • 30: Subheading 30 further defines these machines as portable automatic data processing machines weighing not more than 10 kg, including a central processing unit, keyboard, and display.

Regarding HS code 8471300100, the applicable tax rate is currently 0.0% base tariff and 0.0% additional tariff, increasing to 20.0% additional tariff after April 2, 2025. The total tariff rate is currently 20.0%.