Find HS Code and trade information for adapter box

Adapter Box

An adapter box, also known as a power adapter, AC adapter, or wall wart, is an external power supply that converts alternating current (AC) from a wall outlet into direct current (DC) suitable for powering electronic devices. It is commonly used when a device requires a different voltage or connector than what is readily available from standard power outlets.

Material

• Enclosure: Typically constructed from plastic (ABS, polycarbonate) for insulation and durability. Some higher-quality adapters may utilize metal housings for improved heat dissipation and shielding.
• Internal Components: Include transformers, rectifiers, filters, and voltage regulators. These are generally made of copper, silicon, and various electronic components.
• Connectors: Usually made of plastic and metal (often copper or tin-plated copper) to ensure a secure electrical connection.

Purpose

• Voltage Conversion: Transforms the standard AC voltage (e.g., 120V in North America, 230V in Europe) to the DC voltage required by the device (e.g., 5V, 9V, 12V, 19V).
• Connector Compatibility: Provides a specific connector type that matches the power input port of the electronic device.
• Isolation: Offers electrical isolation between the AC power source and the powered device, enhancing safety.

Function

The primary function of an adapter box is to safely and efficiently convert AC power to DC power. The process involves:

1. Transformer: Reduces or increases the AC voltage.
2. Rectifier: Converts AC to pulsating DC.
3. Filter: Smooths the pulsating DC into a more stable DC voltage.
4. Voltage Regulator: Maintains a constant output voltage, regardless of fluctuations in the input voltage or load.

Usage Scenarios

• Charging Mobile Devices: Smartphones, tablets, and laptops often require DC power for charging.
• Powering Small Electronics: Devices such as routers, modems, external hard drives, and gaming consoles.
• LED Lighting: Many LED strip lights and fixtures use DC power supplied by adapter boxes.
• Audio/Video Equipment: Used to power DVD players, set-top boxes, and other audio/video devices.

Common Types

• Linear Adapters: Simpler design, generally less efficient, produce more heat. Often used for lower power applications.
• Switching Adapters: More complex design, highly efficient, produce less heat. Commonly used for higher power applications and mobile devices.
• Universal Adapters: Designed to work with a variety of devices by providing interchangeable connector tips and adjustable voltage settings.
• Desktop Adapters (Wall Warts): Plug directly into a wall outlet.
• Travel Adapters: Used to adapt plug types for different countries while maintaining the same voltage. (Note: these do not convert voltage; they only change the plug shape).
• USB Power Adapters: Provide DC power through a USB port, commonly used for smartphones and tablets.

Adapter boxes are not explicitly defined within the provided reference material. However, based on potential material and function, the following HS codes may be relevant:

• 8548000000: This code covers electrical parts of machinery or apparatus, not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter. If the adapter box is considered a component part of a larger electrical system and doesn’t fall under a more specific classification, this code may apply. The total tax rate is 55.0%, comprised of a 0.0% base tariff, a 25.0% additional tariff, and a 30.0% additional tariff effective after April 2, 2025.
• 3926901000: This code covers other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914, specifically buckets and pails. If the adapter box is constructed from plastic or other materials within headings 3901 to 3914, this code could be applicable. The total tax rate is 40.9%, consisting of a 3.4% base tariff, a 7.5% additional tariff, and a 30.0% additional tariff effective after April 2, 2025.

According to the provided reference material, the HS code options related to 'adapter box' are limited, with only the following 2 found.

Regarding HS code 3926901000, please note the need to verify the material of construction and may require documentation confirming its composition.