| HS Code | Official Doc | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8544421000 | Doc | 55.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 8544422000 | Doc | 55.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 9001100030 | Doc | 61.7% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 9001100085 | Doc | 61.7% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 8548000000 | Doc | 55.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
Adapter Cable
An adapter cable, also known as a converter cable, is a cable used to connect two different types of connectors, enabling communication between devices with incompatible ports. They facilitate the transmission of data, video, audio, or power between systems that would otherwise be unable to connect directly.
Material
Adapter cables are typically constructed using a combination of materials:
- Conductors: Copper is the most common material for the internal wires due to its excellent conductivity. Silver is used in high-end cables for superior performance.
- Insulation: PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is a standard insulator, providing flexibility and cost-effectiveness. More premium cables utilize materials like Teflon for better heat resistance and signal integrity.
- Connectors: These are often made of plastic (ABS, PVC) with metal contacts (gold-plated for corrosion resistance and improved signal transfer, nickel-plated for durability).
- Shielding: Aluminum foil or braided shielding (copper or aluminum) is frequently incorporated to minimize electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio-frequency interference (RFI).
- Cable Jacket: PVC or TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) provides the outer protective layer.
Purpose
The primary purpose of an adapter cable is compatibility. They bridge the gap between devices using different connector standards, allowing users to:
- Connect older devices to newer systems.
- Utilize peripherals with ports that do not match the host device.
- Extend the functionality of existing equipment.
- Troubleshoot connectivity issues.
Function
Adapter cables function by converting the physical interface of one connector type to another. They do not typically alter the underlying signal being transmitted (e.g., USB 2.0 to USB-C still transmits USB 2.0 data). However, some adapters may include active circuitry to convert signal types (e.g., DisplayPort to HDMI, which involves converting a digital signal to a different digital format).
The function is determined by the connectors at each end of the cable and any internal conversion components.
Usage Scenarios
- Connecting a legacy monitor (VGA) to a modern laptop (HDMI/DisplayPort).
- Using an older mouse or keyboard with a newer computer (USB-A to USB-C).
- Connecting a smartphone to a car stereo (USB-C to AUX).
- Connecting a gaming console to a TV (HDMI to DisplayPort).
- Extending the reach of a cable with a longer adapter cable.
- Connecting a USB device to a power source (USB-A to USB-C charging cable).
Common Types
Adapter cables are categorized by the connectors they adapt between. Some common types include:
- USB-A to USB-C: Connects older USB devices to newer USB-C ports.
- USB-C to USB-C: Used for connecting USB-C devices to each other, or for charging.
- HDMI to VGA: Connects HDMI sources to VGA displays.
- DisplayPort to HDMI: Connects DisplayPort sources to HDMI displays.
- USB-C to HDMI: Connects USB-C devices to HDMI displays (often requiring DisplayPort Alternate Mode).
- USB-A to Ethernet (RJ45): Adds Ethernet connectivity to devices without a built-in Ethernet port.
- 3.5mm AUX to RCA: Connects devices with a 3.5mm audio output to devices with RCA inputs.
- VGA to HDMI: Connects VGA sources to HDMI displays.
- Power Adapters (barrel connectors): Adapts different power supply voltages and connector sizes.
- Thunderbolt to USB-C: Connects Thunderbolt devices to USB-C ports.
It is important to note that not all adapters are created equal. The quality of the materials and construction can significantly impact performance and reliability. Active adapters, which include circuitry, are generally more expensive but can provide better compatibility and signal conversion.
Adapter cables can fall under several classifications depending on their specific characteristics. Here's a breakdown of potential HS codes based on the provided information:
- 8544421000: This code covers insulated wire, cable (including coaxial cable), and other insulated electric conductors, whether or not fitted with connectors, specifically “Other electric conductors, for a voltage not exceeding 1,000 V”, and “Fitted with connectors: Fitted with modular telephone connectors”. If the adapter cable is designed for telecommunications and uses modular telephone connectors, this HS code is applicable. The total tax rate is 55.0%, comprised of a 0.0% base tariff and a 25.0% additional tariff, increasing to 30.0% after April 2, 2025.
- 8544422000: This code also covers insulated wire, cable, and other insulated electric conductors with connectors, categorized as “Other electric conductors, for a voltage not exceeding 1,000 V”, and “Fitted with connectors: Other: Of a kind used for telecommunications”. If the adapter cable is for telecommunications but doesn't use modular telephone connectors, this HS code applies. The total tax rate is 55.0%, with a 0.0% base tariff and a 25.0% additional tariff, rising to 30.0% after April 2, 2025.
- 8548000000: This code covers “Electrical parts of machinery or apparatus, not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter”. If the adapter cable is considered an electrical part of machinery or apparatus and doesn't fall under the more specific classifications in Chapter 8544, this HS code may be appropriate. The total tax rate is 55.0%, consisting of a 0.0% base tariff and a 25.0% additional tariff, increasing to 30.0% after April 2, 2025.
It is important to determine the voltage of the adapter cable and its intended use (e.g., telecommunications, general electrical connection) to select the correct HS code.