Find HS Code and trade information for focusing plate

Focusing Plate

A focusing plate, also known as a ground glass, is a translucent screen used in large format photography and some specialized cameras to preview the image before exposure. It is a critical component in cameras employing a view camera design.

Material:

Traditionally, focusing plates were made of frosted glass, hence the name "ground glass." Modern plates often utilize acrylic or polycarbonate for lighter weight and increased durability. The surface is textured to diffuse light, creating a visible image. The texture is crucial; too coarse and the image is overly grainy and difficult to assess; too fine and the image is too dim.

Purpose:

The primary purpose of a focusing plate is to allow the photographer to precisely compose, focus, and check the overall image before committing to a photograph on film or a digital sensor. It functions as a direct, real-time representation of what will be recorded.

Function:

Light from the subject passes through the lens and is projected onto the focusing plate. The image is reversed (left-to-right and top-to-bottom) and appears dim. The photographer uses a loupe (magnifying glass) to critically assess focus, composition, and tonal range. Movements of the lens and camera back are made based on this preview.

Usage Scenarios:

• Large Format Photography: Essential for 4x5, 8x10, and larger format cameras where precise control is paramount.
• Studio Photography: Used in studio view cameras for highly controlled setups and detail-oriented work.
• Architecture Photography: Facilitates accurate perspective control and distortion correction.
• Landscape Photography: Allows for meticulous composition and focus stacking.
• Technical Photography: Used in applications requiring precise measurements and documentation.

Common Types:

• Standard Ground Glass: The most common type, typically made of frosted glass.
• Fresnel Lens Focusing Screens: Incorporates Fresnel lenses to brighten the image, making focusing easier in low light. However, they can introduce artifacts.
• Digital Focusing Screens: Used with digital backs for large format cameras, providing a brighter, clearer image with improved contrast. These often incorporate electronic viewing aids.
• Split-Image Focusing Screens: Features a wedge-shaped split image in the center to aid in precise focusing.
• Microprism Focusing Screens: Uses an array of tiny prisms to create a textured pattern that splits when the image is in focus.
• Grid Focusing Screens: Includes a grid pattern to assist with composition and alignment. These can be combined with other screen types.

Based on the provided information, the following HS codes may be relevant to “focusing plate”:

• 8548000000: This HS code covers electrical parts of machinery or apparatus, not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter. This could apply if the focusing plate is an electrical component used within a larger machine or apparatus. The base tariff is 0.0%, with a surcharge of 25.0%, increasing to 30% after April 2, 2025, resulting in a total tariff of 55.0%.

• 7326908688: This HS code covers other articles of iron or steel: Other: Other: Other: Other Other. If the focusing plate is made of iron or steel and doesn’t fall into a more specific category, this code may be applicable. The base tariff is 2.9%, with a surcharge of 25.0%, increasing to 30% after April 2, 2025, and an additional 25% surcharge on steel and aluminum products, resulting in a total tariff of 82.9%.

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

It is important to note that for HS code 7326908688, the material composition (specifically if it is steel or aluminum) will affect the final tariff rate due to the additional 25% surcharge. Please verify the material of the focusing plate to ensure accurate tariff calculation.