Find HS Code and trade information for game console accessories: cd r

CD-R (Compact Disc-Recordable) in the Context of Game Console Accessories

CD-R media, while largely superseded by more modern storage solutions, historically played a significant role as an accessory for several game consoles, primarily for data backups, custom content, and, in some instances, playing pirated games.

Material:

CD-Rs are polycarbonate plastic discs with a thin layer of a dye material. This dye layer is altered by the writing laser of a CD recorder to represent data. The disc typically has a reflective layer (usually aluminum) to allow the laser to read the data.

Purpose:

• Game Backups: The primary initial use was creating backups of legitimate game discs. This was particularly important given the cost of games and the lack of robust digital distribution in earlier console generations.
• Custom Content: Homebrew developers and modders used CD-Rs to distribute custom software, patches, and modifications for consoles.
• Piracy: Unfortunately, CD-Rs were also extensively used to distribute illegally copied games.
• Music Ripping/Transfer: Some consoles allowed for the playing of audio CDs, and CD-Rs could be used to create custom soundtracks or compilations.

Function:

CD-Rs function as write-once media. A CD recorder utilizes a laser to burn pits into the dye layer, representing binary data. The console’s CD drive then reads these pits to interpret the data. The "recordable" aspect means data can be written to the disc only once; it cannot be erased or overwritten.

Usage Scenarios (by Console):

• PlayStation (PS1): Very common for backups and homebrew. The PS1 was relatively easy to modify to read CD-Rs.
• PlayStation 2 (PS2): Extremely prevalent for backups, homebrew, and piracy. The PS2's architecture made it a target for modification. Numerous software solutions were developed to enable CD-R playback.
• Xbox (Original): Used for backups and homebrew, although less common than on PS2 due to more complex modification requirements.
• GameCube: Used for backups and homebrew, though less widespread than on PS2.
• Sega Dreamcast: Used for homebrew and some backup solutions, but less common due to the GD-ROM format being the standard.

Common Types:

• 700MB CD-R: The most common capacity, suitable for most standard game discs.
• 800MB CD-R: Offered slightly more capacity, but compatibility wasn’t universal across all consoles.
• CD-RW (Compact Disc-Rewritable): A rewritable version of the CD-R, allowing data to be erased and rewritten. Less common for console use due to potential compatibility issues and the slower write speeds.
• Different Brands: Quality varied significantly between brands. Higher-quality brands generally offered better reliability and compatibility.

Note: The use of CD-Rs for backups or piracy may be illegal depending on local laws and copyright regulations.

Game console accessories, specifically CD-R discs, fall under the category of recorded media for information storage.

Here are the relevant HS codes based on the provided reference material:

• 8523510000: Recorded media for information, such as punched cards and magnetic or optical readers. This includes CD-R discs as they are a form of recorded media and could be considered a component for data storage within the game console.
  • 85: Electrical machinery and equipment and parts thereof; sound recording or reproducing apparatus, television-image transmitting or reproducing apparatus, and apparatus for transmitting or reproducing audio-visual recordings.
  • 23: Recording media, including magnetic or optical readers.
  • 51: Punched cards and magnetic or optical readers.

Tax Details: * Basic Tariff: 0.0% * Additional Tariff: 7.5% * Additional Tariff (after April 2, 2025): 20.0% * Total Tariff: 27.5%

Important Note: The classification of CD-R discs as components for data storage within a game console is a potential interpretation. It is recommended to confirm the specific application and intended use with customs authorities to ensure accurate classification.