Is the Apple iPad Considered an Electrical Equipment?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around whether devices like the Apple iPad can be classified as "electrical" equipment, particularly in the context of definitions that may vary by regulations and common usage. Participants explore the distinctions between electrical and electronic equipment, as well as implications for customs classifications.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that while the iPad itself is electronic, its adapter is electrical, leading to ambiguity in classification.
  • Others argue that the definition of "electrical equipment" is vague and may depend on national regulations.
  • A participant questions the relevance of the classification, asking what practical difference it makes.
  • There is a discussion about the historical context of the terms "electrical" and "electronic," with some noting that common usage has blurred the distinctions.
  • One participant mentions that customs classifications may require careful consideration, as incorrect HTS numbers can lead to fines.
  • Another participant posits that "electrical" could refer to anything involving electron flow, while "electronic" might be reserved for devices that process information.
  • One participant emphasizes that legal definitions may not align with scientific classifications, suggesting consultation with authorities for clarity.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the classification of the iPad and similar devices, indicating that no consensus has been reached regarding the definitions of "electrical" and "electronic." The discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the ambiguity in definitions and the potential for varying interpretations based on context, regulations, and common usage. There are unresolved aspects regarding the implications of these classifications for customs and legal purposes.

new6ton
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Can tablets like apple ipad be considered an "electrical" equipment? I know it falls under electronics. But could it be electrical since the adapter is plugged to electrical outlets?
 
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If you are referring to advice such as that recommending that householders unplug all electrical appliances during a thunderstorm to avoid damage and to reduce the risk of a fire in the home, certainly the ipad comes under that category.
 
The adaptor is electrical, but the iPad may or may not be. It will probably depend on context and the definition of “electrical” appropriate to your national regulations.
 
new6ton said:
Can tablets like apple ipad be considered an "electrical" equipment? I know it falls under electronics. But could it be electrical since the adapter is plugged to electrical outlets?

This seems to be a very specific and interesting question, I am really not sure about the answer, so I try to search for relevant information. I hope the following links are of value to you.

https://www.onlinecultus.com/the-difference-between-electrical-and-electronic-equipment/
 
In the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS). Do you consider Spectrometers as Electrical or Other, and why? Spectrometers have only the CCD sensor as electronic. It's plugged to USB in computer. So it is Electrical or Other? What do you think?

hts number spectrometer.png
 
The definition(s) of "electrical equipment" is very vague today, so Just out of curiosity, what possible difference does it make?
 
phinds said:
The definition(s) of "electrical equipment" is very vague today, so Just out of curiosity, what possible difference does it make?

If you enter the incorrect HTS number of the product. The United States Customs and Border Protection can fine you.
 
phinds said:
The definition(s) of "electrical equipment" is very vague today, so Just out of curiosity, what possible difference does it make?

This includes other equipments aside from it.

hts spectro.JPG


So what do you make of "electrical"? Maybe it just means "electronic"? But isn't it electrical is different from electronic?
 
new6ton said:
So what do you make of "electrical"? Maybe it just means "electronic"? But isn't it electrical is different from electronic?
When I was young, it was simple. "Electrical" meant things having to do with power creation and distribution and things like radios and TVs were "electronic". Computers would have bee electronic. But these days it's been bastardized by common usage to where the customs people may think they can distinguish among them but I doubt many people can.

I mean, there ARE things that are clearly "electrical" such as a power transformer and other things that are clearly "electronic", like a transistor, but beyond the obvious it becomes unclear. Personally, I think an iPad is electronic.

Your point about customs is a good one though. I think you just have to check the customs forms and make your best guess it it's unclear.
 
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  • #10
phinds said:
When I was young, it was simple. "Electrical" meant things having to do with power creation and distribution and things like radios and TVs were "electronic". Computers would have bee electronic. But these days it's been bastardized by common usage to where the customs people may think they can distinguish among them but I doubt many people can.

I mean, there ARE things that are clearly "electrical" such as a power transformer and other things that are clearly "electronic", like a transistor, but beyond the obvious it becomes unclear. Personally, I think an iPad is electronic.

Your point about customs is a good one though. I think you just have to check the customs forms and make your best guess it it's unclear.

I think they mean "Other" as not using any electronic or electrical but just mechanical or optical like telescope. And "Electrical" means anything that involves electron flow. Possible?
 
  • #11
You are after legal definitions that have nothing to do with the way engineers and scientists classify things.

You'll have to consult the proper authorities.

Thread closed.
 
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