&&The Aluminum Encoder Knob is an aluminum knob (part number 25-3002-RC) manufactured by machining a round aluminum bar. The Aluminum Encoder Knob is made specifically for use in the Pathway Connectivity VIA 12 product line of Ethernet Switches.

&&In accordance with General Interpretative Rule 1, the classification of the Aluminum Encoder Knob can be considered under headings 76.16 and 85.38.&&&&The Aluminum Knob is a “part”, as defined in Memorandum D10-0-1, specifically designed for the VIA product line of Ethernet Switches and is integral to the design and essential to the function of these switches. The Aluminum Encoder Knob is not a “part for general use”, as defined by Note 2 to Section XV.&&&&The Pathway Connectivity VIA 12 LC Gigabit Ethernet Switch is used to manage lighting, sound and video signals. From the product specifications, it is described that the function of the device is to conduct signal routing between Ethernet to Ethernet-aware lighting and audio control products. The VIA Switch is a routing device and is not a source of the control protocols or the data being passed. Furthermore, the switch may be connected to an AC power source with a voltage between 85 and 250 VAC.&&&&The VIA 12 LC Gigabit Ethernet Switch is designed specifically for signal routing. Heading 85.36 provides for complicated switching-units as per Explanatory Note (I)(B) to heading 85.36.&&&&Because the Aluminum Encoder Knob is a part of a larger apparatus that is classifiable under Chapter 85, we apply Note 2 to Section XVI.&&&&The Aluminum Encoder Knob is not a good included in a heading of Chapters 84 or 85. Therefore, Note 2(a) to Section XVI does not apply. Note 2(b) to Section XVI in part provides that parts which do not meet the criteria of Note 2(a) are classified as parts, provided they are suitable for use solely or principally with a particular good. According to the schematics provided by the importer, the Aluminum Encoder Knob is designed to be used specifically with the VIA 12 LC Gigabit Ethernet Switch. It is made of machined aluminum and engineered to precise dimensions. Therefore, the Aluminum Encoder Knob is suitable for use solely or principally with the VIA 12 LC Gigabit Ethernet Switch.&&&&Pursuant to Note 2(b) to Section XVI, the Aluminum Encoder Knob is classified under heading 85.38, as “[p]arts suitable for use solely or principally with the apparatus of heading 85.35, 85.36 or 85.37”.&&&&While heading 76.16 provides for other articles of aluminum. Note 1(f) to Chapter 76 excludes the classification of articles of Section XVI in that Chapter. As the goods in question are classifiable in Section XVI, heading 76.16 was excluded from consideration.&&