EU classification and import answer
The TR7700L SIII is an automated optical checking machine for populated PCB/PCBA assemblies and is best supported under CN 9031 49 90, with TARIC 9031499000 to be verified on the acceptance date. It records component and solder defects but does not repair boards, and it does not inspect semiconductor wafers, devices, masks or reticles. The conventional third-country customs duty is normally 0%; market conformity remains a separate legal task.
Technical facts and competing codes
The technical file should identify the 4-megapixel colour camera, multiphase RGB/white illumination, 10 or 15 μm optical resolution, XY servo, conveyor and pneumatic clamping. Detection of missing, displaced, reversed or damaged components and solder bridges, excess/insufficient solder and lifted leads establishes an optical checking function under GIR 1 and 6. Barcode, repair-station, offline-editor and yield-management options should be listed separately.
Host computer treatment
A host PC may follow the machine only where it is a mandatory dedicated controller, presented with the AOI, loaded with proprietary software, directly connected to camera/motion/conveyor controls, supplied one-for-one and not independently usable. A general-purpose computer, monitor, keyboard or mouse should be classified separately under CN 8471 or 8528 as applicable. One invoice is not enough to establish a functional unit.
TARIC duty, origin and import VAT
TARIC measures, preferences, sanctions and trade defence depend on date and origin. Taiwan origin should be evidenced from manufacturing records; a preferential claim requires the relevant agreement and product-specific rule. The EU conventional duty for 9031 49 90 is normally 0%, while import VAT is charged at the Member State rate: Germany 19%, France 20%, Spain 21%, Italy 22%, Poland 23% and the Netherlands 21% as general rates. Licences or royalties may enter customs value under the Union Customs Code.
CE, machinery, EMC and RoHS
For placement on the EU market in September 2026, assess the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, EMC Directive 2014/30/EU, Low Voltage Directive where its voltage scope is met, and RoHS for industrial monitoring and control instruments. Prepare the risk assessment, technical file, test reports, instructions, EU declaration and CE marking; define WEEE obligations and review any radio module under RED. Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 applies from 20 January 2027, so later placements require transition planning.
Customs and conformity file
Keep the contract, invoice, packing list, transport and origin record, brochure, inspection flow, model/serial/manufacture-date photographs, computer wiring, software licence, risk assessment, test reports, EU declaration, CE/RoHS/WEEE records and translated instructions. Proposed description: “Automated optical inspection machine using cameras and controlled illumination to inspect component and solder defects on PCB/PCBA assemblies, TRI TR7700L SIII, with [dedicated controller/separately classified computer], new, Taiwan origin.” Consider a BTI for recurring high-value imports.
Model phase-out and official sources
TRI states that the model's product phase ended on 30 September 2025, while spare-parts and service support is planned until 30 September 2028. A 2026 “new” declaration should include manufacture date, unused-stock confirmation, serial history and warranty evidence. Sources checked 21 September 2026: EU TARIC, Access2Markets, Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, EMC Directive 2014/30/EU and RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU, TRI TR7700L SIII product information and TRI product phase-out notice. This is conditional guidance, not a BTI or conformity certificate.