Makita announced 20 new products at STAFDA this year. The biggest news was its wireless communication system, which it calls AWS (Auto‐Start Wireless System). AWS-equipped tools use Bluetooth technology to communicate power on/off between the tool and a vac or dust extractor. The tools listed below feature AWS technology--and can be paired with a cordless dust extractor that’s also equipped with the technology. There was some confusion at the event about the marketing materials provided by Makita, because the photo of the AWS system implies that it can be added to existing tools. Makita said that this is not the case--and while the firm didn’t offer any speculation about it being a possible add-on down the road, it does seem to me like a viable option, and certainly one that many tradespeople who already own cordless Makita tools would love to get their hands on. In the meantime, here’s a look at the tools that are soon to hit the market that will have AWS built in. We’ll have to wait and see if it ever becomes a plug-and-play add- on feature for existing tools.
18V X2 LXT (36V) Brushless HEPA Filter Dry Dust Extractor, with AWS (XCV08Z): This is the latest cordless dust extractor/vacuum. It features a three‐stage HEPA filtration system and automatic filter cleaning, and is powered by two 18V batteries. It’s equipped with AWS for wireless power‐on/off communication with AWS‐ equipped tools. The extractor supports up to 10 connected tools and has a 32-foot range. The vac will be available January 2018.
18V X2 LXT (36V) Brushless 10” Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw, with AWS (XSL04ZU): The new XSL04ZU has a brushless motor that’s powered by two 18V batteries. It has a large cutting capacity (up to 6‐5/8-inch crown nested), two steel rails for operation flush against a wall, and much more. It’s equipped with AWS technology for wireless power‐on/off communication with an AWS‐equipped dust extractor. It will be available sometime in the winter of 2018.
18V X2 LXT (36V) Brushless 6‐1/2” Plunge Circular Saw, with AWS (XPS02ZU): The cordless plunge circular saw (track saw) and rail system is powered by two 18V batteries. The new XPS02ZU is equipped with AWS technology for wireless power‐on/off communication with an AWS‐equipped dust extractor. It will be available sometime in the winter of 2018.
18V X2 LXT (36V) Advanced AVT Rotary Hammer, accepts SDS‐MAX bits, with AWS (XRH07PTU): The new XRH07PTU offers a complete solution for concrete drilling and chipping. It’s powered by two 18V batteries with an efficient brushless motor for extended runtime and a full 8.4 ft.lb. of impact energy-- without the cord. Like its corded cousins, it features Anti‐Vibration Technology (AVT), an internal counterbalance system that Makita says significantly reduces vibration without compromise in performance. It’s equipped with AWS technology for wireless power‐on/off communication with an AWS‐equipped dust extractor. Available January 2018.
18V X2 LXT Brushless 4‐1/2”/5” Slide Switch Angle Grinder, with AWS (XAG17ZU) and 18V X2 LXT Brushless 4‐1/2”/5” Paddle Switch Angle Grinder, with AWS (XAG17ZU): Two new 18V LXT Cordless Grinders feature an efficient brushless motor and Automatic Speed Change Technology that Makita says offers corded grinder performance in a cordless product. The grinders are both engineered for a range of applications, including concrete surfacing. They’re both equipped with AWS technology for wireless power‐on/off communication with an AWS‐equipped dust extractor. Available February 2018.
