Bosch. Among the enhanced features on the 4100-series 10-inch portable jobsite table saw is a new digital rip fence. The device incorporates a high-visibility LCD gauge and display that magnetically attaches to the SquareLock rip fence. Measurements are accurate to 1/64 or .01 inch, while offering readouts in increments of 1/8-, 1/16-, and 1/32-inch and metric within 0.5mm. The digital rip fence allows for infinite repetitive cut capabilities, less material waste, and high-quality precision. 877.267.2499. www.boschtools.com.
DeWalt. Proprietary Nano Technology drives the latest line of the maker's cordless tools. Three platforms —18V, 28V, and 36V (shown) —will incorporate the enhanced battery technology, which features nano-phosphate lithium-ion cells to provide users increased battery durability and cycle life, offering an average of 2,000 recharges. The 36V platform is currently available. The 28V platform will come to market in Fall 2007, followed by 18V, which will be backward-compatible with the maker's existing 18V cordless power tools. 800.435.0786. www.dewalt.com.
Leica Geosystems. The Disto A6 handheld laser distance meter features integrated Bluetooth technology to wirelessly transfer measurement data from the tool to a pocket PC or laptop. The unit takes measurements within 1/16 inch at ranges of up to 650 feet. It includes an integrated 2x viewfinder for long-range measurements in bright sunlight, a multifunctional end piece with built-in sensor, and a soft grip. 770.326.9500. www.disto.com.
Stanley. Think the hammer can't go high-tech? Think again. The patented AntiVibe feature in the Fatmax Xtreme AntiVibe hammer minimizes shock and vibration at impact. The tool's dual-density grip transmits 30% less torque to the wrist and elbow than a standard one-piece steel hammer. A magnetic nail-starter offers extended-reach and one-handed nailing capabilities, while a checkered face design “grips” the nail head and increases control. 860.225.5111. www.stanleyworks.com.
Xplore Technologies. Stay productive on the jobsite with the iX104C2DV tablet PC, featuring an integrated sensor that allows users to automatically switch between pen input and finger-touch input. The rugged PC can operate under severe conditions and survive a 4-foot drop onto concrete, the maker says. The AllVue LCD screen provides increased readability in all conditions. 888.449.7567. www.xploretech.com.
Calculated Industries. Designed for residential contractors and estimators, the Ultra Scale Master Pro digital area takeoff tool lets users measure data from blueprints, architectural plans, and other scaled drawings to compute linear areas and volumes. Though the stand-alone tool requires no add-on computing devices or software, by connecting it to a PC users can transfer measurements to spreadsheets and estimating programs, or send digitized coordinates to takeoff software programs. For use on plan sizes up to 36 inches by 24 inches, the calculator includes 72 built-in scales, plus four custom options for measuring out-of-scale drawings. 800.854.8075. www.calculated.com.
