Subject: Auto. Dust Collector Switch

From: Darrell Crutchley <[email-masked]>
Date: Thu, 13 Feb 1997 12:55:18 -0600

After seeing the new tool vacuum from Craftsman (and a couple of others) 
I got to wondering if a switch could be wired to operate a shop vacuum 
so that when you turn a tool on at its switch, the shop vac also turns 
on. I did find a similar switch that turns on a dust collector in the 
Jan/Feb 1988 Fine Woodworking in an article by Robert Terry. This switch 
has a sensor that senses current flowing out of the circuit breaker to 
the machinery that requires dust collection. This sensor then trips a 
relay that turns on the dust collector. I guess this system could be 
adapted for use with plugs and outlets rather than the circuit breaker, 
but I am wondering if there is a simpler solution. 

Does anyone know of a product you can purchase (or make) that will tie 
the operation of the shop vac to the operation of individual tools??

Thanks in advance.

Darrell

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From: Ken Mauldin <[email-masked]>
Date: Fri, 14 Feb 1997 09:07:15 -0900

> the operation of the shop vac to the operation of individual tools??
Check out Woodworker's Supply (800-645-9292). They have a "Collector
Automater (r)". It does almost exactly what you are asking. It is two
plugs on an extension cord type contraption that ... "Automatically
turns your dust collection system on separately to prevent circuit
breaker tripping, blown fuses, and low voltage starting damage to
motors. It also makes it more convenient because you use one switch and
have less chance of forgetting to turn the collector on/off. Model
DC-1200 fits a standard AC outlet for use with 110V power tools and our
802-124 dust collecotr and all others up to 8 amps. Model DC-2400 is for
use with our models 805-930 and 805-958 dust collectors (on 230V).
Installs in a 4-11/16" or larger electrical box and requires wiring.
Instructions included." (A) DC-1200 39.95... (B) DC-2400 44.95 (C)
DC-2500 69.95 (C) DC-2520 72.95. 
You might call to check them out and see. The magazine I have is about 2
years old, but I'm sure they have the same or similar item(s) now.

Ken