PICKING THE RIGHT TOOLS

​Choosing the Right iVAC Components for Your Shop

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Building the perfect automated dust-collection system starts with selecting the right iVAC modules for each machine in your workshop. Whether you’re upgrading one tool or an entire shop, here’s how to choose the components that fit your workflow.

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Start with the Tool’s Power Type

Each machine in your shop will pair with one of two types of tool sensors:

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For corded plug-in tools (most stationary machines)

Use the iVAC Pro Tool.
It detects when your machine turns on and automatically starts the dust collector.

Ideal for:
Table saw • Miter saw • Jointer • Planer • Router table • Drum sander • Bandsaw

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For tools with unusual power behavior, variable speed motors, or 240V loads

You may need an alternate sensing method or a custom pairing recommendation.
(We can guide customers here—this is where speaking with support helps.)

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Decide How Many Tools You Want to Automate

The iVAC system is modular—each tool you want automated gets its own sensor module.

Most shops start with 2–4 modules and expand over time.

Recommended starting choices:
• Upgrade your highest-dust-output tools first (planer, table saw, jointer)
• Add more modules as your workflow evolves

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Consider Your Shop Layout

Distance and line-of-sight don’t matter—iVAC modules use long-range wireless communication—but layout does influence how many components you’ll want.

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In a single-bay or garage shop

A few Pro Tool modules and one Pro Switch usually cover everything.

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In a larger or divided shop

Adding a iVAC Pro Remote can make manual control much more convenient.

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Want Maximum Efficiency? Add Automated Blast Gates

For shops with multiple branches of ducting, automated blast gates optimize suction by opening only the dust line of the tool currently in use.

This is where the iVAC Automated Blast Gate comes in.

Great for:
• Fixed ductwork
• Professional or production shops
• Anyone who wants total hands-free airflow control

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Common Tool-by-Tool Recommendations

Table Saw

Best match: iVAC Pro Tool
Why: Reliable sensing, consistent on/off behavior, easy access location

Planer / Jointer

Best match: iVAC Pro Tool
Why: High-dust tools benefit most from instant collector activation

Miter Saw (sliding or fixed)

Best match: iVAC Pro Tool
Tip: Mount close to the saw to ensure consistent sensing

Router Table

Best match: iVAC Pro Tool
Note: Works with both standalone router lifts and integrated tables

Drum Sander or Wide-Belt Sander

Best match: iVAC Pro Tool
Note: Often benefit from automated blast gates due to large airflow needs

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Simple Buying Framework

Here’s an easy way for customers to decide what they need:

You need 1 iVAC Pro Tool for every machine you want automated.
You need 1 iVAC Pro Switch for your dust collector.
You can add a Pro Remote or automated blast gates for extra convenience.

That’s it—there’s no complicated wiring, no hubs, and no limit to how many tools you can add.

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Not Sure Which Modules You Need?

We can help you build the perfect list.

Just tell us:
• Which tools you want automated
• Whether they’re 115V or 240V
• Whether you have fixed ducting or a mobile system

We’ll match each tool to the right iVAC component so you can automate confidently.