A gyroscopic screwdriver sounds neat just on the surface. DeWalt (dewalt.com) says its DCF680 screwdriver is the first to integrate gyroscopic motion detectors into a professional-grade 8V screwdriver. The screwdriver is operated by built-in gyroscopic sensors – the kind of technology you’d see in video game controllers like the Wii. On the DeWalt, the sensors recognize the user’s wrist motions – a rightward twist to tighten screws, and leftward motion loosens or removes screws. How cool is that?

“Gyroscopic technology is not new to electronics,” says Jim Watson, product manager for DeWalt, but “it is one of the newest forms of technologies to be used in power tools.” Watson says this professional-grade, battery-powered screwdriver provides real end user productivity.

The variable speed control also separates the DCF680 gyroscopic screwdriver from traditional stick screwdrivers and simplifies applications. An adjustable two-position handle allows operation either in-line – great for harder to reach placers – or in a pistol grip fashion.

Sometimes task lighting built into tools can create shadows, obscuring the work area instead of making it easier to see. On the DCF680, a light on an LED ring illuminates the work area, so you get clearer vision even in confined spots, without casting shadows. The battery state of charge indicator on the top of the tool points out when to charge the battery or if you are good to go, and the ¼” hex chuck is one-handed loading and accepts 1” bit tips.

The DCF680 will be available in August in two versions: the DCF680N1, a single-battery kit, and the DCF680N2, a two-battery kit. Both come standard with a three-year limited warranty, one-year free service and a money-back guarantee.