Abstract: A security lock-out device for power tools is provided. The lock-out device includes an input device configured to receive an input parameter and a control unit configured to store a predetermined value and evaluate whether or not the input parameter matches the predetermined value and to permit powered operation of the tool when the input parameter matches the predetermined value and prohibit powered operation of the tool when the input parameter does not match the predetermined value.

Abstract: Illustrative embodiments of power tools with reversible, self-shifting transmissions are disclosed. In at least one illustrative embodiment, a power tool may comprise a motor having a motor shaft, an output shaft configured to be coupled to a tool element to rotate a fastener, and a transmission coupled between the motor shaft and the output shaft to transmit rotation from the motor shaft to the output shaft in a low-speed, high-torque mode and in a high-speed, low-torque mode. The transmission may be configured to self-shift between the low-speed, high-torque mode and the high-speed, low-torque mode in response to a change in a torque required to rotate the output shaft in both a clockwise direction and a counterclockwise direction.