Tech & Auto
Six Impressive Technologies Only Found On Makita Brand Tools
By CODY D. CAMPBELL
LXT Lithium-Ion
Makita's current line of cordless tools uses its LXT Lithium-Ion batteries — the world's largest 18V slide-style battery system.
Makita offers 2.0Ah, 3.0Ah, 4.0Ah, 5.0Ah, and 6.0Ah battery varieties. One unique feature of the batteries is the ability to combine any two 18V LXT batteries to power a 36V tool.
XGT
For some of its pro-grade tools, Makita also offers the XGT battery system to provide a bit more power. The new XGT battery system is based on a 40V max battery.
These batteries come in 2.5Ah, 4.0Ah, and 5.0Ah amperages and can use the same charging system as the LXT. However, only about a third of Makita's products use the XGT system.
STAR
Makita's STAR Protection Computer Controls is a communications technology designed to monitor the power flow from the battery to the tool during use.
It has a built-in shut-off switch that protects tools when the power flow may lead to effects that negatively impact their safety and performance.