Patent Publication Number: US-2021183188-A1

Title: Power tool with compartment for receiving another device

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/684,455, filed Nov. 14, 2019, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/056,710, filed Aug. 7, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,510,199, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/590,819, filed on Nov. 27, 2017, and to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/541,860, filed on Aug. 7, 2017, the entire contents of all of which are hereby incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to power tools with a compartment for receiving another device. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one embodiment, the invention provides a power tool including a housing, a motor, an output device driven by the motor, a controller, and a compartment defined by the housing. The compartment includes an irreversible lock and is configured to receive a wireless communication device and, with the irreversible lock, to irreversibly lock the wireless communication device within the compartment. The power tool also includes a data connection between the controller and the compartment such that when the wireless communication device is positioned inside the compartment, the controller exchanges power tool data with the wireless communication device. The wireless communication device also including a transceiver configured to communicate with an external device, and to exchange the power tool information with the external device. 
     Another embodiment provides a power tool including a housing including a compartment with an irreversible lock. The power tool further includes a wireless communication device including a wireless communication controller with a transceiver. The wireless communication device is configured to be received in the compartment and to engage with the irreversible lock. The power tool further includes a motor within the housing and having a rotor and a stator. The motor is configured to drive an output drive device. The power tool further includes a controller within the housing and having an electronic processor, a memory, and a data connection. The data connection is configured to couple the electronic processor to the wireless communication device when the wireless communication device is inserted into the compartment. The controller is configured to control operation of the motor, and communicate with an external device via the data connection and the wireless communication controller. 
     Another embodiment provides a method of deterring removal of a wireless communication device inserted into a compartment of a housing of a power tool. The method includes receiving, by the compartment of the housing, the wireless communication device. The compartment includes an irreversible lock configured to engage with the wireless communication device. The wireless communication device includes a wireless communication controller with a transceiver. The method further includes controlling, with a controller located within the housing, operation of a motor of the power tool to drive an output drive device. The controller includes an electronic processor, a memory, and a data connection. The data connection is configured to couple the electronic processor to the wireless communication device when the wireless communication device is inserted into the compartment. The method further includes communicating, by the controller, with an external device via the data connection and the wireless communication controller. 
     For example, the controller may transmit data to the wireless communication controller by way of the data connection, and the wireless communication controller wirelessly transmits the data via the transceiver to the external device. Further, the wireless communication controller may wirelessly receive data from the external device via the transceiver, and provide the data to the controller by way of the data connection. 
     Yet another embodiment provides a power tool device including a housing including a compartment with an irreversible lock and including a power tool battery pack interface configured to receive a power tool battery pack. The power tool device further includes a wireless communication device including a wireless communication controller with a transceiver. The wireless communication device is configured to be received in the compartment and to engage with the irreversible lock. The power tool device further includes a powered element configured to be selectively coupled to power provided by the power tool battery pack. The power tool device further includes a controller within the housing and having an electronic processor, a memory, and a data connection. The data connection is configured to couple the electronic processor to the wireless communication device when the wireless communication device is inserted into the compartment. The controller is configured to control the powered element, and communicate with an external device via the data connection and the wireless communication controller. 
     One embodiment provides a power tool including a housing including a compartment. The compartment is configured to receive a wireless communication device that includes a wireless communication controller including a transceiver. The power tool further includes a motor within the housing and having a rotor and a stator. The motor is configured to drive an output drive device. The power tool further includes a controller within the housing and having an electronic processor, a memory, and a data connection. The data connection is configured to couple the electronic processor to the wireless communication device when the wireless communication device is inserted into the compartment. The controller is configured to: communicate with the wireless communication device to implement an electronic lock mechanism to inhibit at least one selected from the group of operation of the motor of the power tool and communication between the controller and the wireless communication controller. 
     Another embodiment provides a method of deterring removal of a wireless communication device inserted into a compartment of a housing of a power tool. The method includes receiving, by the compartment of the housing, the wireless communication device. The power tool includes a motor within the housing and having a rotor and a stator. The motor is configured to drive an output drive device. The method further includes controlling, with a controller located within the housing, operation of the motor. The controller includes a data connection configured to couple to the wireless communication device when the wireless communication device is inserted into the compartment. The method further includes enabling the controller to communicate with an external device via the data connection and a wireless communication controller included in the wireless communication device. The method further includes implementing, via communication between the controller and the wireless communication controller, an electronic lock mechanism to inhibit at least one selected from the group of operation of the motor of the power tool and communication between the controller and the wireless communication controller. 
     Other aspects of the invention will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  illustrates a communication system according to one embodiment. 
         FIG. 2  illustrates a block diagram of an external device of the communication system. 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a power tool of the communication system. 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a battery pack receiving portion including a compartment. 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a top view of a foot of the power tool. 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a schematic diagram of an irreversible lock of the compartment. 
         FIG. 7A  illustrates a first view of the battery pack receiving portion of the power tool as a wireless communication device is inserted into the compartment. 
         FIG. 7B  illustrates a second view of the battery pack receiving portion of the power tool as a wireless communication device is inserted into the compartment. 
         FIG. 8  illustrates a third view of the battery pack receiving portion of the power tool as the wireless communication device is inserted into the compartment. 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a second edge of the battery pack receiving portion. 
         FIG. 10  illustrates a side view of a foot of the power tool as the wireless communication device is inserted into the compartment. 
         FIG. 11  illustrates a first embodiment of the compartment including a plastic cover. 
         FIG. 12  illustrates a second embodiment of the compartment. 
         FIG. 13  illustrates a third embodiment of the compartment. 
         FIG. 14  illustrates a block diagram of the power tool. 
         FIG. 15  illustrates a block diagram of the wireless communication device. 
         FIG. 16  is a flowchart illustrating a method of tracking power tool devices. 
         FIG. 17  is a flowchart illustrating a method of enabling a security feature on a power tool device. 
         FIG. 18  illustrates a second embodiment of a power tool in which the power tool includes two compartments. 
         FIG. 19  illustrates a schematic diagram of alternative locations for a backup power source and the wireless communication device. 
         FIGS. 20A-B  illustrate a fourth embodiment of the compartment and a secondary device. 
         FIGS. 21A-D  illustrate a fifth embodiment of the compartment and a secondary device. 
         FIGS. 22A-B  illustrate a sixth embodiment of the compartment and a secondary device. 
         FIG. 23A  illustrates a portable light. 
         FIG. 23B  illustrates the portable light of  FIG. 23A  including the fifth embodiment of the compartment and a secondary device. 
         FIG. 23C  illustrates the portable light of  FIG. 23A  including the sixth embodiment of the compartment. 
         FIG. 23D  illustrates a portable light including the first embodiment of the compartment and a secondary device. 
         FIG. 23E  illustrates the portable light of  FIG. 23  including the fourth embodiment of the compartment and a secondary device. 
         FIG. 24A  illustrates a miter saw. 
         FIG. 24B  illustrates the miter saw of  FIG. 24  including the fifth embodiment of the compartment and a secondary device. 
         FIG. 24C  illustrates the miter saw of  FIG. 24A  including the sixth embodiment of the compartment and a secondary device. 
         FIG. 24D  illustrates the miter saw of  FIG. 24A  including the fourth embodiment of the compartment and a secondary device. 
         FIG. 24E  illustrates the miter saw of  FIG. 24A  including the first embodiment of the compartment and a secondary device. 
         FIGS. 25A-B  illustrate an impact driver including the fourth embodiment of the compartment and a secondary device. 
         FIGS. 26A-B  illustrate a circular saw including the first embodiment of the compartment and a secondary device. 
         FIGS. 27A-B  illustrate a rotary hammer including the sixth embodiment of the compartment and a secondary device. 
         FIG. 28  illustrates an impact driver including the seventh embodiment of the compartment and a secondary device. 
         FIG. 29  is a flowchart illustrating a method of implementing an electronic lock mechanism to inhibit removal of the secondary device from the power tool. 
         FIGS. 30 and 31  illustrate schematic diagrams illustrating the method of  FIG. 29  implemented on an example power tool. 
         FIGS. 32A-C  illustrate an alternative version of the compartment and a secondary device of the fifth embodiment of  FIGS. 21A-D . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limited. The use of “including,” “comprising” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. The terms “mounted,” “connected” and “coupled” are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mounting, connecting and coupling. Further, “connected” and “coupled” are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings, and can include electrical connections or couplings, whether direct or indirect. 
     It should be noted that a plurality of hardware and software based devices, as well as a plurality of different structural components may be utilized to implement the invention. Furthermore, and as described in subsequent paragraphs, the specific configurations illustrated in the drawings are intended to exemplify embodiments of the invention and that other alternative configurations are possible. The terms “processor” “central processing unit” and “CPU” are interchangeable unless otherwise stated. Where the terms “processor” or “central processing unit” or “CPU” are used as identifying a unit performing specific functions, it should be understood that, unless otherwise stated, those functions can be carried out by a single processor, or multiple processors arranged in any form, including parallel processors, serial processors, tandem processors or cloud processing/cloud computing configurations. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates a communication system  100 . The communication system  100  includes power tool devices  104   a,    104   b,    104   c,  and  104   d,  each generically referred to as the power tool  104 , and an external device  108 . The power tool devices  104   a,    104   b,    104   c,    104   d  each include a wireless communication controller to enable wireless communication between the power tool  104  and the external device  108  while they are within a communication range of each other. Some of the power tool devices  104   d  include the wireless communication device integrated into the power tool device  104  such that insertion or removal of the wireless communication device is prevented. Other power tool devices  104   a,    104   b,    104   c,  however, include a compartment configured to receive the wireless communication device. The compartment allows the wireless communication device to be optionally added to the power tool  104 , but prevents removal by including an irreversible lock that, once engaged with the wireless communication device, cannot be unlocked. 
     When the power tool devices  104   a,    104   b,    104   c  include the wireless communication device in the compartment, the power tool devices  104   a,    140   b,    104   c  can operate similar to the power tool device  104   d  as if the wireless communication device was integrally formed within the power tool  104 . The power tool  104  may communicate power tool status, power tool operation statistics, power tool identification, stored power tool usage information, power tool maintenance data, and the like. Therefore, using the external device  108 , a user can access stored power tool usage or power tool maintenance data. With this tool data, a user can determine how the power tool  104  has been used, whether maintenance is recommended or has been performed in the past, and identify malfunctioning components or other reasons for certain performance issues. The external device  108  can also transmit data to the power tool  104  for power tool configuration, firmware updates, or to send commands (e.g., turn on a work light, lock the power tool  104 , and the like). The external device  108  also allows a user to set operational parameters, safety parameters, select tool modes, and the like for the power tool  104 . The external device  108  may also communicate with a remote server  112  and may receive configuration and/or settings for the power tool  104 , or may transmit operational data or other power tool status information to the remote server  112 . 
     The external device  108  may be, for example, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a smartphone, a cellphone, or another electronic device capable of communicating wirelessly with the power tool  104  and providing a user interface. The external device  108  provides the user interface and allows a user to access and interact with tool information. The external device  108  can receive user inputs to determine operational parameters, enable or disable features, and the like. The user interface of the external device  108  provides an easy-to-use interface for the user to control and customize operation of the power tool  104 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , the external device  108  includes an external device processor  114 , a short-range transceiver  118 , a network communication interface  122 , a touch display  126 , and a memory  130 . The external device processor  114  is coupled to the short-range transceiver  118 , the network communication interface  122 , the touch display  126 , and the memory  130 . The short-range transceiver  118 , which may include or is coupled to an antenna (not shown), is configured to communicate with a compatible transceiver within the power tool  104 . The short-range transceiver  118  can also communicate with other electronic devices. The network communication interface  122  communicates with a network to enable communication with the remote server  112 . The network communication interface  122  may include circuitry that enables the external device  108  to communicate with the network. In some embodiments, the network may be an Internet network, a cellular network, another network, or a combination thereof. 
     The memory  130  of the external device  108  also stores core application software  134 . The external device processor  114  accesses and executes the core application software  134  in memory  130  to launch a control application that receives inputs from the user for the configuration and operation of the power tool  104 . The short-range transceiver  118  of the external device  108  is compatible with a transceiver of the power tool  104  (described in further detail below). The short-range transceiver may include, for example, a Bluetooth® communication controller. The short-range transceiver allows the external device  108  to communicate with the power tool  104 . 
     The remote server  112  may store data obtained by the external device  108  from, for example, the power tool  104 . The remote server  112  may also provide additional functionality and services to the user. In one embodiment, storing the information on the remote server  112  allows a user to access the information from a plurality of different devices and locations (e.g., a remotely located desktop computer). In another embodiment, the remote server  112  may collect information from various users regarding their power tool devices and provide statistics or statistical measures to the user based on information obtained from the different power tools. For example, the remote server  112  may provide statistics regarding the experienced efficiency of the power tool  104 , typical usage of the power tool  104 , and other relevant characteristics and/or measures of the power tool  104 . In some embodiments, the power tool  104  may be configured to communicate directly with the server  112  through an additional wireless interface or with the same wireless interface that the power tool  104  uses to communicate with the external device  108 . 
     The power tool  104  is configured to perform one or more specific tasks (e.g., drilling, cutting, fastening, pressing, lubricant application, sanding, heating, grinding, bending, forming, impacting, polishing, lighting, etc.). For example, an impact wrench is associated with the task of generating a rotational output (e.g., to drive a bit), while a reciprocating saw is associated with the task of generating a reciprocating output motion (e.g., for pushing and pulling a saw blade). The task(s) associated with a particular tool may also be referred to as the primary function(s) of the tool. 
     Although the power tool  104  illustrated and described herein is an impact wrench, embodiments of the invention similarly apply to and can be used in conjunction with a variety of power tools (e.g., a power drill, a hammer drill, a pipe cutter, a sander, a nailer, a grease gun, etc.). As shown in  FIG. 3 , the power tool  104  includes a main body  202 , a handle  204 , a battery pack receiving portion  206 , selection switch  208 , an output drive device or mechanism  210 , and a trigger  212  (or other actuator). The power tool  104  further includes a motor  214  (see  FIG. 14 ) within the housing and having a rotor and a stator. The rotor is coupled to a motor shaft arranged to produce an output outside of the housing via the output drive device or mechanism  210 . The housing of the power tool  104  (e.g., the main body  202  and the handle  204 ) are composed of a durable and light-weight plastic material. The drive device  210  is composed of a metal (e.g., steel). The drive device  210  on the power tool  104  is a socket. However, each power tool  104  may have a different drive device  210  specifically designed for the task associated with the power tool  104 . For example, the drive device  210  for a power drill may include a bit driver, while the drive device  210  for a pipe cutter may include a blade. The selection switch  208  is configured to select an operation mode for the power tool  104 . Different operation modes may have different speed or torque levels, or may control the power tool  104  based on different sets of parameters. 
       FIG. 4  illustrates the battery pack receiving portion  206 . The battery pack receiving portion  206  is configured to receive and couple to a battery pack, for example, power tool device  104   b  illustrated in  FIG. 1 . The battery pack provides power to the power tool  104 . The battery pack may also be referred to as a main power source. The battery pack receiving portion  206  includes a connecting structure to engage a mechanism that secures the battery pack and a terminal block  270  to electrically connect the battery pack to the power tool  104 . In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting structure includes guides  207  and notches  209  (see  FIGS. 12B and 12C ) to secure the battery pack to the power tool  104 . The terminal block  270  includes terminals  275  that make contact with terminals of the battery pack when the battery pack is coupled to the battery pack receiving portion  206 . Such contact allows for the power tool  104  to be electrically connected to the battery pack. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the battery pack receiving portion  206  also includes a compartment  277 , also referred to as an irreversibly locking compartment  277 . The compartment  277  is positioned adjacent the connecting structure that receives the battery pack and is a separate compartment of the tool housing. In particular, the compartment  277  is positioned under the selection switch  208  in a recess spanning a dividing line of the power tool&#39;s clam shell housing. The foot of the power tool  104  (i.e., the battery pack receiving portion  206 ) defines a footprint perimeter of the power tool  104 . The perimeter is defined by the edges A, B, C, D of the battery pack receiving portion  206 . As shown in  FIG. 4 , the compartment  277  is positioned on a lateral side (i.e., side B or D) of the battery pack receiving portion  206 . 
     The compartment  277  includes an irreversible lock  279  ( FIG. 6 ). The irreversible lock  279  refers to a lock that is permanently locked once and cannot be unlocked, for example, without damaging the lock or defeating lock security. In contrast, a reversible lock is designed to enable locking and unlocking by a user. In particular, the irreversible lock  279  engages with an inserted secondary device such that once the secondary device is inserted into the compartment  277 , the secondary device becomes non-removable from the power tool  104 . For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the compartment  277  receives a wireless communication device  300  as the secondary device.  FIG. 5  illustrates a top view of the foot of the power tool  104  with the insertable wireless communication device  300  removed from the compartment  277 . The wireless communication device  300  includes an independent assembly within the power tool  104  that includes its own independent printed circuit board (PCB)  305 . Inserting the wireless communication device  300  enables the power tool  104  to communicate with the external device  108 , as described above. In the illustrated embodiment and as described in further detail below, the wireless communication device  300  includes a wireless communication controller  250  ( FIG. 15 ), a backup power source  252  ( FIG. 15 ), an indicator light  320  ( FIG. 15 ), and a lock mating tooth  325  ( FIG. 5 ). 
     The lock mating tooth  325  engages with the lock  279 , as shown in  FIG. 6 . In the illustrated embodiment, the lock mating tooth  325  engages with a mating tab  330  of the irreversible lock  279  when the wireless communication device  300  is fully inserted into the compartment  277 . Because of the ramp  335  of the lock mating tooth  325 , the wireless communication device  300  can be inserted into the compartment  277 . Once the lock mating tooth  325 , however, passes the mating tab  330 , the edge of the lock mating tooth  325  engages with the mating tab  330 , and the wireless communication device  300  becomes non-removable from the compartment  277 . When the wireless communication device  300  is inserted into the compartment  277 , the lock  279  engages with the mating tooth  325  of the wireless communication device  300  and prevents the insertable wireless communication device  300  from being removed from the compartment  277 . In other words, once the insertable wireless communication device  300  is inserted into the compartment  277 , the insertable wireless communication device  300  is permanently secured to the power tool  104  and becomes non-removable from the power tool  104 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the lock  279  includes a single mating tab  330  that engages with the mating tooth  325  of the wireless communication device  300 . In other embodiments, however, the lock  279  may include multiple mating tabs to more securely retain the wireless communication device  300 . For example, the lock  279  may include two mating tabs, one at each side, such that when the wireless communication device  300  is inserted, two mating teeth can engage with the lock  279 . In some embodiments, the irreversible lock includes a lock mating tooth that engages with a mating tab of the wireless communication device  300 . In such embodiments, the wireless communication device  300  is inserted into the compartment until the mating tab passes the mating tooth of the lock. When the mating tab has passed the mating tooth of the lock, the wireless communication device  300  becomes permanently secured to the power tool  104 . In other embodiments, a different type of irreversible locking mechanism is used. For example, the wireless communication device  300  may be rotated to engage the irreversible lock  279 . 
       FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 8  illustrate the battery pack receiving portion  206  as the wireless communication device  300  is inserted into the compartment  277 .  FIG. 9  illustrates the other edge of the battery pack receiving portion  206  and shows that, while a first side of the battery pack receiving portion  206  includes the compartment  277 , the opposite side of the battery pack receiving portion  206  does not include the compartment. Positioning the compartment  277  in the battery pack receiving portion  206  avoids having the compartment  277  straddle the interface of the power tool&#39;s right and left clam shell housing portion, which could weaken the structural integrity of the housing. Furthermore, by positioning the compartment  277  in the battery pack receiving portion  206 , the manufacturing of the housing remains mostly the same. In other words, since the position of the compartment  277  is within an already existing portion of the housing, most of the portions manufactured to make the housing can remain the same and a limited number of changes to the housing design have to be made. For example, as shown more clearly in  FIGS. 7-9 , both sides of the housing have the same profile. By placing the compartment  277  in the battery pack receiving portion  206 , the wireless communication device  300  utilizes space not previously utilized, keeping the power tool  104  compact and efficient. 
     The position of the compartment  277 , even when the wireless communication device  300  is inserted, also does not interfere with any of the foot accessories of the power tool  104 . For example, on the same side of the foot that houses the compartment  277 , a belt hook mount  336  is provided having three recesses  338   a,    338   b,  and  338   c  ( FIG. 10 ) for attachment of a belt hook  340  ( FIG. 3 ). Additionally, a lanyard is attachable to the belt hook mount  336 . In the illustrated embodiment, the power tool  104  includes the belt hook mount  336  on both lateral sides, including the lateral side having the compartment  277 , yet the compartment  277  does not interfere with the attachment of the belt hook  340 . Each of the belt hook mounts  336  is a protrusion from one of the lateral sides of the power tool  104 . The belt hook  340  includes an attachment end with a through hole  341  and two bosses not shown. The throughole  341  aligns with the (threaded) recess  338   a,  which includes a threaded insert, and the each of the bosses aligns with one of the (alignment) recesses  338   b  and  338   c.  To secure the belt hook  340  to the belt hook mount  336 , a screw is inserted through the through hole  341  and into the threaded recess  338   a  where the screw is rotated to fasten the belt hook  340 . The recesses  338   a,    338   b,  and  338   c  of the belt hook mount  336  stop short of, and do not extend into the, the compartment  277 . 
     In one embodiment, the compartment  277  includes a plastic cover  342 , as shown in  FIG. 11 . In the illustrated embodiment, the removable plastic cover  342  is attached to the power tool housing by two screws  343 . The screws  343  can be removed to insert the wireless communication device  300 . In some embodiments, the plastic cover  342  includes an elastomer material along its perimeter. When the plastic cover  342  is secured to the power tool housing, the elastomer material abuts the opening of the compartment  277  and seals the compartment  277  from ingress of one or more of dust, water, and other contaminants. The cover  342  and the screws  343  can then be replaced after inserting the wireless communication module. In some embodiments, the compartment  277  is accessible via a sliding or hinged door. In some embodiments, the sliding door may be biased to a closed position by a spring. In other embodiments, however, the wireless communication device  300  includes a side that remains exposed after insertion into the lockable compartment  277 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 12 , the plastic cover  342  is removed from the power tool  104  to insert the wireless communication device  300 . When inserted, a side  345  of the wireless communication device  300  remains exposed and replaces the plastic cover  342 . In other words, once the wireless communication device  300  is inserted, the plastic cover  342  may be discarded as it will not be placed back on the power tool  104 . In the illustrated embodiment, the side  345  includes a lens  350  to show the indicator light  320  of the wireless communication device  300 . The lens  350  is a flat lens such that the lens  350  and the side  345  are flush with the surface along the bottom of the battery pack receiving portion  206 . Maintaining the bottom of the battery pack receiving portion  206  flat allows the power tool  104  to be balanced when in an upright position (e.g., when the power tool  104  is supported by the battery pack receiving portion  206 ). 
       FIG. 13  illustrates another embodiment in which the side exposed by the wireless communication device  300  is positioned along the length of the power tool  104 . In such embodiments, the cover  342  may optionally be replaced on the power tool  104 , but a second side  355  of the wireless communication device  300  is exposed on the side of the power tool  104 . As shown in  FIG. 13 , the second side  355  of the wireless communication device  300  includes a lens  360  to display the indicator light  320  of the wireless communication device  300 . Since the lens  360  is positioned on the side of the power tool  104 , the lens  360  may not be a flat lens and may instead include a curved lens. In some embodiments, the wireless communication device  300  may also include an elastomeric material around the perimeter of the side  345  of the wireless communication device  300 . In other words, the elastomeric material wraps around the exposed side of the wireless communication device  300 . When the wireless communication device  300  is inserted into the compartment  277 , the elastomeric material abuts the opening of the compartment  277  and seals the compartment  277  from ingress of one or more of dust, water, and other contaminants. The elastomeric material protects the electronic leads and connections of the compartment  277  and the wireless communication device  300  from such contaminants. The wireless communication device  300  may include the elastomeric material regardless of whether a side of the wireless communication device  300  is exposed. In other words, the wireless communication device  300  may include the elastomeric material when none of its sides are exposed and the plastic cover  342  is replaced on the power tool  104  after inserting the wireless communication device. In some embodiments, the cover  342  described above includes elastomeric material around its perimeter to seal and prevent ingress of contaminants into the compartment  277  in addition to or instead of the elastomeric material of the wireless communication device  300 . 
       FIG. 14  illustrates a block diagram of some embodiments of the power tool  104 , such as those with motors (e.g., the impact driver  104   a  of  FIG. 1 ). As shown in  FIG. 14 , the power tool  104  also includes a motor  214 . The motor  214  actuates the drive device  210  and allows the drive device  210  to perform the particular task. The primary power source (e.g., the battery pack  104   b )  215  couples to the power tool  104  and provides electrical power to energize the motor  214 . The trigger  212  is coupled with a trigger switch  213 . The trigger  212  moves in a first direction towards the handle  204  when the trigger  212  is depressed by the user. The trigger  212  is biased (e.g., with a spring) such that it moves in a second direction away from the handle  204 , when the trigger  212  is released by the user. When the trigger  212  is depressed by the user, the trigger switch  213  becomes activated, which causes the motor  214  to be energized. When the trigger  212  is released by the user, the trigger switch  213  becomes deactivated, and the motor  214  is de-energized. 
     As shown in  FIG. 14 , the power tool  104  also includes a switching network  216 , sensors  218 , indicators  220 , a battery pack interface  222 , a power input unit  224 , and a controller  226 . The battery pack interface  222  includes a combination of mechanical (e.g., the battery pack receiving portion  206 ) and electrical components configured to and operable for interfacing (e.g., mechanically, electrically, and communicatively connecting) the power tool  104  with a battery pack  104   b.  The battery pack interface  222  transmits the power received from the battery pack  104   b  to the power input unit  224 . The power input unit  224  includes combinations of active and passive components (e.g., voltage step-down controllers, voltage converters, rectifiers, filters, etc.) to regulate or control the power received through the battery pack interface  222  and provided to the wireless communication controller  250  and controller  226 . 
     The switching network  216  enables the controller  226  to control the operation of the motor  214 . Generally, when the trigger  212  is depressed (i.e., the trigger switch  213  is closed), electrical current is supplied from the battery pack interface  222  to the motor  214 , via the switching network  216 . When the trigger  212  is not depressed, electrical current is not supplied from the battery pack interface  222  to the motor  214 . In some embodiments, the trigger switch  213  may include sensors to detect the amount of trigger pull (e.g., released, 20% pull, 50% pull, 75% pull, or fully depressed). In some embodiments, the amount of trigger pull detected by the trigger switch  213  is related to or corresponds to a desired speed of rotation of the motor  214 . In other embodiments, the amount of trigger pull detected by the trigger switch  213  is related to or corresponds to a desired torque, or other parameter. In response to the controller  226  receiving the activation signal from the trigger switch  213 , the controller  226  activates the switching network  216  to provide power to the motor  214 . The switching network  216  controls the amount of current available to the motor  214  and thereby controls the speed and torque output of the motor  214 . The switching network  216  may include numerous field effect transistors (FETs), bipolar transistors, or other types of electrical switches. 
     The sensors  218  are coupled to the controller  226  and communicate to the controller  226  various signals indicative of different parameters of the power tool  104  or the motor  214 . The sensors  218  include, for example, one or more current sensors, one or more voltage sensors, one or more temperature sensors, one or more speed sensors, one or more Hall Effect sensors, etc. For example, the speed of the motor  214  can be determined using a plurality of Hall Effect sensors to sense the rotational position of the motor  214 . In some embodiments, the controller  226  controls the switching network  216  in response to signals received from the sensors  218 . For example, if the controller  226  determines that the speed of the motor  214  is increasing too rapidly based on information received from the sensors  218 , the controller  226  may adapt or modify the active switches or switching sequence within the switching network  216  to reduce the speed of the motor  214 . Data obtained via the sensors  218  may be saved in the controller  226  as tool usage data. 
     The indicators  220  are also coupled to the controller  226  and receive control signals from the controller  226  to turn on and off or otherwise convey information based on different states of the power tool  104 . The indicators  220  include, for example, one or more light-emitting diodes (“LED”), or a display screen. The indicators  220  can be configured to display conditions of, or information associated with, the power tool  104 . For example, the indicators  220  are configured to indicate measured electrical characteristics of the power tool  104 , the status of the power tool  104 , etc. The indicators  220  may also include elements to convey information to a user through audible or tactile outputs. 
     As described above, the controller  226  is electrically and/or communicatively connected to a variety of modules or components of the power tool  104 . In some embodiments, the controller  226  includes a plurality of electrical and electronic components that provide power, operational control, and protection to the components and modules within the controller  226  and/or power tool  104 . For example, the controller  226  includes, among other things, a processing unit  230  (e.g., a microprocessor, a microcontroller, or another suitable programmable device), a memory  232 , input units  234 , and output units  236 . The processing unit  230  includes, among other things, a control unit  240 , an arithmetic logic unit (“ALU”)  242 , and a plurality of registers  244  (shown as a group of registers in  FIG. 14 ). In some embodiments, the controller  226  is implemented partially or entirely on a semiconductor (e.g., a field-programmable gate array [“FPGA”] semiconductor) chip, such as a chip developed through a register transfer level (“RTL”) design process. 
     The memory  232  includes, for example, a program storage area  233   a  and a data storage area  233   b.  The program storage area  233   a  and the data storage area  233   b  can include combinations of different types of memory, such as read-only memory (“ROM”), random access memory (“RAM”) (e.g., dynamic RAM [“DRAM”], synchronous DRAM [“SDRAM”], etc.), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (“EEPROM”), flash memory, a hard disk, an SD card, or other suitable magnetic, optical, physical, or electronic memory devices. The processing unit  230  is connected to the memory  232  and executes software instructions that are capable of being stored in a RAM of the memory  232  (e.g., during execution), a ROM of the memory  232  (e.g., on a generally permanent basis), or another non-transitory computer readable medium such as another memory or a disc. Software included in the implementation of the power tool  104  can be stored in the memory  232  of the controller  226 . The software includes, for example, firmware, one or more applications, program data, filters, rules, one or more program modules, and other executable instructions. The controller  226  is configured to retrieve from memory and execute, among other things, instructions related to the control processes and methods described herein. The controller  226  is also configured to store power tool information on the memory  232 . The power tool information stored on the memory  232  may include power tool identification information (e.g., including a unique identifier of the power tool  104 ) and also power tool operational information including information regarding the usage of the power tool  104 , information regarding the maintenance of the power tool  104 , power tool trigger event information, parameter information to operate the power tool  104  in a particular mode, and other information relevant to operating or maintaining the power tool  104 , such information is generally referred to as power tool information. In other constructions, the controller  226  includes additional, fewer, or different components. 
     The controller  226  also includes a data connection (e.g., a communication channel)  262  to optionally couple to the insertable wireless communication device  300 . In some embodiments, the data connection  262  includes a ribbon cable that is connected from the controller  226  to a set of leads in the compartment  277 . When the wireless communication device  300  is inserted into the compartment  277 , a set of leads on the wireless communication device  300  connect with the leads inside the compartment  277  and communication between the controller  226  and the wireless communication device  300  is thereby enabled (for example, see  FIGS. 21C and 21D ). 
       FIG. 15  illustrates a block diagram of the wireless communication device  300 . The wireless communication device  300  enables the controller  226  of the power tool  104  to communicate with the external device  108  to transmit power tool data (e.g., power tool usage data, configuration data, maintenance data, and the like) and to receive power tool configuration data (e.g., settings for operating the power tool  104  in a particular mode and the like). As shown in  FIG. 15 , the wireless communication device  300  includes a wireless communication controller  250 , a backup power source  252 , and a real-time clock (RTC)  260 . In some embodiments, the RTC  260  is part of the wireless communication controller  250  as shown in  FIG. 15 . In other embodiments, however, the RTC  260  is part of the power tool  104  and is permanently connected to the controller  226 . 
     The wireless communication controller  250  includes an antenna and radio transceiver  254 , a memory  256 , a processor  258 , and the real-time clock (RTC)  260 . The antenna and radio transceiver  254  operate together to send and receive wireless messages to and from an external device  108  and the processor  258 . The memory  256  can store instructions to be implemented by the processor  258  and/or may store data related to communications between the power tool  104  and the external communication device  108  or the like. The processor  258  for the wireless communication controller  250  controls wireless communications between the power tool  104  and the external device  108 . For example, the processor  258  associated with the wireless communication controller  250  buffers incoming and/or outgoing data, communicates with the controller  226 , and determines the communication protocol and/or settings to use in wireless communications. In other words, the wireless communication controller  250  is configured to receive data from the power tool controller  226  and relay the information to the external device  108  via the antenna and transceiver  254 . In a similar manner, the wireless communication controller  250  is configured to receive information (e.g., configuration and programming information) from the external device  108  via the antenna and transceiver  254  and relay the information to the power tool controller  226 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communication controller  250  is a Bluetooth® controller. The Bluetooth® controller communicates with the external device  108  employing the Bluetooth® protocol. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the external device  108  and the power tool  104  are within a communication range (i.e., in proximity) of each other while they exchange data. In other embodiments, the wireless communication controller  250  communicates using other protocols (e.g., Wi-Fi, cellular protocols, etc.) over a different type of wireless network. For example, the wireless communication controller  250  may be configured to communicate via Wi-Fi through a wide area network such as the Internet or a local area network, or to communicate through a piconet (e.g., using infrared or NFC communications). The communication via the wireless communication controller  250  may be encrypted to protect the data exchanged between the power tool  104  and the external device  108  (or network) from third parties. 
     When the wireless communication device  300  is first inserted into the compartment  277 , the controller  226  initializes the wireless communication device  300 . In one example, one of the leads in the compartment  277  includes a sensing lead coupled to the controller  226 . When the signal on the sensing lead changes (e.g., from a high signal to a low signal), the controller  226  detects the insertion of the wireless communication device  300 . The controller  226  then transmits identification information for the power tool  104  and for the controller  226  to the wireless communication device  300 . The wireless communication device  300 , and in particular, the wireless communication controller  250  stores the identification information of the power tool  104  and the controller  226 . In the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communication controller  250  is configured to periodically broadcast the identification signal for the power tool  104 , also referred to as identification information or identification data. The identification signal includes identification information for the power tool  104 , such as a unique identifier. The external device  108  identifies the power tool  104  via the identification signal. Additionally or alternatively, the wireless communication controller  250  may be configured to respond to a ping signal from the external device  108 . In other words, the wireless communication controller  250  may not periodically broadcast the identification signal, but rather the wireless communication controller  250  may wait for a ping signal from the external device  108  to send the identification signal. In some embodiments, the external device  108  generates a graphical user interface that identifies the wireless communication device  300  and allows the user to associate the wireless communication device  300  with the power tool  104 . In some embodiments, such an association prompts the communication between the wireless communication device  300  and the controller  226 . 
     The identification signal for the power tool  104  can then be used, via the wireless communication controller  250 , to track the power tool  104 . For example, the wireless communication controller  250  switches between operating in a connectable (e.g., full power) state and operating in an advertisement state. The wireless communication controller  250  operates in the connectable state when the battery pack  104   b  is attached to the power tool  104  and contains sufficient charge to power the wireless communication controller  250  and the controller  226 , and to support substantive electronic data communication between the power tool  104  and the external device  108 . When the power tool  104  is not connected to the battery pack  104   b,  the wireless communication controller  250  is powered by the backup power source  252  and operates in the advertisement state. While in the advertisement state, the wireless communication controller  250  receives power from the backup power source  252  (e.g., a coin cell battery, another type of battery cell, a capacitor, or another energy storage device). The backup power source  252  provides sufficient power for the wireless communication controller  250  to periodically broadcast an advertisement message, but may not provide sufficient power to allow the wireless communication controller  250  to engage in further data exchange with the external device  108 , or, such further data exchange would deplete the backup power source  252  more rapidly than desired. In both the connectable state and the advertisement state, the wireless communication controller  250  periodically outputs the identification code corresponding to the power tool  104 . In other words, the wireless communication controller periodically advertises the identity of the power tool  104 . The external devices  108  that are within the communication range of the wireless communication controller  250  can receive the identification code from the wireless communication controller  250 . The identification codes may include, for example, a global unique identification (GUID) that includes the power tool&#39;s specific make, model, and serial number. 
     The RTC  260  increments and keeps time independently of the other power tool components. In the illustrated embodiment, the RTC  260  is powered through the wireless communication controller  250  when the wireless communication controller  250  is powered. In some embodiments, however, the RTC  260  is a separate component from the wireless communication controller  250  and may be integrated into the power tool  104 . In such embodiments, the RTC  260  receives power from the battery pack  104   b  (e.g., a main or primary power source) when the battery pack  215  is connected to the power tool  104 . The RTC  260  receives power from the backup power source  252  (e.g., a coin cell battery, another type of battery cell, a capacitor, or another energy storage device) when the battery pack  104   b  is not connected to the power tool  104 . Therefore, the RTC  260  keeps track of time regardless of whether the power tool  104  is in operation, and regardless of whether the battery pack  104   b  is connected to the power tool  104 . When no power source is present (i.e., the battery pack  104   b  is detached from the power tool  104  and the backup power source  252  is removed or depleted), the RTC  260  stores the last valid time. When a power source is replaced (i.e., the battery pack  104   b  is attached to the power tool  104  and/or the backup power source  252  is replaced), the RTC  260  uses the stored time as a starting point to resume keeping time. 
     The starting time for the RTC  260  is set to current Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) time at the factory at time of manufacture. The time is updated or synchronized whenever the wireless communication controller  250  communicates with the external device  108 . Because GMT time is independent of calendar, seasons, or time schemas, using GMT time allows the power tool  104  or the external device  108  to convert from time indicated by the RTC  260  to localized time for display to the user. 
     The backup power source  252  also provides power to the RTC  260  to enable continuous tracking of time. The backup power source  252  does not provide power to energize the motor  214 , drive the drive device  210 , or power the controller  226 , and generally only powers the wireless communication controller  250 , the indicator light  320 , and the RTC  260  (e.g., in embodiments in which the RTC  260  is separate from the wireless communication controller  250 ) when the battery pack  104   b  is not attached to the power tool  104 . In other embodiments, the backup power source  252  also provides power to low-power elements such as, for example, LEDs, and the like. In some embodiments, the wireless communication controller  250  includes a voltage sensor  265  (see  FIG. 15 ) coupled to the backup power source  252 . The wireless communication controller  250  uses the voltage sensor  265  to determine the state of charge of the backup power source  252 . The wireless communication controller  250  may include the state of charge of the backup power source  252  in the advertisement message to the external device  108 . The user can then be alerted when the state of charge of the backup power source  252  is low. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the backup power source  252  includes a coin cell battery  315  located on the PCB  305 . The coin cell battery  315  is merely exemplary. In some embodiments, the backup power source  252  may be another type of battery cell, a capacitor, or another energy storage device. The coin cell battery  315  provides sufficient power to allow the wireless communication controller  250  to operate in the advertisement state and broadcast minimal identification information. In the illustrated embodiment, the coin cell battery  315  can run for several years by allowing the power tool  104  to only “broadcast” or “advertise” once every few seconds when operating the advertisement state. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the coin cell battery  315  is a primary (i.e., non-rechargeable) backup battery. In other embodiments, the backup power source  252  includes a secondary (rechargeable) backup battery cell or a capacitor. In such embodiments, the battery pack  104   b  provides charging power to recharge the secondary backup battery cell or the capacitor. For example, the power input unit  224  may include charging circuitry to charge the backup power source  252 . The rechargeable cell and capacitor may be sized to provide power for several days or weeks before needing to recharge. 
     The indicator light  320  of the wireless communication device  300  is configured to indicate the state of the wireless communication device  300 . For example, the indicator light  320  may, in a first indication state, light in a first color (or blink in a first predetermined pattern) to indicate that the wireless communication device  300  is currently communicating with an external device  108 . The indicator light  320  may, in a second indication state, light in a second color (or blink in a second predetermined pattern) to indicate that the power tool  104  is locked (e.g., the motor  214  is inoperable because a security feature has been enabled) as described in more detail below in  FIG. 16 . Finally, the indicator light  320  may also light to indicate a level of charge of the backup power source  252 . In one example, the indicator light  320  may, in a third indication state, light in a third color (or blink in another predetermined pattern) when the state of charge of the backup power source  252  drops below a predetermined threshold. In some embodiments, the wireless communication controller  250  may control the indicator light  320  based on the signals received from the voltage sensor  265 . 
       FIG. 16  is a flowchart illustrating a method  400  of tracking power tool devices based on the identification code emitted by the wireless communication controller  250 . As shown in  FIG. 16 , the external device  108  receives a selection of a power tool device (e.g., the power tool  104 ) to be located (block  405 ). The external device  108  then transmits a request to the remote server  112  for the last known location of the selected power tool device (block  410 ). The external device  108  receives the last known location of the selected power tool device (block  415 ) and the server  112  updates the database to indicate that the selected power tool device is lost (block  420 ). The server  112  monitors the database and determines whether the selected power tool device has been found (block  425 ). For example, while the power tool  104  is lost, the wireless communication controller  250  continues to transmit the identification code periodically. When a second external device (or, in some cases, the same external device  108 ) receives the identification code from the wireless communication controller  250 , the second external device transmits the identification code and geographical coordinates to the server  112 . When the server  112  determines that the selected power tool device has been found, the server  112  receives the identification code and the geographical coordinates from the second external device that received the identification code from the wireless communication controller  250  (block  430 ), and updates the database to indicate the most recent location for the selected power tool device (block  435 ). The server  112  then transmits the most recent location of the selected power tool device to the external device  108  (block  440 ). The external device  108  may then generate a notification to the user that an updated location for the power tool device has been received (block  445 ). 
     The wireless communication controller  250  and the RTC  260  enable the power tool  104  to implement a lock-out feature. For example,  FIG. 17  is a flowchart illustrating a method  500  of implementing a security feature on the power tool  104 . As shown in  FIG. 17 , the wireless communication controller  250  receives a security date and time (or a timer amount) from the external device  108  (block  505 ). The external device  108  generates a graphical user interface that receives inputs from a user. The user, for example, selects the security date and time using the graphical user interface. The external device  108  then transmits the security date and time to the wireless communication controller  250 . The wireless communication controller  250  then transmits the security date and time (or timer amount) to the controller  226  (block  510 ). The controller  226  monitors the time received from the RTC  260  and compares the current time from the RTC  260  to the user-specified lock-out time stored in the memory  232  or  256 . In particular, the controller  226  determines whether the security date and time has been reached (block  515 ). In embodiments in which a timer amount is transmitted, the controller  226  determines whether the timer amount has elapsed. When the current time from the RTC  260  indicates that the security date and time has been reached (e.g., the time from the RTC exceeds the user-specified lock-out time), the controller  226  locks the power tool  104  (e.g., the power tool  104  is disabled such that driving the motor  214  is prevented) at block  420 . The power tool  104 , therefore, becomes inoperable. Since the RTC  260  keeps time independent of other components in the power tool  104  and independent of the operation of the power tool  104 , the controller  226  can more accurately track when a specified time for a security feature is approaching regardless of whether the power tool  104  is connected to the battery pack  104   b.    
     In other embodiments, the power tool  104  is locked or unlocked based on other security conditions different than a lock out time or timer amount. In such embodiments, the wireless communication controller  250  receives the security settings (e.g., whether the power tool  104  is locked or unlocked and the specific security parameters for when the power tool  104  is to change security states). The wireless communication controller  250  transmits the security parameters to the controller  226 . The controller  226  may then monitor the security parameters and determine when the security parameters or security conditions are met. The controller  226  may then change the security state of the power tool  104  based on the security parameters (e.g., unlock the power tool  104  when a security condition is met). 
     Because the RTC  260  is able to maintain accurate time whether or not the battery pack  104   b  is attached to the power tool  104 , the RTC  260  is configured to time-stamp (i.e., associate a specific time with) the operational data of the power tool  104 . For example, the controller  226  can store the operational data when, for example, the power tool  104  is fastening a group of fasteners. The controller  226  then receives an indication of time (e.g., a GMT time) from the RTC  260  or from the processor  258  associated with the wireless communication controller  250 . The controller  226  proceeds to store the operational data (e.g., the torque output by the power tool  104 , the speed of the motor  214 , the number of trigger pulls, etc.) with a time-stamp provided based on the received time from the RTC  260 . The RTC  260  can continuously or periodically provide an indication of time to the controller  226 . In other embodiments, the controller  226  requests a time signal from the processor  258  of the wireless communication controller  250  and waits for the time signal from the RTC  260 . 
     When the wireless communication controller  250  operates in the connectable state, wireless communication between the power tool  104  and the external device  108  is enabled. In the connectable state, the wireless communication controller  250  obtains and exports tool operational data including tool usage data, maintenance data, mode information, drive device information, and the like from the power tool  104 . The exported operational data is received by the external device  108  and can be used by tool users or owners to log operational data related to a particular power tool  104  or to specific job activities. The exported and logged operational data can indicate when work was accomplished and that work was accomplished to specification. The logged operational data can also provide a chronological record of work that was performed, track duration of tool usage, and the like. In the connectable state, the wireless communication controller  250  also imports (i.e., receives) configuration data from the external device  108  into the power tool  104  such as, for example, operation thresholds, maintenance thresholds, mode configurations, programming for the power tool  104 , feature information, and the like. The configuration data is provided by the wireless communication controller  250  to the controller  226  over the data connection  262 , and the processing unit  230  stores the configuration data in the memory  232 . The processing unit  230  further accesses the configuration data stored in the memory  232  and controls driving of the motor  214  in accordance with the configuration data. For example, the processing unit  230  may drive the motor  214  at a particular speed or until a particular torque is reached (e.g., as detected by the sensors  218 ), where the particular speed or torque is provided as part of the configuration data. 
     The wireless communication device  300  has been described as including both the wireless communication controller  250  and the backup power source  252 . In some embodiments, however, the wireless communication controller  250  is separate from the backup power source  252 .  FIG. 18  illustrates another embodiment of the power tool  604  in which the backup power source  252  is not part of the wireless communication device  300 . As shown in  FIG. 18 , the power tool  604  includes a first compartment  610  that receives the backup power source  252 , and a second compartment  615  that receives a wireless communication device  620 . The second compartment  615  may also be referred to as a second compartment  615 . The wireless communication device  620  is similar to the wireless communication device  300  described above, except that it does not include the backup power source  252 . In the illustrated embodiment, the power tool  604  includes the first compartment  610  and the second compartment  615  on opposite sides of the battery pack receiving portion  625 . The first compartment  610  is positioned adjacent the connecting structure that receives the battery pack  104   b  and is a separate compartment of the tool housing. In particular, the first compartment  610  is positioned on a lateral side (e.g., side B or D) of the battery pack receiving portion  625 . In the illustrated embodiment, the backup power source  252  is secured in place by a removable plastic cover  630 . The removable plastic cover  630  is similar to the removable plastic cover  342  described above, but it also serves to secure the backup power source  252  after the backup power source  252  has been inserted. 
     On the other hand, the second compartment  615  is similar to the compartment  277  described above. As shown in  FIG. 18 , the wireless communication device  620  includes a mating tooth  635  to engage a lock of the second compartment  615  that is similar to the lock  279  of the compartment  277  described above. Separating the backup power source  252  from the wireless communication device  620  allows removal and replacement of the backup power source  252  when the state of charge is depleted, while at the same time maintaining the compartment  615  for the wireless communication device  620 . Similar to the embodiment described above with respect to  FIG. 12 , the wireless communication device  620  may include an exposed side such that the indicator light  320  is visible to the user. 
     While in the illustrated embodiment, the first compartment  610  and the second compartment  615  are both positioned in a battery pack receiving portion  625  of the power tool  600 , in other embodiments, one or both of the first compartment  610  and the second compartment  615  may be located elsewhere on the power tool  600 . For example,  FIG. 19  schematically illustrates various other positions E, F, G for each of the first compartment  610 , the second compartment  615 , or the compartment  277  of  FIG. 12 . For example, position E shows one of the compartments  277 ,  610 ,  615  being positioned below the selection switch  208  at the foot of the power tool  104 ,  600 . Position F shows one of the compartments  277 ,  610 ,  615  being positioned near a location where the handle  204  and the foot of the power tool  104 ,  600  meet. Position G shows one of the compartments  277 ,  610 ,  615  being positioned in a bottom portion of the housing of the handle  204 . Accordingly, various combinations are possible for the placement of the first compartment  610  and the second compartment  615 . The operation of the power tool  600  is otherwise similar to the operation of the power tool  104  described above. In particular, the flowcharts shown in  FIGS. 16 and 17  also apply to power tool  600 . 
       FIGS. 20A-B  illustrates a fourth embodiment of the compartment  277 . As shown in  FIG. 20 , the compartment  277  is included in the battery receiving portion  206  of the power tool  104 . As described above, the compartment  277  is configured to receive a secondary device  650  such as, for example, the wireless communication device  300 , the back-up power source  252 , a different device, or a combination thereof. As shown in  FIG. 20 , the secondary device  650  includes a housing  655 . The housing  655  includes a top portion  660  and a lower portion  665 . The top portion  660  includes a mating structure  670  that is compatible with the battery receiving portion  206  of the power tool  104 . In other words, the mating structure  670  imitates a mating structure of a battery pack (e.g., the battery pack  104   b ) configured to attach to the battery receiving portion  206  to power the power tool  104 . The lower portion  665  replicates the mating structure of the battery receiving portion  206  of the power tool  104  such that the lower portion  665  can receive a battery pack (e.g., the battery pack  104   b ) for powering the power tool  104 . 
     Because the top portion  660  of the housing  655  replicates the mating structure of a battery pack and the lower portion  665  of the housing  655  replicates the mating structure of the battery receiving portion  206 , the secondary device  650  is interchangeable with a battery pack that is compatible with the power tool  104 . In other words, the battery pack may be coupled to the power tool  104 , via the secondary device  650 , when the secondary device  650  is coupled to the power tool  104  and may be coupled directed to the power tool  104  when the secondary device  650  is decoupled from the power tool  104 . 
       FIG. 20B  illustrates the secondary device  650  coupled to the power tool  104 . As shown in  FIGS. 20A-B , the housing  655  has a height  675  that allows the lower portion  665  to replicate the mating structure and dimensions of the battery receiving portion  206 . The height of the power tool  104  increases by the height  675  of the secondary device  650  when the secondary device  650  is coupled to the power tool  104 . The footprint of the power tool  104 , however remains the same size even when the secondary device  650  is coupled to the power tool  104 . The footprint of the power tool  104  provides sufficient support when resting on a support surface (e.g., a table or floor) to inhibit the power tool  104  from tipping over even when the secondary device  650  is coupled to the power tool  104 . 
     In some embodiments, the battery receiving portion  206  of the power tool  104  incorporates the increase of height of the secondary device  650 . That is, in some embodiments, the battery receiving portion  206  increases in size to accommodate both the secondary device  650  and the battery pack. For example, in some embodiments,  FIG. 20B  illustrates the power tool  104  without the secondary device  650 . In such embodiments, the secondary device may have a width that is smaller than the width of the foot of the power tool  104  and fits within the battery receiving portion  206 . In such embodiments, when the secondary device  650  is coupled to the power tool  104 , but the battery pack is not coupled to the power tool  104 , the power tool  104  is supported only by the perimeter of the battery receiving portion  206 , and a space is created between a support surface (e.g., a table or floor) and the secondary device  650 . When both the battery pack and the secondary device  650  are coupled to the power tool  104 , the base of the batter pack supports the power tool  104 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the power tool  104  receives a slide-on style battery pack including guides rails that secure the battery pack to the power tool  104 . Accordingly, the top portion  660  also includes two guide rails  680   a,    680   b  to mate with the corresponding structure in the battery receiving portion  206 . The secondary device  650  also includes pass-through connections (not shown) that allow the battery terminals to be accessible through the lower portion  665 . For example, the pass-through connections may include a set of terminal ports on the top portion  660  of the secondary device  650  and a set of terminal connections on the lower portion  665  of the secondary device  650 . The terminal ports receive the battery terminals on the battery receiving portion  206  of the power tool  104 , while the set of terminal connections are received by an attached battery pack. Similar to the compartment  277  described above, the secondary device  650  includes an irreversible locking mechanism. That is, once the secondary device  650  is coupled to the power tool  104  and the locking mechanism is engaged, the secondary device  650  becomes permanently attached to the power tool  104 . As discussed above with respect to  FIG. 18 , in some embodiments, the power tool  104  includes more than one compartment. The power tool  104  shown in  FIG. 20  may include an additional compartment (e.g., similar in construction to other compartments described herein) to receive a different secondary device. 
       FIGS. 21A-D  illustrates a fifth embodiment of the compartment  277 . As shown in  FIG. 21A , the compartment  277  is external to the body of the power tool  104  (i.e., located on an external surface of the housing of the power tool  104 ) and engages with a secondary device  700 . The secondary device  700  includes a housing  705  forming an engagement structure  710 . In the illustrated embodiment, the secondary device  700  has a generally rectangular shape. A height  707  of the secondary device  700  approximates a height  709  of the battery receiving portion  206  of the power tool  104 . The rectangular shape may provide some simplicity and durability to the secondary device  700 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 21B-C , the engagement structure  710  include a hook  712 , also referred to as a lock mating tooth, that is inserted into a shaft to engage with a mating tab on the power tool housing (see, e.g., the lock mating tooth  325  engaging the mating tab  330  in  FIG. 6 ). Similar to the design described with respect to  FIG. 6 , the hook  712  engages with the mating tab of the power tool to provide an irreversible locking mechanism. In the illustrated embodiment, the secondary device  700  is brought into contact with the power tool  104  in a horizontal direction (e.g., in the direction of arrow  720  and perpendicular to the handle of the power tool  104 ). The secondary device  700  is then rotated toward the power tool  104  to engage the locking mechanism. In the illustrated embodiment, the secondary device  700  is positioned on one side of the foot of the power tool  104 , does not extend below the foot of the power tool, and extends in a generally vertical manner (e.g., parallel to the handle of the power tool  104 ). 
     The secondary device  700  further includes conductive data and power terminals  714  ( FIG. 21C ) that engage conductive data and power terminals  716  of an interface printed circuit board  718  of the power tool  104  ( FIG. 21D ). The interface printed circuit board  718  is fixed in the housing with the conductive data and power terminals  716  exposed to the compartment  277 . When the secondary device  700  is secured to the power tool  104 , the conductive data and power terminals  714  engage the conductive data and power terminals  716 . The engaged terminals enable data communication between the wireless communication device  300  of the secondary devices  700  and the power tool  104  and to enable the wireless communication device  300  of the secondary device  700  to receive power from a battery pack coupled to the power tool  104 . In some embodiments, the wireless communication device  300  of the secondary device  700  receives power from a battery pack coupled to the lower portion  665 . The secondary device  700  may receive power from a battery pack when it is coupled to the power tool  104 , and may use power from the backup battery source  252  when a battery pack is not coupled to the power tool  104 . 
     Because the secondary device  700  is coupled to the exterior of the housing of the power tool  104 , the size and specific design of the secondary device  700  may not be as restricted as compared to when, for example, the secondary device  700  fits inside the housing of the power tool  104 . Accordingly, the secondary device  700  may include additional features than those described with respect to the wireless communication device  300  and the back-up power source  252 . When the secondary device  700  includes the wireless communication device  300 , the external position of the secondary device  700  may increase the power and range of the wireless communication device  300  as compared to when the secondary device is enclosed within the housing of the power tool  104 . For example, the secondary device  700  may include a larger back-up power source  252  and be less susceptible to electromagnetic interface from the power tool  104  with the additional spacing provided from battery terminals and electronics of the tool. Additionally, with an external mounting, the secondary device  700  may serve as a theft deterrent due to its visibility on the power tool  104 . While the secondary device  700  is illustrated in  FIG. 21A  as being coupled to a first side  725  of the power tool  104 , in some embodiments, the secondary device  700  may be coupled to a second side  730  of the power tool  104 . In yet other embodiments, the power tool  104  may be coupled to more than one secondary device  700 . Each secondary device  700  may include, for example, the wireless communication device  300 , the back-up power source  252 , a different device, or a combination thereof. The compartment receiving each secondary device may have a similar or different structure than that described for coupling with the secondary device  700 . 
       FIGS. 32A-C  illustrate an alternative version of the fifth embodiment explained above and shown in  FIGS. 21A-D . As shown in  FIG. 32A , the compartment  277  is external to the body of the power tool  104  (i.e., located on an external surface of the housing of the power tool  104 ) and engages with a secondary device  3205 . The secondary device  3205  includes similar components with similar functionality as described above with respect to the secondary device  700  of  FIGS. 21A-D . For example, the engagement structure of the secondary device  3205  includes four hooks  3210 , also referred to as lock mating teeth, that are inserted into a shaft to engage with a mating tab on the power tool housing (see, e.g., the lock mating tooth  325  engaging the mating tab  330  in  FIG. 6 ). Similar to the design described with respect to  FIG. 6 , the hooks  3210  engage with respective mating tabs of the power tool  104  to provide an irreversible locking mechanism. The secondary device  3205  further includes conductive data and power terminals  3215  ( FIG. 32C ) that engage the conductive data and power terminals  716  of the interface printed circuit board  718  of the power tool  104  (see  FIG. 21D ). The secondary device  3205  also includes an LED display window  3220  that may be similar to the lens  350  or  360  described above (e.g., to display an indicator light of the secondary device  3205 ). In some embodiments, the secondary device  3205  also includes one or more fastener attachments  3225  that receive fasteners (e.g., screws) to further secure the secondary device  3205  in the compartment  277 . 
       FIGS. 22A-B  illustrate a sixth embodiment of the compartment  277 . Similar to the compartment shown in  FIG. 21 , the compartment  277  shown in  FIGS. 22A-B  is external to the body of the power tool  104  and engages a secondary device  750 . The secondary device  750  includes a housing  755  forming an engagement structure  760 . In the illustrated embodiment, the secondary device  750  has a generally rectangular shape and is aligned horizontally with respect to the power tool  104 . As shown in  FIG. 22A , the foot of the power tool  104  includes a stopping member  765  to receive an end  770  of the secondary device  750 . Similar to the secondary device  700  of  FIG. 21 , the rectangular shape of the secondary device  750  may provide more simplicity and durability to the secondary device  750 . However, in some embodiments, one or both of the secondary devices  700  and  750  have different shapes than those illustrated. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement structure  760  includes a set of horizontal (e.g., perpendicular to the handle of the power tool  140 ) guide rails  775  and an irreversible locking mechanism (not shown). The set of horizontal guide rails  775  engage with a compatible structure  780  on the exterior of the power tool  104 . Because the guide rails  775  extend for approximately the length of the secondary device  750 , the engagement structure  760  of the secondary device  750  of  FIGS. 22A-B  may be more secure and permanent than, for example, the engagement structure of the secondary device  700  of  FIGS. 21A-B . In the illustrated embodiment, the secondary device  750  is positioned on one side of the foot of the power tool  104 , and extends in a generally horizontal manner (e.g., perpendicular to the handle of the power tool  104 ). As shown in  FIG. 22B , the perimeter of the secondary device  750  accommodates coupling mechanisms (e.g., coupling mechanism  785 ) already positioned on the power tool  104  to attach accessories to the power tool  104 . 
     Because the secondary device  750  is coupled to the exterior of the housing of the power tool  104 , the size and specific design of the secondary device  750  may be less restricted and may allow for other features or devices to be incorporated into the secondary device  750 . When the secondary device  750  includes the wireless communication device  300 , the external position of the secondary device  750  may increase the power and range of the wireless communication device  300  as compared to when the secondary device is enclosed within the housing of the power tool  104 . For example, the secondary device  700  may include a larger back-up power source  252  and be less susceptible to electromagnetic interface from the power tool  104  with the additional spacing provided from battery terminals and electronics of the tool. Additionally, the secondary device  750  may serve as a theft deterrent due to its visibility on the power tool  104 . While the secondary device  750  is illustrated in  FIGS. 22A-B  as being coupled to a first side  790  of the power tool  104 , in some embodiments, the secondary device  750  may be coupled to a second side  795  of the power tool  104 . In yet other embodiments, the power tool  104  may be coupled to more than one secondary device  750 . Each secondary device  750  may include, for example, the wireless communication device  300 , the back-up power source  252 , a different device, or a combination thereof. The compartment receiving each secondary device may have a similar or different structure than that described for coupling with the secondary device  750 . As discussed above with respect to the secondary device  650 ,  700 ,  750  including the wireless communication controller  250 , the secondary device  650 ,  700 ,  750  may also include indicators on an exposed side of the secondary device  650 ,  700 ,  750  to communicate, for example, an operational status of the secondary device to the user. 
     Although the power tool  104  has been illustrated and described as an impact wrench, the compartments  277  and secondary devices  650 ,  700 ,  750  may be included in other power tools or power tool devices.  FIGS. 23A-27B  illustrate a variety of different power tools and power tool devices incorporating various embodiments of the compartment  277  and the secondary devices  650 ,  700 ,  750  described above.  FIG. 23A  illustrates a portable light  800 . As illustrated, the portable light  800  includes a lighting element  805  to provide light to the surrounding area. The portable light  800  also includes a base  810  for supporting the portable light  800  in an upright manner. The base  810  includes a battery receiving portion  815 .  FIG. 23B  illustrates the portable light  800  including the secondary device  700  as described above with respect to  FIGS. 21A-B . As shown in  FIG. 23B , the secondary device  700  is positioned on the base  810  of the portable light  800  adjacent the battery receiving portion  815 , and is oriented in a generally vertical position (e.g., parallel to the lighting device  805  of the portable light  800 ). 
     On the other hand,  FIG. 23C  illustrates the portable light  800  including the secondary device  750  described above with respect to  FIGS. 22A-B . As shown in  FIG. 23C , the secondary device  750  is positioned on the base  810  of the portable light  800  and is oriented generally horizontally (e.g., perpendicular to the lighting element  805  of the portable light). As discussed above with respect to  FIGS. 21-22C , when the secondary device  700 ,  750  is external to the portable light  800  (or another power tool device), the specific dimensions and constructions of the secondary device  700 ,  750  are more flexible (e.g., than attempting to fit the secondary device  700 ,  750  within the housing of the portable light  800 ), which may allow further features or devices to be incorporated into the secondary device  700 ,  750 .  FIG. 23D  illustrates the portable light  800  including the compartment  277  and the secondary device as described above with respect to  FIGS. 5-8 . As described above, the compartment  277  is configured to receive and enclose the PCB  300  of the secondary device. As shown in  FIG. 23D , the compartment  277  is positioned in the battery receiving portion  815  of the base  810 . 
     Finally,  FIG. 23E  illustrates the portable light  800  including the secondary device  650  as described above with respect to  FIG. 20 . Due to the additional height of the secondary device  650 , in some embodiments, a specialized battery pack with a shorter height than a typical battery pack is used when the secondary device  650  is coupled to the battery receiving portion  815 . In some embodiments, the battery receiving portion  815  is sized such that it can accommodate both the secondary device and a typical battery pack. For example, the battery receiving portion  815  may be sized such that when only the battery pack is coupled to the portable light  800 , some vertical space remains available in the battery receiving portion  815 . 
       FIG. 24A  illustrates a miter saw  900 . The miter saw  900  includes a saw  905 , a handle portion  910 , and a battery pack receiving portion  915  positioned on a first end of the handle portion  910 .  FIG. 24B  illustrates the miter saw  900  including the secondary device  700  as described above with respect to  FIG. 21A-B . The secondary device  700  is positioned adjacent the battery receiving portion  815  on an exterior of the handle portion  910 , and is oriented generally vertically (e.g., parallel to a length of the handle portion  910 ).  FIG. 24C  illustrates the miter saw  900  including the secondary device  750  as described above with respect to  FIGS. 22A-B . As shown in  FIG. 24C , the secondary device  750  is positioned on an exterior of the handle portion  910  and is oriented generally horizontally (e.g., perpendicular to length of the handle portion  910 ). The external secondary devices  700 ,  750  coupled to the miter saw  900  may serve as theft deterrent due to their visibility. Additionally, as discussed above, because the secondary devices  700 ,  750  are external, the constructions of the devices may be more flexible and may allow for more features or devices to be incorporated into the secondary devices  700 ,  750 . 
       FIG. 24D  illustrates the miter saw  900  including the secondary device  650  as described above with respect to  FIG. 20 . As shown in  FIG. 24D , the secondary device  650  attaches directly to the battery receiving portion  915  of the miter saw  900 . Finally,  FIG. 24E  illustrates the miter saw  900  including the compartment  277  and the secondary device as described above with respect to  FIGS. 5-8 . As described above, the compartment  277  is configured to receive and enclose the PCB  300  of the secondary device. As shown in  FIG. 24E , the compartment  277  is positioned in the battery receiving portion  915  of the miter saw  900 . 
       FIGS. 25A-27B  illustrate other exemplary power tools incorporating different secondary devices and compartments. In particular,  FIGS. 25A-27B  illustrate the versatility and compatibility of the various secondary devices and compartments among different power tools. For example,  FIGS. 25A-B  illustrate an impact driver  950  including the secondary device  700  as described above with respect to  FIGS. 21A-B .  FIGS. 26A-B  illustrate a circular saw  955  including a compartment  277  as described above with respect to  FIGS. 5-8 .  FIGS. 27A-B  illustrate a rotary hammer  960  including the secondary device  750  as described above with respect to  FIGS. 22A-B . These figures help illustrate that different types of power tools are compatible with the various embodiments described above with respect to the compartment  277  or the secondary devices  650 ,  700 ,  750 . Accordingly, a user can obtain a secondary device of a first construction and have the option to attach the secondary device to a plurality of different power tools. 
     In some embodiments, the power tool  104  includes a set of conductive data terminals in communication with the data connection  262  of the controller  226  ( FIG. 14 ) that engage conductive data terminals of the secondary devices  650 ,  700 ,  750  to enable data communication between the wireless communication device  300  of secondary devices  650 ,  700 ,  750  and the power tool  104 . In some embodiments, the power tool  104  includes a set of conductive power terminals in communication with the power input  224  that engage conductive power terminals of the secondary devices  700 ,  750  to enable the wireless communication device  300  of the secondary devices  700 ,  750  to receive power from a battery pack coupled to the power tool  104 . In some embodiments, the wireless communication device  300  of the secondary devices  650  receives power from a battery pack coupled to the lower portion  665 . The secondary devices  650 ,  700 ,  750  may receive power from a battery pack when it is coupled to the power tool  104  (directly or via the secondary device  650 ), and may use power from the backup battery source  252  when a battery pack is not coupled to the power tool  104 . 
     The controller  226  also includes a data connection (e.g., a communication channel)  262  to optionally couple to the insertable wireless communication device  300 . In some embodiments, the data connection  262  includes a ribbon cable that is connected from the controller  226  to a set of leads in the compartment  277 . When the wireless communication device  300  is inserted into the compartment  277 , a set of leads on the wireless communication device  300  connect with the leads inside the compartment  277  and communication between the controller  226  and the wireless communication device  300  is thereby enabled (for example, see  FIGS. 21C and 21D ). 
     The descriptions above of the compartment  277  and the secondary devices  650 ,  700   750  indicate that the secondary devices  650 ,  700 ,  750  are permanently locked into the compartments  277  once they have been coupled to the power tool  104 . In some embodiments, the locking mechanism is a combination of mechanical structures that allow an initial coupling of the secondary device  650 ,  700 ,  750 , but inhibits the removal of the same. In some embodiments, an electronic locking mechanism may be used. In such embodiments, the secondary devices  650 ,  700 ,  750  may be physically removed from the power tool  104 , but doing so may render both the secondary device  600 ,  650 ,  700  and the power tool  104  inoperable. 
       FIG. 28  illustrates an impact driver including a seventh embodiment of the compartment and a secondary device. In contrast to the compartment shown in  FIG. 21 , the compartment  277  shown in  FIG. 28  is internal to the body of the power tool  104  and engages a secondary device  975 . The secondary device  975  includes a housing  980  forming an engagement structure. In the illustrated embodiment, the secondary device  975  has a generally rectangular shape. As shown in  FIG. 28 , the compartment is located on the foot of the power tool  104  and defines a recess shaped to receive the secondary device  975 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement structure includes an irreversible locking mechanism  985  including a lock mating tooth  990  engaging a mating tab of the power tool (see, e.g., the mating tab  330  in  FIG. 6 ). When the secondary device  975  is inserted into the compartment  277 , the lock mating tooth  990  engages the mating tab to irreversibly lock the secondary device  975  within the compartment. In the illustrated embodiment, the secondary device  975  is positioned on one side of the foot of the power tool  104 , and extends in a generally horizontal manner (e.g., perpendicular to the handle of the power tool  104 ). In some embodiments, the compartment  277  is positioned on the other side of the foot of the power tool  104 . As discussed above with respect to the secondary device  650 ,  700 ,  750  including the wireless communication controller  250 , the secondary device  975  may also include the wireless communication controller  250  and include indicators on an exposed side of the secondary device  975  to communicate, for example, an operational status of the secondary device to the user. 
       FIG. 29  is a flowchart illustrating a method  1000  of implementing an electronic lock mechanism to inhibit removal of the secondary device  650 ,  700 ,  750 ,  975  from the power tool  104 . In the example of  FIG. 29 , the secondary device  650 ,  700 ,  750  includes the wireless communication device  300 . Accordingly, the secondary device  650 ,  700 ,  750  can communicate with the controller  226  of the power tool  104 . In step  1005 , the secondary device  650 ,  700 ,  750  is physically coupled to the power tool  104 . As discussed above, each secondary device  650 ,  700 ,  750  may include different engagement structures to couple to the power tool  104 . The wireless communication device  330  then sends an identification code to the controller  26  of the power tool  104  (step  1010 ). In particular, the wireless communication device  330  transmits an identification code unique to the particular wireless communication device  330 . In some embodiments, the identification code for the wireless communication device  330  includes a MAC (media access control) address. The controller  226  receives and stores the identification code from the wireless communication device  330  (step  1015 ). In particular, the controller  226  stores the identification code for the wireless communication device  330  in the memory  232 . 
     During operation of the power tool  104 , the controller  226  then receives a trigger signal (step  1020 ), for example in response to the trigger  212  being actuated. The trigger signal indicates a desired operation of the power tool  104 . In response to receiving the trigger signal, the controller  226  requests the identification code from the coupled wireless communication device  330  (step  1025 ). The wireless communication device  330  responds to the request by providing the identification code of the wireless communication device  330  to the controller  226 . The controller  226  then determines whether an identification code was received from a wireless communication device  330  (step  1027 ). When the controller  226  does not receive an identification code from a wireless communication device  330  (e.g., within a predetermined time-out time period), the controller  226  proceeds to step  1040  and inhibits operation of the power tool  104 . For example, the controller  226  may not receive an identification code from the wireless communication device  330  because the wireless communication device has been forcibly disconnected from the power tool  104  or damaged by a thief. 
     Otherwise, when the controller  226  receives the identification code, the controller  226  then determines whether the received identification code matches the stored identification code for the wireless communication device  330  (step  1030 ). When the received identification code matches the stored identification code, the controller  226  operates the power tool  104  according to the received trigger signal (step  1035 ). On the other hand, when the received identification code does not match the stored identification code (for example, when the wrong wireless communication device  330  is coupled to the power tool  104 ), the controller  226  inhibits operation of the power tool (step  1040 ). In one embodiment, the controller  226  disconnects the motor from the power source such that the motor cannot be activated. In other embodiments, the controller  226  destroys a portion of the controller  226  or other electrical components of the power tool  104 . For example, the controller  226  may transmit an excessive amount of power through some of the electrical components of the power tool  104  to prevent the power tool  104  from operating again. In the illustrated embodiment, the power tool  104  also generates an alert signal (step  1045 ). The alert signal indicates to the user that the original wireless communication device  330  is no longer coupled to the power tool  104  and the power tool  104  is therefore inoperable. In some embodiments, the power tool  104  may transmit the alert signal to the external device  108  via the attached wireless communication device  330 . 
     By matching the received identification code with the stored identification code, the controller  226  detects when the original wireless communication device  330  is removed, even if a replacement wireless communication device  330  was coupled to the power tool  104 . Additionally, as described above with respect to step  1027 , when the original wireless communication device  330  is removed from the power tool  104 , the controller  226  does not receive an identification code, and the power tool  104  also becomes inoperable. In some embodiments, for example, when the original wireless communication device  330  is malfunctioning or is accidentally removed, a service center may provide a universal passcode that will clear the stored identification code from the memory  232  of the power tool  104 . After the stored identification code is cleared, the power tool  104  may operate without the wireless communication device  330  or may be paired with a different wireless communication device  330 . 
     In some embodiments, in steps  1010  and  1015 , the power tool  104  provides an identification code to the wireless communication device  330  (step  1010 ) and the wireless communication device  330  stores the identification code of the power tool  104  in  256  (step  1015 ). In particular, the wireless communication controller  250  of the wireless communication device  330  performs these steps and the actions explained below as being performed by the wireless communication device  330 . In some embodiments, the identification code for the power tool  104  includes, for example, a unique identifier stored in the memory  232  of the power tool  104 . In some embodiments, the identification code for the power tool  104  may include, for example, a global unique identification (GUID) that includes the power tool&#39;s specific make, model, and serial number. Then, in step  1025 , the wireless communication device  330  request the identification code from the power tool  104 . The wireless communication device  330  then determines whether an identification code was received (step  1027 ) and, if not, the wireless communication device  330  inhibits further communication with the power tool  104  (step  1040 ). If an identification code is received, the wireless communication device  330  determines, in step  1030 , whether the power tool  104  coupled to the wireless communication device  330  corresponds to the power tool  104  of the stored identification code. When the wireless communication device  330  determines that the attached power tool  104  does not correspond to the power tool  104  of the stored identification code, the wireless communication device  330  inhibits further communication between the wireless communication device  330  and the power tool  104  (step  1040 ). For example, to inhibit further communication, the processor  258  enters a disabled mode in which communications are not sent to the power tool  104 . In some embodiments, after inhibiting communication in step  1040 , the wireless communication device  330  transmits an alert message to the external device  108  to alert the user that the wireless communication device  330  is inoperable with the power tool  104  (step  1045 ). When the wireless communication device  330  determines that the attached power tool  104  corresponds to the power tool  104  of the stored identification code by comparing the received identification code and identification the stored code and determining a match, the wireless communication device  330  enables further communications with the power tool  104  (step  1040 ). 
     While described with respect to the secondary devices  650 ,  700 ,  750 ,  975 , the flow chart  1000  similarly applies to the wireless communication devices  300  of other embodiments described herein, such as shown and discussed with respect to  FIGS. 4-13 . In some embodiments, the power tool  104  may utilize both a mechanical locking mechanism as described above as well as an electronic locking mechanism as described above with respect to  FIG. 29 . 
       FIGS. 30 and 31  illustrate schematic diagrams illustrating the method of  FIG. 29  implemented on an example power tool  104 . In  FIG. 30 , secondary device A is inserted into a compartment of the power tool  104  (for example, the compartment  277 ). As explained above, because the power tool  104  implements an electronic lock mechanism, in some embodiments, the secondary device A may be physically removable from the power tool  104 . In some embodiments, in response to the secondary device A being inserted into the compartment of the power tool  104 , the power tool  104  and the secondary device A are paired via an electronic handshake. For example, as indicated in  FIG. 30 , the secondary device A receives and stores a unique identification code of the power tool  104  (e.g., a tool MPBID). In a corresponding manner, the power tool  104  receives and stores a media access control (MAC) address of the secondary device A. In some embodiments, a controller of the power tool  104  (e.g., controller  226  of  FIG. 14 ) communicates with a wireless communication controller of the secondary device A (e.g., wireless communication controller  250  of  FIG. 15 ), for example, via a data connection, to enable pairing of the power tool  104  and the secondary device A via the electronic handshake as described above. Once the power tool  104  and the secondary device A are paired, one or both of the controller  226  of the power tool  104  and the wireless communication controller  250  of the secondary device A may implement the remaining steps of the method  1000  to ensure that the secondary device A is still coupled to the power tool  104  and properly functioning before allowing operation of the power tool  104  and/or further communication between the controller  226  and the wireless communication controller  250  as explained above with respect to  FIG. 29 . In some embodiments, each power tool and each secondary device may only be configured to pair with a single corresponding other of the secondary device and the power tool. In some embodiments, once pairing of the power tool  104  and the secondary device A occurs, the pairing may only be removed by a service center. 
     In  FIG. 31 , the secondary device A of  FIG. 30  has been removed from the power tool  104  and a secondary device B with a different MAC address has been inserted into the compartment of the power tool  104 . However, the power tool  104  has already paired with the secondary device A and stored the MAC address of secondary device A in the memory  232  of the power tool  104 . Accordingly, when performing the method  1000  of  FIG. 29 , one or both of the controller  226  of the power tool  104  and the wireless communication controller  250  of the secondary device B determines that the unique ID of the power tool  104  does not match with the MAC address of the secondary device B (i.e., that the power tool  104  and the secondary device B are not paired because the power tool  104  has already paired with the secondary device B). As indicated in  FIG. 29 , in such situations, in response to this determination, one or both of the controller  226  of the power tool  104  and the wireless communication controller  250  of the secondary device B inhibit operation of the power tool  104  and/or further communication between the controller  226  and the wireless communication controller  250  (at step  1040 ). In some embodiments, inhibiting further communication between the controller  226  and the wireless communication controller  250  blocks access to functionality provided on an external device (e.g., the external device  108 ) configured to communicate with the controller  226  via the wireless communication controller  250 . As indicated by step  1045  of  FIG. 29 , in some embodiments, the wireless communication controller  250  transmits an alert signal to the external device  108  that indicates that the secondary device B and the power tool  104  do not include matching IDs and that they are not paired. In some embodiments, in response to receiving the alert, the external device prompts the user with a suggested action (e.g., re-insert the secondary device A that is paired with the power tool  104 , visit a service center to unpair the power tool  104  from the secondary device A, and the like). 
     Thus, the invention provides, among other things, a power tool including a compartment with an irreversible lock for receiving and retaining a wireless communication device.