I retrofitted a Craftsman auto switch onto my shop vacuum for a handy tool-actuated setup. The device is a plug that automatically turns on my vacuum when the device senses a load from a power tool. I simply plug the dust-producing tool into the power-tool outlet and the vacuum into one of the two accessory outlets. The switch costs about $20.
I mounted the switch to the vacuum by way of a U-shaped bracket made from 1/8-in.-thick by 1/2-in.-wide aluminum bar stock bent in a vise to wrap snugly around the switch. A pair of #12 sheet-metal screws anchor the bracket to the vacuum. Short, 1/2-in. #10 sheet-metal screws capture the switch between the bracket arms. Before running any of these screws, I made sure they weren’t going to hit any delicate components. The device is designed to be plugged into a wall. The bracket allows the switch to swivel down when not in use and to swivel upright to allow an extension cord to be plugged into it.
Jay B. Lane, Portland, OR
Edited and Illustrated by Charles Miller
From Fine Homebuilding #210
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This tip is from May, 2010. The Craftman Auto Switch tool-actuated switch was discontinued shortly after.
Here is an interesting link where people back then show how they use these devices. https://kregjig.ning.com/profiles/blogs/craftsman-auto-switch?id=2900167%3ABlogPost%3A375184&page=1#comments
There are similar solutions available today: i-Socket and iVAC. There's even a video called : "Easy To Make Automatic Load Sensing Switch."
Another