Universal Laser Systems, Inc. has just announced the introduction of a new line of computer-controlled, laser engraving and cutting systems. The XL Series is a powerful, industrial-grade line engineered to handle advanced engraving, cutting, and marking. The XL-9200 (shown) features a 36 x 24-inch field, while the XL-12000 features a 48 x 24-inch field, and both accommodate a broad range of materials.

With rapid acceleration and amazing speed, customers should expect faster processing times and increased productivity. What is particularly unique about the XL Series is its compatibility with 25 to 150-watt air-cooled lasers in single or dual laser configurations for maximum laser power of 300 watts. Also unique is the automatic detection of installed options, such as a rotary fixture or lenses. This convenient and intuitive feature assures rapid, error-free machine setups. One of the options exclusively designed for the XL Series is an advanced beam indicator that precisely identifies the point of laser impact on the material's surface. Another option compatible with the XL Series is the new High Power Density Focusing Optics (TM), a lens option that reduces the focused spot size and produces finer, more detailed engraving ideal for photographs and smaller text.

Hitachi Power Tools will introduce two new world-class cordless driver drills this month. Their DS18DMR (above) and DS14DMR incorporate the most advanced features available for professionals and weekend warriors who demand a tool engineered to withstand the most demanding use. The DS18DMR delivers a class leading 550 in/lbs of torque and comes with two high-capacity 3.0Ah batteries to ensure longer run time between charges. The DS14DMR brings 450 in/lbs of torque to bear and comes with two high-capacity 2.0Ah batteries. Both offer 2-speed transmissions that feature no-load RPMs of 0-400/1600.
These drills are among the most compact and lightweight in their class. Measuring just over 9 inches and weighing approximately 5 lbs, they allow for greater flexibility and ease of use in tight or overhead spaces. A two-piece rare-earth magnet motor guarantees reliable power. Tool life is greatly extended with replaceable armatures and externally accessible carbon brushes. Both drills are engineered with heavy duty, industrial grade Rohm chucks that reduce bit slippage and improve durability. A 22-stage ratcheting slip-clutch is incorporated for high torque and precision driving applications. Both feature HitachiÕs patented 5-position belt hook with an integrated LED work light to illuminate dark workspaces. And their new aggressive, ergonomic design, coupled with a non-slip rubber grip, provides more control, comfort and safety. They are packaged in durable injection molded plastic carrying cases that include a quick charger, two batteries, side handle attachment and driver bit.

For more info, call 800-829-4752 or visit Hitachi online.
( www.hitachi.us/powertools)

Fly Rod-making Videos
Are you a woodworker who likes to fly fish? Golden Witch Technologies, Inc., a small Pennsylvania company dedicated to the art of tacklecraft, has two new videos available which will guide you through the process of making and finishing your own bamboo rods. (What a great idea for the outdoors woodworker!)

While they are widely recognized as a bamboo oriented company, many graphite rodmakers are discovering that GWT's custom components can be used to make rods stand out from the crowd. Their staff is well trained and the tackle is among the best you'll find anywhere in the world.

For more info, visit Golden Witch online
(http://www.goldenwitch.com)

Wazee Products has just revised their Web site to illustrate more clearly how the innovative WondeRip(R) fence works. The fence lets you finish every ripping operation with your hands away from the saw blade. At the heart of the WondeRipR fence is a built-in feeder device that functions like an ordinary pushstick. When the trailing end of a board being ripped reaches a red arrow on the left side of the WondeRipR fence, the saw operator takes his hand away from the end of the board and places it on a handle inside the rip fence. As he pushes forward on the handle, a feeder tab emerges from the side of the fence and engages the board's trailing end. As he moves the handle forward, the feeder tab continues to push the board into the saw blade until the rip is completed. In conjunction with a splitter and two custom hold-downs furnished with it, the WondeRip fence is capable of ripping not only wide pieces but also strips as narrow as 0.04".

Log rollers spiced up the action at Splinterfest 2003 last year in Fenton, Michigan.

Splinterfest 2004
If you're going to be anywhere near Fenton, Michigan in September, try to find a little time to visit Splinterfest 2004. Each year in September, The Winfield Collection and Scroller, Ltd., organize a fun-filled, informative, money saving day for the benefit of their many loyal customers. They invite well-known artists, painters, designers, woodcarvers, woodworkers, scroll sawyers and vendors as well as their own in-house experts to educate and demonstrate their skills. Valuable door prizes are given away throughout the day while many major prizes, including scroll saws, jigsaws, drills and Winfield gift certificates are won by lucky customers at dayÕs end. Discounts are given for the entire day on most purchases. Many avid woodcrafters make the trek to the famous Fenton showroom every year to attend this popular event.

For more info,
visit The Winfield Collection online
( http://thewinfieldcollection.com/splinterfest2004.aspx)