How to Automate Dust Collection with iVac Pro Switches
By Infinity Cutting Tools | Premium Woodworking Tools ... | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to set up an iVac Pro system to automatically start your dust collector when you turn on a tool. Step-by-step guide with key checkpoints.
Quick Answer
To automate dust collection with iVac Pro, plug your dust collector into an iVac Pro Switch, connect your power tools to iVac Pro Tool modules, and pair a remote for wireless control.
Why Automate Your Dust Collector?
Automating your dust collection with iVac Pro switches means your dust collector or shop vac turns on the moment you power up a tool—no more reaching for a separate switch or forgetting to start the collector. This not only saves time but also improves safety by ensuring dust is captured from the first cut.
The iVac Pro system works by having a Switch module connected to your dust collector, while Tool modules are plugged into your power tools. When a tool is turned on, the Switch detects the current draw and activates the collector. A remote can also trigger the Switch manually, giving you control from anywhere in the shop.
Understanding the iVac Pro Components
The iVac Pro Switch is the heart of the system—it connects to your dust collector and automatically turns it on when a tool plugged into an iVac Pro Tool module is switched on. The iVac Pro Tool Plus is an upgraded Tool module that works with any power tool up to 220V, so you don't have to worry about matching specific tools. The iVac Pro Remote adds wireless control, letting you turn the collector on or off from a distance with its belt clip for convenience.
Each component has a specific role, and understanding these roles helps you plan your setup. You'll need at least one Switch for your dust collector, one Tool module for each tool you want to automate, and optionally a Remote for manual control.
Key Considerations Before You Start
Before you begin, check the voltage and amperage ratings. The iVac Pro Switch is rated for 115Vac and 20A, so make sure your dust collector's requirements are within this range. If your dust collector draws more than 20A, this switch won't be suitable—always verify your equipment's specs.
Also, consider the number of tools you want to automate. Each tool needs its own iVac Pro Tool module, so plan your setup accordingly. The Tool Plus works with tools up to 220V, but if you have a tool that exceeds that, you'll need a different solution.
Step-by-Step iVac Pro Setup
- Plan your layout: Decide which dust collector and which tools you want to automate. Ensure your dust collector's motor is within the Switch's rating (115Vac, 20A). Sketch where each component will be plugged in. Check the amperage of your dust collector against the Switch's 20A limit before buying.
- Connect the Switch to your dust collector: Plug the iVac Pro Switch into a wall outlet, then plug your dust collector into the Switch. Make sure the Switch is in a dry, accessible location. Use a dedicated circuit to avoid overloading, and verify the outlet is grounded.
- Plug tools into iVac Pro Tool modules: For each power tool you want to automate, plug the tool into an iVac Pro Tool Plus, then plug the Tool Plus into a wall outlet. The Tool Plus works with tools up to 220V. Don't plug a tool that exceeds 220V into the Tool Plus—check your tool's voltage rating first.
- Pair the remote (optional): If you have an iVac Pro Remote, set its address (1–8) to match the Switch module. Press the ON button to test that the dust collector turns on, and OFF to turn it off. If the remote doesn't work, re-check the address setting—it must match the Switch's address.
- Test the automatic trigger: Turn on a tool plugged into a Tool Plus. The dust collector should start automatically. Turn off the tool and confirm the collector stops (after a short delay, if applicable). If the collector doesn't start, check that the Tool Plus is plugged in and the Switch is powered.
iVac Pro Components at a Glance
- iVac Pro Remote: The iVac Pro Remote has ON and OFF buttons that trigger the Switch module, comes with batteries and a belt clip, and is FCC & IC certified for North America. You can control your dust collector from anywhere in the workshop without walking back to the switch, and the belt clip keeps it handy.
iVac Pro Remote - iVac Pro Switch; 115Vac; 20A: The iVac Pro Switch automatically turns on your dust collector or shop vac when a tool plugged into an iVac Pro Tool module is powered on. This is the core component that enables automatic dust collection, so you never forget to start the collector before making a cut.
iVac Pro Switch; 115Vac; 20A - iVac Pro Tool Plus: The iVac Pro Tool Plus fits any power tool that works up to 220V, eliminating the need to figure out which Pro Tool works for your machines. It simplifies setup—you can use the same Tool Plus for multiple tools, saving you from buying different models for different machines.
