Bosch overhauls popular Pocket Driver

Apr. 10, 2010 – When Bosch Power Tools & Accessories unveiled the 12V Max lithium-ion powered PS20 Pocket Driver in 2007, the manufacturer effectively created the ultra-compact lithium-ion cordless professional power tool category. The category is now one of the fastest growing in the power tool industry.

When Bosch began designing the next evolution of the Pocket Driver, they didn’t simply upgrade the tool; they started from scratch, custom engineering a tool designed to deliver more than users ever expected from an ultra-compact cordless driving tool. The result is the new PS21 Pocket Driver.

The key attribute of ultra-compact cordless tools is their ability to reach and maneuver in tight spaces. Bosch’s new Pocket Driver features both a shortened head length – 5.6” – and shorter height – 7” – from base to top, making it the most compact 12V driving tool on the market. Along with the compact size, the Bosch PS21 is also the lightest in its class, at barely 1.8 pounds.

Other notable performance enhancements include a new two-speed drivetrain (0-350rpm / 0-1,300rpm) and an upgrade from a 10+1 clutch to a 20+1 clutch. Both improvements were direct responses to end-user feedback and are designed to deliver precise control regardless of application.

The enhancements in power-to-size ratio are due, in large part, to an upgrade to second-generation cells within Bosch’s 12V Max lithium-ion battery pack and an upgrade from analog to digital electronics. These changes enabled Bosch to optimize the tool’s performance and improve both charge life and battery life, and bolster cold weather performance. The move to digital electronics also enabled Bosch to integrate its own Electronic Cell and Motor Protection System, first introduced on Bosch’s 36V lithium-ion tools three years ago. The system protects both tool and battery from overloading, overheating and deep discharging, the three most common causes of cordless power tool and battery failure.

Beyond the reductions in size and weight, Bosch further addressed user comfort by re-designing the grip, for superior comfort and control, and by adding a bright LED light that enables users to clearly see their work, even in dark areas.

Bosch’s PS21 Pocket Driver comes with two batteries, a 30-minute charger and a sturdy soft-side case. The PS21 is covered by Bosch’s cordless tool warranty and is now available through authorized retailers nationwide. To find out more or to locate a dealer, users may visit www.boschtools.com or call 877-BOSCH-99.