Maybe it's been posted here and I've missed it, but rather than use some
electronic remote control to turn the DC on and off from around the shop,
what about a system such as is used on buses to let the driver know that
you want to get off -- the "pull cord to signal driver" solution:

Install an outlet and a pull switch (both appropriately sized for the amps)
in an elec box and mount that near/to the ceiling. Take a screw-in eye and
install that near the box so that a string from the pull switch through the
eye will pull the switch the way it is designed to be. Run a string from
the switch and through that eye, and then branch off with string run
through additional eyes around the shop so that a simple pull anywhere
along the runs of string will turn the DC on/off. Now, my shop is only
about 18x13 and I can reach the bottom of the joists above me (about 8'),
so it is easy to run the strings high enough so that I am unlikely to catch
them as I move stuff around the shop. Even for those with higher
ceilings/shorter legs, the system could be adapted by running some eyes and
strings down the walls near each power tool to which the DC is connected.
FWIW, an inexpensive (non-elec) remote control for your DC. -- Igor.

PS: Before I hit send, I DAGS and see that this in mentioned in the FAQ
back in 2000. I did not expect that my idea was original, but with the
regular questions here about DC remotes, what the hey in bringing it up
again. And, kudos to the originals.

igor wrote:
Maybe it's been posted here and I've missed it, but rather than use some
electronic remote control to turn the DC on and off from around the shop,
what about a system such as is used on buses to let the driver know that
you want to get off -- the "pull cord to signal driver" solution:

Install an outlet and a pull switch (both appropriately sized for the amps)
in an elec box and mount that near/to the ceiling. Take a screw-in eye and
install that near the box so that a string from the pull switch through the
eye will pull the switch the way it is designed to be. Run a string from
the switch and through that eye, and then branch off with string run
through additional eyes around the shop so that a simple pull anywhere
along the runs of string will turn the DC on/off. Now, my shop is only
about 18x13 and I can reach the bottom of the joists above me (about 8'),
so it is easy to run the strings high enough so that I am unlikely to catch
them as I move stuff around the shop. Even for those with higher
ceilings/shorter legs, the system could be adapted by running some eyes and
strings down the walls near each power tool to which the DC is connected.
FWIW, an inexpensive (non-elec) remote control for your DC. -- Igor.

PS: Before I hit send, I DAGS and see that this in mentioned in the FAQ
back in 2000. I did not expect that my idea was original, but with the
regular questions here about DC remotes, what the hey in bringing it up
again. And, kudos to the originals.

A string?

It was pretty simple to a a relay to my saw starter to start/stop a
relay which feeds 110V to the vacuum. (essentially a controlled outlet)

Rob

Actually a good idea. I thought of using that idea a few years back,
but ended up getting the Long Ranger with 3 transmitters. I have been
real happy with it. Just don't start and stop the collector while it
is on its starting winding a lot. It is hard on relays.

Back on your idea. I think it would be a great approach. I recommend
getting a good 20 or 30 amp switch. It might be even better to get a
microswitch and have it control an alternate action relay. Operate the
switch or microswitch with a small stainless cable (like the old U
control cables for model airplanes--if you are old enough to know what
I mean). Threading the cable through small pullies would make it
operate smoothly with no annoying "springiness". Using those 3
enhancements would make for a very smooth operating control.