With the new communications system, the buffer zone that protects “dumb” batteries isn’t necessary. The battery now knows exactly what tool is connected. It can also determine how to power its specific torque curve most effectively.
Ridgid Octane batteries come in 3 flavors: 3 Ah Compact, 6 Ah Standard, and 9 Ah High Capacity. Perhaps those numbers will bump up at the point Ridgid makes the jump to larger cells across the line.
Standard Ridgid cordless tools have built-in fail-safes. For example, the battery has something similar to a governor that only allows a certain amount of current draw to protect the pack. This avoids potentially abusive power draws.
According to Ridgid, there’s still at least one more step 18650 cells can get to before needing to change to larger cells. Staying on the current cell means that you won’t see as big of a price difference as you do with other manufacturers. While there may be some changes to the pack itself, the performance boost is primarily coming from the ability to communicate.
Essentially, Ridgid Octane is an additional layer of communication between the tool and battery. When you pair a Ridgid Octane battery with a Ridgid Octane 18V tool, the tool tells the battery exactly what it is connected to. If a tool and battery both register as Octane—the power available for the tool increases.
FAQ
Are RIDGID tools batteries interchangeable?
What batteries are compatible with RIDGID?
What is RIDGID octane line?
