Besides the low profile design, PorterCable gives you their Enduratech Motor Technology. This technology uses a smaller brushless 3.5 amp motor which results in 71% fewer wear components for longer motor life. Less components, less parts to wear down. More durable equals longer lifespan on your tool.

Yet another nice, new feature of the PorterCable 390 is that it has an electronic motor brake which slows down the motor quicker after you shut off your tool. If you are working in the shop and have one of those handy Sander Sitters, this is not such a big deal. But if you are on the job, holding the orbital sander in your hand and waiting for the motor to gear down, the electronic motor brake will save you some time. Porter Cable states that it reduces spin-down time by 73% - that quite a bit of time savings.

For those of you who don't know what a Sander Sitter is, it is a small round platform that holds your orbital sander while it is gearing down, allowing you to put down the sander immediately after you shut it off. Baxter Creek makes Sanding Sitters in a 5-inch and a 6-inch model. These tools have a rubber pad that cleans the sanding disc which helps extend the life of the sandpaper. They say it makes your sandpaper last 4-5 times longer.

The Sander Sitter is designed to work with all 5-6 inch Random Orbital Disc sanders, whether electric or pneumatic. They include a custom support arm which allows the sander sitter to accommodate right angle or barrel grip sanders.

So back to the PorterCable 390. The 390 Orbital Sander has a variable-speed motor that spins from 7,000 - 12,000 OPM with a 3/32 inch orbit diameter. The 390 also features a mechanical pad brake which reduces free-spin to virtually eliminate gouging.

Porter Cable's 390 also comes with a dust collection cannister on the back of the sanders handle. Or you can connect a 1 or 1-1/2 inch vacuum hose to the sander for more efficient dust collection. For a hands-on review of the PorterCable 390, click here for ToolsoftheTrade.net.