An adapter for a power tool powered by a detachable battery pack includes a connector for directly connecting the adapter only to the power tool in a detachable manner, a controller, at least one memory and/or storage device in communication with the controller, and at least one communication port configured to transmit electrical communications from the adapter controller to a controller located in the power tool and vice versa. The adapter is further configured such that, when a battery pack, which also includes a controller, is connected to the power tool, a communication path is established from the battery pack controller to the adapter controller via the power tool controller.