Understand how a metal detector works to discover better.

If you are new to metal detecting or have just acquired your first device, this question is undoubtedly the first one that comes to mind. At first glance, using a detector may seem simple: you turn it on, sweep it over the ground, and it beeps when it finds something. But behind this apparent ease lie several essential concepts that are important to understand in order to progress, avoid beginner errors, and maximize your finds.

The metal detector is much more than just a gadget. It is a sophisticated device that analyzes the conductivity of buried objects to produce a sound or visual signal. To get the most out of it, you need to learn how to interpret these signals, finely adjust the sensitivity, use discrimination strategically, and understand the influence of the ground on performance.In this article, we will go over all the basics you need to know to understand how to operate it.

Understand how a metal detector works to discover better.

In this article, we will review all the basics to understand how a metal detector works. Whether you are a beginner or already passionate about prospecting, these concepts will help you improve your efficiency in the field and avoid the most common pitfalls.

Using a metal detector does not require any experience or technical knowledge. However, understanding how it works is the key to progressing and maximizing your finds.

1. Understanding what a detector can (or cannot)

A metal detector does not distinguish between metals. In reality, it reacts to the conductivity of objects. This means it can detect a wide variety of metal targets, whether it’s a gold piece of jewelry, an ancient coin, or simple waste like a shotgun shell.

Myth to debunk: No, there is no detector that can target only gold or silver. What makes the detector beep is the conductivity of the target, not the nature of the metal.

2. The essential role of the discriminator

The discriminator is a sorting function that allows you to ignore certain ranges of conductivity, especially small ferrous objects like rusty nails or metal fragments.

The higher the discrimination, the more targets you exclude (at the risk of missing good finds). The less you discriminate, the more signals you accept, even the weakest ones (which can increase the waste rate). Example: By trying to eliminate a shotgun shell, you might also ignore a gold ring, as it shares a similar conductivity.

Tip: Set your discriminator just enough to exclude small ferrous items, and nothing else.

3. Sensitivity: how far can your detector go

Sensitivity is the emission power of the detector. It affects the detection depth and the stability of the device.

High sensitivity = more depth, but more risk of interference (power lines, mineralization, etc.).

Low sensitivity = more stable device, but less depth. Always set your sensitivity to maximum stability. In complex terrain (black sand, mineralized soils, etc.), decrease it slightly to avoid false signals.

Information about metal detectors-excellence-frequency-sensitivity-detector coils

4. The conductivity index: a valuable analysis tool

Most modern detectors display a conductivity index ranging from 0 to 99. This number represents the electromagnetic signature of a target.0 to 20: weakly conductive objects (nails, rusty iron) 60 to 90: valuable targets or modern coins (jewelry, coins) Remember: This number is not absolute. It varies according to:- the depth of the target- its size- its orientation in the soilNever rely solely on the index. Trust your ear.

5. Notch: intelligent filtering

The Notch allows you to reject a specific range of conductivity, without affecting others.? Concrete example: You are at the beach and you find many beer caps. You can Notch the conductivity of these caps to no longer hear them.But be careful: just like discrimination, the Notch can make you miss interesting targets if used incorrectly.

6. Ground effects: the invisible enemy

Ground effects are due to the natural mineralization of the soil. They cause background signals, reducing the power and accuracy of the detector.Two types of settings:

Automatic: simpler, but less accurate.

Manual: requires experience, but allows you to optimize performance, especially in difficult terrain (volcanic, ferruginous, etc.).

Always calibrate your device before each outing, especially if the ground changes its nature.

7. Maintenance of your detector: the right gestures

Your detector is sturdy, but a few simple actions can extend its lifespan:

Use a disk protector and rain protection.

Regularly clean under the disk protector.

Check the wiring of the disk, without tension on the connectors.

Remove the batteries if you are not using your device for several weeks.

Store your detector in a dry place, away from heat.

8. Which frequency to choose? Each frequency has its advantages:

Frequency Type Range Use

Low frequency 4 to 8 kHz Excellent depth, ideal for large targets in clean ground

High frequency 10 to 20 kHz More sensitive, ideal for small targets and mineralized soils

Very high frequency 20 to 100 kHz Specialized for very fine/low conductivity targets, expert use

A multi-frequency detector allows adapting to all types of terrains and targets without compromise!

9. Mono-tone or multi-tone?

Mono-tone: A single sound for all targets. Less information but easier to read.

Multi-tone: Different sounds based on the nature and conductivity of the target. Useful for refining analysis and quickly recognizing good targets. Modern multi-tone detectors offer better auditory discrimination.

Understanding to better detect

Mastering your detector means understanding the logic of conductivity, knowing how to adjust its settings, and interpreting the sound and visual signals. The more time you spend with your device, the more you will develop your prospecting intuition.

This is only the beginning of your adventure. Learn to listen to your detector… and the treasures of the past will respond to you.

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