Frequency
The characteristics of the installed coil determine the operating frequency of the metal detector. See "Detection frequency" for more details.
Number of coils
The number of coils provided in the scope of delivery of the metal detector.
Emitter-coils are used in metal detectors with all operating principles (see above), except for RF (frames are more justified for them). Also note that, unlike the frames, such emitters are installed only one at a time, and even a paired DD type emitter (see "Coil type") is considered one coil. So if there are several coils in the kit, this means that they are interchangeable. Such a complete set is convenient in that it allows you to choose a working nozzle depending on the specifics of the situation. For example, for the initial search, you can use a large coil, with low accuracy and wide coverage; and having found something interesting, you can put a "sniper" attachment and determine the exact location of the find. However, the features of such a configuration may be different, interchangeable coils may have a specialization in metals, soil types, etc., and it's ok to clarify their features separately before buying.
Also note that some models may not be equipped with coils at all. On the one hand, this means additional efforts to select and purchase these parts, on the other hand, it allows you to choose them yourself according to your own requirements, without relying on the manufacturer's decisions. This option is useful for advanced "treasure hunters".
Number of detection frequencies
The number of individual operating frequencies at which the metal detector can operate. For more on the frequencies themselves, see "Detection Frequency" below; here we note that the more options (
3 frequencies and more) are provided in the design, the wider the capabilities of the metal detector, the easier it is to adjust it to the specifics of the objects being searched and the environment. However, most models have
one frequency.
Detection frequency
The operating frequency (or frequency range) of the metal detector. This is one of the most important parameters when choosing a device, because the optimal frequency for different cases will be different — depending on the size and material of the items being searched, the characteristics of the soil and other factors. Detailed recommendations on the choice of frequency for each specific situation can be found in special sources; And already on the basis of this information, it is worth choosing a specific model.
Note that the actual frequency at which the metal detector will operate also depends on the installed coil — they are usually made for a specific frequency. Therefore, to use the full capabilities of the device with the ability to adjust this parameter, you may need replaceable coils.
Functions
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Pin-Point mode(target designation). Possibility of operating the device in the so-called static mode, when the detection accuracy increases significantly (due to a decrease in range and discrimination ability). Note that this function is not found in pinpointers (see “Type”), despite the similarity of names - such devices are very accurate and without special modes. And among classic mine detectors, the Pin-Point mode is used only in models operating on the VLF or VFLEX principle (see above) - for other operating principles this function is, for one reason or another, irrelevant. Be that as it may, this feature can be very useful in accurately searching for small objects. The fact is that a classic VLF/VFLEX metal detector is able to “see” objects only if the coil moves above the ground - this simplifies discrimination, but noticeably reduces accuracy. In static mode, the device operates even in a stationary position, and the coil can be moved very slowly, which significantly increases the search accuracy.
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Setting sensitivity. Ability to change the sensitivity of the metal detector. High sensitivity makes it possible to search at great depths, but at the same time reduces resistance to interference, increases the likelihood of false positives and does not allow you to accurately determine the location of individual finds in places where signals are densely located (the device reacts to a
...group of objects as a whole and cannot identify separate). Yes, and ground balancing (see above) is also connected. and with sensitivity. Therefore, this parameter is very important for setting up the metal detector for a specific situation.
— Threshold tone. The threshold tone is a low, monochromatic hum that the metal detector’s speaker or headphones emit in “neutral” mode, when there are no alarms. This feature has several uses. So, the tone can serve as an indicator that the device is turned on and working normally; This is especially true for models not equipped with displays. The pitch of the sound may change when the characteristics of the surface under the coil change - for example, when moving to soil with a different level of mineralization, or when detecting objects that “do not reach” the response threshold due to their small size or deep location; experienced users know how to use these tone changes for work purposes.
— Detuning from electrical interference. The presence of this function in the metal detector allows you to neutralize the influence of electromagnetic interference and prevent both “blurring” of the signal and false alarms. Such interference can occur for various reasons: from the proximity of power lines, radio transmitters or locators, when working near vehicles with running engines or near other metal detectors, etc.
— Tone identification. This function assumes that the metal detector, when triggered, emits signals of different heights - depending on the expected material and size of the find, its depth, etc. This feature is especially important for models that do not have a display. Tone identification requires some getting used to, but usually even inexperienced users do not have problems with it.
— VDI / Target ID identification. Metal detector function that helps to more accurately determine the type of metal. It is based on the display on the display of a numerical value inherent in a certain class of metal. Thanks to the table, you can significantly narrow the range of possible detected objects.
— Determination of target depth. A device function that helps determine the depth of the desired target. It is based on displaying on the display the numerical value of certain units of length measurement or highlighting segments of the depth scale.
— Vibration response. The presence of a vibration response system in the design of the metal detector. This system allows the device to send a signal by vibration of the case (similar to how this happens, for example, in mobile phones). In some cases, such a signal may be more convenient and appropriate than sound or visual indication. For example, when using a ground metal detector, the vibration of the device in your hand will almost unmistakably indicate that it has triggered, while the sound may be “lost” in the surrounding noise, and the visual indicator may be out of sight at the right moment. And in an inspection pinpointer (see “Type”), the vibration response can also be useful as a “silent warning” - so that the signal is not audible to the subject being inspected and at the same time reliably warns the operator.
— Volume adjustment. The presence in the design of a regulator that allows you to change the volume of the sound signal from speakers or headphones. Such a regulator can be located on the control unit, on the handle, on the headphones, etc.; however, in all cases its operating principle and purpose are the same.
— Low battery indicator. The metal detector has an alarm system that warns of low battery levels. This function informs you in advance about the need to take care of a fresh power source and prevents situations where the battery unexpectedly “dies” at the most inopportune moment. Note that the specific implementation of the indicator may vary: the signal can be visual or audio, and in some models, data on the battery status is displayed only upon the user’s command.
