How Metal Detectors Work
A metal detector is an important piece of equipment for many people who enjoy hunting for treasures. It can also be an invaluable aid to law enforcement officers in tracking down criminals who might be hiding in plain sight. However, it is not all fun and games. There are some things to consider before you purchase your first metal detector.
Discrimination feature
Discrimination is a feature of most modern metal detectors. This feature allows you to filter out certain objects while still allowing you to scan through a wide range of targets. You may decide to use discrimination to avoid junk metals, while keeping an eye out for valuable finds. However, this can also affect the efficiency of your search.
There are several types of discrimination. Generally, the basic type of discrimination uses a dial to select the segment of the target ID that you want to look at. The dial can be adjusted to increase or decrease the amount of discrimination you use.
It is a good idea to learn your device’s language, which includes its controls and settings. A good place to start is the manual. Learning what your device is capable of and the features that are available will help you get the most out of your search.
Notching feature
There are a few different types of metal detectors and some have a notching feature that will help you find buried treasure. Some of the best ones have a custom function that allows you to create your own custom search profile.
One of the features that makes a metal detector more versatile is its ability to discriminate between different kinds of metals. You’ll be able to filter out items that are junk while allowing the good stuff to pass through.
For example, some detectors have an iron identification LED that will light up when a metal item passes through it. This is especially useful in deeper waters, as it will give you an advantage over other metal detectors.
Some other features you may find are adjustable sensitivity and a depth scale. These allow you to increase the sensitivity of your detector while still keeping it within your budget.
Pulse induction
Pulse induction in metal detectors is a technique that sends strong, short pulses of current through a coil of wire. Upon passing through an object, this current induces eddy currents in the nearby metals. These eddy currents form a complete circuit that creates a magnetic field.
When the current in the coil decays, the magnetic field it created collapses. This causes a brief electric shock. An analog or digital comparator detects the length of the pulse. The resulting pulse lasts about thirty microseconds. A small echoe of the signal is added to the reflected pulse, which is then processed by the metal detector circuit.
In pulse induction metal detectors, this process is repeated over and over until the reflected pulse is completely dissipated. Depending on the type of metal the detector is used on, the reflected pulse can last longer or shorter.
Interference with metal detectors
The best metal detectors for coin shooting have some pretty cool features. These include the FastGrab technology which will cancel out interference from ground mineralization. Another cool thing about this detector is its easy to use interface. It also has a nice battery life.
There are many things that can interfere with a metal detector. For example, your cell phone can emit electromagnetic fields which will interfere with the detection device.
If you’re going to metal detect, you should be aware of the surrounding area, and make sure to take a map. You should also check out the surroundings, as well as the ground, for any objects that might interfere with your metal detector.
One cool feature of a metal detector is the ability to find buried coins. This is particularly useful in areas where old junk is common. Mining camps are a great place to look for this. Many times, these old places will have abandoned equipment and relics.
Illegal metal detecting
Illegal metal detecting is a crime in which historic artifacts are dug up and then sold or stolen. Many cities and states have laws that restrict the use of these devices.
If you are using a metal detector in a restricted area, you must first seek the permission of the land owner. Several federal lands, including National Forests, are not permitted to use metal detectors.
In addition, a person must obey the law regarding the removal of human remains and other protected sites. Also, if a person finds an object of historical significance, he or she must report it to the proper authorities.
Some areas may have additional protections that can help you obtain permission to use a metal detector. For example, in some parts of Europe, the Portable Antiquities Scheme provides guidance for landowners.