Fisher Pro-tech User manual

PRO-TECH Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting
Professional Metal Detector
For the Archaeologist
USER’S MANUAL
ACCESSORIES
Fisher®Padded Carry Bag
Rugged double-stitched construction. Includes
handy exterior pocket for extra batteries or
small accessories. 103693000C
Fisher®Camo Pouch
Camo pouch with two inside pockets, belt
included. – PCH-F
Stereo Headphones
Use with Fisher metal detectors. Lightweight
and adjustable with true stereo sound, dual
adjustable volume, 1/4" jack with 1/8" adaptor,
4' cable. 9720950000
esche Knife
Made from high quality heat-treated tempered
steel. The ultimate digging tool. Comes with a
durable sheath. 12" in length with a 7" serrated
blade. LESCHE KNIFE
Coil Covers
Specially made to protect your coil from
abrasion and damage.
11” DD Ellipse, Accessory Coil Cover - COVE -11DD
10” DD Ellipse, Accessory Coil Cover - 2023190000
5” DD Ellipse, Accessory Coil Cover - 5COVE -BLK
Replacement/Accessory
Searchcoils
11” DD Ellipse, Open Coil - 11COIL-GB
10” DD Ellipse, Closed Coil -10COILDD-GB
5” DD Round, Closed Coil - 5COIL-GBUG
Face Rain Cover
Specially made to protect your PRO-TECH
control box from weather and dirt -
AINCOV-GB
Fisher®T-Shirt
100% white cotton with Fisher®Logo.
Sizes -S, M, LG, XL & XXL
FTSHI T (specify size)
Fisher®Baseball Cap
One size fits all. FCAP
MPROTECH Rev.5 012815
FOR COMP ETE DETAI S VISIT WWW.FISHER AB.COM • 1-800-685-5050
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Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting PRO-TECH
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PRO-TECH Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting
If you do not have prior experience
with a metal detector, we strongly
recommend that you:
1) Adjust the Gain to a low setting in the event
of false signals. Always begin use at a
reduced Gain level; increase Gain only after
you have become familiar with the detector.
2) Do not use indoors. This detector is for
outdoor use only. Many household
appliances emit electromagnetic energy,
which can interfere with the detector. If
conducting an indoor demonstration, turn the
Gain down and keep the searchcoil away
from appliances such as computers,
televisions and microwave ovens. If your
detector beeps erratically, turn off appliances
and lights.
Also keep the searchcoil away from objects
containing metal, such as floors and walls.
3) Use a 9-volt ALKALINE battery only.
Do not use Heavy Duty Batteries.
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Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting PRO-TECH
Tabl of Cont nts
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-7
Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Quick-Start Demo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-10
Headphones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Basics Of Metal Detecting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-12
Ground Minerals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Trash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Identifying Buried Objects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Size and Depth of Buried Objects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Electromagnetic Interference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Operation and Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Control Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Control Knobs
Off / On / Gain / Disc / All Metal / Threshold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Touchpad Controls
GG / Pinpoint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
+ and - . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Operating in All Metal Mode
Ground Grab®(GG) Computerized Ground Balancing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Setting the Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Unwanted Noise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Sweeping the Searchcoil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Reading the Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Target Scale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Operating in Discrimination Mode
Ground Grab®(GG) Computerized Ground Balancing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17-18
Setting the Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Gain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Disc Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Unwanted Noise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Sweeping the Searchcoil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Using Pinpoint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Reading the Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19-21
Ground Balancing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22-24
Ground Balancing Technical Info . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Target Display & Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Hot Rocks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Electrical Interference (EMI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27-29
Search Techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Target Pinpointing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
Device Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Back Cover
34
PRO-TECH Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting
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Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting PRO-TECH
4
PRO-TECH Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting
Introduction to th PRO-TECH
The PRO-TECH is a professional grade metal detector, designed specifically for
the Archaeological professional. It comes equipped with a carry case and
everything you will need on the dig site.
This manual has been written to help you get optimal use of your detector, so we
hope you will read it thoroughly before your first outing and will also refer back to
this manual from time to time to reinforce features and methods as you become
more proficient in the field.
The new PRO-TECH is unique among professional metal detectors for its
combination of high sensitivity to small targets and its versatile function as an all-
purpose metal detector. It is lightweight, very easy to use, and the single 9V
batter will give up to 20 hours of continuous use.
The controls and features are tailored to Archeology including a sophisticated
ground balancing system, separate control over signal gain and threshold, and a
unique discrimination control system. With an on-screen Ground Phase readout
it is possible to notice extreme shifts in mineralization which could indicate a
location where a fire destroyed a wooden structure.
5-Y ar Limit d Warranty
Register your warranty on-line for a chance to win a
FREE DETECTOR.
For details, visit www.fisherlab.com
The PRO-TECH metal detector is warranted against defects in materials
and workmanship under normal use for five years from the date of purchase
to the original owner.
Damage due to neglect, accidental damage or misuse of this product is not
covered under this warranty. Decisions regarding abuse or misuse of the
detector are made solely at the discretion of the manufacturer.
Proof of Purchase is required to make a claim under this warranty.
Liability under this Warranty is limited to replacing or repairing, at our
option, the metal detector returned, shipping cost prepaid, to Fisher Labs.
Shipping cost to Fisher Labs is the responsibility of the consumer.
To return your detector for service, please first contact Fisher Labs for a
Return Authorization (RA) Number. Reference the RA number on your
package and return the detector within 15 days of calling to:
Fisher Research abs, Inc.
1465 Henry Brennan Dr.
El Paso, TX 79936
Phone: [phone] ext.118
Fax: [phone]
Warranty coverage does not include the cost of transporting the detector back to an
owner who is located outside of the United States of America.
NOTE TO CUSTOMERS OUTSIDE THE U.S.A.
This warranty may vary in other countries, check with your distributor for details.
Warranty does not cover shipping costs.
According to FCC part 15.21 Changes or Modifications made to this device not expressly approved by the party
responsible for compliance could void the users authority to operate this equipment.
This device complies with the FCC Part 15 Subpart B Section 15.109 Class B.
Copyright© 2014 by Fisher Research Labs, Inc.
All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce this book, or parts thereof, in any form.
Published by Fisher Research Labs, Inc.
Fisher®is a registered trademark of Fisher Research Labs, Inc.
www.fisherlab.com
1465 Henry Brennan Dr., El Paso, TX 79936 • [phone]
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Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting PRO-TECH
TERMINOLOGY
The following terms are used throughout the manual, and are standard terminology
in regard to professional metal detectors.
Elimination
Reference to a metal being "eliminated" means that the detector will not emit a
tone, nor light up an indicator, when a specified object passes through the
searchcoil's detection field.
Discrimination
When the detector emits different tones for different types of metals, and when
the detector "eliminates" certain metals, we refer to this as the detector
"discriminating" among different types of metals.
Discrimination is an essential feature of professional metal detectors.
Discrimination allows the user to ignore trash and other undesirable objects.
Iron
Iron is a common, low-grade metal that may be an undesirable target in certain
metal detecting applications. Examples of undesirable iron objects are old cans,
pipes, bolts and nails. In most Dig Site situations, you will want to recover all of
the metal targets, including the iron.
Ferrous
Metals which are made of, or contain, iron.
Pinpointing
Pinpointing is the process of finding the exact location of a buried object. Long-
buried metals can appear to the eye exactly like the surrounding soil, and can
therefore be very hard to isolate from the soil.
V.C.O.
Meaning "voltage controlled oscillator," the V.C.O. audio method causes both the
audio pitch and the volume to rise as signal strength increases. V.C.O. improves
the user's ability to interpret a target's size and depth. Very weak signals (for
small or very deeply buried objects) have the faintest volume and the lowest
pitch. Larger objects, and those closer to the searchcoil, will create a higher
volume and higher pitch sound.
Ground Balance
Ground Balancing is the ability of the detector to ignore, or "see through" the
earth's naturally occurring minerals, and only sound a tone when a metal object
is detected. The PRO-TECH incorporates proprietary circuitry and programming
to eliminate false signals from severe ground conditions.
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PRO-TECH Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting
PRO-TECH SPECIFICATIONS
Mechanical: S-rod with electronics housing on rod, 3-piece breakdown construction,
nonmetallic telescoping lower rod, adjustable position armrest
Weight: 2 lbs, 8 oz (with battery installed)
Standard searchcoil: 10-inch widescan searchcoil
Optional searchcoils: 5-inch widescan searchcoil
11-inch widescan searchcoil
Batteries: Single 9 volt rectangular alkaline battery (included)
Operating principle: VLF induction balance
Operating frequency: 19 kHz, crystal controlled
Reactive overload: 10,000 micro-cgs (with standard searchcoil)
Resistive overload: 1,200 micro-cgs (with standard searchcoil)
Ground balance range: From ferrite to salt water inclusive
Discrimination ground suppression: Combination of 2nd and 3rd order methods
Target-ID ground suppression: 3rd order
Battery life: 15+ hours on good quality alkaline
Operating temp range: 14 to 122 degrees F (-10 to +50 C)
Operating humidity range: 0 - 90% noncondensing
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Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting PRO-TECH
TARGET PINPOINTING
After you have identified a target using Discrimination Mode,
press-and-hold the PINPOINT button to identify the target's exact location. This
technique can yield more information about the target's shape and size and also find
its exact location to facilitate extraction.
Pinpoint as follows:
1. Position the searchcoil just barely off the ground, and to the side of the target.
2. Now move the searchcoil slowly across the target; you can locate it by the
sound. The target is located directly under where the sound is loudest.
Narrow It Down:
1. To narrow the response further, position the center of the searchcoil near the
center of the response pattern, but not directly over the center.
2. Release the PINPOINT button.
3. Press-and-hold PINPOINT button again.
4. Repeat this narrowing procedure to narrow the field of detection further.
Note: Depth indication is less accurate
after narrowing.
SEARCHCOI DRIFT
If you plan to use the
PINPOINT Mode for
continuous searching, realize
that drift will occur over time,
causing the detector to gain or
lose sensitivity. Periodic
retuning of the detector is
required to minimize drift;
release and press PINPOINT
again to retune.
6
ASSEMBLY
Adjusting the Armrest
The armrest may be moved forward or
backward by removing the single screw
and nut, and then repositioning the 2-piece
armrest. Users with shorter arms may find
the armrest more comfortable in the
forward position. In order to move the
armrest backward, the plastic plug must be
removed from the aluminum tube.
Armrest Strap
The PRO-TECH comes with an armrest
strap for users who prefer to swing the
detector vigorously, in order to hold the
detector securely against the arm.
The detector can always be used without
the strap, with no compromise to detector
balance and stability under most
conditions.
Searchcoil
Battery
Compartment
(back side)
Hand-grip
Nut
Screw
1/4”
Headphone
Jack
Searchcoil
Cable
Locking
Collar
Locking
Collar
Upper
Stem
Cable
Plug
S-Rod
Armrest
Velcro
Strap
Velcro
Strap
1/4”
H d h
Arm Strap
Arm Strap
PRO-TECH Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting
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Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting PRO-TECH
ASSEMBLY
●
1Position S-Rod upright.
●
2Rotate the LOCKING COLLAR fully in the counterclockwise direction.
●
3Insert your finger inside the tube and make sure the INTERNAL CAM LOCK is flush
with the inside of the tube.
●
4 Insert the MIDDLE STEM into the S-ROD,
with the SILVER BUTTON pointed upward
●
5Rotate the MIDDLE STEM until the SILVER
BUTTON locates in the hole.
●
6Twist the LOCKING COLLAR fully in the clockwise
direction until it locks.
●
7Repeat this process on the LOWER STEM.
●
8Using the BOLT and KNURLED KNOB, attach the
SEARCHCOIL to the LOWER STEM.
●
9 Adjust the LOWER STEM to a length that lets you
maintain a comfortable upright posture, with your arm
relaxed at your side, and the SEARCHCOIL parallel
to the ground in front of you.
●
10 Wind the CABLE securely around the STEMS,
leaving slack at the bottom.
●
11 Connect CABLE PLUG to housing.
Do not twist the Cable or Plug. Turn Locking Ring
only. Use minimal finger pressure to start the
threads. Do not cross-thread. When the Locking
Ring is fully engaged over the threaded connector,
give it a firm turn to make sure that it is very tight.
When the Locking Ring is fully engaged over the
threaded connector, it may not cover all of the
threads.
●
12 Tighten both LOCKING COLLARS.
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PRO-TECH Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting
SEARCH TECHNIQUES
Target Verification
After detecting a target, do the
following:
1. Walk around the target in a circle.
2. While circling the target, continue
sweeping the searchcoil across the
target.
3. Sweep once every 30° or 40° of the
circle.
If the tone does not change and
the Target-ID value is consistent as
you circle the target, you can be
highly confident of the target's
identification.
If the tone or Target-ID changes
as you circle the target, you may
have multiple targets or an
irregularly shaped object.
If the tone completely disappears
at different angles, the target may
be trash or a low-value metal.
If you are new to metal detecting,
dig all targets. With practice in the
field, you will soon be able to
correlate audible and visual target
feedback with certain types of metal objects.
Pinpointing in Discrimination Mode:
1. Sweep over target in narrowing side-to-side pattern.
2. Take visual note of spot on ground where “beep” occurs.
3. Step 90° to the side of the target.
4. Sweep searchcoil over same area, at 90° to 1st sweep pattern.
5. This pinpoints the target location with an “X.”
LOCKING
COLLAR
LOCKING
COLLAR
S-ROD VELCRO
STRAP
VELCRO
STRAP
KNURLED
KNOB
BOLT
LOWER
STEM
SILVER
BUTTON
SILVER
BUTTON
MIDDLE
STEM
CABLE
PLUG
SEARCHCOIL
7
SEARCHCOIL MOVEMENT
When swing ing the searchcoil,
be care ful to keep it level with the
ground about 1/2 inch from the sur -
face. Nev er swing the searchcoil
like a pen du lum.
WRONG
CORRECT
S-ROD
LOCKING
COLLAR
INTERNAL
CAM LOCK
SILVE R BUTTON
MIDDLE
STEM
S-ROD MIDDLE STEM
●
2
●
3
●
4
●
4
●
5
*Note: Very tall users can purchase the optional Extended Lower Stem (TUBE5X), for extended reach.
Caution: Forcing in MIDDLE STEM with CAM LOCK raised may form a burr on
camlock. If this happens, remove burr with knife to allow insertion.
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Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting PRO-TECH
El ctrical Int rf r nc (EMI) (continu d)
If you are conducting an indoor demonstration, you may find that changing the
orientation of the searchcoil will reduce the pickup of electrical interference.
If you carry a cell phone or other high-tech electronic equipment while metal
detecting and you encounter electrical interference, try turning the device off and see
if that solves the problem. Turn such devices completely off, not just into standby
mode.
When working near overhead power lines, you may get the best results right under
the power line and the worst results when standing at a 30° to 45° angle to the
power line.
Many sources of electrical interference are intermittent. You may find that an area
which is difficult to search at one time of day may be easier after 5 PM, or on
weekends. Power lines are usually quietest late at night, and on weekend mornings.
Small searchcoils usually pick up less electrical interference than larger searchcoils.
On a site with severe electrical interference, a small searchcoil is often a better
choice than a large one.
Distinguishing electrical interference from other problems
Electrical interference will often vary as you walk around from place to place, and it
will also vary with changes in the orientation of the searchcoil. This is almost never
the case if there is a functional problem with the metal detector itself.
The most common cause of a noisy metal detector, where the problem is not
electrical interference, is a defective searchcoil. If striking the searchcoil with your
hand causes the noise to start or stop, the problem could be a defective searchcoil.
Also, a defective searchcoil often causes noise of a more intermittent nature than
electrical interference.
The second most common cause is a loose searchcoil connector. The noise from a
loose connector will usually be very erratic or intermittent in nature. Try unplugging
the searchcoil and then reconnecting it to ensure the connector is firmly installed.
If you use a searchcoil cover, dirt or water can accumulate inside it, and movement
of those materials can cause false signals while sweeping the searchcoil. Searchcoil
covers must be periodically removed and cleaned.
8
PRO-TECH Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting
BATTERIES
A 3-segment battery indicator at the bottom of the display indicates the battery
condition.
The detector requires a single 9-volt A KA INE battery (included).
Do not use ordinary zinc carbon batteries.
Do not use “Heavy Duty” batteries.
Rechargeable batteries can also be used.
If you wish to use rechargeable batteries, we recommend using a
Nickel Metal Hydride rechargeable battery.
The battery compartment is located on the back side of the housing.
Slide the battery door to the side and remove it to expose the battery compartment.
Battery ife
Expect about 15 to 20 hours of life from a 9-volt alkaline battery.
Rechargeable batteries can provide up to 8 hours of usage per charge.
Speaker Volume and Battery Charge
You may notice the speaker volume drop when only one battery segment is
illuminated.
With one segment flashing, low speaker volume will be very apparent.
Battery Indicator
The 3-segment battery indicator has 4 stages of indication.
These indications are accurate for a 9-volt alkaline battery.
Segments Illuminated Battery Voltage
3 -segments more than 8.4 volts
2 -segments more than 7.5 volts
1 -segment more than 6.8 volts
1 -segment flashing less than 6.8 volts
After the 1st segment begins flashing, expect the detector to shut off within 10
minutes.
A rechargeable battery will usually illuminate two to three segments throughout most
of its useful charge. But as soon as it drains to the 1-segment level, it will then lose
its charge very rapidly.
BATTERY DISPOSA & RECYC ING
Alkaline batteries may be disposed of in a normal waste receptacle or recycled. Non-
Alkaline batteries should be recycled. In the state of California all battery types must
be recycled. Please refer to local municipalities for detailed disposal and recycling
requirements.
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Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting PRO-TECH
QUICK-START DEMONSTRATION
1. Supplies Needed
• a Nail • a U.S. Zinc Penny (dated after 1982)
• a U.S. Nickel • a U.S. Quarter
2. Position the Detector
a. Place the detector on a table, with the
searchcoil hanging over the edge.
Or better, have a friend hold the
detector, with the searchcoil off the
ground.
b. Keep the searchcoil away from walls,
floors and metal objects.
c. Remove watches, rings and jewelry.
d. Turn off lights or appliances, whose
electromagnetic emissions may cause
interference.
e. Pivot the searchcoil back.
3. Click on detector with the left knob. Set the Gain at the 12:00
position for this demonstration.
4. Click the right knob to the left to the DISC setting.
5. a. Wave the nail over the searchcoil.
b. Press + repeatedly, while continuing to wave the nail.
• Notice the change in sound.
• Sound changes from a HIGH tone to V.C.O. tones
(see page 21).
6. Wave each object over the searchcoil
Sweep coin flat and parallel to the searchcoil. This is how you will usually find
them buried.
a. Notice the tones and 2-digit Target-IDs for each object.
b. Motion is required.
Objects must be in motion over the searchcoil to be detected in this mode.
7. Press the +button several more times until the Disc value on the display = 60.
8. Wave the nail over the searchcoil
a. The nail will not be detected
b. The nail has been “discriminated out.”
Quic -Start Demo continued on next page
28
PRO-TECH Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting
El ctrical Int rf r nc (EMI) (continu d)
Common sources of electrical interference
Common sources of electrical interference include: overhead electric power lines,
underground power lines, other metal detectors, telephone lines carrying electronic
data, computer systems, electric fences, old CRT-based televisions, cell phones, CB
and emergency communication radios, thunderstorms, fluorescent lights, metal vapor
lamps, military aircraft with electronic warfare countermeasures turned on, electric
motors, VLF military communications systems and automobile ignition systems. At
home, in a store, or in an urban environment, there may be several different sources
of electrical interference present simultaneously.
All metal detectors generate a certain amount of internal electronic noise. The PRO-
TECH is specifically designed to enable you to work into the noise. Experienced users,
striving for maximum depth, often adjust the machine to search with a constant audible
background sound, and then listen through that noise for the sound of real targets.
Stricter regulations in recent years have cut down on interference from electric light
dimmers and auto ignition systems. However, there has also been a proliferation of
VLF-UHF wireless communication systems (cell phones, Bluetooth, wi-fi, etc.), which
often affect metal detectors. Overall, the potential for electrical interference is greater
than it was just a few years ago.
Modern high-end metal detectors are a lot more sensitive than older units; this also
increases your detector's vulnerability to electrical interference beyond what you may
be accustomed to with an older detector. Metal detectors are by their nature designed
to detect magnetic fields, and electric current always produces magnetic fields.
Coping with electrical interference
The primary reason metal detectors provide a sensitivity (gain and/or threshold)
control, is so that users can reduce sensitivity in order to eliminate response to
electrical interference. Some users are reluctant to reduce sensitivity out of fear of
losing depth. At reduced sensitivity settings, you may lose some depth, but at least
you can still search. The Gain and Threshold nobs control the sensitivity and
are your first line of defense against electrical interference. The Threshold
control only applies to the All Metal Mode.
Electrical interference is usually more controllable in the All Metal Mode than in the
Discrimination Mode.
On the PRO-TECH, setting the discrimination level between 60 and 70 will usually
reduce electrical interference. In the Discrimination Mode, the detector may chatter if
the searchcoil is not in motion, but once you start sweeping it over the ground, the
signal from the ground will usually suppress the electrical interference chatter, except
for an occasional pop or click which will not sound like a real target.
Electrical Interference continued on next page
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HOT ROCKS
A hot rock is a rock which causes the metal detector to sound off because the rock
contains iron minerals. They come in two basic types.
Negative hot rocks (also called cold rocks) are usually magnetite or contain
magnetite, and give a negative response because their ground balance value is
a higher number than the soil they are found in. They tend to be dark in color,
usually black, and usually heavy. In some cases they will have rust stains. They
are usually attracted to a magnet. In All Metal Mode, negative hot rocks
produce a boing sound rather than the zip sound of a metallic target; recognize
the difference and you will learn to ignore them. As the searchcoil passes over a
hot rock, this boing sound, or negative response, is quite distinctive. To hear this
response, you must be properly Ground Balanced and in All Metal Mode with an
audible threshold hum. First, as the center of the searchcoil passes over the
negative hot rock, the detector will go quiet; the threshold hum momentarily
silences. Then, passing beyond the negative hot rock, you hear the boing sound.
As you pass the searchcoil back and forth over a negative hot rock, it will be
impossible to pinpoint and will seem as if it moves around.
Positive hot rocks are iron-bearing rocks which have been oxidized by natural
weathering processes so that their ground balance value is a number lower than
the soil they are found in. They are usually, but not always, drawn to a magnet.
They are most often reddish in color but are often black, brown, or yellow. On
some sites, red clay bricks and rocks which have lined a fireplace or a campfire
will often be hot rocks. The discriminator will usually eliminate them without
difficulty if widely scattered, but if there is a large concentration of them, the
discriminator may not quiet them all. In that case, you can revert to the rule of
thumb -- “don't dig non-repeatable signals.”
El ctrical Int rf r nc (EMI)
You are likely to encounter electrical interference when using your PRO-TECH metal
detector. It is important that you recognize electrical interference and take
appropriate measures to deal with it. This will prevent you from giving up on a site,
or from returning a properly functioning detector for repair.
Symptoms of electrical interference
Electrical interference can cause a metal detector to chatter spontaneously, to lose
sensitivity for no apparent reason, or to cause a periodic wobbly audio sound. What
you hear will depend on what operating mode you are using, the detector's settings,
and the source of the electrical interference. The most common manifestation is
spontaneous chatter.
All metal detectors are susceptible to electrical interference, but they vary in what
kinds of electrical interference affect them. In a given environment some metal
detectors may be affected by electrical interference whereas others may not.
Electrical Interference continued on next page
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PRO-TECH Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting
QUICK-START DEMONSTRATION (continu d)
9. Press-and-hold Pin Point and hold the nickel over the searchcoil
a. Notice that motion is not required.
A motionless object induces a hum.
b. Notice the variable pitch & volume hum.
c. Move the nickel closer to and farther away from the searchcoil.
Notice the changing “depth” values.
10. Click the mode knob to the right
The detector is now in the ALL METAL Mode
a. Keep GAIN set at the 12:00 position
b. Rotate the THRESHOLD knob slowly from the far counterclockwise position
to the full clockwise position.
Notice these attributes of the THRESHOLD control, with no metal over the
searchcoil.
i. at low settings you will hear no sound
ii. at mid-scale, there will be a transition point from no sound to a barely
audible, choppy sound.
iii. at full scale you will hear a loud, constant tone. It may also have an
irregular or choppy sound, as a result of electromagnetic interference
emitted from other electrical devices.
Us with h adphon s
The PRO-TECH is equipped with a 1/4” headphone jack. Any headphones with a
stereo plug will work; headphones with a mono plug will not work. Using
headphones extends battery life, and also prevents the sounds from bothersome
bystanders. It also allows you to hear subtle changes in the sound more clearly,
particularly if searching in a noisy location. For safety reasons, do not use
headphones near traffic or where other dangers, like rattlesnakes, are present.
This device is to be used with interconnecting cables/headphone cables shorter
than three meters. Fisher stereo headphones are included with your Pro-Tech
Metal Detector.
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THE BASICS OF METAL DETECTING
A professional metal detector is intended for locating buried metal objects. When
searching for metals, underground or on the surface, you have the following
challenges and objectives:
1. Ignoring signals caused by ground minerals.
2. Ignoring signals caused by metal objects that you do not want to find.
3. Identifying a buried metal object before you dig it up.
4. Estimating the size and depth of objects to facilitate digging them up.
5. Eliminating the effects of electromagnetic interference from other electronic
devices.
Your PRO-TECH metal detector is designed with these things in mind.
1. Gr und Minerals
All soils contain minerals. Signals from ground minerals can interfere with the
signals from metal objects you want to find. All soils differ, and can differ greatly,
in the type and amount of ground minerals present. You therefore want to
calibrate the detector to the specific ground conditions where you are hunting.
The detector incorporates both automated and manual ground balancing
features which will eliminate false signals from most types of soils. To maximize
the detector's target identification accuracy and depth of detection, use the
GROUND GRAB®(GG) Computerized Ground Balancing function to calibrate
the detector to the ground where you are searching. See the section on
GROUND BALANCING for details.
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PRO-TECH Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting
SIGNA Indicator
The lower-left bar graph designates
SIGNAL strength only when operating in
Discrimination Mode.
The signal strength indicator at the bottom-
left of the screen indicates how large or
close the buried metal target is.
If all bars are illuminated, the target is large
or close to the searchcoil.
If one or two bars are illuminated, the
target is far away or small, or both.
DEPTH Indicator
When operating in Discrimination Mode, a
target's location and size can be verified
using the PINPOINT control.
Press PinPoint to temporarily detect metal
without searchcoil motion, and a monotone
hum.
While holding the PinPoint button, the
DEPTH indicator will appear. The number
beneath DEPTH represents the distance of
the object, in inches, from the searchcoil.
The Depth scale is calibrated to coin-sized
objects. For objects other than a coin, the
numeric value is a relative measure of the
target's depth.
AUDIO FEEDBACK
When a target is detected, the PRO-TECH
will respond with two types of sound:
1. V.C.O. (Voltage Controlled Oscillator),
is an audio response with variable
pitch and volume.
2. A LOW tone beep.
In Discrimination Mode, targets which fall
into the zone along the arc whose segments
are shaded will be identified with a LOW
tone beep and solid segments with a V.C.O.
As the user sets the discrimination level
with the + and - buttons, he is determining
which targets will induce the low tone, and
which will be eliminated.
All targets' audio responses in All Metal
Mode will be V.C.O.
V.C.O. (Voltage Controlled Oscillator), is an
audio response which provides a good feel
for the target.
The stronger the target signal, the higher
the volume and the higher the audio
pitch.
Very weak signals will have the faintest
volume and lowest pitch.
For this reason, the use of headphones
is always recommended for detecting the
smaller and deeper targets.
2-DIGIT TARGET INDICATOR
In Discrimination Mode the 2-digit target
indicator, in the middle of the screen,
provides a specific target value to help
identify buried targets more accurately.
With practice in the field, you will learn to
associate target values with the probable
identification of buried objects. The target
value can vary each time the searchcoil
passes over the target, depending upon the
orientation of the object and its distance
from the searchcoil.
As a starting point, refer to the table below.
TARGET Readout
The table below lists some common
approximate target values. With
experience in the field, you will
recognize many types of metal objects
by their numeric value.
OBJECT TARGET-ID
foil from gum wrapper 47 - 48
U.S. nickel (5¢ coin) typically 58
aluminum pull-tab 60 - 75
aluminum screw cap 70 - 80
zinc penny (dated after 1982) typically 78
aluminum soda pop can 75 - 85
copper penny, clad dime typically 83
U.S. quarter (25¢ coin), clad typically 85
50¢ coin, modern clad typically 87
old silver dollar coin typically 89
US silver Eagle $1 coin typically 91
Caution: The target indications are
visual references. Many other types of
metal can also be represented by a given
Target-ID.
TARGET DISPLAY and AUDIO
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Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting PRO-TECH
GROUND BALANCING - T chnical Info
Fe3O4BAR GRAPH
The Fe3O47-segment bar graph indicates the amount of ground mineralization,
independent of type, expressed as an equivalent volume concentration of magnetite
(Fe3O4). It updates every second. It is sensitive to motion and will give the most
accurate readings if you pump the searchcoil up and down several times over the
ground. The presence of metal or “hot rocks” will cause the readings to be
inaccurate. If you stop moving the searchcoil, the bar graph will go blank.
INDICATION RE ATIVE % Fe3O4SUSCEPTIBI ITY
MINERA IZATION
7 Bars High over 1 over 2500
2 to 6 Bars Medium .026 - 1.0 61 - 2,500
1 Bar Very Low 0.006 - .025 15 - 60
none -- less than .006 less than 15
Magnetic susceptibility is expressed in micro-cgs units. In a saltwater environment in
the absence of iron minerals, the bar graph indicates relative electrical conductivity.
In soils with greater than 10,000 micro-cgs units magnetic susceptibility, the signal
from the soil may saturate, or overload, the circuitry. This will not harm the detector
but the machine will not be usable in that condition. The solution is to hold the
searchcoil several inches above the soil surface so it is not “seeing as much dirt.” By
listening and watching you will know how high you need to hold the searchcoil in
order to avoid overload.
The highest magnetic susceptibilities are usually found in soils developed over
igneous rocks, in alluvial black sand streaks on beaches and in red clay soils of
humid climates.
The lowest magnetic susceptibilities are usually found in white beach sands of
tropical and subtropical regions, and soils developed over limestone.
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PRO-TECH Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting
THE BASICS OF METAL DETECTING (continu d)
2. Trash
Modern trash is prevalent everywhere and you may wish to learn the Target-ID
readings for common items such as pop tops and aluminum cans. Modern trash
is also usually on or near the surface so depth indication may also give you
clues to potential Target-ID.
3. Identifying Buried Objects
Different types of metals are classified along the arc at the top of the screen on
a 0-100 scale from left to right. A 2-digit numerical reading is also provided in
the middle of the display for more precise Target Identification in Discrimination
Mode.
4. Size and Depth of Buried Objects
When using the detector in the motion DISC Mode, the relative depth of an
object is displayed to the left of the display over the SIGNAL strength indicator.
A more accurate depth reading is available using PINPOINT. Pinpoint displays
target depth, in inches. The Pinpoint Mode does not require the searchcoil to be
in motion to detect metals. The ability to hold the searchcoil motionless over the
target also aids in tracing an outline of the buried object, or in pinpointing the
exact location of the object using techniques described in the pinpointing section
of this manual.
5. Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)
Electrical interference (EMI) can cause a metal detector to chatter
spontaneously, to lose sensitivity for no apparent reason or to cause a periodic
wobbly audio sound. Common sources of electrical interference include power
lines, electronic communication equipment such as cellphones, fluorescent
lamps, military electronics such as radar, other metal detectors and computer
equipment.
Your first line of defense against EMI is to reduce the Gain and/or Threshold. In
areas with heavy EMI, operating at reduced sensitivity levels will result in the
loss of some depth, but at least the metal detector will be usable.
See the section on Electrical Interference for a more thorough explanation of
EMI and how to manage it.
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PRO-TECH Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting
GROUND BALANCING (continu d)
The goal of the Ground Balancing procedure is to eliminate the sound as the
searchcoil is being pumped over the ground. In some soils, the sound is not
completely eliminated.
After balancing to ground with GG some users may want to further adjust the ground
balance point manually.
To manually adjust ground balance:
1. Operate in ALL METAL Mode.
2. Pump searchcoil up and down over the ground as in the GG procedure.
3. Press +or -while pumping
If the Ground Balance adjustment is incorrect, there will be a difference in the sound
as the searchcoil is either moving toward or away from the ground. It sounds like
you are either pulling the sound out of the ground, or pushing the sound into
the ground.
• If the sound is louder as you raise the searchcoil, increase the ground
balance setting.
• If the sound is louder as you lower the searchcoil, reduce the ground balance
setting.
NOTE: Experienced users often prefer to adjust the ground balance to get a weak
but audible response when lowering the searchcoil. This is called adjusting for
positive response.
P sitive and Negative Resp nse
The purpose of Ground Balancing is to adjust the metal detector to ignore ground
minerals. If the setting is incorrect, ground minerals will give either a positive or a
negative response, depending on which direction the adjustment is off.
Positive Response
If the GND BAL setting is too high a number, the response of minerals will be
positive. This means that when the searchcoil is lowered to the ground in PinPoint
or All Metal Mode, the sound will get louder as the searchcoil approaches the
ground. The sound will grow quieter as the searchcoil is raised. What, if anything,
you will hear in Discrimination Mode depends on the discrimination setting.
When searching in an All Metal Mode, if ground balance is properly set to cancel the
ground, and you sweep over a positive hot rock, the rock will give a “zip” sound
similar to that of a metal object.
Negative Response
If the GND BAL setting is too low a number, the response of minerals will be
negative. When the searchcoil is lowered to the ground in PinPoint or All Metal
Mode, the machine will be silent. The machine will sound off as the searchcoil is
lifted away from the ground. What, if anything, you hear in Discrimination Mode
depends on the Discrimination setting.
When searching in All Metal Mode a negative hot rock will produce a “boing” sound
after passing over it, making it difficult to know where it is located. It will not have the
sound and “feel” of a metal object.
OPERATION & CONTROLS
POWERING UP
NOTE: Immediately after powering on, your detector's unique 10-digit serial
number is displayed once on the LCD. Two digits are displayed at a time; five 2-
digit numbers are displayed in sequence. This 10-digit serial number is the same
serial number imprinted on the label inside the battery compartment.
Click the left knob to turn the detector ON.
After clicking the knob on, continued clockwise rotation will increase the
“sensitivity” in DISC Mode or the “GAIN” in ALL METAL Mode.
We suggest keeping the GAIN below 70 until you become familiar with the
detector's operation.
• In DISC Mode press -
and - hold to enter
no-motion
PINPOINT Mode
• In ALL METAL Mode
press-and-hold
while bobbing coil,
to set ground
balance
In DISC Mode:
Change discrimination level from 0 to 80
In ALL METAL Mode:
Change Ground Balance
setting from 0 to 99.9
HOW TO WORK
THE CONTROLS
ON/OFF/GAIN:
• Click ON/OFF
• In DISC Mode rotate
to change GAIN
(sensitivity) from
1 to 100
• In ALL METAL Mode
rotate to change
GAIN from 5 to 100
in steps of 5
MODE SELECTION
and THRESHOLD CONTROL
• Click left to operate
in DISCrimination
Mode
• Click to right to
operate in ALL METAL
Mode.
• Rotate knob in
ALL METAL Mode to
change THRESHOLD from
-40 to 40
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Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting PRO-TECH
GROUND BALANCING (continu d)
Understanding ground conditions assists the user in setting up the machine, knowing
when to readjust ground balance and in understanding the responses of the machine
while searching.
This detector displays two kinds of ground data:
1. The type of mineralization (which affects where the ground phase should be
set). This is GND PHASE
2. The amount of mineralization (the greater the amount of mineralization, the
greater the loss of detection depth & ID accuracy; this loss is more
pronounced in Discrimination Mode). This is Fe3O4.
The goal of Ground Balancing is to equate the GND BAL number to the PHASE
number.
PHASE is the measurement of the ground.
GND BAL is the detector's internal setting which calibrates the detector to
the ground's phase.
Notice that the GND BAL number is three digits, with a decimal point. PHASE
has only two digits.
GND BAL is a higher resolution number, so may differ a bit from PHASE in
a perfectly balanced scenario.
After pumping and releasing GG, the exact measurement of the ground will
be transferred to the GND BAL setting.
The two-digit PHASE number displayed on the screen indicates the type of ground
mineralization.
Some typical ground mineralization types are:
0 - 10 Wet salt and alkali
5 - 25 Metallic iron. Very few soils in this range. You are probably over metal.
26-39 Very few soils in this range -- occasionally some saltwater beaches
40-75 Red, yellow and brown iron-bearing clay minerals
75-95 Magnetite and other black iron minerals
Ground Balancing continued on next page
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PRO-TECH Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting
CONTROL PANEL
C ntr l Kn bs:
1. OFF/ON/GAIN
a. Click right to turn on. Click left to turn off.
b. Turning the knob clockwise increases the detector's sensitivity; the higher the
sensitivity, the deeper targets will be detected, and the more likely the detector
will be to detect very small targets.
c. As you turn the knob, notice that the GAIN value at the bottom-right of the
screen displays your current sensitivity setting.
Sensitivity in DISC Mode
The left knob is labeled “GAIN” and in DISCRIMINATION Mode it alone
controls the sensitivity of the detector.
GAIN in A META Mode
In All Metal Mode, GAIN increases as you rotate the knob clockwise.
Threshold is controlled independently using the right knob.
2. DISC / A META / THRESHO D
a. Click knob to the far-left “DISC” position and the detector enters
DISCRIMINATION Mode.
b. Click on clockwise to operate in ALL METAL Mode.
c. In ALL METAL Mode, rotate knob to increase the threshold.
Threshold values range from -40 to +40.
In ALL METAL Mode, the Threshold control can be used in two ways.
Control nobs continued on next page
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Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting PRO-TECH
CONTROL PANEL (continu d)
GAIN versus THRESHO D
“Gain” increases, or multiplies, the strength of signals from buried metal objects.
For maximum detection of the smallest or most deeply buried objects, increase
the Gain. To minimize the weakest signals, reduce the Gain.
“Threshold” controls the detector's audio level. Positive threshold values amplify
the audio response of weak target signals. Negative threshold values suppress
sensitivity.
For searching at maximum sensitivity, first set the gain at a low level. Then set
threshold into the positive region, with a comfortable background-hum volume
level. Then increase Gain to a comfortable level, free of chatter.
For silent searching, set threshold to a negative number, and also reduce Gain if
necessary. Silent searching will result in the loss of some sensitivity.
TOUCHPAD CONTROLS
1. GG / PINPOINT
This button has a dual function, depending on the detection mode.
a. In DISC Mode, press-and-hold the button to activate PINPOINT.
Pinpoint temporarily engages a no-motion detection mode. Searchcoil motion
is not necessary to detect metal. Any metal within the searchcoil's detection
field will induce a sound. Pinpoint is generally used to verify a target
previously detected in Discrimination Mode.
b. In ALL METAL Mode, press-and-hold the button to activate GROUND GRAB®.
Ground Grab®allows you to set the detector's internal ground setting equal to
the phase of the ground you are searching over. See the section on Ground
Balancing for a more thorough explanation of this feature and the reason for
using it.
2. + and -
a. In Discrimination Mode, + and - change the level of discrimination (target
rejection)
b. In All Metal Mode, + and - provide a manual override to the Ground Balance
Setting.
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PRO-TECH Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting
GROUND BALANCING
What is Gr und Balancing?
Why d I need t Gr und Balance?
All soils contain minerals. Signals from ground minerals are often tens
or hundreds of times stronger than a buried metal object. The
magnetism of iron minerals, found in nearly all soils, causes one type
of interfering signal. Dissolved mineral salts, found in some soils, are
electrically conductive, causing another type of interfering signal.
Ground Balancing is the process by which the metal detector
cancels the unwanted signals coming from the ground minerals
while still detecting the signals from buried metal objects. This is
accomplished by matching the detector's ground
balance setting to the phase of the ground signal.
When the detector is calibrated to the soil, the
result will be deeper target detection, quieter
operation and more accurate target identification.
H w t Gr und Balance
y ur detect r:
Ground Balancing procedure with the “GG”
touchpad.
1. Turn the detector on and set GAIN at the 12:00 position.
2. Click on the right knob to the ALL METAL Mode.
3. Rotate the THRESHOLD control knob to the point where you hear a slight
background hum.
4. Sweep searchcoil across the ground to find a clear patch of ground with no
metal present.
5. Press and hold the GG touch pad, and pump coil over the clean ground.
See illustration.
Pump coil from within 1” of ground to 6”- 8” above ground.
6. When the GND PHASE settles down to only 1 or 2 numbers in variation, release
the Gnd Grab button while still pumping the coil. Note that the audio response to
the ground changed and “Evened Out” when you released the button. Also note
that the GND BAL value changed. After balancing, you can hunt in ALL METAL...
or return to Disc Mode.
The most accurate GND PHASE value is the value displayed when “pumping” the
searchcoil over the ground in an area free of metal.
Ground Balancing continued on next page
Pumping coil
to ground
balance with
GG button.
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OPERATING IN DISCRIMINATION MODE (continu d)
Notice the segment status along the arc, and the discrimination parameters they
represent, vary as you adjust the discrimination level with + or -.
For DISC values (at bottom right-hand corner of screen) up to 40:
- Operation is tone discrimination only
• No targets are eliminated from detection
- Target-IDs less than the DISC value induce a LOW tone
• Represented by shaded segments
- Target-IDs greater than the DISC value induce V.C.O. audio
• Represented by solid segments
for DISC values between 41 and 79:
- Targets in the blank segment region are not detected.
- Target-IDs less than the DISC value induce a LOW tone
• Represented by shaded segments
- Target-IDs greater than the DISC value induce V.C.O. audio
• Represented by solid segments
at DISC value = 80:
- All detected targets induce HIGH tones.
• Represented by solid segments
- There are no LOW tones
- No targets under 80 are detected.
Here is an example of one possible setting:
This discrimination interface for the PRO-TECH was designed especially to allow
distinction between small iron targets and large iron targets. Nails are often
undesirable and will give a lower iron reading than larger iron objects. Users can set
the discrimination setting to reject the smaller iron, but still hear the bigger objects.
Target values of 40 or less are ferrous.
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PRO-TECH Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting
Op rating in All M tal Mod
The All Metal Mode is more sensitive than the Discrimination Mode, and is used to
find all types of metal objects in the ground. The searchcoil must be in motion for
objects to be detected.
Gr und Grab®(GG) C mputerized Gr und Balancing
Naturally occurring minerals in soil look like metal to a metal detector, so you want to
cancel out this mineral signal coming from the ground, and only detect the signal
from metal objects in the ground.
So before using your detector, set it in All Metal Mode and perform the automatic
ground balancing procedure. Press-and-hold the GG button while pumping the
searchcoil up and down over the ground. Release the button when the sound evens
out. The GND BAL number on the bottom right of the screen is the detector's internal
setting which cancels out the minerals in the ground. Different soils in different areas
will require different GND BAL settings, so balance to ground before you search.
Refer to the Ground Balancing section (pg.22) of this manual for a more in-depth description.
Setting the C ntr ls
As you adjust any of the controls, notice that the values on the bottom-right of the
display indicate the settings of the value you are changing.
If you are new to metal detecting, start with the GAIN and THRESHOLD controls at a
low enough setting that you do not hear too many unwanted sounds, like warble or a
loud hum. Set the GAIN at the 12:00 position, or less. Then set the THRESHOLD to
a position where you hear a very slight background hum, or if you prefer, dial the
control just left of that position to a setting where the detector is silent.
Unwanted N ise
Read the section on Electrical Interference.
The PRO-TECH is a highly sensitive device.
It is intended for use outdoors. Indoor operation will subject it to electrical
interference from a wide variety of devices in the home or office.
Sweeping the Searchc il
As you sweep the searchcoil over the ground, try to keep the searchcoil parallel to
the ground and as close to the ground as you can. Avoid contacting abrasive
materials such as rocks and sand.
Avoid lifting the searchcoil at the end of your sweeps.
Operating in All Metal Mode continued on next page
This value
and higher
will induce
V.C.O. tones
Values less
than 20 will
NOT BE
DETECTED
Values from 20 to 49
will induce a LOW tone
Values from 50 to 100
will induce V.C.O. tones
(see p.26 Audio Feedback)
Suggestion: Try changing the
settings, watch the screen and
pass objects over the searchcoil at
each setting. It will quickly become
obvious how these controls work.
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OPERATING IN ALL METAL MODE (continu d)
Reading the Display
As you sweep the searchcoil, notice the Fe3O4(iron oxide) scale to the left of the
display.
This indicates the amount of ground mineralization.
For the best depth detection in highly mineralized soils, use the All Metal Mode.
For the most accurate Fe3O4reading, pump the searchcoil over the ground.
While sweeping the searchcoil, also notice the GND PHASE value in the middle of
the screen.
GND PHASE is the ground phase; this indicates the type of minerals in the soil.
Within an area, the ground phase may change.
After ground balancing, periodically compare GND PHASE to GND BAL. If these
two numbers differ by a great deal, you may want to ground balance the
detector again.
When not adjusting the knobs, the GND BAL setting will always appear on the
bottom-right of the display.
GND BAL is the detector's internal ground balance setting. The detector's default
ground balance setting is 82.9, which is the best starting point for achieving the
correct setting.
After you perform the Ground Grab®procedure, the GND BAL number will
change to match your soil.
You can change the current GND BAL setting by pressing the + or - buttons.
See section on Ground Balancing for a more detailed explanation.
Experienced users often prefer to adjust the ground balance to get a weak
audible response when lowering the searchcoil to the ground. This is called
adjusting for positive response and is achieved by increasing the GND BAL
number with the + key.
Target Scale
The arc across the top classifies metal objects.
Each time a target is detected, three segments will illuminate above the arc.
The segments will remain illuminated for three seconds.
This indication shows the approximate classification of the buried metal object.
See the section on Target Display for a more detailed explanation.
Iron is on the left. Silver and copper metals are to the far right.
In an air test, gold indicates right of center -- the larger the gold piece, the
farther to the right.
If searching in All Metal Mode, you may want to switch back into
Discrimination Mode, after finding a target, to see a more accurate target
identification, viewing the 2-digit Target.
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OPERATING IN DISCRIMINATION MODE (continu d)
Or it may be a coin-sized metal object close to the surface.
If only a few bars illuminate, the target signal is weak.
This may be a deeply buried object, even a big one.
Or it may be a very, very small metal object, close to the surface.
The depth of a coin-sized object can be confirmed using Pinpoint.
In Discrimination Mode, pressing + or - will change two detection parameters:
1. Tone Identification
2. Target Elimination
As the level of discrimination changes, the target segments along the arc on the
screen will be displayed in one of three states:
1. Blank (no segments displayed)
2. Grey (segments displayed in a shaded color)
3. Black (segments are solid black)
The segments along the arc will remain illuminated in this state as you are pressing
+ or -.
This displays your chosen target discrimination parameters.
At any time during operation, you can view the discrimination settings in one of two
ways:
1. On the bottom-right of the screen the DISC value is always illuminated.
a. This value is the division between the LOW tones and V.C.O. tones.
b. This value is the lowest target value which will be detected with a
V.C.O. tone.
2. Whenever you press + or -, the arc will illuminate and show your current
detection parameters.
The first press of + or - will change the discriminate level by one value.
When a target is detected, the rectangular segments representing the target category
are illuminated.
Discrimination Control continued on next page
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Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting PRO-TECH
OPERATING IN DISCRIMINATION MODE (continu d)
Sweeping the Searchcoil
As you sweep the searchcoil over the ground, try to keep the coil parallel to the ground.
Avoid lifting the searchcoil at the end of your sweeps.
Using PINPOINT
Press-and-Hold the Pinpoint button to narrow down the location of a buried metal object.
Pinpoint is a mode of detection which does not require the searchcoil to be in motion.
A motionless searchcoil held over a metal object will induce a hum; volume and
pitch of the hum increase with target strength.
The approximate target depth, in inches, will be indicated in the center of the screen.
The depth scale is calibrated to coin-sized objects.
Relative depth is indicated for larger or smaller objects.
Upon releasing the button, you will return to the motion Discrimination detection mode.
If you keep the Pinpoint button depressed for a long time, the audio tone may begin to drift.
If you plan to search like this, release and re-press the button periodically to avoid
drift. Drift may result in a loudening sound or a reduced sensitivity with no sound.
See the manual section on Target Pinpointing for how to narrow down a target's location.
This technique is indispensable as long-buried metals can look exactly like the
surrounding soil to the naked eye and very small objects can be difficult to see
in the loose dirt.
Reading the Display
TARGET-ID
Each time you pass the searchcoil over a metal object, a 2-digit value will appear in
the center of the display. See the manual section on Target Identification for a better
understand of these values.
Three segments will simultaneously appear above the arc at the top of the screen.
This represents the same target identification.
Target Scale
This display works as in the All Metal Mode.
The arc across the top classifies metal objects.
Each time a target is detected three segments will illuminate above the arc.
The segments will remain illuminated for three seconds.
This indication shows the approximate classification of the buried metal object.
See the section on Target Display for a more detailed explanation.
Iron is on the left. Silver and copper metals are to the far right.
SIGNA
Each time a target is detected, bars will illuminate showing the strength of the target's signal.
If all 7 bars illuminate, the target signal is strong.
This may be a large metal object.
Operating in Discrimination Mode continued on next page
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PRO-TECH Comprehensive Operating Manual & Guide to Metal Detecting
Op rating in Discrimination Mod
Discrimination is used to eliminate trash metal objects (e.g. nails, foil, pull-tabs) from
detection. The searchcoil must be in motion to detect metal. The Discrimination
Mode is less sensitive to small and deep objects than the All Metal Mode.
Ground Grab®(GG) Computerized Ground Balancing
This feature is not available in Discrimination Mode.
Your best results will be achieved by first performing the GG procedure in All Metal Mode.
The ground balance setting achieved using GG will carry over into the Discrimination Mode.
Setting the Controls
As you adjust any of the controls, notice that the values on the bottom-right of the
display indicate the settings of the value you are changing.
GAIN
If you are new to metal detecting, start with the GAIN at a low enough setting that
you do not hear any sounds when the searchcoil is sweeping across the ground, with
no metal present.
Start with GAIN at the 12:00 position, or less.
In this mode, Gain refers to the detector's sensitivity. The higher the setting, the deeper
objects can be found, and the more sensitive the detector is to very small metal objects.
MODE
The right knob is not used in the Discrimination Mode.
Click the right knob 100% counterclockwise.
When you turn the knob to the right, you will leave Discrimination Mode, entering All
Metal Mode.
DISC EVE
Press + to eliminate unwanted metals from detection.
Each time you press + the Disc Value at the bottom-right of the display will increment by one.
Press-and-hold + to increase the Discrimination level rapidly.
See the Target Identification section of the manual for a detailed description of this function.
Sections of the arc with no indication represent metals completely eliminated from detection.
Sections of the arc with a lightly shaded indication represent metals detected with a low tone.
Sections of the arc with a bold indication represents metals detected with a high tone.
Press - to detect metals which were previously eliminated from detection.
Unwanted Noise
Read the section on Electrical Interference.
This is a highly sensitive device.
It is intended for use outdoors. Indoor operation will subject it to electrical
interference from a wide variety of devices in the home or office.
In Discrimination Mode, when you sweep the coil over the ground it will usually be
quieter than when holding the detector still.
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