Minelab Explorer User manual

THE MINELAB EXPLORER
I
Minelab Explorer
)
™
,4901-0033 Rev1.2
4901-0033 Rev 1.3

THE MINELAB EXPLORER
III
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................... 1
About this manual...................................................................................................................................2
IntroducingtheMinelab Explorer ........................................................................................................... 3
Minelab’suniquetechnology .................................................................................................................. 4
ASSEMBLY ........................................................................................................................... 9
UnpackingyourExplorer [easy reference] .......................................................................................... 10
UnpackingyourExplorer ...................................................................................................................... 11
Assemblingthe detector .......................................................................................................................12
Connectingthesearch coil ................................................................................................................... 13
The shaft assembly ...............................................................................................................................15
Connecting theshaft assembly ............................................................................................................16
Thehandle assembly ............................................................................................................................ 18
Headphones...........................................................................................................................................20
Replacingandfitting the search coil....................................................................................................21
BATTERIES ........................................................................................................................ 23
The battery pack ....................................................................................................................................24
Batteryperformance..............................................................................................................................27
THE CONTROL PANEL ..................................................................................................... 29
Thecontrolpanel [easy reference] ...................................................................................................... 30
Power and Backlight buttons................................................................................................................ 31
Menu and Back buttons ........................................................................................................................32
Shortcut buttons .................................................................................................................................... 33
Shift buttons ...........................................................................................................................................35
contents
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4
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THE MINELAB EXPLORER
II
www.minelab.com
©Minelab Electronics Pty Ltd
Thisdocument containsproprietaryinformation whichis protectedby
copyright. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act
1968, no part may be reproduced by any process without written
permission from Minelab Electronics Pty Ltd, 118 Hayward Avenue,
Torrensville, SA 5031, Australia.
WARNING. This documentcontains Minelab ElectronicsPty Ltd
rights, technical data or restricted rights data, or both. Patents and
trademarksapply.
EXPLORER MODEL DIFFERENCES
Pleasenote thatthis manualdescribes allfeatures onboth models
of the Explorer.
There are differences in features and functions between the
Explorer S and Explorer XS models. Please refer to the Explorer
Model Features table included in Chapter 7: User Info to check
which features are included in your detector.
Since there may be a range of options available in this detector
type, equipment may vary according to the model or items ordered
with your detector. Certain descriptions and illustrations may differ
(in this manual) from the exact model that you purchased. In
addition, Minelab reserve the right to respond to ongoing technical
progress by introducing changes in design, equipment and
technical features at any time.

THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
contents
ADVANCED USE................................................................................................................ 67
Advanced mode’s Main Menu [easy reference] ................................................................................68
Starting in Advanced mode .................................................................................................................. 69
AdvancedMode’sdisplays [easy reference] ......................................................................................70
Advancedmode’sLearndisplay[easy reference] .............................................................................. 71
Learningtargets..................................................................................................................................... 72
Learn’s targetselection [tutorial] .......................................................................................................... 73
Advancedmode’sEdit display [easy reference] ................................................................................ 75
Editing patterns...................................................................................................................................... 76
Editingandsaving target patterns [tutorial]........................................................................................ 77
Advanced mode’s Select menu............................................................................................................79
Saving targets ........................................................................................................................................80
Audio menu............................................................................................................................................ 81
Options menu ........................................................................................................................................82
Options:noise........................................................................................................................................ 83
Options: response ................................................................................................................................. 84
Options:recovery ..................................................................................................................................86
Settings menu........................................................................................................................................ 87
THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
contents
QUICKSTART ..................................................................................................................... 37
Getting started ....................................................................................................................................... 38
Beginneruse .......................................................................................................................................... 39
Quickstartdisplay[easy reference]....................................................................................................... 40
Quickstart’s Smartfinddisplay ............................................................................................................... 42
The Iron Mask ........................................................................................................................................ 45
Quickstart’sDigitaldisplay .................................................................................................................... 47
Modifyingthedisplay............................................................................................................................. 48
Adjusting sensitivity ............................................................................................................................... 49
Adjustingthreshold ................................................................................................................................. 50
Audioresponse....................................................................................................................................... 51
Audiomenu............................................................................................................................................. 52
Audio:adjustingthevolume................................................................................................................... 53
Audio:adjustingthetone ........................................................................................................................ 55
Audio: adjustingthe sounds ................................................................................................................... 56
Testingtarget audio responses[tutorial] ................................................................................................ 58
Pinpointingtheobject.............................................................................................................................. 59
Recoveringtheobject............................................................................................................................. 61
Selectingtargets ..................................................................................................................................... 62
Selectingtargets[easyreference] ......................................................................................................... 63
Acceptingandrejectingtargets[tutorial] ............................................................................................... 64
Advancedmodeoption........................................................................................................................... 65

THE MINELAB EXPLORER
INTRODUCTION
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1
1
Introduction
The Explorer is the most technologically
advanceddetectorever produced.
It is possible to start treasure hunting as
soon as you have assembled the
detector, but it is worth familiarizing
yourself with its many features.
)
THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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7USER INFO ......................................................................................................................... 89
Helpfulhints............................................................................................................................................ 90
Batteryperformance comparisons ......................................................................................................... 92
Userpreferences.................................................................................................................................... 93
ControlPanelbuttonfunctions ............................................................................................................... 95
Quickstartmenustructure ...................................................................................................................... 96
Advancedmenustructure ...................................................................................................................... 97
Troubleshooting....................................................................................................................................... 98
Servicerepairform................................................................................................................................. 99
Warranty ............................................................................................................................................... 101
Technicalspecifications for the Minelab Explorer ............................................................................... 102
Explorermodelfeatures ....................................................................................................................... 103
Glossary of terms ................................................................................................................................. 104
Detectorcareandsafety ...................................................................................................................... 108
TABLE OF CONTENTS
contents

THE MINELAB EXPLORER
INTRODUCTION
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3
Contact Minelab
Thankyou forpurchasing aMinelabExplorer detector. The
Explorerisdifferent toconventionalmetaldetectors andfeaturesa
numberoftechnological innovationsanddesign featureswhichare
introducedandexplained inthis manual.
TheExploreris designedto locatevaluablemetal objectsin awide
varietyofground conditionsincludingextreme saltconditionsand
seawater,wetbeach sandand highlymineralized ground
conditions. Thedetector’ssimple-to-use controlpanelandfully
automaticQuickstartmodeenablethebeginner tostartdetecting
immediatelyafterassemblingthedetector.Advancedmode’soptions
willenableyou tocustomize yourdetectorfor yearsto come.
Beforeyouattempt touseyour detectorin thefield,you should
followthechaptersof thismanualto assemble,understandand
customizetheExplorer tosuityour personalrequirements.Please
readallthe information thoroughly.
Minelab Electronics wish you every success in your treasure
hunting.
INTRODUCING THE MINELAB EXPLORER
INTRODUCING THE MINELAB EXPLORER
MinelabElectronics PtyLtd
POBox 537 TorrensvillePlaza
SouthAustralia 5031
AUSTRALIA
email:[email protected]
tel:[phone]
If you have any questions or comments regarding the Explorer or any other Minelab product,
please feel free to contact us via your local Authorized Minelab dealer, or write to us:
Visit our site on the World Wide Web: http://www.minelab.com.au for the latest information
onMinelabproductsandservices.
MinelabUSA
2700 E Patrick Lane, Suite 11
LasVegas,Nevada 89120
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
email:[email protected]
tel:[phone]
MinelabInternationalLimited
Laragh,Bandon
Co. Cork
IRELAND
email:[email protected]
tel:[phone]

THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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INTRODUCTION
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ABOUT THIS MANUAL
This manual is designed to introduce the detector’s features, give you step-by-step
directions for everything from assembling and adjusting your detector to basic detector
use and customizing your own advanced settings.
1. INTRODUCTION
Basic overview of the Explorer and
this User’s Manual.
2. ASSEMBLY
Thischapter provides detailsand
instructionsonassembling and
adjusting the Explorer.
3. BATTERIES
The Explorer is powered by alkaline
batteriesora rechargeableNickel
MetalHydride (NiMH)battery pack.
Thischapterprovides detailson
batteryinstallation,useand
performance.
4. CONTROL PANEL
Thischapter isdesigned to
familiarizeyouwith thevarious
featuresofthe Explorercontrolpanel.
Afewminutesspent readingthis
chapterwillbe aworthwhile
preliminaryto basic oradvanced
detecting.
5. QUICKSTART
However experienced you are at
using a metal detector, it is important
that you read this chapter to
understand how to use the Explorer
in Quickstart mode.
6. ADVANCED USE
Onceyou arecomfortable withbasic
detectoruseandQuickstartit istimeto
investigatethemore advanced
featuresofthe Explorer.
7. USER INFO
This chapter provides a glossary of
terminology, user guides, technical
specifications, warranty and repair
detailsand troubleshootingtips.
ABOUT THIS MANUAL
,
)
Minelab USAInc
871 Grier Drive, Suite B1,
Las Vegas, Nevada, 89119
UNITED STATES OFAMERICA
email: [email protected]
tel: [phone]

THE MINELAB EXPLORER
INTRODUCTION
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Advanced mode
Onceyouare familiar withthefeel andfunctionsof thedetector,it is
asimplematter tomoveinto Advancedmode. Thiswillenable youto
changetheappearance ofthe display,modifyaudio responses,
specifycustomtargets and editandsave personalsettings.Chapter
6:Advanced Use providesall ofthe informationyou needto
personalizeyourExplorer forspecialized targeting.
MINELAB’S UNIQUE TECHNOLOGY
If at any time you become a little confused with the settings for your
detector, or just want to brush up on basic detector use, it is simple to
reset the Explorer to its original factory settings.
Turn the detector off and then PRESS AND HOLD THE POWER BUTTON
until a six-note musical tune is sounded (rising C-major chord). The
Minelablogoandthewords‘FACTORYPRESETS’willbebriefly displayed
on the screen (as shown above).
This will return you to the original Quickstart mode settings. You can
resume basic detecting or make selections from the Main Menu.
Figure 1.2 Advanced mode
Main Menu
Smartfind display
GettingLost?
Factory Reset Power On Tune
THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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MINELAB’S UNIQUE TECHNOLOGY
The Explorer is the first of a new generation of detectors from Minelab. Its sleek, sturdy
design, innovative control panel and comprehensive targeting options set it apart from
any other detector available today.
MINELAB’S UNIQUE TECHNOLOGY
Two mode detecting
The Explorer is so feature-packed that the research team at
Minelab decided to offer two modes of operation: fully automated
detection(Quickstartmode) andpersonally customizedprecision
detecting (Advanced mode).
All of the detector’s vital functions are common to Quickstart and
Advanced mode. Because the Explorer is such an innovative
machine, even the seasoned treasure hunter will benefit from
beginning in Quickstart mode.
Quickstart mode
Assoon as you have assembledthe Explorer,you areready to
startdetecting.Whenit leavesthefactory,thedetectoris
programmedtostartinQuickstart.
Quickstartsettings areoptimized toprovide youwith accurate
detection in most conditions you will encounter in the field, so you
canconcentrate yourattention onthe objectsyou discover.
Thismanual’s Chapter 4: Control Panel, outlines all of the control
panelfeaturesneeded touse yourdetectorin Quickstart(or
Advancedmode)includingshortcut buttons,specialfunctionslike
Pinpointandadjustingyour detectorsettings.
Chapter5: Quickstart,explains basicuse indetail andprovides
tipson everythingfrom sweepingthe detectorcoil to digging up
objects.
Figure 1.1 Quickstart mode
Main Menu
Smartfind display

THE MINELAB EXPLORER
INTRODUCTION
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)
MINELAB’S UNIQUE TECHNOLOGY
TheFullBandSpectrum (FBS)circuitautomatically transmits28
frequenciessimultaneously. Thisincreased frequency rangemeans
thatthesignal receivedfromthe detectorcoilis analyzedfroma
widerange of responses. Thisinformation isrelayed tothe operator
viathespeaker orheadphones andthe controlpanel’sliquid crystal
displayas anaudio orvisual targetresponse.
Putsimply,Minelab’suniqueFBS technologymeansdeep, sensitive,
accuratedetecting.
Ground Compensation
TheExplorer usesa sophisticatedapproach tothe eliminationof
groundmineralisation. It usesadvanced digitalfiltering toeliminate
theinfluence ofground signals.
You are now ready to proceed to Chapter 2: Assembly.
OperatingFrequencies
A metal detector’s
electromagnetic operating
frequencies are measured in
kilohertz (kHz).
Low signal frequencies
(e.g. 1.5 kHz) penetrate
deepest, but sensitivity to
smaller targets is low.
On the other hand, higher
frequencies have a more
shallow depth of penetration
but high sensitivity to small
targets.
The Explorer’s multiple-
frequency operation provides
the advantage of both.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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INTRODUCTION
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www.minelab.com Full Band Spectrum (FBS)
WhendevelopingFull BandSpectrum (FBS)technology,Minelab’s
scientistslooked atimproving the alreadysuccessful BroadBand
Spectrum(BBS) technologyused in previousMinelab detectors.
Discussionswith seasonedtreasure huntersfrom around theworld
identifieda numberof possibleenhancements foroperators. The
improvementsto theExplorer detectorsinclude:
• increaseddetection depth;
• accurateidentification of targets togreater depth;
• enhanceddetection ofdesired targetsamidst irontrash;
• adjustmentsto improveoperation forsearching salt-water
beaches.
Mostdetectorsonthemarket
operateon a single (ordual)
frequency,ranging from 1to 70
kilohertz(kHz).Althoughthis
technologyhas served theindustry
wellforyears,Minelab’s scientists
foundthata frequencythatworked
wellin one areawould oftenoffer
onlymarginalperformance when
usedinanother location.Ground
mineralisation,trashcontent,and
targetsizeall hadaneffect onhow
effectiveadetectortransmitting asinglefrequencywould operate.
FullBandSpectrumtechnology combinesMinelab’sexistingmultiple
frequencyBBStechnology with apowerful newmicroprocessor to
give:
• greaterdetectingdepth;
• consistentsensitivityover awiderange oftargets;
• lessinterferencefromelectromagneticsources;
• moreaccurateidentificationoftargetcharacteristics.
MINELAB’S UNIQUE TECHNOLOGY
Discrimination
Discrimination is the ability of a
metal detector to identify the user’s
desired target (e.g. jewelry) and
eliminate signals from undesirable
material (e.g. nails).
The Explorer can be programmed in
a number of ways to discriminate
against unwanted targets in
different types of ground.
Figure 1.3. Metal detector comparisons

THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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ASSEMBLY
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Assembly
This chapter provides details and
instructions on assembling and
adjusting the Explorer.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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INTRODUCTION
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THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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ASSEMBLY
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UNPACKING YOUR EXPLORER
List of Parts
Thebox inwhich theExplorer isshipped should containthe items
illustrated on the facing page. Please check that all of these items
are in thebox. If any of these components are missing, contact
yourMinelabdealer immediately.
NOTE The Explorer S model does not have the NiMH battery,
chargers or coil stand supplied. These are available as
accessories from your Minelab dealer.
Accessories
Thefollowingitems areavailable forpurchaseseparately:
• NiMHbattery pack(spare)
• Coilstand
• Sparecoil covers
• Carry bag
• MinelabCap,Minelab Poloshirt.
For further information on these and other Minelab
products, contact your Minelab dealer.
You can also visit us on the web: http://www.minelab.com.au
UNPACKING YOUR EXPLORER
THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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ASSEMBLY
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MAIN CARTON
• HANDLE ASSEMBLY CONTAINING
ALKALINE BATTERY PACK
• UPPER SHAFT ASSEMBLY
• LOWER SHAFT ASSEMBLY
• SEARCH COIL
• COIL STAND (XS ONLY)
• RECHARGEABLE BATTERY
PACK (XS ONLY)
UNPACKING YOUR EXPLORER
UNPACKING YOUR EXPLORER
ACCESSORY BOX
• ARMREST STRAP AND BUCKLES
• CAR CHARGER (XS ONLY)
• MAINS CHARGER (XS ONLY)
• NUT AND BOLT FOR COIL
DOCUMENTATION PACK
• MANUAL
• FIELD GUIDE
• WARRANTYCARD
easy reference

THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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ASSEMBLY
2
Connecting the search coil to the lower shaft
Figure 2.1–2.3
CAUTION DO NOT attempt to disconnect the coil cable
where it enters the search coil itself. They are shipped
pre-assembled and any attempt to disconnect will void
your detector warranty.
To attach the search coil to the lower shaft:
STEP 1 Place the search coil on a flat surface close to the coil
yoke.
STEP 2 (Figure 2.2, following page) Plug the two black plastic
washersinto the recesses provided on either side of the
coilyoke.
CONNECTING THE SEARCH COIL
The search coil transmits electromagnetic signals into the ground and receives
the response.
CONNECTING THE SEARCH COIL
Figure 2.1 Connecting the search coil
to the lower shaft
(Continued next page)
THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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ASSEMBLING THE DETECTOR
ASSEMBLING THE DETECTOR
Handle assembly
Shaft assembly
Search coil
Pleasefollow these instructions to assemble the Explorer.Refer to
thedrawings to identify partsand how they are positioned. The
detector’scomponents areorganized intothree categories:
•the search coil;
•the shaft assembly, made up of the upper shaft and lower
shaft;
•the handle assembly, made up of the handle, armrest and
controlbox.
NOTE To avoid difficulties or damage to the detector’s
electronic components, it is strongly recommended you
follow the sequence of instructions for assembly.
Please contact your Minelab dealer for further instructions should
anydifficultiesarise.

THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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ASSEMBLY
2
THE SHAFT ASSEMBLY
The shaft assembly is made up of the upper and lower shafts connected by the shaft
camlock. The assembly houses the coil cable and connects the search coil to the handle
assembly. These instructions assume that the search coil is connected to the lower shaft.
Shaft assembly
Figure 2.4, 2.5
NOTE Orientation: coil cable is on bottom of lower shaft.
To assemble the lower and upper shaft:
CAUTION Release the shaft camlock lever before inserting
the lower shaft.
STEP1 (Figure 2.4)Feed the coilcable whichis attachedtothe
lower shaft through the inside of the upper shaft.
STEP 2 (Figure 2.5) Slide the lower shaft entirely into the upper
shaftuntil the camlockrests against theuppermost shaft
rivet.
STEP 3 Pull the coil cable’s metal connector through the open end
of the upper shaft until it ‘dangles’ from the opening.
You are now ready to connect the shaft assembly to the
handle assembly.
THE SHAFT ASSEMBLY
Figure 2.4 Feeding coil cable into upper shaft
Figure 2.5 Sliding lower shaft into upper shaft
THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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ASSEMBLY
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STEP3 Check theorientationof thesearchcoil andshaftensuring
thattherivets arevisibleon thetopof theshaft.
STEP4 (Figure 2.2).Tojointhe shaftto thesearchcoil, slidethe
yoke into the yoke bracket on top of the coil.
STEP 5 (Figure 2.3) Insert yokebolt through the search coil’syoke
bracket and the coil yoke. Fasten with the yoke nut
provided,being careful not to damage thethread of the nut
byover-tightening. Thismay needto beloosened toadjust
thecoil toa comfortable detectingangle.
You are now ready to proceed to the shaft assembly.
CONNECTING THE SEARCH COIL
Figure 2.3 Securing yoke to search coil
Figure 2.2 Inserting coil yoke into bracket

THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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ASSEMBLY
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CONNECTING THE SHAFT ASSEMBLY
Figure 2.9 Adjusting the shaft and angle of
the search coil
Figure 2.8 Inserting shaft assembly into
controlbox
Coil not connected?
These instructions require the
search coil to be connected to the
lower shaft. For directions on this
procedure, refer to page 13.
*
STEP5 Secure uppershaftin positionby lockingthecontrol box
camlock.
STEP6 (Figure 2.9)Adjustshaft tothe desiredlengthand thenlock
withshaftcamlocklever.
STEP7 (Figure 2.9)Tiltthe search coiltothe mostcomfortable
angle,keeping in mind it willneed to be parallelto the
groundduring detecting.
NOTE To avoid difficulty securing the control box camlock
lever, ensure the shaft camlock is released to allow greater
shaft movement.
You are now ready to proceed to the handle assembly.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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ASSEMBLY
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Connecting the shaft assembly to the handle
assembly
Figure 2.6–2.9
NOTE Shaft orientation: coil cable is on bottom of lower
shaft, and camlock is on top of upper shaft.
Toconnect theshaftassembly tothehandleassembly:
STEP1 (Figure 2.6)Release thecontrol boxcamlocklever tothe
openposition.
STEP2 (Figure 2.6)Align theconnectionsand pushthe coilcable
connectorintothe socketunderneaththehandle assembly
controlbox. Ensurethe connector’sthreaded braceletis
firmlysecured.
STEP3 (Figure 2.7)Toprevent thecoil cable from‘bunching’,
extendthelower shaftfromthe uppershaft byapproximately
15cm(6inches).
STEP4 (Figure 2.8)Making surethat thecontrol box camlocklever
isinthe released,pushthe uppershaftfirmly intothecontrol
boxuntil you feelit hasreached theback ofthecontrol box.
CONNECTING THE SHAFT ASSEMBLY
CONNECTING THE SHAFT ASSEMBLY
Figure 2.6 Attaching coil cable to control box
Figure 2.7 Preventing the coil cable ‘bunching’

THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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ASSEMBLY
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Figure 2.11 Fitting buckle to armrest strap
Figure 2.12 Fitting armrest strap to armrest
Figure 2.13 Tighteningarmrest strap
Fitting the armrest strap
Figure 2.11–2.13
To fit and adjust the armrest strap:
STEP 1 (Figure 2.11) Thread the strap throughthe buckle openings
asillustrated.
STEP 2 (Figure 2.12) Clip bothbuckles into the openings at each
outersideof the armrest.
STEP3 Testbysliding yourarm underneaththe strapand resting
yourforearm onthearmrest (whichshould beadjusted toa
comfortablesetting).
STEP4 (Figure 2.13)Loosen strap bytilting theedge ofthe buckle
outtorelease itfrom thearmrest.Undo thevelcro and pull
thebuckleoutwards (towardsyourself). Clip thebuckle back
intoplaceand tightenthestrap bypulling up(inthe direction
ofthe toparrow in Figure2.13).
Thearmrestshould nowbeadjusted toyoursatisfaction. Nexttime
youuse yourdetector,allyouwill needto dois clickthe buckleback
intothearmrest.
THE HANDLE ASSEMBLY
THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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ASSEMBLY
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Adjusting the armrest assembly
Figure 2.10
To adjust armrest:
STEP 1 Loosen the screw in the center of the armrest (turn
counter-clockwise). Use a screwdriver or the edge of a
coin.
STEP 2 Slide armrestto yourdesired position.Yourhandshould
comfortablygripthe angledneckof thehandleassembly,
with the detector feeling like an extension of your forearm.
STEP 3 Gently removeyourarm.
STEP 4 Tightenscrew (clockwise) to lock intoposition.
Figure 2.10 Armrestadjustment
THE HANDLE ASSEMBLY
The handle assembly is made up of the armrest, straps and the control box. It is
connected to the shaft assembly by the control box camlock.
THE HANDLE ASSEMBLY

THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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ASSEMBLY
2
REPLACING AND FITTING THE SEARCH COIL
Replacing the search coil
Figure 2.14–2.17
CAUTION DO NOT attempt to remove the coil cable from
the search coil. Any attempt to disconnect will void your
detector warranty.
Toreplacethe searchcoil:
STEP 1 Disconnect the shaft assembly from handle assembly by
reversing the procedure outlined in Connecting the shaft
assembly on page 16.
CAUTION DO NOT attempt to remove the shaft assembly
without disconnecting the coil cable from the control box.
STEP2 Separate the twoshaftassemblies byreleasingtheshaft
camlockand sliding thelower shaftout.
STEP 3 (Figure 2.15) Locate the screwdriver slot at the rear of the
coilyoke and prizeoff the coil cable accesspanel. Youmay
need to tilt the coil up to gain access to the slot.
Figure 2.15 Prizing off coil yoke cover
Figure 2.14 Replacing the search coil
REPLACING AND FITTING THE SEARCH COIL
YOKE NUT (8)
(Continued next page)
THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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HEADPHONES
Figure 2.14 Inserting headphone jack
Attaching headphones
Figure 2.14
Theuse ofheadphoneswhen treasurehunting withthe Explorerwill
avoiddisturbing othersin thearea. The reducedpower demandsof
theheadphoneswill extendthedetector’s batterylife.
The socket for the headphone plug is located above the rubber
sealat thetop ofthe handleassembly.The headphonesmay be
pluggedintothis socketorunplugged atanystage ofoperation.
Congratulations! Your Explorer is now assembled. You are
now ready to proceed to Chapter 3: Batteries.
Should you wish to remove the search coil, instructions
follow on the next two pages.
)
HEADPHONES

THE MINELAB EXPLORER
23
BATTERIES
3
3
Batteries
The Explorer is powered by alkaline
batteries or a rechargeable Nickel Metal
Hydride (NiMH) battery pack. This
chapter provides details on battery
installation, use and performance.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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ASSEMBLY
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STEP4 (Figure 2.16)Gentlypull thecoil cablefrom the channel
underneaththe lower shaft.
STEP5 (Figure 2.18)Loosen theyoke nutand carefullyremove the
boltfrom the yokebracket. This removes the yokefrom the
search coil. Be careful not to lose the two plastic washers.
STEP 6 Replace the search coil. Be careful not to damage the
thread of the nut by over-tightening.
STEP7 (Figure 2.17).Startingat thetopof thelower shaft,carefully
feedthecoil cablebackinto thechannelat therear ofthe
lowershaftso thatthecurled cable isinline withtheshaft.
There should be to inch (3-5mm) of cable exposed
betweenthecable curlsandthe startofthe lowershaft.Once
thisiscompleted youshould beableto seeapproximately 6
inches(150mm)of cablebetween thecoilyoke andthe
searchcoil.This istheslacknecessary toallowadjustment to
theangleof thesearchcoil.
STEP8 To replace the coil cable access panel ensure that the
coil cable aligns with the semicircular hole at the side of
thecoil yokeand gentlyease thecoil cableaccess panel
into the top of the recess until its prongs are well within
therecess. Check again to ensure that thecable is snugly
lodged in the semicircular hole.
STEP9 (Detail inFigure 2.15).Using ascrewdriver inthe slot,prize
thepanelback flushintoplace.
STEP 10 Reconnect cable to control box (as directed in
Connecting the shaft assembly, page 16).
NOTE If you have difficulty retrieving coil cable from
within the upprt shaft it will be necessary to shorten the
overall shaft length to allow the necessary slack.
REPLACING AND FITTING THE SEARCH COIL
Figure 2.17 Removing the coil cable
Figure 2.18 Removing yoke from search coil
Figure 2.16
1
81 5
INCORRECT
CORRECT
“
“
1
5
1
8to

THE MINELAB EXPLORER
25
BATTERIES
3
Recharging NiMH battery pack with the mains charger
Figure 3.3
TheExplorer XSis providedwith a sealedNickel MetalHydride
(NiMH) battery pack and a charger which plugs into a
conventionalwallsocket.
NOTE The NiMH battery pack supplied with your detector
comes in the discharged condition. It is necessary to
charge it as explained below before operating the detector.
The batteries will reach their full capacity after several
charge/discharge cycles.
STEP 1 Remove batterypack asper instructionson previouspage.
STEP 2 Insert the mains charger plug into the socket at the tapered
end of the battery pack.
STEP 3 Plug the mains charger into the wall socket and turn on the
switch(if switch available).Leave for about 16hours to fully
recharge.
STEP4 Remove thebatterycharger plugfrom thebatterypack.
Slidethepack backintothe handleassemblybattery
compartmentuntilitclicksintoplace.
Figure 3.3 Recharging NiMH battery pack
THE BATTERY PACK
Do not attempt to disassemble
the NiMH battery pack. If
disposing of pack, do not
incinerate. Contact your local
authorities to enquire about
disposal or recycling facilities.
Safety Tip
THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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Removal of battery pack
Figure 3.1
CAUTION Ensure that the detector is turned OFF before
proceeding with any of the following directions.
STEP 1 Prop or rest the detector on a stable flat surface.
STEP 2 Lift the rubber cap of the battery handle assembly.
STEP 3 Raise the yellow tab. This releases the spring loaded
battery pack.
STEP 4 Remove battery pack entirely from handle assembly.
Replacing alkaline batteries
Figure 3.2
STEP 1 Remove alkalinebatterypack fromhandle assembly.Slide
the battery pack lid in the direction of the arrow to remove.
Place8 x ‘AA’cell alkaline batteries inside.Make sure that
theyare alignedas indicatedon thelabel.
STEP 2 Replace the battery pack lid and slide the pack into the
compartment until it ‘clicks’ into place.
STEP 3 Replace the rubber cap, sealing the battery compartment.
NOTE High quality alkaline batteries are recommended to
optimize detector usage time. Rechargeable alkaline
batteries may be used but must be removed and recharged
separately.
NOTE
THE BATTERY PACK
Figure 3.1 Removal of battery pack
Figure 3.2 Replacing alkaline batteries
The Explorer XS is supplied with a sealed rechargeable Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH)
battery pack and a battery pack designed to accept alkaline AA batteries. Removal
instructions apply to both types of pack. Battery installation instructions apply to
alkaline battery replacement only (Explorer S model is supplied with alkaline battery
pack only).
THE BATTERY PACK
NiMH battery packs and chargers
are available as accessories for
your detector.
Explorer S Owners

THE MINELAB EXPLORER
27
BATTERIES
3
)
Battery life indications
Figure3.4
Visual indication – The battery life indicator appears on all of the
Explorerdetect screens. Thebattery will be fully shaded at
maximumbattery charge.When thisshaded areanears thebottom,
the detector will begin to sound its low battery warning.
Audio indication – When the alkaline or NiMH batteries
approachthe point at which theydo not supply enough powerto
operatethe Explorer,a falling extended chord is emitted fromthe
speaker(or headphones). Whenthis low batterywarning is heard,
there will be only a few minutes of life left in the batteries. It is
recommendedthat thebatteries bereplaced orrecharged assoon
aspossible toavoid missingany targets. Whenthe batterysymbol
iscompletely empty,the detector will sound an extended ‘dropping’
tuneand displaya messageimmediately before turningitself off.
Notes supporting performance figures
Alkaline batteries will power the Explorer for up to 14 hours of
constant use. The NiMH battery pack will power the detector for up
to 11 hours of constant use. Battery performance is charted in
Chapter 7: User Info.
NOTE Unlike Nickel Cadmium batteries, the NiMH battery
pack DOES NOT have to be flattened to be recharged.
Whenever the detector has been unused for a lengthy
period, recharge the battery pack to ensure full
performance. There is no limit to the time the battery pack
can be left on charge.
You are now ready to proceed to Chapter 4: Control Panel.
BATTERY PERFORMANCE
Figure 3.4 Battery life indicator
BATTERY PERFORMANCE
BatteryLife
To extend battery life:
• use headphones
• turn off the backlight
• turn the detector off
when not in use.
More detecting time?
14 hours ALKALINE
11 hours NiMH
BatteryPerformance
Full
battery power Low battery power
THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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BATTERIES
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Minelab’s battery chargers are
suitable for the Explorer NiMH
battery pack only. The battery
chargers will not recharge
rechargeable alkaline batteries.
Using a non-Minelab charger
with the battery pack may
damage it and will void the
product warranty.
Recharging
*
THE BATTERY PACK
Recharging NiMH battery pack with the car charger
The Explorer XS is provided with a car charger that boosts the
voltageof the carbattery (usually about 12V) toa voltage
sufficientlyhigh tocharge the NiMH battery pack.
STEP 1 Remove batterypack as perinstructions onpage 24.
STEP 2 Insert the car charger plug into the cigarette lighter socket.
STEP 3 Insert the car charger plug into the socket at the tapered
endofthe batterypack. Asmalllight onthe carcharger
illuminatesindicatingthatthe carchargeris inoperation.
NOTE Some vehicles will need the ignition to be switched on
to ‘accessories’ for power to be supplied to the charger.
STEP4 Leave thebattery tocharge forabout 16hours fora
completerecharge. If the batterywas not completely
discharged,the chargingtime willbe shorter.
The car charger is provided with a 3AG 2Amp fast fuse for short
circuit protection that can be accessed by unscrewing the tip of the
cigarettelighter plug.
NOTE Charging the battery beyond full capacity will not
damage the NiMH battery pack, but it could gradually
discharge your car battery.

THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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4
CONTROLPANEL
4
Control Panel
It is important to familiarize yourself
with the features of the Explorer control
panel. A few minutes spent reading this
chapter will be a worthwhile preliminary
to basic or advanced detecting.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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THE MINELAB EXPLORER
31
4
CONTROLPANEL
Power
Figure 4.1
The POWER button turns the Explorer on and off and also allows
you to specify operation in the detector’s last manual setting.
NOTE The first time you turn on the detector it will start
up with factory presets as the most recent manual setting.
To start the detector in factory preset mode:
•Pressandhold thePOWER buttonuntil asix-note musicaltune
issounded. TheMinelab logoand thewords ‘FACTORY
PRESETS’will bebrieflydisplayed onthe screen.
To start the detector with its previous manual setting:
•Pressand releasethe POWERbutton. This willstart the
detector with the previous settings from when the detector
was last used (e.g. target specifications, sensitivity levels,
etc) and you may proceed with detecting or modifying
detector settings.
Backlight (only available on Explorer XS)
Figure 4.2
Pressing the BACKLIGHT button turns the light behind the
Explorer display screen on or off. Contrast can be adjusted to suit
viathe Main Menu (detailedin Chapter 5: Quickstart). Turningthis
lightoff will extendbattery life. Whenever thedetector is switched
on,the backlight illuminates forthe first 5 seconds.
POWER AND BACKLIGHT BUTTONS
Figure 4.1 Power button
The Power button offers you the option of operating the Explorer with its factory
settings or in the most recent manual setting. The backlight provides greater screen
clarity in dim conditions.
POWER AND BACKLIGHT BUTTONS
Figure 4.2 Backlight button
THE MINELAB EXPLORER
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CONTROLPANEL
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www.minelab.com easy reference
THE CONTROL PANEL
As the control panel provides user access to all Explorer functions, the
various buttons will be referred to throughout this User’s Manual. The
terminology will remain consistent with the elements labelled below and
will be a useful reference as you begin detecting.
1Power button (see page 31)
Display screen (for details see page 40)
Main Menu button (see page 32)
Shortcut buttons (see pages 33-34)
Back button (see page 32)
Shift buttons (see page 35)
Backlight button (see page 31)
2
3
4
5
6
THE CONTROL PANEL
2
4
7
7
53
1
6
6

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CONTROLPANEL
Noise Cancel (only available on Explorer XS)
Figure 4.5
Pressing the NOISE CANCEL button automatically selects the
quietest,most stablechannel for detecting.This willautomatically
eliminatemostaudio responseto electromagneticdisturbances
(e.g.powerlines). Selectiontakes approximately30 seconds.It is
veryimportanttokeep thedetectorcoilmotionless duringthistime.
Alsoensurethat nometallicobjects aremovedin close vicinityofthe
searchcoil.
InAdvanced modeit is possibleto manuallyselect yourdesired
detectingchannel.Owners oftheExplorer Sshould use thismanual
Noiseoption within Advancedmode (page83).
Detect
Figure 4.6
Thisshortcutbutton returnstothe Detect modedisplayat anystage
ofoperation,allowing youtocontinue detecting.
• Whendetecting inthe Quickstartmode, pressingDETECTwill
switchbetweenSmartfindand Digitaldisplays.
• Whendetecting in the Advancedmode,pressing DETECTwill
switchbetweenSmartfind, Digital, LearnandEdit displays.
NOTE The Explorer S does not have Learn and Edit
displays, therefore pressing DETECT will switch between
Smartfind and Digital in ADVANCED mode.
Moreinformation ondetect screensappears inthe openingpages
of Chapter 5: Quickstart and Chapter 6: Advanced Use.
SHORTCUT BUTTONS
The Explorer’s shortcut buttons are intended to offer quick access to the functions and
settings most likely to be used in detector operation.
SHORTCUT BUTTONS
Figure 4.5 Noise cancel shortcut button
Figure 4.6 Detect shortcut button
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CONTROLPANEL
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Figure 4.3 Menu button
MENU AND BACK BUTTONS
The Menu and Back buttons are likely to be the most frequently used of all the control
panel functions in both Quickstart and Advanced modes.
Menu
Figure 4.3
Pressing the MENU button at any stage of detector operation will
bringup the Main Menuscreen. This allows accessto the various
operationalsettings ofthe Explorer.This manualcovers Menu
optionsin detail in Chapter5: Quickstart and Chapter6: Advanced
Use.
Back
Figure 4.4
This button allows you to ‘retrace’ your steps through the control
paneldisplay screens.Pressing theBACK buttonduring detecting
or from within the menu structures will take you back one step in
thehistory ofcontrol paneluse. This buttonwill typicallybe used
whenselectingorcustomizing settingswithinvariousmenu
categories.
NOTE The BACK button will only retrace the last 3 steps.
MENU AND BACK BUTTONS
Figure 4.4 Back button