Minelab F3 Mine Detector User manual

F3 Mine Detector
Rev: 6
Part No: 4901 0043
OPERATIONS MANUAL
F3L Configuration
(Optional)
Configuration

WARNING
THIS DOCUMENT CONTAINS INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY,
TECHNICAL AND PROPRIETARY DATA AND INFORMATION
AND OTHER MATERIAL OWNED SOLELY BY MINELAB
ELECTRONICS PTY LIMITED. THIS MATERIAL MUST NOT BE
USED WITHOUT THE PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION OF
MINELAB ELECTRONICS PTY LTD.
© MINELAB ELECTRONICS PTY LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
This document is protected by copyright. Apart from any use
permitted under the Australian Copyright Act 1968 (Cth) or other
applicable laws, any unauthorised use, appropriation or reproduction
of this document or any part of it is strictly prohibited. No part of this
document may be used or reproduced by any means or by any
process, in any form, without the prior written permission of the
copyright owner Minelab Electronics Pty Ltd of 118 Hayward
Avenue, Torrensville, SA 5031, Australia.

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Table of Contents
1. Introduction ____________________________________3
2. General Description and Preparation________________5
2.1 Mine Detecting Set._______________________________ 5
2.2 F3 Main Components. ____________________________ 7
2.3 F3 Preparation. __________________________________ 8
2.4 Use of Battery Pack Bag and Extension Cable._______ 13
2.5 Changing Endcaps. _____________________________ 14
3. Functional Description___________________________ 15
3.1 Functional Controls._____________________________ 15
3.2 Sensitivity Endcaps._____________________________ 17
3.3 Functional Tones._______________________________ 18
3.4 Test Piece –Functional Test. _____________________ 20
4. F3L Configuration_______________________________21
4.1 Introduction. ___________________________________ 21
4.2 Description.____________________________________ 21
4.3 Operation-Volume/Sensitivity Control.______________ 22
4.4 Operation-LED Display. __________________________ 23
4.5 Battery Status. _________________________________ 25
5. F3S Configuration Yellow Endcap._________________26
5.1 Introduction. ___________________________________ 26
5.2 Description.____________________________________ 26
6. Operating Procedures ___________________________27
6.1 Introduction. ___________________________________ 27
6.2 Standard Procedure. ____________________________ 28
6.3 Optional Procedure. _____________________________ 32

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6.4 Sweeping Procedure.____________________________ 36
6.5 Pinpointing Procedure. __________________________ 37
6.6 Multiple Targets.________________________________ 39
6.7 Operating Multiple Detectors in Close Proximity. _____ 41
6.8 Completion of Operations.________________________ 42
7. Care and Trouble Shooting _______________________43
7.1 Routine Care. __________________________________ 43
7.2 Trouble Shooting._______________________________ 44
8. Specifications ___45

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1. Introduction
1.1 Since 1996, Minelab has designed, developed and
manufactured its range of detectors to meet the requirements of
mine and explosive ordnance clearance operations throughout the
world. Through its patented and unique technology, Minelab has
emphasised equipment capability and operator safety in its products.
1.2 The F3 mine detector incorporates patented Bi-polar
technology that enhances Minelab‟s renowned and highly successful
Multi-Period-Sensing (MPS) technology. Through MPS, the
sensitivity of a detector remains consistent regardless of the
mineralised content of soil. Additionally, Bi-polar technology assists
in eliminating the possibility of initiating a magnetic influence mine.
Combined with “static coupling” the F3 does not require motion to
detect a target thereby making pin-pointing techniques fast and
accurate.
Figure 1: F3 Mine detector

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1.3 The F3 is a robust detector that is extremely simple to
operate. There are no complicated controls resulting in the operator
being able to focus on the vital task of mine detection. If mine
detection occurs in a “difficult” environment that includes highly
mineralised ground or electrical interference from overhead power
lines or other sources, simple and quick semi-automatic procedures
can be initiated by an operator to allow the detector to continue
performing at maximum capability.
1.4 The F3 incorporates several safety features such as Low
Battery and Fault warnings; audible confirmation at the completion of
specific operational procedures; and continuous microprocessor
controlled internal self-testing. The inclusion of a Test Piece
provides an operator with a quick and easy test to ensure the
detector is working to its operational capability.
1.5 The F3 can be supplied with an optional Light Emitting
Diode (LED) display and Volume/Sensitivity Control. In this
configuration, the detector is known as the F3L.
1.6 Components of the F3 are manufactured within tightly
controlled parameters so that they can be interchanged in the field
without any requirement for calibration.
1.7 The F3 is designed to satisfy MIL STD 810F:
Method 512.4 Water Immersion (IP67)
Method 514.5 Vibration
Method 516.5 Shock
NOTE
Although the F3 can withstand immersion to a depth of 3m for short
periods of time, it is NOT designed for use as an underwater
detector.

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2. General Description and Preparation
2.1 Mine Detecting Set.
The F3 is supplied as a mine detecting set (Figure 2) comprising:
Hard Case Test Piece
Detector Operations Manual
Soft Carry Bag Field Guide
Earset
Red Endcap (Low Sensitivity)
Four D-Cell Batteries (Alkaline or Rechargeable)
Battery Pack Bag and Battery Pack Extension Cable (optional)
Figure 2: F3 Mine Detecting Set

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a. As illustrated in Figure 2, the Hard Case includes an insert for
easy placement of the F3 and accessories. The case also
provides protection for the detector and it is recommended that
the F3 be secured in its Hard Case whenever it is not in use or
during transit. Failure to transport the detector in the supplied
Hard Case may void warranty.
b. A Soft Carry Bag is supplied to allow an operator to comfortably
carry the detector when use of the Hard Case is impractical (e.g.
when walking through rough terrain). The Soft Carry Bag is not
designed to transport the detector by road or air. The detector
must be packed in the Hard Case during road or air transport.
Figure 3 illustrates the position of the F3 inside the Soft Carry
Bag.
Figure 3: F3 Packed in the Soft Carry Bag

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2.2 F3 Main Components.
Figure 4 identifies the main components of the F3 which comprise:
Figure 4: F3 –Main Components
a. Sensitivity Endcap –the sensitivity of the F3 can be changed by
using either the Black (maximum), Red (minimum) or Yellow
(variable) Endcaps.
b. Armrest Strap –provided for operator comfort when the F3 is
used for prolonged periods.
c. Armrest –adjustable (via a camlock) to maximise comfort of use
for an operator.

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d. Electronics Pack –contains the electronics of the F3 and is
permanently fixed to the detector.
e. Upper Shaft –made of aluminium for increased robustness and
provides mounting for the Handle, Battery Pack, Electronics Pack
and Armrest.
f. Battery Pack –removable to reduce the weight of the F3 for
periods of prolonged use –contains four D cell batteries.
g. Handle –ergonomically designed for operator comfort and
includes Earset connector and F3 controls.
h. Middle Shaft –made of aluminium for robustness and adjustable
for operator comfort or for changes in demining positions.
i. Lower Shaft –made of impact resistant carbon fibre and is
adjustable.
j. Lower, Middle and Upper Camlocks –self-cleaning locking
mechanisms to position the coil, lower and middle shafts.
k.Coil –enclosed waterproof coil to eliminate possible interference
from vegetation –can be rotated 180 degrees –a monoloop
design that ensures consistent sensitivity around the entire
circumference of the coil and across the complete surface of the
coil.
l. Skid Plate –removable plastic disk that protects and prolongs the
life of the coil thereby reducing maintenance costs.
2.3 F3 Preparation.
To prepare the detector for use, conduct the following procedure:
a. Open the Hard Case or Soft Carry Bag.
b. Remove the F3 and inspect for obvious signs of damage.
c. Check that the correct Sensitivity Endcap is selected and fitted
correctly (if not, exchange Endcaps as described at Section 2.5).
d. Hold the F3 in an inverted position with the Endcap resting
against the inside of the Hard Case (or Soft Carry Bag).

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e. Unlock the Battery Pack Lid by twisting the Battery Lock Lever
counter clockwise one-quarter turn. Once unlocked, pull the lid
away from the Battery Pack (the lid will stay attached to the
Battery Pack by a tether –Figure 5).
Figure 5: Removing the Battery Pack Lid
f. Using the battery maps, located on the side of the Battery Pack
and on the inside of the Battery Pack Lid, insert four D cell
batteries. Replace the Battery Pack Lid and rotate the Battery
Lock Lever clockwise one-quarter turn. If the batteries are
inserted incorrectly, the F3 will fail to function when switched on.
NOTE
The F3 requires 4 D cell batteries for operation. Use only high
quality alkaline (LR20) or rechargeable batteries. Minelab
recommends that only rechargeable batteries with a capacity of
4000 mAH or greater be used with the F3. Rechargeable batteries
have specific charge/discharge maintenance requirements, which
should be strictly followed to ensure maximum battery life. Only
NiCad and NiMh type D cell rechargeable batteries are suitable for
use with the F3.

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g. Extend the Lower and Middle Shafts to suit the selected
demining position as shown in Figure 6. For use in the standing
position:
Figure 6: F3 in the Standing, Kneeling or Prone Positions
Open the Lower Camlock and rotate the coil to the desired
position. The normal operating position of the coil is in line with
the shaft. However, the coil can also be positioned at right angles
to either side of the shaft (required if the F3 is to be used in the
prone position). Once the position of the coil is selected, lock it
into position by closing the Lower Camlock.

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Figure 7: Camlock Locations
Holding the detector with the coil pointing toward the ground,
open the Middle Camlock and extend the Lower Shaft to the
desired length. Lock the Lower Shaft into position by closing the
Middle Camlock.
NOTE
The Lower Shaft must be extended at least 100mm (4ins). Incorrect
operation of the detector may result if the detector is used with the
Lower Shaft fully retracted.
Open the Upper Camlock and extend the Middle Shaft to the
desired length. Lock the Middle Shaft into position by closing the
Upper Camlock.
h. Undo the dustcaps from the Earset plug and Earset socket on the
detector. As shown in Figure 8, gently hold the Earset by the
rubber collar using thumb and index finger (raised double arrow
should be uppermost). Align the plug with the Earset socket and
firmly slide the collar onto the socket. Confirm the plug is locked
into position by gently pulling back on the rubber collar.

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Figure 8: Fitting the Earset
NOTE
The Earset connector is waterproof and it is most important that it is
connected and disconnected from the Earset socket by holding the
rubber collar. Do not attempt to connect or disconnect the Earset by
pushing or pulling on the strain relief or wire at the rear of the rubber
collar.
i. For operator comfort, adjust the Armrest by opening the Armrest
Camlock and then slide the Armrest to the desired position. Lock
the Armrest Camlock and tighten the Armstrap as required.
j. The F3 is now ready for use. Refer to Chapter 3 for Functional
Description and Chapter 6 for Operating Procedures.
k. To repack the F3, the procedure described above should be
reversed.
NOTE
Batteries can be inserted and removed from the Battery Pack while
attached to the Upper Shaft as described at Section 2.3.e.
Alternatively, the Battery Pack can be removed from the Upper Shaft
by pulling down the Lock Lever located between the Battery Pack
and the Electronics Pack as shown in Figure 9.

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Figure 9: Battery Pack Removal
To refit the Battery Pack, ensure that the Lock Lever at the front of
the Electronics Pack is in the unlocked position and position the
Battery Pack on the rail underneath the Upper Shaft.
Slowly slide the Battery Pack towards the Electronics Pack until the
connector is firmly engaged. Secure the Battery Pack by rotating
the Lock Lever in a clockwise motion into the locked position.
2.4 Use of Battery Pack Bag and Extension Cable.
If required, the Battery Pack can be separated from the Upper Shaft
thereby reducing the overall weight of the detector. Using the
bayonet connectors at each end of the Extension Cable, connect the
cable to the Battery Pack and feed the cable through the base of the
Battery Pack Bag before connecting to the Electronics Pack. The
Battery Pack Bag can then be clipped onto a belt worn by the
operator as shown in Figure 10.
Figure 10: Battery Pack Separated from Upper Shaft

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2.5 Changing Endcaps.
The F3 can be used with Black, Red or Yellow Sensitivity Endcaps.
The decision on which Endcap to use will be provided by the local
authority. To fit a Sensitivity Endcap:
a. Ensure the F3 is switched off.
b. Place the thumb of one hand in the centre of the Endcap and curl
the fingers under the base of the Endcap.
c. Gently push inwards with the thumb and simultaneously pull the
base of the Endcap away from the Electronics Pack (Figure 11).
d. Exchange or replace the Endcap by gently positioning the inside
of the base of the Endcap under the base of the Electronics Pack.
Using the palm of the hand, apply light pressure to fit the Endcap
into position.
Figure 11: Removing a Sensitivity Endcap
**WARNING**
The Sensitivity Endcap also provides impact protection to
the Electronics Pack. Whenever an Endcap has been
removed from the Electronics Pack never place the base of
the detector against the ground or sharp objects.

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3. Functional Description
3.1 Functional Controls.
For ease of use, all controls for the F3 are located on the Handle.
For information on the additional controls included in the F3L
configuration, refer to Chapter 4. Figure 12 illustrates the location of
all controls:
Figure 12: F3 Controls
a. On/Off Switch.
The F3 is switched on by sliding the On/Off Switch toward the
Handle. When switched on, the F3 completes a series of internal
start-up functions including initialisation of the microprocessor
and self-tests which check internal power supplies, transmitter
etc.
These internal diagnostics take approximately 12 seconds to
complete during which the operator will hear a series of rising
tones (known as the Start-Up Tones).
At the completion of the Start-Up Tones the F3 emits a low
steady tone known as the Threshold Tone, which confirms to the
operator that the F3 is functioning correctly.

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During operation, continuous internal self-testing continues and
an alarm tone is triggered on detection of any fault condition
(refer to Section 3.3 for a description of the alarm tones).
To turn the F3 off, slide the On/Off Switch away from the Handle.
b. Ground Balance/Audio Reset Button. Easily identifiable as the
Green Button located on top of the Handle, this dual action button
carries out the following functions:
Ground Balance. A key feature of the F3 is its ability to detect
metallic mines in all ground conditions. False alarms due to
mineralised (magnetic/lateritic) soils are automatically removed
through use of the Ground Balance function.
Audio Reset. On occasion, the Threshold Tone may become
louder than normal. Holding the coil stationary over a metallic
object or over mineralised ground for an extended period of time
may cause this. Also, if the detector is being used in the kneeling
position (shafts retracted), any movement of the coil relative to
the shaft may cause the Threshold Tone to increase. The
Threshold Tone can be returned to the normal volume level using
the Audio Reset function.
c. Noise Cancel Button.
Interference from electrical motors, lights, power lines and other
detectors can occasionally cause the Threshold Tone to vary in
pitch and volume. When this occurs, the ability of an operator to
distinguish targets may be degraded.
Using the Noise Cancel function, an operator can initiate an
automatic frequency scanning sequence resulting in the F3
selecting an operating frequency that minimises the effect from
interference.
d. Earset Socket.
The F3 has an internal speaker located inside the Handle.
However, the F3 can also be fitted with an Earset via the Earset
Socket. The procedure for connecting the Earset is described at
Section 2.3.h.

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A standard humanitarian demining Earset (Earset Speaker On)
permits the F3‟s internal speaker to continue to function even
when the Earset is connected.
For military countermine applications, an Earset that mutes the
F3‟s internal speaker when the Earset is connected is available
(Earset Speaker Off). The Earset Speaker Off is identified by a
short length of green tubing located at the rear of the Earset plug.
3.2 Sensitivity Endcaps.
A unique feature of the F3 is its ability to change sensitivity through
the exchange of Sensitivity Endcaps. This design feature eliminates
the possibility of an operator selecting the wrong sensitivity through
manipulation of knobs or switches. The Sensitivity Endcap provides
an obvious visual cue that confirms the level of sensitivity selected in
the F3. The F3 is supplied with Black and Red Sensitivity Endcaps.
Black Sensitivity Endcap. With the Black Sensitivity Endcap
fitted, the F3 performs at maximum sensitivity. The Black Endcap
MUST be selected when searching for minimum metal mines or
when maximum clearance depth is required.
Red Sensitivity Endcap. With the Red Sensitivity Endcap fitted,
the F3 performs at reduced sensitivity. This feature may be
useful when there is a need to ignore small metal fragmentation
on the surface but still detect large targets at depth.
NOTE
If the Red Sensitivity Endcap is not fitted correctly, or there is no
endcap fitted, the detector automatically defaults to the maximum
sensitivity setting (Black Sensitivity Endcap). If the Red Sensitivity
Endcap is partially dislodged or removed during use, an alarm tone
will sound.
**WARNING**
Minelab strongly recommends that an operator should
always wear an Earset when using the F3 detector.