Minelab F3Ci User manual

F3Ci
Revision 01
Part No: 4901-0144
OPERATIONS MANUAL

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.

F3Ci Operations Manual
1
Table of Contents
1. Introduction ...................................................................3
2. General Description and Preparation.............................................5
2.1 Mine Detecting Set ...................................................................5
2.2 F3Ci Main Components............................................................6
2.3 F3Ci Preparation ......................................................................8
3. Functional Description .................................................................. 13
3.1 Functional Controls and Displays ........................................... 13
3.1.1 On/O f f Knob ................................................................. 13
3.1.2 Sensitivity Knob............................................................ 14
3.1.3 Ground Balance............................................................ 15
3.1.4 Noise Cancel Button..................................................... 15
3.1.5 Mode Select Button ......................................................15
3.1.6 LED Display..................................................................16
3.1.7 Battery Status............................................................... 17
3.1.8 Earset Socket ............................................................... 17
3.2 Functional Tones ....................................................................19
3.3 Test Piece – Functional Test...................................................20
4. Operating Procedures....................................................................22
4.1 Introduction.............................................................................22
4.2 Standard Procedure ...............................................................23
4.2.1 STEP 1 Switch ON .......................................................23
4.2.2 STEP 2 Ground Balance ..............................................24
4.2.3 STEP 3 Test Piece........................................................24
4.3 Optional Procedures...............................................................25
4.3.1 Noise Cancel ................................................................25
4.3.2 Activate/Deactivate LEDs .............................................26
4.3.3 Activate/Deactivate Vibration........................................27

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F3Ci Operations Manual
4.4 Sweeping Procedure ..............................................................29
4.4.1 STEP 1 Mapping the Target..........................................31
4.4.2 STEP 2 Pinpointing the Target......................................33
4.4.3 STEP 3 Interrogating the Target (Optional)...................34
4.5 Multiple Targets ......................................................................35
4.5.1 STEP 1 Mapping the Target..........................................35
4.5.2 STEP 2 Pinpointing Targets..........................................35
4.5.3 STEP 3 Interrogating the Targets (Optional).................36
4.6 Operating Multiple Detectors in Close Proximity ....................37
4.7 Completion of Operations.......................................................38
5. Care and Troubleshooting.............................................................39
5.1 Routine Care ..........................................................................39
5.2 Troubleshooting ......................................................................40
6. Specifications.................................................................................41

F3Ci Operations Manual
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1. Introduction
Since 1996, Minelab has designed, developed and manufactured
its range of detectors to meet the requirements of mine and
unexploded ordnance clearance operations throughout the
world. Through its patented and unique technology, Minelab
has emphasised equipment capability and operator safety in its
products.
The F3Ci is a lightweight, compact detector that includes a
uniquely designed mechanical platform thereby providing superior
ergonomics. It is a robust detector that is extremely simple to
operate.
Figure 1: F3Ci mine detector

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F3Ci Operations Manual
The F3Ci is designed to detect all types of metal targets and carbon
rods. Additionally, under certain circumstances and using various
tones, the F3Ci can assist an operator to identify specific targets.
The F3Ci incorporates several safety features such as Low Battery
and System 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
the operator with a quick and easy check to ensure the detector is
working at its operational capability.
The F3Ci provides a visual indication of detection via a Light Emitting
Diode (LED) display. If required, the F3Ci also provides vibrations to
alert the operator to a target. Sensitivity and volume settings can be
changed through seven preset selections.
Components of the F3Ci are manufactured within tightly controlled
parameters so that they can be interchanged in the field without any
requirement for calibration.
The F3Ci is designed to satisfy MIL STD 810G.
NOTE
Although the F3Ci can withstand immersion to a depth of three
metres 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 F3Ci is supplied as a mine detecting set (Figure 2) comprising:
• Hard Case (optional)
• Detector
• Soft Carry Bag
• Earset (Speaker On and
Speaker Off variants)
• Operations Manual
• Field Guide
• Test Piece
• Four C Cell Batteries
(Alkaline or Rechargeable)
Figure 2: F3Ci mine detecting set
The optional Hard Case permits the storage of the detector inside
the Soft Carry Bag and provides protection for the detector when in
transit or placed in storage.
The Soft Carry Bag allows the operator to comfortably carry the
detector when use of the Hard Case is impractical. The Soft Carry
Bag is not suitable for use when transporting the detector by
road or air. For added protection during road or air transport, it is
recommended that the detector be packed in the Hard Case.
F3COMPACT
MineDetector
12seconds
Audio
Reset
45seconds...
60cm
(24”)
1
2
3
15cm
(6”)
60cm
(24”)
4903-0047-1

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F3Ci Operations Manual
2.2 F3Ci Main Components
Figure 3 identifies the main components of the F3Ci.
Battery
Compartment
Armrest
Armrest Strap
Earset
Connector
Handle
Assembly
Shaft Hinge
Controls
Main Body
Upper Shaft
Middle Shaft
Lower Shaft
Skid Plate
Coil Pivot Assembly
Coil
Lower Camlock
Upper Camlock
Test Piece
Figure 3: F3Ci main components
Battery Compartment – contains 4 x C cell alkaline or rechargeable
batteries. A battery map is provided to indicate correct alignment of
batteries when inserted into the compartment.
Armrest and Strap – provided for operator comfort when the
detector is used for prolonged periods. The Armrest can be extended
for operator comfort.

F3Ci Operations Manual
7
Test Piece – conveniently stowed on the Armrest to allow the
operator to ensure the detector is working at its operational
capability.
Earset Connector – provides connection for the Earset.
Main Body – waterproof housing containing the detector electronics
and batteries.
Handle Assembly – collapsible handle that also contains user
interface buttons and LED display.
Controls – On/Off and Volume/Sensitivity selection knobs – both
controls cannot be accidentally rotated.
Shaft Hinge – pivot point for unfolding or folding the shafts. The
hinge is only locked in position when the Handle Assembly is in its
deployed position.
Upper, Middle, Lower Shafts – carbon fibre shafts that are
adjustable for operator comfort and for changes in demining
positions.
Upper and Lower Camlocks – self-cleaning locking mechanisms to
secure middle and lower shafts.
Coil Pivot Assembly – permits the tilt and rotation of the coil and
provides a tension screw for adjustment as required.
Coil – waterproof enclosed coil to eliminate possible interference
from vegetation. The coil can be rotated 180 degrees.
Skid Plate – removable disk that protects and prolongs the life of the
coil thereby reducing maintenance costs.

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F3Ci Operations Manual
2.3 F3Ci Preparation
To prepare the detector for use, conduct the following procedure:
a. Open the Hard Case and/or Soft Carry Bag.
b. Remove the detector and inspect for obvious signs of damage.
If damage is evident, report to the supervisor/team leader.
c. Unlock the Battery Compartment Lid by twisting the Battery
Lock Lever counter clockwise one-quarter turn. Once unlocked,
pull the lid away from the Battery Compartment (the lid will stay
attached by a tether as shown in Figure 4).
d. Using the battery map located on the side of the Main Body,
insert four C cell batteries. Taking care not to snag or trap the
tether, replace the Battery Compartment Lid and rotate the
Battery Lock Lever clockwise one-quarter turn. If the batteries
are inserted incorrectly, the detector will fail to function when
switched on.
e. Using Figure 5 as a guide, unfold and adjust the F3Ci.
Figure 4: Removing the Battery Compartment Lid
NOTE
The F3Ci requires 4 C cell batteries for operation. Use only high
quality alkaline or rechargeable batteries. Minelab recommends that
only rechargeable batteries with a capacity of 5000 mAh or greater
be used with the F3Ci. Rechargeable batteries have specific charge/
discharge maintenance requirements, which should be strictly
followed to ensure maximum battery life.

F3Ci Operations Manual
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1 2
3 4
5

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F3Ci Operations Manual
AB
6
7 8
Figure 5: Guide to unfolding and adjusting the F3Ci
NOTE
When the Handle Assembly is locked into position (Frame 3), it will
also lock the Upper Shaft in position. To unlock the Handle Assembly
and to allow the Upper Shaft to rotate when repacking the detector,
gently but firmly impact the base of the palm against the top of the
handle behind the LED display.
f. Extend the Lower and Middle Shafts to suit the selected demining
position as shown in Figure 6.

F3Ci Operations Manual
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Figure 6: F3Ci in the standing, kneeling or prone positions
g. Undo the dust caps from the Earset Plug and Earset Socket on
the detector. Gently hold the Earset by the rubber collar using
thumb and index finger, the raised double arrow should be
uppermost (see Figure 7). Align the plug with the Earset Socket
and firmly slide the collar onto the socket.
Figure 7: Connecting the Earset

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F3Ci Operations Manual
NOTE
The Earset Connector is waterproof and must be 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.
The F3Ci is now ready for use. Refer to Chapter 3 for Functional
Description, and Chapter 4 for Operating Procedures.
To repack the F3Ci, this preparation procedure should be reversed.

F3Ci Operations Manual
13
3. Functional Description
3.1 Functional Controls and Displays
For ease of use, all controls and displays for the F3Ci are located on
the Handle Assembly and Main Body. Figure 8 illustrates the location
of all controls.
Figure 8: F3Ci controls
3.1.1 On/Off Knob
To switch the F3Ci on, gently pull out the On/Off Knob and rotate
clockwise. Once in the On position release the knob back to the
locked position (refer Figure 9).
When switched on, the F3Ci completes a series of internal start-up
functions including initialisation of the microprocessor and self-tests,
which check internal power supplies, transmitter etc.
Earset
Socket
On/Off
Knob Sensitivity
Knob
Mode Selector Button
Ground
Balance
Button
Noise
Cancel
Button

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F3Ci Operations Manual
On completion of internal diagnostic tests, the F3Ci will emit a “heart
beat” beep every four seconds (unless targets are detected). If the
LED is switched on, the first LED will illuminate at the same time as
the heart beat.
During operation, continuous internal self-testing continues and an
alarm tone is triggered on detection of any fault condition (refer to
section 3.2 for a description of the alarm tones).
To turn the F3Ci off, pull out the On/Off Knob and rotate counter-
clockwise to the Off position. Release the switch back to the locked
position.
Figure 9: Switching on the detector
3.1.2 Sensitivity Knob
The F3Ci can be operated using seven preset volume and sensitivity
settings. Position 4 is the default position and should always be
selected when switching on the detector and conducting the Test
Piece procedure (refer to section 4.2.3).
If the F3Ci Sensitivity Knob is rotated to the Yellow Dot position, the
detector will operate at maximum sensitivity. When Interrogation
Mode (see Section 3.1.5) is selected, under certain conditions, the
detector will emit one tone for carbon rods, and another tone for all
other targets.
The Yellow Dot on the decal indicates the position that, when
selected, places the detector into a mode that is optimised to
detect targets that are often used in the construction of improvised
explosive devices.
60cm
(24 in)

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15
* WARNING *
When detecting targets with low metal signatures, the F3Ci should
not be used on a selection lower than the default setting (Position
4). Where possible, Free From Explosive targets should be buried
at the required detection depth. Sensitivity options (Positions 4 to
7) should then be tested to determine the most suitable sensitivity
to ensure detection of the target.
3.1.3 Ground Balance
Located on the right hand side of the LED display, when pressed and
released the detector will commence its Ground Balancing sequence
to remove the effects of mineralised soils.
3.1.4 Noise Cancel Button
Using the Noise Cancel button located on the left of the LED display,
the operator can initiate an automatic frequency scanning sequence.
As a result the F3Ci will select an operating frequency that minimises
the effects from sources of electrical interference.
3.1.5 Mode Select Button
The yellow Mode Select button can be used to toggle between:
a. Detection Mode. This mode is the default mode for the detector
and will provide a similar tone to all types of metal targets. The
tone will vary in volume depending on the size or proximity of the
target.
b. Interrogation Mode. When selected, this mode will provide
different tones for various targets.
c. Pinpoint Mode. By selecting Pinpoint Mode, the detector provides
a single tone that assists in determining the accurate location of
the target.

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F3Ci Operations Manual
* WARNING *
Detection Mode is always more sensitive than Interrogation or
Pinpoint modes. This means that, on occasion, when a very small
target is detected in Detection Mode, it is possible the target will
not be detected when selecting Interrogation or Pinpoint modes.
In this instance, the detector should remain in Detection Mode to
locate and mark the target position.
3.1.6 LED Display
A display of nine red LEDs provides a visual indication of target
size and proximity. The display can be switched On and Off by
simultaneously pressing the yellow Mode Select button and the
Ground Balance button.
When the LED display is switched on but no targets are detected,
then the first LED will flash, representing the heart beat.
Figure 10: LED Display with no target response

F3Ci Operations Manual
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Other typical illuminations of the LED display, including Battery Low
Alarm LED are illustrated in Figure 11.
Test Piece Procedure
At least two LEDs Illuminated
Small/deep target
response
Medium target
response
Large/shallow
target response
Low battery alarm
Figure 11: Typical LED responses
NOTE
The LED display will always be off when the detector is first switched
on.
3.1.7 Battery Status
Battery status can be checked at anytime by pressing and holding
down the Noise Cancel button and then pressing and immediately
releasing the Ground Balance button. Once completed the LED
display will indicate the battery status for a period of three seconds.
3.1.8 Earset Socket
The F3Ci has an internal speaker located inside the Main Body,
however, it can also be fitted with an Earset via the Earset Socket.
The procedure for connecting the Earset is described in section
2.3.g.

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F3Ci Operations Manual
A standard humanitarian demining Earset (Earset Speaker On)
permits the detector’s internal speaker to continue to function even
when the Earset is connected.
For military countermine applications, an Earset that mutes the F3Ci’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.
* WARNING *
Minelab strongly recommends that an operator always wears an
Earset when using the F3Ci detector.