How to use a metal detector

 

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

 

WATER HUNTING: Your Pioneer EX is ideal for damp grass and shallow water spots. the search coil is waterproof; the case and case-to-cable connection is not. Be careful to keep the detector body dry.

In saltwater, keep the search coil from contact with the ground. Contact with saltwater sands will cause the detector to beep falsely. For best result in saltwater, eliminate IRON to reduce false signals caused by conductive beach sands. Coil sweep technique is also important in saltwater; keeping the coil submerged is better than dunking and lifting. The detector needs time to readjust to the conductive salt water.

RED CLAY: The red clay earth found in the southwestern U.S. may require a reduction in the DEPTH SELECT level if encountering false signals. Coil sweep technique is also more critical in red clay; keep the coil level with the ground. Do not lift the coil at the ends of your sweep. Review coil sweep technique on page 15.

RED SANDS: Red sand found in desert locations will react like red clays, so follow the same precautions as outlined in the paragraph above.

BLACK SANDS: The most promising gold-prospecting locations can contain large amounts of black sand. This black sand is the most demanding detecting environment, and frequently requires a detector costing thousands of dollars for the best results. Your Pioneer EX will still function in these conditions, but will usually require operation at reduced sensitivity levels. If you receive constant false signals, reduce the sensitivity or move to another area.

SAND: Dry beach sands are no problem for the Pioneer EX. If the sand is damp with saltwater, however, follow the precautions outlined under saltwater above.

HOT AND COLD: Be patient if moving immediately between hot and cold environments, like taking your detector from your air-conditioned home into a blazing summer sun. The search coil is constructed of copper wire which will expand and contract with temperature change. Your detector may require 10 to 15 minutes to stabilize to the ambient temperature.

 

ASSEMBLY

 

Assembly is easy and requires no tools.

1. Position the lower stem with the silver button toward the back. Using the bolt and knurled knob, attach the search coil to the plastic extension protruding from the lower stem.
2. Press the button on the upper end of the lower stem, and slide the lower stem into the upper stem.Adjust the stem to a length that lets you maintain a comfortable upright posture, with your arm relaxed at your side, and the search coil parallel to the ground in front of you.
3. Wind the cable securely around the stem.
4. Insert the plug into the matching connector on the right underside of the detector body. Be sure that the key-way and pins line up correctly.

Caution: Do not force the plug in. Excess force will cause damage. To disconnect the cable, pull on the plug.  Do not pull on the cable.