Friday, 23 September 2011

Picking The Right Metal Detector

By Daniel Akinson


You may be aware that metal detecting is becoming more and more popular, however before you decide to get involved yourself there are a few things you should understand about metal detectors.

The fundamental make up of each metal detector is similar even though there are various brands that produce them. An average detector will be made from several components, including the stabilizer

which is used to keep the detector steady as you swing it back and forth, the brain of the detector is the control box where all of the processing equipment and batteries are contained, connected to this via a shaft is the search coil which is the heart of the detector and locates buried valuables.

The way detectors work is through using electromagnetic induction. Current is passed through the search coil that creates an electromagnetic field. When this field comes into contact with metal the field is altered and creates electric currents within the metal, these are termed eddy currents. A magnetic field is also generated by these eddy currents, which in turn generate an opposite type of electrical current within the search coil. To indicate that a metal object is present, these currents cause the device to throw off a signal to the user.

There are various kinds of detectors that will cost anywhere between 100-600 dollars. Extra features and higher-tech equipment that has an increased sensitivity will of course cost more. However, before you run out and purchase a top of the line metal detector, here are some things you need to know:

* Use - Think about what you will be using the metal detector for, either at home or in your job, as a relic, jewelry or gold hunter, as a sandy beach hunter or a coin prospector. You can pick up a general purpose detector that can be used for most detecting, however if you have a certain type in mind you may want to pick up a specific detector.

* Frequency - Think about how often you will really be using the detector to look for treasure. For those of you who plan on using your detector on a regular basis, you may want to spend a bit extra and pick up a better model that is more accurate and has added features. Although remember you have to pay for such things as more features and better sensitivity.

* Experience - There are lots of different types and sizes of metal detectors on the market. If you lack experience you can pick up a detector designed for those new to the hobby.

4) Are you male of female? Most women will want to buy a detector that is light and easier to handle.

- Cost, most metal detectors are a fair price. But many of the extra accessories that are available can be very beneficial, such as carrying bags, digging tools and headphones that will help you to hear smaller signals much more clearly. If you purchase all of these things together you can usually get the best deal.

* Warranty - Always make sure you find out about the product's warranty guidelines. If it doesn't have a 5 year warranty find one that does.

* Research - Always find out all you can before you spend a dime. Use online resources like review sites and metal detecting news sites that will help you know which brands and models offer the most features for the money.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment