If you are one of those people who wonder about those weird people with sticks that make noises, think no more. What they are holding are called metal detectors and they are not only used by treasure hunters but also for security purposes like bomb or firearm detection. These contraptions are very useful. They can give signals even from the smallest coin deep sited.

How can it detect those metals? Here is a 101 on the parts of a detector and how it works. You need to know the parts of it and its operation to understand what this contraption is telling you when you hear those weird beeps.

Metal detectors for hobbyists or those who just try metal detecting for fun; has equipment that is simple and lightweight, unlike those for security purposes. This simple contraption is composed of uncomplicated parts.

1. Control panel or box - literally the area of the detector where you control almost everything. Inside are the circuits, batteries, the processor and the speakers.

2. Tube - more commonly known as the shaft. It attaches the control panel and the search head.

3. Search head - most important part of the detector. It is the part that spots possible treasures around. (It has other names also: loop, antenna, or the search coil)

4. Stabilizer - it aids in your control when you hold the item. This is now common for most metal detectors but not all detectors have this feature.

5. Headphones - this part is also optional but advisable. It aids you in listening only to specific noises. You can hear even the slightest sound of beeping. You can also reduce the sound around you by adding this to your machine.

There are three types of metal detectors these are: VLF, PI and BFO.

VLF or Very low frequency is the most commonly bought detector on the market. This type of machine generates an electromagnetic field and can detect at what level or depth the metal may be.

PI or Pulse induction is not as common as the VLF. This contraption generates and uses the coil (just one) as the recipient and spreader of the impulses. The good thing about this item is that it can locate deep sited metals and in areas that other metal detector types have difficulty in.

BFO or beat frequency oscillator is the most common and down to earth contraption there is. This type needs 2 coils that are linked and generates radio-waves. These are the cheapest available that are being sold in stores.

Remember when you know how a detector works you will enjoy doing it effortlessly. Research more and get that detector. You never know what you just might get.

Bookmark to: