Pendahuluan
Metal detecting is a fascinating hobby that combines the thrill of treasure hunting with the satisfaction of uncovering historical artifacts. However, for beginners, understanding the various settings and features of a metal detector can be overwhelming. One such setting is discrimination, which is crucial for distinguishing valuable finds from junk metal. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of metal detector discrimination settings, discussing what they are, how they work, and how to adjust them for optimal performance.
What is Metal Detector Discrimination?
Metal detector discrimination refers to the ability of a metal detector to distinguish between different types of metals based on their electromagnetic properties. This feature is essential for treasure hunters because it helps them to avoid digging up worthless junk like nails, bottle caps, and other common trash metals.
How Does Discrimination Work?
Metal detectors use a technology called pulse induction (PI) or frequency-based (VLF) to detect metals. When the detector’s coil passes over a metal object, it creates an electromagnetic field that interacts with the metal’s own magnetic field. The detector then analyzes the changes in the field’s frequency to determine the presence and type of metal.
Discrimination settings in a metal detector allow the user to adjust the sensitivity of the detector to specific metals. By adjusting these settings, the detector can ignore signals from unwanted metals, such as iron or aluminum, while still detecting desirable metals like gold or silver.
Understanding Discrimination Settings
Discrimination settings are typically represented by a scale or graph on the metal detector’s control panel. The scale typically ranges from 0 to 99 or 0 to 100, with lower numbers indicating less discrimination and higher numbers indicating more discrimination.
Notch Discrimination
Some metal detectors feature a more advanced discrimination mode called notch discrimination. In this mode, the detector’s discrimination scale is divided into several notches or segments, each corresponding to a specific range of metal conductivity. This allows for even more precise discrimination between different types of metals.
Adjusting Discrimination Settings
Adjusting the discrimination settings on your metal detector is crucial for achieving optimal performance. Here are some tips for adjusting your detector’s discrimination settings:
1. Start with the factory settings: Most metal detectors come with factory preset discrimination settings that are suitable for general use. Beginners should start with these settings and then fine-tune them based on their specific hunting conditions and preferences.
2. Increase discrimination gradually: If you’re experiencing too much interference or digging up too much junk, gradually increase the discrimination setting by small increments (e.g., 1 or 2 units) and test the detector’s performance after each adjustment.
3. Decrease discrimination carefully: If you’re missing valuable targets, decrease the discrimination setting in small increments and test the detector’s performance after each adjustment. Be cautious not to lower the discrimination too much, as this will increase the amount of junk metal you’ll dig up.
4. Use notch discrimination wisely: If your metal detector has notch discrimination, familiarize yourself with the conductivity ranges of common trash metals and desirable targets. This will help you to selectively eliminate specific ranges of metals without sacrificing sensitivity to valuable finds.
Kesimpulan
Understanding and mastering metal detector discrimination settings is essential for any treasure hunter looking to maximize their finds and minimize frustration. By learning how discrimination works, familiarizing yourself with the various discrimination modes available on modern metal detectors, and practicing adjusting your detector’s settings, you’ll soon be on your way to uncovering treasures that others may miss.
Pertanyaan Umum
1. What is the difference between VLF and PI metal detectors?
VLF (Very Low Frequency) and PI (Pulse Induction) are two different technologies used in metal detectors. VLF detectors use a continuous wave to detect metals, while PI detectors use a series of short pulses. VLF detectors are more sensitive to smaller targets and better at discriminating between different metals, while PI detectors are better suited for saltwater hunting and detecting larger, deeply buried targets.
2. How does ground balance affect discrimination?
Ground balance is a metal detector setting that adjusts the detector’s sensitivity to the mineralization of the soil. If the ground balance is set incorrectly, it can affect the detector’s ability to discriminate between different metals. It’s important to ensure your detector has proper ground balance before adjusting discrimination settings.
3. Can I adjust discrimination settings for different types of soil?
Yes, it’s important to adjust your metal detector’s discrimination settings based on the type of soil you’re hunting in. Different types of soil can affect a detector’s performance, so it’s important to test your detector’s settings in various soil conditions and make adjustments as needed.
4. Can I adjust discrimination settings for different types of targets?
Yes, you can adjust your metal detector’s discrimination settings to optimize its performance for different types of targets. For example, if you’re looking for small gold nuggets, you may need to lower the discrimination setting to detect smaller, less conductive targets. Conversely, if you’re searching for larger, more conductive targets like coins or relics, you may need to increase the discrimination setting to avoid digging up smaller, less valuable targets.
5. Is it better to have a higher or lower discrimination setting?
The ideal discrimination setting depends on your specific hunting conditions and the type of targets you’re looking for. In general, a lower discrimination setting (0-20 on a 0-99 scale) will allow you to detect a wider range of metals, including smaller and less conductive targets, but will also increase the amount of junk metal you dig up. A higher discrimination setting (70-99 on a 0-99 scale) will help you avoid digging up junk metal, but may cause you to miss smaller, valuable targets. It’s important to find the right balance between sensitivity and discrimination based on your personal preferences and hunting conditions.