THE MINELAB EXPLORER II ™ Minelab Explorer II ! P0591-A " 4901-0047 Rev 1.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com © Minelab Electronics Pty Ltd This document contains proprietary information which is protected by copyright. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced by any process without written permission from Minelab Electronics Pty Ltd, 118 Hayward Avenue, Torrensville, SA 5031, Australia. WARNING. This document contains Minelab Electronics Pty Ltd rights, technical data or restricted rights data, or both.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 contents INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................... 1 About this manual ................................................................................................................................... 2 Introducing the Minelab Explorer II ....................................................................................................... 3 Minelab’s unique technology .
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com TABLE OF CONTENTS 5 contents QUICKSTART ...................................................................................................................... 37 Getting started ....................................................................................................................................... 38 Beginner use .........................................................................................................................................
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II TABLE OF CONTENTS 6 contents ADVANCED USE ................................................................................................................. 67 Advanced mode’s Main Menu [easy reference] ................................................................................ 68 Starting in Advanced mode .................................................................................................................. 69 Advanced Mode’s displays [easy reference] ............
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com TABLE OF CONTENTS 7 contents USER INFO .......................................................................................................................... 89 Helpful hints ........................................................................................................................................... 90 Battery performance comparisons ......................................................................................................
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II 1 INTRODUCTION 1 Introduction ! The Explorer II is the most technologically advanced detector ever produced. It is possible to start treasure hunting as soon as you have assembled the detector, but it is worth familiarizing yourself with its many features.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com ABOUT THIS MANUAL This manual is designed to introduce the detector’s features, give you step-by-step directions for everything from assembling and adjusting your detector to basic detector use and customizing your own advanced settings. 1 INTRODUCTION ! 1. INTRODUCTION Basic overview of the Explorer II and this User’s Manual. 5.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II INTRODUCING THE MINELAB EXPLORER II Thank you for purchasing a Minelab Explorer II detector. The Explorer II is different to conventional metal detectors and features a number of technological innovations and design features which are introduced and explained in this manual.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com MINELAB’S UNIQUE TECHNOLOGY The Explorer II is one of a new generation of detectors from Minelab. Its sleek, sturdy design, innovative control panel and comprehensive targeting options set it apart from any other detector available today.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II Advanced mode Smartfind display Main Menu 1 INTRODUCTION Figure 1.2 Advanced mode Once you are familiar with the feel and functions of the detector, it is a simple matter to move into Advanced mode. This will enable you to change the appearance of the display, modify audio responses, specify custom targets and edit and save personal settings. Chapter 6: Advanced Use provides all of the information you need to personalize your Explorer for specialized targeting.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com Discrimination Discrimination is the ability of a 1 INTRODUCTION metal detector to identify the user’s desired target (e.g. jewelry) and eliminate signals from undesirable material (e.g. nails). Full Band Spectrum (FBS) When developing Full Band Spectrum (FBS) technology, Minelab’s scientists looked at improving the already successful Broad Band Spectrum (BBS) technology used in previous Minelab detectors.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II Operating Frequencies A metal detector’s frequencies are measured in kiloHertz (kHz). Low signal frequencies 1 INTRODUCTION electromagnetic operating The Full Band Spectrum (FBS) circuit automatically transmits 28 frequencies simultaneously. This increased frequency range means that the signal received from the detector coil is analyzed from a wide range of responses.
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THE MINELAB EXPLORER II 2 2 ASSEMBLY Assembly This chapter provides details and instructions on assembling and adjusting the Explorer II.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com ASSEMBLING THE DETECTOR Handle assembly 2 ASSEMBLY Shaft assembly Search coil P0591-A Please follow these instructions to assemble the Explorer II. Refer to the drawings to identify parts and how they are positioned. The detector’s components are organized into three categories: • the search coil; • the shaft assembly, made up of the upper shaft and lower shaft; • the handle assembly, made up of the handle, armrest and control box.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II CONNECTING THE SEARCH COIL The search coil transmits electromagnetic signals into the ground and receives the response. 2 ASSEMBLY Rubber Washer Coil Cable Coil Yoke Yoke Nut Yoke Bracket Yoke Bolt Search Coil P0608-A Figure 2.1 Connecting the search coil to the lower shaft Connecting the search coil to the lower shaft Figure 2.1–2.3 CAUTION DO NOT attempt to disconnect the coil cable where it enters the search coil itself.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com 2 ASSEMBLY P0605-A Figure 2.2 Inserting coil yoke into bracket P0606-A Figure 2.3 Securing yoke to search coil 12 CONNECTING THE SEARCH COIL STEP 3 Check the orientation of the search coil and shaft ensuring that the open side of the yoke faces the ground. STEP 4 (Figure 2.2) To join the shaft to the search coil, slide the yoke into the yoke bracket on top of the coil. STEP 5 (Figure 2.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II THE SHAFT ASSEMBLY The shaft assembly is made up of the upper and lower shafts connected by the shaft camlock. The assembly houses the coil cable and connects the search coil to the handle assembly. These instructions assume that the search coil is connected to the lower shaft. 2 ASSEMBLY Camlock Released P0601-A Figure 2.4 Feeding coil cable into upper shaft Shaft assembly Search Coil Figure 2.4, 2.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com CONNECTING THE SHAFT ASSEMBLY Connecting the shaft assembly to the handle assembly Figure 2.6–2.9 NOTE Shaft orientation: camlock is on lower side of upper shaft. 2 To connect the shaft assembly to the handle assembly: ASSEMBLY STEP 1 (Figure 2.6) Release the control box camlock lever to the open position. STEP 2 (Figure 2.6) Align the connections and push the coil cable connector into the socket underneath the handle assembly control box.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II STEP 5 Secure upper shaft in position by locking the control box camlock. STEP 6 (Figure 2.9) Adjust shaft to the desired length and then lock with shaft camlock lever. STEP 7 (Figure 2.9) Tilt the search coil to the most comfortable angle, keeping in mind it will need to be parallel to the ground during detecting. 2 P0598-A ASSEMBLY Figure 2.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com THE HANDLE ASSEMBLY The handle assembly is made up of the armrest, straps and the control box. It is connected to the shaft assembly by the control box camlock. Adjusting the armrest assembly 2 Figure 2.10 ASSEMBLY To adjust armrest: STEP 1 Loosen the screw in the center of the armrest (turn counter-clockwise). Use a screwdriver or the edge of a coin. STEP 2 Slide armrest to your desired position.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II Fitting the armrest strap Figure 2.11–2.13 To fit and adjust the armrest strap: (Figure 2.11) Thread the strap through the buckle openings as illustrated. STEP 2 (Figure 2.12) Clip both buckles into the openings at each outer side of the armrest. STEP 3 Test by sliding your arm underneath the strap and resting your forearm on the armrest (which should be adjusted to a comfortable setting). STEP 4 (Figure 2.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com HEADPHONES Attaching headphones Figure 2.14 Headphone Socket 2 ASSEMBLY P0595-A The use of headphones when treasure hunting with the Explorer II will avoid disturbing others in the area. The reduced power demands of the headphones will also extend the battery life. The socket for the headphone plug is located in the top right of the rubber seal at the top of the handle assembly.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II REPLACING AND FITTING THE SEARCH COIL Rubber Washer Coil Cable 2 ASSEMBLY Coil Yoke Yoke Nut Yoke Bracket Yoke Bolt Search Coil P0608-A Figure 2.14 Replacing the search coil Replacing the search coil Figure 2.14–2.16 CAUTION DO NOT attempt to remove the coil cable from the search coil. Any attempt to disconnect will void your detector warranty.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com STEP 4 (Figure 2.15) Gently pull the coil cable from inside the yoke/lower shaft. STEP 5 (Figure 2.16). Carefully feed the coil cable of the new coil back into yoke and lower shaft. Continue to feed the cable into the shaft unitl the connector is visible at the top of the shaft. NOTE : It may be easier to pull the cable through the lower shaft using a length of string or cord.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II 3 Batteries 3 BATTERIES The Explorer II can be powered by alkaline batteries or a rechargeable Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) battery pack. This chapter provides details on battery installation, use and performance.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com THE BATTERY PACK The Explorer II has both Alkaline and NiMH battery packs available as either standard or accessory items. Removal instructions apply to both types of pack. Battery installation instructions apply to alkaline battery replacement only. Removal of battery pack Figure 3.1 CAUTION Ensure that the detector is turned OFF before proceeding with any of the following directions. 3 BATTERIES Figure 3.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II Recharging NiMH battery pack with the mains charger Figure 3.3 The Explorer II is provided with a sealed Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) battery pack and a charger which plugs into a conventional wall socket. Figure 3.3 Recharging NiMH battery pack Safety Tip NOTE The NiMH battery pack supplied with your detector comes in the discharged condition. It is necessary to charge it as explained below before operating the detector.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com Recharging ! Minelab’s battery chargers are Recharging NiMH battery pack with the car charger A car charger for the NiMH battery pack is available for the Explorer II. STEP 1 Remove battery pack as per instructions on page 24. STEP 2 Insert the car charger plug into the cigarette lighter socket. STEP 3 Insert the car charger plug into the socket at the tapered end of the battery pack.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II BATTERY PERFORMANCE Battery life indications Figure 3.4 Visual indication – The battery life indicator appears on all of the Explorer detect screens. The battery will be fully shaded at maximum battery charge. When this shaded area nears the bottom, the detector will begin to sound its low battery warning. Figure 3.
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THE MINELAB EXPLORER II 4 Control Panel 4 It is important to familiarize yourself with CONTROL PANEL the features of the Explorer II control panel. A few minutes spent reading this chapter will be a worthwhile preliminary to basic or advanced detecting.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com THE CONTROL PANEL easy reference As the control panel provides user access to all Explorer II functions, the various buttons will be referred to throughout this User’s Manual. The terminology will remain consistent with the elements labelled below and will be a useful reference as you begin detecting.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II POWER AND BACKLIGHT BUTTONS The Power button offers you the option of operating the Explorer II with its factory settings or in the most recent manual setting. The backlight provides greater screen clarity in dim conditions. Power Figure 4.1 The POWER button turns the Explorer II on and off and also allows you to specify operation in the detector’s last manual setting. POWER P0400b Figure 4.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com MENU AND BACK BUTTONS The Menu and Back buttons are likely to be the most frequently used of all the control panel functions in both Quickstart and Advanced modes. Menu Figure 4.3 Figure 4.3 Menu button 4 Pressing the MENU button at any stage of detector operation will bring up the Main Menu screen. This allows access to the various operational settings of the Explorer II.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II SHORTCUT BUTTONS The Explorer II’s shortcut buttons are intended to offer quick access to the functions and settings most likely to be used in detector operation. Noise Cancel Figure 4.5 Figure 4.5 Noise cancel shortcut button Pressing the NOISE CANCEL button automatically selects the quietest, most stable channel for detecting. This will automatically eliminate most audio response to electromagnetic disturbances (e.g. powerlines). Selection takes approximately 30 seconds.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com Iron Mask Figure 4.7 The IRON MASK shortcut button allows you to quickly switch between two detection modes: Discrim and Iron Mask. Assuming the detector is in the preset Discrim Coins function: Figure 4.7 Iron Mask shortcut button • Pressing the button once switches to the adjustment screen for Iron Mask which allows you to set the detector’s level of ferrous rejection. • Pressing the button a second time switches to the Iron Mask function.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II SHIFT BUTTONS The six buttons at either side of the Explorer II display screen perform several functions. Menu items may be selected, help screens displayed or adjustments made to display and audio levels. Selecting a menu item Figure 4.9 Figure 4.9 Example of selected menu item Pressing and releasing the shift button next to a menu item or icon will select this option. For example, in Figure 4.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com CONTROL BUTTON FUNCTIONS ...
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II 5 Quickstart However experienced you are at using a metal detector, it is important that you read this chapter to understand how to 5 QUICKSTART use the Explorer II in Quickstart mode.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com GETTING STARTED Now that your detector is assembled, batteries inserted and you are familiar with the control panel, you should be ready to start detecting. This chapter on Quickstart is designed to be the starting point for all users of the Explorer II. Introducing Quickstart Figure 5.1 POWER P0400-B P0400b Figure 5.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II BEGINNER USE Trying out the detector CORRECT Figure 5.2 INCORRECT P0265-A Figure 5.2 Sweeping the coil Sometimes it is possible that a large object close to the search coil will overload the detector’s electronics. When this happens, the Explorer II emits a low ‘warble’ which will repeat until the coil is moved away from the source of the overload. Sweeping the coil The Explorer II will perform at its best when the coil is kept in close proximity to the ground.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com QUICKSTART DISPLAY easy reference The Quickstart display visually represents everything from target details to the Explorer II’s operating settings. Quickstart’s Smartfind display (pictured below) and alternate Digital display share many common elements.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II QUICKSTART DISPLAY easy reference 1 2 4 Threshold level. The threshold setting controls the audible level of threshold ‘hum’ during detecting. When the shift button next to the adjustment arrow is pressed, the threshold hum increases or decreases. See page 50 for details. Depth indicator. The clear portion of the depth indicator represents the approximate distance of a target below the coil.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com QUICKSTART’S SMARTFIND DISPLAY When first using the detector, you will see the Smartfind screen. Smartfind displays an object's characteristics using a two-dimensional scale of target discrimination. Two-dimensional discrimination Figure 5.3 Figure 5.3 Smartfind display with preset Coins discrimination pattern When an object is detected, Smartfind indicates what kind of object you have found with a target crosshair.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II Discrimination Discrimination is the ability of a • The horizontal dimension (or axis) rates the extent of the object’s resemblance to ferrous characteristics. • The object’s cross-referenced rating is represented by a ‘target crosshair’ inside the rectangular display area. metal detector to identify the user’s desired target (e.g. jewelry) and eliminate signals from unwanted material (e.g. nails).
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com Introducing Discrim Discrim (an abbreviation of Discrimination) instructs the detector to accept some types of targets and reject others. It uses Smartfind's two-dimensional discrimination, allowing you to specify one or more target patterns for detection. Figure 5.4 Smartfind’s preset Discrim function Smartfind Discrimination pattern Figure 5.4 When you begin in Quickstart, you will see a Smartfind display resembling Figure 5.4.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II THE IRON MASK Adjusting the Iron Mask Figure 5.5 Pressing the IRON MASK shortcut button on the control panel will display the Iron Mask adjustment screen. Figure 5.5 Adjusting the Iron Mask Iron Mask Shortcut The Iron Mask shortcut button on the control panel allows you to Discrimination.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com Operating in Iron Mask Figure 5.6 Figure 5.6 Smartfind in Iron Mask Pressing the IRON MASK shortcut button again will display a Smartfind screen resembling Figure 5.6. This display shows that the detector is ready to operate in Iron Mask. This function is programmed to reject ferrous targets and make it easier for you to find more desirable (non-ferrous) objects like coins and jewelry.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II QUICKSTART’S DIGITAL DISPLAY Digital display Figure 5.7, 5.8 P0611-A When the Smartfind screen is displayed, pressing the DETECT shortcut button on the control panel switches to the Explorer II’s alternative Digital display. Figure 5.7 Quickstart’s Digital Display P0612-A Figure 5.8 Digital as full screen display Preferred Display The Explorer II remembers which detecting.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com MODIFYING THE DISPLAY Full screen display Figure 5.9, 5.10 Figure 5.9 Quickstart’s standard screen If you wish to enlarge the Smartfind or Digital display during detecting, it is possible to instruct the detector to remove the display border and other screen elements leaving only the target details displayed on the full screen. STEP 1 Press the shift button next to the full screen icon at the right of the control panel.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II ADJUSTING SENSITIVITY Sensitivity control The sensitivity bar indicates how responsive the detector is to a target in the presence of ground noise and/or electromagnetic interference. Noise Cancel So that you can detect in best conditions, we would advise you to always choose the channel with least interference before beginning If the detector becomes noisy and you suspect electromagnetic interference, change to a better channel before adjusting sensitivity.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com ADJUSTING THRESHOLD Threshold control The Explorer II usually emits a constant tone or threshold ‘hum’ in the absence of a target. The threshold setting controls the audible level of this sound during detecting. Minelab recommends setting the threshold to a comfortable audible level in the early stages of your detecting session, as this feature is designed to highlight the variations in signal response which often indicate detection of a target.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II AUDIO RESPONSE The Explorer II emits a target audio response that varies in pitch and volume depending on what type of object it detects. Pitch of response Figure 5.13 Figure 5.13 Target sounding response Generally, a target that is highly conductive (e.g. a large silver coin) emits a high pitched signal. A low pitch is sounded for less conductive targets. Large targets or targets close to the ground surface emit a louder signal.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com AUDIO MENU Features accessed through the Audio menu allow you to define the various audio properties of your Explorer II. Introduction to the Audio menu Figure 5.14 Main Menu > AUDIO Figure 5.14 The Audio menu Headphones Use of the Explorer II with headphones will allow you to discern subtle variations in audio 5 response and lessen exposure to QUICKSTART adverse conditions (i.e. wind) which may distort sound from the speaker.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II AUDIO: ADJUSTING THE VOLUME Introducing Volume Figure 5.15 Main Menu > Audio > VOLUME The VOLUME screen of the Audio menu displays two slider controls: MAX LIMIT and GAIN (Figure 5.15). Figure 5.15 Volume adjustment screen NOTE To test sounds upon selection it is necessary to move the coil across the target. Max limit Main Menu > Audio > Volume > MAX LIMIT (adjustment) This setting is the detector’s overriding volume control.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com Normal alisasing 5 Figure 5.16 Volume gain settings Figure 5.17 Volume gain preset Gain Figure 5.16, 5.17 Main Menu > Audio > Volume > GAIN (adjustment) Volume gain affects the way the detector amplifies target audio responses in respect to the strength of the original signal. 5 QUICKSTART Looking at figure 5.16, it is clear that with a setting of 1 the sound produced will be proportional to the strength of the signal for the whole range of signals.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II AUDIO: ADJUSTING THE TONE Introducing Tone Figure 5.18 Main Menu > Audio > TONE Figure 5.18 Tone menu Tone is the frequency of sound emitted on target detection. It is important to experiment with tone settings and listen carefully to tone variations during your detecting. To test variation in tones upon selection it will be helpful to move the coil across a few different targets spaced apart. Threshold tone Threshold Tone allows you to adjust the tone of the threshold ‘hum’.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com AUDIO: ADJUSTING THE SOUNDS Introducing Sounds Figure 5.19 Main Menu > Audio > SOUNDS Figure 5.19 Sounds menu The SOUNDS menu allows you to define how the pitch varies with target characteristics. This can be a very useful feature in identifying targets in close proximity to one another. It is possible to instruct the detector to emit a distinct sound responding to an object’s ferrous characteristics, rather than its conductive properties.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II Ferrous Main Menu > Audio > Sounds > FERROUS Selecting FERROUS adjusts the tone according to the target’s ferrous content (the horizontal axis of the Smartfind screen or the first number in the Digital display). A low ‘blaat’ tone denotes a highly ferrous object, displayed on the left of the screen and having a high ‘Fer’ number. A high pitched ‘squeak’ tone denotes a non-ferrous target, displayed on the right of the Smartfind screen and having a low ‘Fer’ number.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com TESTING TARGET AUDIO RESPONSES tutorial! Take some time to become familiar with how the Explorer II responds to various metal objects. This tutorial is designed for Smartfind’s Iron Mask and Discrimination functions. Repeat the procedure to familiarize yourself with both. Gather a collection of different metal objects like a rusted nail, pull-tab, brass button, aluminium foil, various coins, and some gold and silver jewelry.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II PINPOINTING THE OBJECT Introducing Pinpoint Figure 5.20. See also Pinpoint overview in Chapter 4: Control Panel, page 34. Figure 5.20 Pinpoint shortcut button During normal operation the Explorer II operates with discrimination settings like Iron Mask or targets chosen from the Select target list. When the approximate location of a target has been determined, it is necessary to identify the object’s exact position. This is done using the Explorer II’s Pinpoint function.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com Using Pinpoint Figure 5.21 Once the Explorer II has found the approximate position of a target it is necessary to locate its exact position using Pinpoint. STEP 1 Move the search coil to one side of the approximate target location and press the PINPOINT shortcut button. If this step is not taken the Explorer II will sound when moved away from the object. STEP 2 Slowly sweep the search coil over the target a couple of times.
" THE MINELAB EXPLORER II RECOVERING THE OBJECT For this procedure you’ll need: a knife or trowel, a small spade and a sheet of plastic. Fill your holes! Once the object has been pinpointed, clear the surface of loose material and check again for the signal. If there is no signal then the object is amongst the surface material. In this case, search the surface material until the object is located. STEP 2 If the object is still in the ground, check again using Pinpoint.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com SELECTING TARGETS This section of the chapter and the following tutorial will help you to effectively use the targeting features of the Explorer II. Select targets list Figure 5.22, 5.23 Figure 5.22 Quickstart’s Main Menu As outlined earlier in this chapter, Quickstart provides the option of identifying targets based upon Smartfind’s two-dimensional discrimination.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II SELECTING TARGETS easy reference Quickstart’s SELECT menu lists eight object types typically encountered during treasure hunting. It is up to you to select one or more to modify the Explorer II’s discrimination pattern. 1 5 2 4 3 Smartfind thumbnail. Discrimination pattern for current selection(s) from target list. 2 Arrows for moving up or down target list. 3 Target icon as shown in Digital display mode. Displays most recent selection from target list. 4 Target list.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com ACCEPTING AND REJECTING TARGETS tutorial! This tutorial outlines how to instruct the Explorer II to accept JEWELRY and reject bottle CROWNCAPS as targets. STEP 1 Switch to Smartfind’s Discrim function using the IRON MASK shortcut button. STEP 2 Choose SELECT from the MAIN MENU. This displays a target list and the discrimination pattern for COINS, the Explorer’s II Discrim factory setting. STEP 3 (Figure 5.24) Press the shift button next to the CLEAR option.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II ADVANCED MODE OPTION Once you have experimented with target options and the other features of Quickstart, it may be time to investigate the features of the Explorer II available to the advanced user. Moving to Advanced mode Figure 5.28, 5.29 Main Menu > Options > ADVANCED Press the MENU shortcut button, select OPTIONS from the displayed list and then select ADVANCED mode. Figure 5.28 Options screen in Quickstart Figure 5.
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THE MINELAB EXPLORER II 6 Advanced Use Once you are comfortable with basic detector use and Quickstart, it is time to investigate the more advanced features of the Explorer II.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com ADVANCED MODE’S MAIN MENU easy reference Many of Advanced Mode’s operational functions are accessed through the Main Menu. This guide is intended to direct you to the appropriate pages to learn more. The descriptions below are also displayed in help function when a shift button menu option is pressed and held. DISPLAY menu. See page 70. Menu to select DIGITAL, SMART, LEARN or EDIT display and CONTRAST adjustment. SELECT menu. See page 79.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II STARTING IN ADVANCED MODE Beginning Advanced use POWER P0400b To enter Advanced mode from Quickstart, press the MAIN MENU shortcut button, select OPTIONS and then ADVANCED. Then press the DETECT shortcut button to display the Advanced Smartfind screen. Pressing DETECT will switch between Smartfind, Digital, Learn and Edit displays. If you operated in Advanced mode last time you used the Explorer II, the detector will remember this.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com ADVANCED MODE’S DISPLAYS easy reference Advanced mode has four display options – SMART, DIGITAL, LEARN and EDIT. The DETECT shortcut button is used to cycle between them. Advanced mode’s SMART and DIGITAL have the same screen elements and functions as those in Quickstart. For a refresher on this, turn back to pages 40-48 of Chapter 5: Quickstart.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II ADVANCED MODE’S LEARN DISPLAY easy reference 12 1 11 2 10 6 9 3 4 5 1 Accept target icon. Modifies discrimination pattern to accept a specific item – part of LEARN’s target selection, see page 73-74. 2 Reject target icon. Modifies discrimination pattern to reject a specific item – part of LEARN’s target selection, see page 73-74. Resize cursor.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com LEARNING TARGETS Advanced mode’s Learn option programs the Explorer II to recognize certain targets. The following pages show you how to instruct the detector to ‘learn’ a particular target and save its characteristics for later use. Introducing Learn Figure 6.1 Figure 6.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II LEARN’S TARGET SELECTION tutorial! This tutorial shows you how to learn a target, make adjustments and save your selection. Phase 1: Preparation for Learn STEP 1 (Figure 6.2) Go to the Advanced Learn display. It does not matter whether you were in Iron Mask or Discrim (shown in the adjacent figure). STEP 2 (Figure 6.3) Press the shift button next to Reject All/ Accept All icon to fill in the screen.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com LEARN’S TARGET SELECTION ... continued tutorial! Phase 2: Learning and Saving the target pattern STEP 7 Wave the search coil several times above the desired target until the detector learns it by clearing an area on the screen. Learn needs to ‘see’ the target consistently to accept it for inclusion. If you have more than one target, repeat the procedure for each one. In Figure 6.5, two current high denomination coins have been used.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II ADVANCED MODE’S EDIT DISPLAY easy reference 11 1 10 2 6 3 3 4 1 2 Target frame size. This allows you to select the size of the framed area you wish to accept or reject from the displayed discrimination pattern. There is a choice of three sizes. See pages 77-78. Reject or accept framed area. Instructs Explorer II to accept the framed area on selection of the tick icon. Selection of the cross icon will reject the framed area. This edits the current pattern. See page 78.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com EDITING PATTERNS Edit makes it possible to customize an existing discrimination pattern to match your preferred target characteristics. Introducing Edit Figure 6.7 Main Menu > Display > EDIT Figure 6.7 Edit screen with target frame As described earlier in this chapter, Advanced mode’s LEARN display allows you to accept or reject a target and create your own discrimination patterns.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II tutorial! EDITING AND SAVING TARGET PATTERNS This tutorial builds upon what has been covered in earlier target tutorials. The tutorial’s four phases outline the steps necessary to edit and save a preselected discrimination pattern. PHASE 1: Preparing for editing STEP 1 Choose SELECT from the Main Menu and press the top right shift button to CLEAR the Smartfind thumbnail display. STEP 2 (Figure 6.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com EDITING AND SAVING TARGETS ... continued tutorial! PHASE 3: Rejecting the framed target area STEP 7 (Figure 6.11) To reject the area enclosed by the target frame, press the center left shift button once. You will note that a cross appears next to the button and the area of screen within the target frame has darkened. (Figure 6.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II ADVANCED MODE’S SELECT MENU In Advanced mode, the Explorer II allows you to define and save your own target patterns. Advanced mode’s Select menu Figure 6.14 Main Menu > SELECT This section follows on from the Selecting Targets section of the Quickstart chapter, page 62. Advanced mode’s one distinction from Quickstart is the addition of 6 items to the SELECT target list.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com SAVING TARGETS Advanced mode’s SAVE DISCRIM function provides a means of saving personalized discrimination patterns, it also provides a visual display of the patterns already saved. Saving targets Figure 6.15 Main Menu > Save > SAVE DISCRIM (S1–S6) Figure 6.15. Save Discrim menu Saving Shortcut The SAVE DISCRIM menu can also be accessed in Learn mode by pressing the shift button next to the Save icon.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II AUDIO MENU Features accessed through the Audio menu allow you to define the audio properties of your Explorer II. The Audio menu Figure 6.16 Main Menu > AUDIO Figure 6.16 The Audio Menu Volume Shortcut Details on the Explorer II’s audio response, Audio menu, settings and instructions appear in Chapter 5: Quickstart. Please refer to page 52 for information and instructions. There is no difference in the functionality of the detector’s audio between Quickstart and Advanced modes.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com OPTIONS MENU The Main Menu’s OPTIONS provide a selection of universal options and advanced settings. The Options menu Figure 6.17 Main Menu > OPTIONS Figure 6.17 Advanced mode’s Options menu Choosing OPTIONS from the Main Menu displays 5 selections. QUICK and ADVANCED switch the detector between its two detecting modes. To move from Advanced mode to Quickstart, press the shift button next to the QUICK option.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II OPTIONS: NOISE Noise Figure 6.18 Main Menu > Options > NOISE Figure 6.18 Noise adjustment screen Sometimes during detecting you may notice some interference in the form of erratic noises and movements of the target crosshair (even without movement of the detector). The NOISE option enables you to select an operating channel which does not clash with other detectors or electrical sources in the area.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com OPTIONS: RESPONSE Introducing Response Figure 6.19 Main Menu > Options > RESPONSE Figure 6.19 Response menu The relationship between proximity of targets to one another and detector response can influence its performance. The RESPONSE option allows you to select the way the detector responds to targets and change the way targets sound upon detection. Response can affect your ability to identify certain targets in differing circumstances.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II Audio 2 This setting is similar to Audio 1, with the addition of some filtering of the audio tone response. Audio 2 reduces the variability of the pitch, offering a smoother continuous sound. Audio 3 This setting is similar to Audio 2, with increased filtering of the audio tone response. This offers more consistent tone for a single target, but for multiple targets the tones will ‘blend’.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com OPTIONS: RECOVERY Introducing Recovery Figure 6.20 Main Menu > Options > RECOVERY Figure 6.20 Recovery menu This menu allows you to modify the way the discrimination process works. Recovery settings affect both the detector’s audio and display response to target characteristics. Fast By selecting this setting, the detector will react faster to the signals received, but the discrimination may be slightly less accurate.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II SETTINGS MENU The Settings menu provides the advanced user the opportunity to save all user preferred settings as an alternative to preprogrammed Explorer II settings. Introducing the Settings menu Figure 6.21 Main Menu > Options > SETTINGS Figure 6.21 Settings menu Once you have selected and modified the detector’s operational settings (as detailed in Chapters 5 and 6) it is possible to save them to the Explorer II’s memory for future detecting sessions.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com Get into the habit. As mentioned earlier in this Manual, starting in factory preset discards all unsaved adjustments. To prevent this happening when you have gone to the effort of adjusting the Explorer II to suit A screen prompt will appear asking if you want to discard your current detector settings and load the memorized setting. Select YES (settings will load in about 5 seconds).
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II 7 User Info This chapter provides a glossary of terminology, user guides, technical specifications, warranty and repair details and troubleshooting tips.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com HELPFUL HINTS user tips These tips are provided to enhance your personal use of the Explorer II. They are intended to work together with the information and instructions appearing elsewhere in the manual. Batteries It is normal for the tip of the rechargeable battery to get warm while charging because the current regulator is mounted inside the battery pack. Using headphones extends battery life.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II Choosing the right Tone Make sure that you start with the Main Menu > Audio > Sounds > CONDUCT selected and the threshold level and the volume are appropriate for your environment (i.e. for headphones or speaker use, ambient noise etc.) STEP 1 Adjust the threshold 'hum' to a tone you are comfortable with using the Main Menu > Audio > Tone > TH. TONE. This tone should be the lowest tone you can still hear clearly.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com BATTERY PERFORMANCE COMPARISONS The average life-span for both good quality alkaline and NiMH rechargeable batteries under constant use is compared on the graph below. This graph assumes the backlight is turned off and headphones are being used. Leading Alkaline 7 USER INFO Note: The backlight adds about 8% to the current consumption of the detector.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II USER PREFERENCES SETTING RANGE FACTORY PRESET Quickstart, Advanced Quickstart Semi-auto, Manual Semi-auto Sensitivity value 1–32 16 Threshold 0–40 20 Iron Mask, Discrim Discrim Iron Mask value -16–0 -6 Noise channel* 1–11 5 Display type Smart, Digital, Learn (Adv.), Edit (Adv.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com USER PREFERENCES SETTING RANGE Quickstart, Advanced Quickstart Semi-auto, Manual Semi-auto Sensitivity value 1–32 16 Threshold 0–40 20 Iron Mask, Discrim Discrim Iron Mask value -16–0 -6 Noise channel* 1–11 5 Display type Smart, Digital, Learn (Adv.), Edit (Adv.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II CONTROL PANEL BUTTON FUNCTIONS MAIN MENU QUICKSTART MODE IRON MASK ADVANCED MODE 7 USER INFO PINPOINT 93 CONTROL PANEL BUTTON FUNCTIONS
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II ADVANCED MENU STRUCTURE 7 USER INFO 95 ADVANCED MENU STRUCTURE
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com TROUBLESHOOTING FAULT SOLUTION Detector does not start • Check the state of the batteries and battery connections. at all • Ensure battery pack lid is completely closed. • If using alkaline batteries, check whether they have been loaded in the right polarity and correct if necessary. Detector starts, but it switches off by itself • Check the state of the batteries. If necessary, try starting with batteries known to be in good condition. • Detector may be too hot.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II SERVICE REPAIR FORM Today’s Date ___________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________ Detector Model _______________________ Serial No.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II WARRANTY Repairs In the unfortunate circumstance that the detector needs to be There is a two-year parts and labour warranty for the electronic control box of the Explorer II. The search coil has a one year parts and labour warranty. Refer to the supplier or Minelab for service, either in or out of warranty. The Minelab warranty does not cover damage caused by accident, misuse, neglect, alteration, modifications, or unauthorized service.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE MINELAB EXPLORER II EXPLOPLORER II P0591-A Length unextended 43 inches (1100mm) Length extended 55 inches (1358mm) Shipping weight 3 lb 7 oz (1700g) excluding batteries Coil 10.5 inches (264mm). “Double D” waterproof Audio inputs Internal speaker and headphones Headphone input 7 1 4 inch (6.3mm) 100Ω stereo jack USER INFO Transmission Full Band Spectrum. Simultaneous 28 frequency transmission ranging from 1.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II EXPLORER II MODEL USER FUNCTIONS (SOFTWARE) Custom select discrimination Saved Discrim patterns Yes 6 Learn Function (accept/reject) Yes Edit function targets Yes Auto Noise Cancel (scanning) Yes Manual Noise Cancel Yes User saved settings (audio, tones, etc) Current, User A, User B Response Normal, Audio 1,2,3 Recovery Selectable (Fast & Deep) 7 USER INFO 101 EXPLORER MODEL FEATURES
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com GLOSSARY OF TERMS Advanced mode The Explorer II’s advanced operating mode. Advanced mode provides additional features and options to Quickstart. Alloy A substance which is composed of two or more metals (an alloy may also include non-metals). Camlock Lever which releases or locks detector’s assembly components. The Explorer II’s upper and lower shafts are held together by the shaft camlock. This shaft assembly is fixed to the control box by the control box camlock.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II GLOSSARY OF TERMS Discrimination pattern A two-dimensional pattern made up of shaded and clear regions of the Smartfind screen. Characteristics of a target are used to determine its position on a two-dimensional display. A discrimination pattern is typically a target pattern modified by the user to accept or reject certain objects through the use of combined targets from the SELECT menu or created in Advanced mode’s LEARN or EDIT displays.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com GLOSSARY OF TERMS Iron Mask One of the Explorer II’s Smartfind displays. The Iron Mask function rejects objects with ferrous properties. This level of ferrous rejection is represented with a dark ‘curtain’ which moves across the horizontal dimension of the Smartfind screen as the Iron Mask is adjusted. Learn One of Explorer II’s Advanced displays. Learn allows the user to accept or reject certain targets to create a personalized discrimination pattern.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II GLOSSARY OF TERMS Sensitivity The detector’s level of response to a target in the presence of ground noise and/or electromagnetic disturbance. Shaft assembly An adjustable assembly made up of the upper and lower shaft connected by camlocks. The shaft assembly connects the search coil to the handle assembly. Shift buttons The three buttons at either side of the display screen are called shift buttons.
THE MINELAB EXPLORER II www.minelab.com DETECTOR CARE AND SAFETY take care The Explorer II is a high-quality electronic instrument, finely engineered and packaged in a durable housing. Taking proper care of the detector is mostly common sense. • Do not leave the battery pack in the Explorer II handle when the detector is not in use for extended periods of time. Damage caused by leaking batteries could be severe and would void the warranty through user negligence.
