OWNER’S MANUAL
The
Discovery 1100 is
an easy to use detector.
The most difficult aspects of
metal detecting have been automated.
However, if you are new to the hobby,
we strongly recommend that you:
1) Adjust the Sensitivity to a low setting
in the event of false signals. Always begin
use at a reduced sensitivity level; increase to full
sensitivity after you have become familiar with the
detector.
2) Do not use indoors. This detector is for outdoor use only. Many
household appliances emit electromagnetic energy, which can
interfere with the detector. If conducting an indoor demonstration,
turn the sensitivity down and keep the search coil away from
appliances such as computers, televisions and microwave ovens.
If your detector beeps erratically, turn off appliances and lights
(especially those with dimmer switches).
Also keep the search coil away from objects containing metal, such
as floors and walls.
3) Read this manual. Most importantly, review the Quick-Start Demo
(p.7) and Basic Operation (pp. 9-12).
4) Use 9-volt ALKALINE batteries only. Do not use Heavy Duty
Batteries.
TERMINOLOGY
The following terms are used throughout the manual, and are standard
terminology among detectorists.
ELIMINATION
Reference to a metal being "eliminated" means that the detector will
not emit a tone, nor light up an indicator, when a specified object
passes through the coil’s detection field.
DISCRIMINATION
When the detector emits different tones for different types of metals,
and when the detector "eliminates" certain metals, we refer to this
as the detector "discriminating" among different types of metals.
Discrimination is an important feature of professional metal
detectors. Discrimination allows the user to ignore trash and
otherwise undesirable objects.
RELIC
A relic is an object of interest by reason of its age or its association
with the past. Many relics are made of iron, but can also be made
of bronze or precious metals.
IRON
Iron is a common, low-grade metal that is an undesirable target in
certain metal detecting applications. Examples of undesirable iron
objects are old cans, pipes, bolts, and nails.
Sometimes, the desired target is made of iron. Property markers,
for instance, contain iron. Valuable relics can also be composed of
iron; cannon balls, old armaments, and parts of old structures and
vehicles can also be composed of iron.
FERROUS
Metals which are made of, or contain, iron.
PINPOINTING
Pinpointing is the process of finding the exact location of a buried
object. Long-buried metals can appear exactly like the surrounding
soil, and can therefore be very hard to isolate from the soil.
PULL-TABS
Discarded pull-tabs from beverage containers are the most
bothersome trash items for treasure hunters. They come in many
different shapes and sizes. Most pull-tabs can be eliminated with
the Mode Control, but some other valuable objects can have a
magnetic signature similar to pull-tabs, and will also be eliminated
when discriminating out pull-tabs.
GROUND BALANCE
Ground Balancing is the ability of the detector to ignore, or "see
through," the earth’s naturally occurring minerals, and only sound
a tone when a metal object is detected.
3
ASSEMBLY
Assembly is easy and requires no tools.
1 Position the lower stem (the straight tube)
●
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.
4
ASSEMBLY
Adjusting the Arm Rest
Most people will find the standard
position of the armrest very
comfortable. Very large forearms and
short forearms (particularly children’s
arms), can be accommodated by
moving the armrest forward.
The armrest is adjustable to three
positions.
To adjust, press the silver button on
the underside, and move the armrest
to one of the alternate positions. If
you cannot fully depress the button
with your finger, use a narrow object,
such as the blunt end of a ballpoint
pen. The armrest must be twisted
with moderate force to move it to an
alternate position; this adjustment is
usually made infrequently.
If the button becomes disengaged
inside of the tube, remove the plastic
cap at the end of the tube to access
the clip inside. With a pair of needle-
nose pliers, reengage the button.
Then replace the plastic cap.
5
BATTERIES
Use ALKALINE
batteries only.
To install the
batteries:
1 Remove
the
●
battery cover by
disengaging the
clip at the back.
2 Align the polarity
●
of the batteries
correctly, with
the positive "+"
toward the coil
plug connection,
as indicated by
the
+
and
on
–
the
indicators
housing.
3 Insert (2) 9-Volt ALKALINE batteries, with the contacts pointed inward,
●
and press down on the back of the batteries to snap them into place.
Some brands of batteries will require moderate force to clear the
retaining tabs.
IN CASE OF LOOSE BATTERIES
If the batteries fit loosely, and you want
to guarantee a very secure electrical
contact, insert a piece of paper or thin
cardboard between the back of the
battery and the supporting post.
4 Replace the battery door.
●
The Low Battery Indicator will come on and stay on if the batteries need
to be replaced.
Most metal detector problems are due to improperly installed batteries,
or the use of non-alkaline or discharged batteries. If the detector does
not turn on, please check the batteries.
If the detector does not turn on, check to see that the batteries fit tightly.
If the batteries are loose, press them forward while pressing the ON
touchpad. To tighten up a loose battery, wedge a piece of paper or thin
cardboard between the back of the battery and the supporting post, as
illustrated above.
6
Q
UICK-START DEMONSTRATION
I. Supplies Needed
• A Nail
• A Quarter
• A Pull-Tab from a beverage can
• A Zinc Penny (dated after 1982)
II. Position the Detector
a. Place the detector on a
table, with the search coil
hanging over the edge.
(or better, have a friend
hold the detector, with
the coil off the ground)
b. Keep the search coil away
from walls, floors, and
metal objects.
c. Remove watches, rings and other jewelry or metal objects from
hands and wrists.
d. Turn off appliances or lights that cause electromagnetic interference.
e. Pivot search coil back toward the
detector body.
III. Power Up
Press the ON touchpad.
The detector will beep twice and
the full sensitivity setting will be
indicated on the left of the display.
IV. Wave each Object over the Search Coil
a. Notice a different tone for each object.
Low Tone:
Medium Tone: Pull-tab & Zinc Penny
High Tone: Quarter
Nail
b. Motion is required. Objects must be in motion over the search coil
to be detected.
V. Press the MODE touchpad
The detector will beep twice and
the sensitivity setting will flash
on the left side of the display.
Quick-Start Demo continued on next page
7
Q
UICK-START DEMONSTRATION (continued)
VI. Press the MODE touchpad again.
a. A flashing indicator will point toward
IRON.
b. The flashing indicator tells us that Iron
has been eliminated from detection.
VII. Wave the Nail over the Search Coil
a. The Nail will not be detected.
b. The Nail has been "Discriminated Out."
VIII. Wave the Quarter, Penny, and Pull-Tab
over the Search Coil
These non-ferrous objects will be detected with their own
distinctive tones.
IX. Press the MODE touchpad again.
a. The detector will beep twice and the sensitivity setting will flash on
the left side of the display.
b. Notice the flashing arrow pointing toward Iron.
The flashing arrow indicates that this target category is currently
"Discriminated Out."
X. Press the MODE touchpad again.
The flashing arrow will now point
toward MID-RANGE.
XI. Wave all objects over the Search Coil
The Pull-Tab and Zinc Penny will not
be detected.
The other objects will be detected
with their own distinctive tones.
XII. Toggle modes by pressing the MODE
touchpad again.
a. Press once to see the current discrimination status of the detector
(Mid-Range Eliminated).
b. Then press again to toggle to the third discrimination setting.
i. Iron is eliminated.
ii. Mid-Range Metals are eliminated.
iii. Only high-tone metals like silver and copper will be detected.
8
BASIC OPERATION
POWERING UP
Press the ON touchpad.
All display indicators will illuminate momentarily.
The 4-segment pyramid-shaped Sensitivity Indicator will illuminate on
the left side of the display. The 4-segment pyramid indicates that the
detector is at full sensitivity.
When an object is detected, the object will be identified by a tone, a
display indicator, and a depth indication.
A two-minute “warm-up” is required before the detector reaches full
sensitivity.
UNDERSTANDING THE DISPLAY
The LEFT SIDE of the display has a dual purpose:
1 SENSITIVITY LEVEL
●
Upon power-up, and after
pressing either the up- or
down-sensitivity pads, the
pyramid-shaped
indicates the
sensitivity level.
display
detector’s
The sensitivity level can be
changed using the up- and down-pads.
At maximum sensitivity, the unit can detect a coin-sized metal object
buried about 6" beneath the surface; larger objects can be detected
much deeper.
2 DEPTH INDICATION
●
After detecting an object, the
pyramid-shaped
display
indicates the approximate depth
of buried, coin-sized objects.
Objects at or near the surface
will illuminate the single
segment at the top of the
scale.
More deeply buried objects will illuminate more segments, indicating
depths of 2, 4, or 6 inches, as identified to the left of the display.
The depth indicator is not accurate for large, or irregularly shaped, objects.
However, the scale will provide relative depth indications for larger objects; a
given object will induce deeper readings the farther it is from the search coil.
9
BASIC OPERATION (continued)
The RIGHT SIDE of the display classifies objects into three categories.
Silver/Copper: ------------------------------------------
Objects composed of silver and
cooper will illuminate this arrow.
Buried and heavily oxidized metal
objects, such as old tin cans, can
also fall into this category. Larger
aluminum objects, like beverage
cans, will sometimes fall into this
category.
Mid-Range: ------------------------------------------------
Mid-range objects cover a large
variety of metals.
Among them are: pull-tabs from
beverage containers, nickels,
medium-sized gold objects, some
types of aluminum, and zinc.
Iron: -------------------------------------------------------------
All ferrous objects, and some
smaller aluminum objects, fall
into the iron category. Small gold
objects can also fall into this
range.
The BOTTOM RIGHT SIDE of the
display will illuminate a Low Battery
Indicator symbol if the batteries are
discharged. The indicator illuminates,
and remains illuminated, when the
9-volt batteries have discharged to a
level of 7.35 volts.
Reading the Display IN THE FIELD
With the detector in use in the field, the display will indicate both the
DEPTH and the TARGET IDENTIFICATION of each object detected. After
a target is detected, these indicators will remain illuminated with this
information until the next target has been detected.
10
BASIC OPERATION (continued)
The MODE CONTROL
The MODE touchpad allows for the elimination from detection of
unwanted metal objects.
By pressing MODE, the user toggles among four different discrimination
settings.
If an object is detected during mode selection, the detector will
exit mode selection. If this happens, you will need to press
MODE again and begin mode selection over again. To avoid this,
keep the detector stationary and reduce sensitivity before
pressing MODE.
During MODE (or discrimination) selection, the SENSITIVITY INDICATOR
on the left of the display will flash continually. The detector will remain
in this discrimination selection mode until a metal object has been
detected.
The first time you press MODE, the detector will indicate the current
discrimination setting, both visually, and with distinctive tones. Each first
time the user presses MODE after powering on, the detector will do the
following:
1 The pyramid-shaped Sensitivity Indicator will flash continually.
●
2 A Long Tone will sound.
●
3 A High Tone will sound.
●
4 No Target Indicators will flash.
●
After a mode has been selected, and targets have been detected, the
detector will store the discrimination settings.
Each subsequent time the user returns to MODE selection, the detector will:
1 first sound a long tone, and
●
2 then indicate the stored discrimination setting.
●
The user can then toggle through the discrimination modes by pressing
the MODE touchpad.
The detector will store the current discrimination setting until the power
is turned off.
11
BASIC OPERATION (continued)
Discrimination Settings are as follows:
Mode
Metals
Eliminated
Status
Tones
Display
(During discrimination selection)
No Target
Indicators
Flashing
All-Metal
None
High
Low
Iron
Discrimination
Ferrous
only
Iron
Indicator
Flashing
Pull-tabs, Screw
Caps, some Foil,
medium Gold,
Zinc, Nickels
Mid-Range
Discrimination
Mid-Range
Indicator
Flashing
Medium
Full
Discrimination
Ferrous and
Mid-Range
metals
Low &
Medium
Iron and
Mid-Range
Indicators
Flashing
12
AUDIO TARGET IDENTIFICATION
While the LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) is very accurate in identifying
buried objects, the user in the field does not always maintain the display
screen in his field of vision. Therefore, we have incorporated an audio
feedback mechanism to alert the user to the nature of buried objects.
This audio feedback system first alerts the user to the presence and
classification of objects, whose nature and location can be confirmed
using the LCD display.
The detector will sound three different tones. These three tones
correspond to the three target categories depicted on the LCD display.
LOW TONE
Ferrous objects, such as iron and steel, will induce a low tone.
Small gold objects can also induce a low tone.
MEDIUM TONE
Pull-tabs, newer pennies (post-1982), larger gold objects, zinc,
small brass objects, and most bottle screw caps will induce
medium tones. Many recent vintage foreign currencies will
induce medium tones.
HIGH TONE
Silver and copper coins, larger brass objects, older pennies (pre-
1982), and highly oxidized metals will induce high tones.
Quarters, dimes and other precious coins fall into this category.
MEDIUM TONE
HIGH TONE
LOW TONE
Copper, Silver & Brass
Copper Pennies (Pre 1982)
Nails, Bottle Caps,
& Small Gold
Old & New Pull Tabs, Zinc
Pennies (Post 1982), Nickel,
Larger Gold Objects
Audio Target Identification (ATI) classifies metals into three categories.
13
SENSITIVITY ADJUSTMENT
ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE
The principle use for the Sensitivity Control is to eliminate
Electromagnetic Interference (EMI).
A hobby metal detector is an extremely sensitive device; the search coil
creates its own magnetic field and acts like an antenna. If your detector
beeps erratically when the search coil is motionless, the unit is probably
detecting another magnetic field.
Common sources of EMI are electric power lines, both suspended and
buried, motors, and household appliances like computers and
microwave ovens. Some indoor electronic devices, such as dimmer
switches used on household lighting, produce severe EMI and will cause
the detector to beep erratically. Other metal detectors also produce their
own electromagnetic fields, so if detecting with a friend, keep two metal
detectors at least 20 feet apart.
If the detector beeps erratically, REDUCE THE SENSITIVITY by pressing
the Down-Sensitivity Arrow on the left of the control panel.
SEVERE GROUND CONDITIONS
A secondary use for the Sensitivity Control is to reduce false detection
signals caused by severe ground conditions. While your Discovery 1100
contains circuitry to eliminate the signals caused by most naturally
occurring ground minerals, 100% of all ground conditions cannot be
anticipated. Highly magnetic soils found in mountainous and gold-
prospecting locations can cause the detector to emit tones when metal
objects are not present. High saline content soils and sands can also
cause the detector to false.
If the detector emits false, non-repeatable, signals, REDUCE THE
SENSITIVITY.
MULTIPLE TARGETS
If you suspect the
presence of deeper
targets
shallower target, reduce
the sensitivity to
beneath
a
eliminate the detection
of the deeper targets, in
order to properly locate
and
identify
the
shallower target.
14
IN THE FIELD TECHNIQUES
PINPOINTING
COIL MOVEMENT
When swinging the coil, be
careful to keep it level with the
ground about one inch from the
surface. Never swing the coil like
a pendulum.
Accurate pinpointing takes practice
and is best accomplished by
“X-ing” the target area.
1. Once a buried target is indicated
by a good tone response,
continue sweeping the coil over
the target in
side-to-side pattern.
a
narrowing
WRONG
2. Take visual note of the place on
the ground where the “beep”
sounds.
3. Stop the coil directly over this
spot on the ground.
4. Now move the coil straight
forward and straight back
towards you a couple of times.
5. Again make visual note of the
spot on the ground at which
the “beep” sounds.
CORRECT
6. If needed, “X” the target at
different angles to “zero in” on
the exact spot on the ground at
which the “beep” sounds.
When pinpointing a target, try drawing an “X”,
as illustrated, over where the tone is induced.
15
IN THE FIELD TECHNIQUES (continued)
Swing the search coil slowly,
overlapping each sweep as you
respond with a repeatable tone.
If the signal does not repeat
move forward. It is important after sweeping the coil directly
to sweep the coil at a consistent
speed over the ground as you
over the suspected target a few
times, it is more than likely
trash metal.
search.
After identifying a
target, your sweep technique
can help in identifying both the
location and the nature of the
Crossing the target zone with
multiple intersecting sweeps at
target. If you encounter a weak multiple angles is another way
signal, try moving the coil in
short, rapid sweeps
to verify the repeatability of the
signal, and the potential of the
over the target zone; buried target. To use this
such a short rapid
sweep may provide
method, walk around the target
area in a circle, sweeping the
a more consistent coil
across
the
target
target
identification.
repeatedly, every 30 to 40
degrees of the circle, about ten
different angles as you walk
completely around the target.
If a high-tone target completely
disappears from detection at a
given angle, chances are that
you are detecting oxidized
ferrous metals, rather than a
silver or copper object. If the
tone changes a different angles,
Most
worthwhile
objects
will
WHAT
…MAY
READS
LIKE THIS
ACTUALLY
BE THIS
16
IN THE FIELD TECHNIQUES (continued)
you many have encountered
multiple objects. If you are
You will be surprised just how
much trash metal and foil you
new to the hobby, you may will find in some areas. The
want to dig all targets at first.
With practice in the field, you
will learn to better discern the
nature of buried objects by the
nature of the detector’s
response.
trashiest areas have been
frequented by the most people,
and frequently hold the most
promise for finding the most
lost valuables.
To make
searching easier in very trashy
areas, consider purchasing the
Bounty Hunter 4-inch Search
Coil (Radio Shack item 63-
3009 or 63-3014). The 4-inch
coil’s narrower detection field
can better distinguish between
You may encounter some false
signals as you proceed. False
signals occur when the detector
beeps, but no metal target is
present. False signals can be
induced by electromagnetic two objects in close proximity.
interference, oxidation, or
highly mineralized ground
soils. If the detector beeps
once, but does not repeat the
Also maintain the search coil
positioned just above the
surface of the ground, without
signal with several additional making contact with the
sweeps over the same spot, ground. Making contact with
there is probably no target the ground can cause false
present.
signals.
When searching very trashing
ground, it is best to scan small
areas with slow, short sweeps.
17
TROUBLESHOOTING
TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE
SYMPTOM
CAUSE
SOLUTION
Detector chatters
or beeps erratically
• Using detector
indoors
• Use detector
outdoors only
• Using detector near • Move away
power lines
from power lines
• Using 2 detectors in • Keep 2 detectors
close proximity
• Highly oxidized
buried object
at least 20’ apart
• Only dig up
repeatable
signals
• Environmental
electromagnetic
interference
•
Reduce sensitivity
until erratic
signals cease
Constant low tone
or constant repeating
tones
•
Discharged batteries • Replace batteries
• Wrong type of
batteries
• Use only 9V
alkaline batteries
LCD does not lock • Multiple targets
•
Move coil slowly
at different angles
on to one target ID
or detector emits
multiple tones
present
• Highly oxidized
target
• Sensitivity set
too high
• Reduce sensitivity
No power, no
sounds
• Dead batteries
• Poor battery
contact
• Replace batteries
• Push batteries in
tighter
• Cord not connected • Insert paper spacers
(see page 6)
securely
•
Check connections
18
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
Your Discovery 1100 Metal Detector is an example of superior design and
craftsmanship. The following suggestions will help you care for your
metal detector so you can enjoy it for years to come.
Keep the detector’s chassis dry and do not let water enter it. If the chassis
gets wet, wipe it dry immediately. Liquids might contain minerals that can
corrode the electronic circuits.
Use and store the detector only in normal temperature
environments. Temperature extremes can shorten the
life of electronic devices, damage batteries, and distort
or melt plastic parts.
Keep the detector away from dust and dirt, which can
cause premature wear of parts.
Handle the detector gently and carefully. Dropping it
can damage circuit boards and cases and can cause
the detector to work improperly.
Use only fresh batteries of the required size and type.
Old batteries can leak chemicals that damage your
detector’s electronic parts.
Wipe the detector with a damp cloth occasionally to
keep it looking new. Do not use harsh chemicals,
cleaning solvents, or strong detergents to clean it.
Modify or tampering with the detector’s internal
components can cause a malfunction and might
invalidate it’s warranty.
The searchcoil supplied with the detector is waterproof however, and
may be submerged in either fresh or salt water. After using the searchcoil
in salt water, rinse it with fresh water to prevent corrosion of the metal
parts.
19
TREASURE HUNTER’S CODE OF ETHICS:
1. Respect the rights and property of others.
2. Observe all laws, whether national, state or local.
3. Never destroy historical or archaeological treasures.
4. Leave the land and vegetation as it was. Fill in the holes.
5. All treasure hunters may be judged by the example you set.
Always obtain permission before searching any site. Be
extremely careful while probing, picking up, or discarding trash
items. And ALWAYS COVER YOUR HOLES!
Limited Ninety-Day Warranty
This product is warranted by Radio Shack against manufacturing defects in material and workmanship
under normal use for ninety (90) days from the date of purchase from Radio Shack company-owned stores
and authorized Radio Shack franchisees and dealers. EXCEPT AS PROVIDED HEREIN, Radio Shack
MAKES NO EXPRESS WARRANTIES AND ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING THOSE OF
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE
DURATION OF THE WRITTEN LIMITED WARRANTIES CONTAINED HEREIN. EXCEPT AS PROVIDED
HEREIN, Radio Shack SHALL HAVE NO LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY TO CUSTOMER OR ANY OTHER
PERSON OR ENTITY WITH RESPECT TO ANY LIABILITY, LOSS OR DAMAGE CAUSED DIRECTLY OR
INDIRECTLY BY USE OR PERFORMANCE OF THE PRODUCT OR ARISING OUT OF ANY BREACH OF THIS
WARRANTY, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY DAMAGES RESULTING FROM INCONVENIENCE,
LOSS OF TIME, DATA, PROPERTY REVENUE, OR PROFIT OR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, EVEN IF Radio Shack HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH
DAMAGES.
Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts or the exclusion or limitation
of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you. In
the event of a product defect during the warranty period, take the product and the Radio Shack sales receipt
as proof of purchase date to any Radio Shack store. Radio Shack will, at its option, unless otherwise
provided by law: (a) correct the detect by product repair without charge for parts and labor; (b) replace the
product with one of the same or similar design; or (c) refund the purchase price. All replaced parts and
products, and products on which a refund is made, become the property of Radio Shack. New or
reconditioned parts and products may be used in the performance of warranty service. Repaired or
replaced parts and products are warranted for the remainder of the original warranty period. You will be
charged for repair or replacement of the product made after the expiration of the warranty period. This
warranty does not cover: (a) damage or failure caused by or attributable to acts of God, abuse, accident,
misuse, improper or abnormal usage, failure to follow instructions, improper installation or maintenance,
alteration, lighting or other incidence of excess voltage or current; (b) any repairs other than those provided
by a Radio Shack Authorized Service Facility; (c) consumables such as fuses or batteries; (d) cosmetic
damage; (e) transportation, shipping or insurance costs; or (f) costs of product removal, installation, set-
up service adjustment or reinstallation.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which vary from state to state.
Radio Shack Customer Relations, 200 Taylor Street, 6th Floor, Fort Worth, TX 76102
Copyright© 2002 by First Texas Products, L.P.
All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce this book, or parts thereof, in any form.
Published by First Texas Products, L.P.
®
Bounty Hunter is a registered trademark of First Texas Products, L.P.
First Texas Products, LP
1100 Pendale Road
El Paso, TX 79907
(915) 633-8354
|