Electronics

[gvanvekoven]

Yep I am still here. I got my new machine and followed everyone's advice. First I got a used machine, Second - I got a Minelab, Third - I didn't buy top of the line.
I got an X-Terra 70 with a 18KHz coil, a used Whites carry bag, and a really nice set of headphones, for almost 300.00 less than a new machine with only one coil. Thanks to you all, I saved a bundle. Now comes the problem with this machine. The coils. So here is the question (long as usual - sorry about this, but please read it anyway if you have the time).

Only Minlab coils can be used with the X-Terra machines because of the built-in chip in the coil that tells the control unit what frequency coil is attached and what frequency the control box must send out for it to work properly. Just guessing from what I have read this is the case.

Being the curious sort - this does not make much sense to me. I don't believe much of anything people tell us anymore in this free market system. I don't believe a coil must dictate what frequency a control unit sends to it (unless it's done purposely like the case is with the X-Terra). Is there anything in the coil at all that must determine the operating frequency of the control box on other multi-frequency machines?

Perhaps I am not making any sense. I believe the SE uses one coil for all available frequencies. I am not an electronics expert by any means....but it seems the coil has nothing to do with what frequency the control unit "must" operate at for other detectors, unless it's made to do so with the insertion of some magical chip.

I am just curious - and of course I will end up buying more than a few coils in the long run. I knew I would have to do this when I bought the machine.....but what if there was an option that's priced accordingly?

Why would it not be possible for someone to make one coil that is capable of working at all three available frequency ranges? Perhaps a switch on the coil or attached in-line along the cable that tells the control unit which frequency a person wants to operate it at?

What if an owner of the X-Terra machine was willing to take a chance with his own personally owned machine? A simple little three position switch that can be attached (one for 3kHz, one for 7.5, and one for 18.5). An in-line probe with the same capability (like the sun-ray probe) could also follow suit. Sun-ray says they can't (or wont) make a probe for the X-Terra because the coil chip prevents them from doing so and Minelab would not release rights to the technology.

I don't like to hear the word can't or wont from people. My question is "why not"?
Would it be possible for someone to simply put out a "how to do it" instruction -
Assuming no liability for the consequences of course.

All I want is a true "multi-functional machine". I got half way it appears. Flipping a switch would not hurt my feelings any.

I would almost bet (if there is a way to do it) a person could tear open all three coils and there would be absolutely no difference in them except
perhaps for the magical chip Minlab puts in them. If I am wrong - please tell me.

I know - the question to me is "why didn't you just by an SE or Explorer II?. The response is weight and balance to mention just a few.
Price obviously played a little part in it all. Am I in trouble for even asking the question?

Curious.

 

[Pete in MI]

I am not up on the X-terras at all. I know my Explorer II can use one coil and send/receive 28 frequencies at the same time (more or less). The frequencies determine depth and what is picked up the best at that frequency. With 28 frequencies going into the ground a wide range of depth and targets can be covered. Those machines that use one frequency excell at what that one frequency will do...maybe it it a frequency that is great for targets of one type and at a certain range in depth. It would not do as well for other type of detecting. Say for example it excells at coinshooting...coins at or close to the surface...it would not be best for saw relic hunting where depth is more important and where one is looking not so much for coins but for iron and lead objects.

The Explorer with its multiple frequencies being sent and received make it excellent to do multiple types of detecting...coil size being used to narrow down the signal for picking through trashy areas (such as with a small 5 inch coil) or covering a larger area in less trashy areas using a larger coil which would also give more depth.

Don't know if this helps or not.

 

[Old California]

Compass came out with a couple of detector using one coil yet operate at different kHz levels with a flip of a switch, I often wondered how it could be done since we hear so much about coils made for a particular kHz to obtain maximum performance....Apparently, These Compass detectors were very successful and you really did notice a difference.

However, Since you purchased the X-70 at a very good price go ahead and pick up an extra coil or two. Starting with the (M) 10" inch 7.5kHz DD coil, You already have the (H) 18.75kHz coil and hopefully it's the DD elliptical coil.

I used to own the X-70 and really liked it, Had three coils and preferred the larger 18.75 DD elliptical coil over any other coil. The larger elliptical DD was the perfect coil for my type of hunting.

Paul (Ca)

 

[Mike from MI "Iron Brigade"]

I think I would go over to the Minelab forum and ask the guys there what they know. It never hurts to ask. Wish I could help.

 

[Mike Chgo area]

Just from what I have read about detectors that should be a great all around coil with that frequency. I know that detectors set up for Gold Prospecting operate at higher frequencies. ( Higher than yours ) I would thing that range will find it all and be a little hotter on gold that many other brands that operate at lower frequencies. Just a guess.