1. Product Overview
The Smart Sensor AS964 Underground Metal Detector is an electronic instrument designed to detect the presence of metal objects nearby or buried underground. Utilizing electromagnetic induction principles, it can identify various metals including gold, silver, aluminum, copper, iron, and rare metals. The device provides indications of distance, with higher readings indicating closer proximity to metal.
This detector is suitable for a wide range of applications, from hobbyist treasure hunting to professional use in archaeology, pipeline detection, and security inspections.
Figure 1: Assembled Smart Sensor AS964 Metal Detector
2. Package Contents
Before assembly, please ensure all components listed below are present in your package:
- Main Panel (Control Unit)
- Search Coil
- Upper Stem
- 7.4V Li-Battery
- Charger Adapter
- Screws and Fasteners (M5.0*33PM Screw, Plastic Nut, Plastic Screw, Nylon Screw, Nylon Bolt)
- Clips
- Extension Aluminum Tube
- Plastic Wrench
- Connecting Rod
- Earphones
- User Manual (this document)
Figure 2: All components included in the package
3. Setup and Assembly
Follow these steps to assemble your metal detector:
- Attach the Search Coil: Connect the search coil (02) to the connecting rod (14) using the plastic screw (11) and plastic nut (10). Use the plastic wrench (09) to secure it.
- Connect Connecting Rod to Extension Tube: Insert the connecting rod (14) into the extension aluminum tube (08). Secure it with the nylon bolt (13) and nylon screw (12).
- Assemble Upper Stem: Connect the extension aluminum tube (08) to the upper stem (03). Adjust the length as needed and secure with clips (06).
- Mount Main Panel: Attach the main panel (01) to the upper stem using the provided screw (05) and clips (06).
- Install Battery: Open the battery compartment on the main panel. Insert the 7.4V li-battery (04). Ensure correct polarity.
- Connect Search Coil Cable: Route the search coil cable along the stem and secure it with clips (06). Plug the cable connector into the corresponding port on the main panel.
- Connect Earphones (Optional): If using earphones, plug them into the earphone jack on the side of the main panel.
Figure 3: Exploded view of components for assembly
Battery Charging
The device is powered by a 1200mA li-Battery. To charge, connect the charger adapter to the DC 8.4V IN port on the side of the main panel. The power indicator may show charging status.
Figure 4: Battery installation
4. Operating Instructions
Control Panel Overview
Figure 5: Main Control Panel
- ON/OFF Switch: Powers the device on or off.
- Power Indicator: Lights up when the device is on. May also indicate low battery.
- Sensitivity Level Knob: Adjusts the detection sensitivity. Higher settings increase detection depth but may also increase false signals.
- Reset Button: Used to reset the detector's calibration, often after adjusting settings or moving to a new search area.
- Operating Switch (Ground Balance/Recognition): Toggles between Ground Balance mode and Discrimination (Recognition) mode.
- Adjust Knob (for Ground Balance/Recognition): Used to fine-tune settings for the selected operating mode.
- Light ON/OFF Switch: Activates or deactivates the built-in searchlight.
- Earphone Jack: For connecting standard 3.5mm earphones for private listening or in noisy environments.
Figure 6: Side view of control unit with ports and light switch
Figure 7: Front view of control unit with searchlight
Basic Operation Steps
- Power On: Flip the ON/OFF switch to 'ON'. The Power Indicator should light up.
- Select Operating Mode: Use the Operating Switch to select either 'Ground Balance' or 'Recognition' (Discrimination) mode.
- Ground Balance (Important for Gold Detection): In 'Ground Balance' mode, sweep the search coil over the ground. Adjust the 'Adjust' knob until the detector produces a stable signal or no signal, indicating it has balanced out the ground mineralization. This is crucial for accurate detection, especially for natural gold nuggets in mineralized soil.
- Adjust Sensitivity: Turn the 'Sensitivity Level' knob to your desired level. Start with a medium setting and increase if you need more depth, or decrease if you experience too many false signals.
- Start Searching: Sweep the search coil slowly and steadily over the area you wish to search, keeping it parallel to the ground.
- Detecting Metal: When metal is detected, the analogue display will show a reading, and an audio signal will be emitted. The closer you are to the metal, the stronger the signal.
- Discrimination (Recognition) Mode: In 'Recognition' mode, the detector attempts to distinguish between different types of metals (ferrous vs. non-ferrous). Adjust the 'Adjust' knob to filter out unwanted metals (e.g., iron).
- Reset: If the detector becomes unstable or you change search conditions significantly, press the 'Reset' button to re-calibrate.
- Use Searchlight: If searching in low-light conditions, use the Light ON/OFF switch to activate the built-in searchlight.
5. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Wipe the detector's surfaces with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents. Ensure the search coil is clean of dirt and debris.
- Battery Care: Always charge the 7.4V li-battery using the provided charger. Do not overcharge or completely drain the battery. If storing for extended periods, charge the battery to about 50% and store in a cool, dry place.
- Storage: Store the metal detector in a dry environment, away from extreme temperatures. The recommended storage temperature is -20°C to 60°C. Disassemble the unit and store it in its protective case if available, to prevent damage.
- Avoid Moisture: While the search coil may be water-resistant, the main control unit is not. Avoid exposing the control unit to rain or excessive moisture.
6. Troubleshooting
- No Power:
- Ensure the ON/OFF switch is in the 'ON' position.
- Check if the battery is properly installed and charged.
- Verify the battery is not depleted.
- No Detection / Weak Signal:
- Increase the 'Sensitivity Level' using the knob.
- Ensure the search coil cable is securely connected to the main panel.
- Perform a 'Ground Balance' calibration, especially in highly mineralized soil.
- Check if 'Recognition' (Discrimination) mode is set too high, potentially filtering out desired metals.
- False Signals / Erratic Behavior:
- Decrease the 'Sensitivity Level'.
- Perform a 'Ground Balance' calibration.
- Ensure there are no other electronic devices or strong electromagnetic fields nearby.
- Check for loose connections in the assembly.
- Press the 'Reset' button to re-calibrate the device.
- Low Battery Indication:
- The power indicator may flash or change color. Recharge the 7.4V li-battery immediately.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | SMART SENSOR |
| Model Number | AS964 |
| Material | ABS Plastic + Iron |
| Detectable Indication | Analogue display / Audio |
| Max Detection Depth | 3.0m (for 1x1m Aluminium board) |
| Operating Mode | Ground Balance / Discrimination |
| Signal Frequency | 7.2kHz |
| Object Detectable | Ferrous & Non-ferrous Metal Distinguish |
| Battery Indication | Yes |
| Min Detection Diameter | 3.5cm / 1.38" |
| Backlight Display | No |
| Searchlight | Yes |
| Earphone Jack | Yes |
| Underground Detection | Yes |
| Rated Power | ≤1.0W |
| Operation Temperature | 0°C ~ 50°C |
| Storage Temperature | -20°C ~ 60°C |
| Power | 1200mA Li-Battery (included) |
| Product Net Weight / Size | 2380g / 30*30*123.5cm |
| Sensitivity | Detecting gold, silver, aluminum, copper, iron, and rare metals. |
| Certifications | CE FCC Certification |
8. User Tips
- Ground Balance for Gold: When searching for natural gold nuggets, which are often found in highly mineralized rocks, pay extra attention to carefully adjusting the ground balance. This will help differentiate gold from mineralized soil signals.
- Earphone Use: For optimal concentration and to avoid disturbing others, especially in crowded or noisy environments, always use earphones. This also helps in hearing subtle detection signals.
- Sensitivity Adjustment: Start with a moderate sensitivity level. If you need to detect deeper targets, gradually increase sensitivity. If you encounter excessive false signals, reduce the sensitivity.
- Slow and Steady Sweeps: Sweep the search coil slowly and consistently. Rushing can cause you to miss smaller or deeper targets.
9. Warranty and Support
Warranty Information
This product comes with a 12-month warranty from the date of purchase. During the warranty period, if any quality problem arises, please contact customer support. Depending on the issue, parts may be sent for replacement, or the instrument may be repaired or exchanged. Please contact support before returning any product.
Customer Support
For any inquiries, technical assistance, or warranty claims, please contact our customer service team:
- Phone: +86-755-27597356 (24 hours)


