1. Introduction
The Fisher Gold Bug 2 is a specialized metal detector designed for efficient gold nugget detection, particularly in highly mineralized ground. Operating at an ultra-high frequency of 71 kHz, this device offers exceptional sensitivity to small gold particles. This manual provides detailed instructions for the assembly, operation, and maintenance of your Gold Bug 2 metal detector to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Image 1.1: The Fisher Gold Bug 2 Metal Detector, fully assembled.
2. Safety Information
Before operating the Gold Bug 2, please read and understand the following safety guidelines:
- Battery Safety: Use only recommended 9-volt alkaline batteries. Do not mix old and new batteries, or different types of batteries. Remove batteries during long periods of non-use to prevent leakage.
- Electrical Hazards: Avoid using the detector near overhead power lines or underground electrical cables. Contact with live electrical sources can cause serious injury or death.
- Digging Safety: Always exercise caution when digging. Be aware of potential underground utilities, pipes, or cables. Obtain permission before detecting on private property.
- Environmental Awareness: Be mindful of your surroundings. Avoid disturbing wildlife or damaging natural habitats. Fill in any holes you dig.
- Eye Protection: Consider wearing eye protection when digging to prevent debris from entering your eyes.
- Unexploded Ordnance: If you encounter any suspicious objects that might be unexploded ordnance, do not touch them. Mark the location and immediately contact local authorities.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all components are present in your package:
- Gold Bug 2 Control Housing
- 10.5-inch Elliptical Search Coil with cable
- Upper Stem with Armrest
- Lower Stem
- Mounting Hardware (bolts, washers, nuts for coil and control box)
- Instruction Manual
4. Assembly
Follow these steps to assemble your Gold Bug 2 metal detector:
- Attach Search Coil to Lower Stem: Align the search coil with the lower stem. Insert the plastic bolt through the holes and secure it with the wing nut. Do not overtighten.
- Connect Lower and Upper Stems: Insert the lower stem into the upper stem. Adjust the length to a comfortable position and secure it using the locking collar.
- Mount Control Housing: Slide the control housing onto the upper stem. Secure it with the provided mounting hardware, ensuring it is firmly attached but can still be adjusted for angle.
- Wrap Coil Cable: Carefully wrap the search coil cable around the stem, leaving enough slack near the coil for adjustment. Secure the cable with the provided clips or electrical tape to prevent tangling and false signals.
- Connect Coil Cable to Control Housing: Plug the coil cable connector into the corresponding port on the control housing. Ensure a secure connection.
- Adjust Armrest: Position the armrest for comfortable support during operation.
Image 4.1: The 10.5-inch elliptical search coil.
5. Controls and Display
The Gold Bug 2 control housing features several knobs and switches for precise adjustments:
Image 5.1: The Gold Bug 2 control panel.
- SENS (Sensitivity) Knob: Adjusts the detector's sensitivity to targets. Higher settings increase depth but may also increase ground noise. (Range: 1-10)
- DISC / NORMAL / BOOST Switch: Selects the operating mode.
- DISC: Activates iron discrimination to filter out ferrous trash.
- NORMAL: Standard all-metal mode for general prospecting.
- BOOST: Amplifies faint signals from deep or small targets without increasing the volume of larger, shallow items.
- GROUND REJECT Knob: A 16-turn manual ground balance control for neutralizing ground mineralization signals.
- MINERALIZATION Switch: Three-position switch to optimize performance in different mineralization levels.
- HIGH: For highly mineralized soils.
- NORMAL: For moderately mineralized soils.
- LOW: For low mineralization or highly conductive soils.
- THRESHOLD Knob: Sets the continuous background hum (threshold tone). A slight audible hum is typically desired.
- VOLUME Knob: Adjusts the audio output level. (Range: OFF-10)
- Digital Display: Shows target identification numbers, battery status, and mineralization level indicators.
6. Setup and Initial Operation
6.1 Battery Installation
The Gold Bug 2 requires two 9-volt alkaline batteries. Open the battery compartment located on the control housing, insert the batteries according to the polarity indicators, and close the compartment securely.
6.2 Power On and Initial Settings
- Turn the VOLUME knob clockwise past the 'OFF' position to power on the detector.
- Set the SENS knob to approximately 5.
- Set the DISC / NORMAL / BOOST switch to NORMAL.
- Set the MINERALIZATION switch to NORMAL.
- Adjust the THRESHOLD knob until you hear a faint, continuous hum. This is your threshold tone.
6.3 Ground Balancing
Ground balancing is crucial for stable operation, especially in mineralized soils. The Gold Bug 2 uses a manual ground balance system:
- Find a clear patch of ground free of metal objects.
- Hold the search coil parallel to the ground, about 1 inch above the surface.
- Rapidly 'pump' the coil up and down from 1 inch to 6 inches above the ground.
- While pumping, slowly adjust the GROUND REJECT knob. The goal is to achieve a consistent audio response (no change in threshold hum) as you pump the coil.
- Once the audio response is stable, your detector is ground balanced.
7. Operating Instructions
7.1 Search Techniques
Maintain the search coil parallel to the ground and sweep it slowly from side to side in overlapping passes. Overlap each sweep by about 50% to ensure thorough coverage. Keep the coil as close to the ground as possible without touching it.
7.2 Using Discrimination (DISC Mode)
To filter out unwanted iron targets, switch the DISC / NORMAL / BOOST switch to DISC. In this mode, the detector will produce a broken or absent audio response over ferrous metals, while non-ferrous targets like gold will produce a clear, distinct tone.
7.3 Sensitivity Adjustment
Adjust the SENS knob to the highest stable setting. If the detector becomes erratic or produces excessive false signals, reduce the sensitivity until stable operation is achieved. Higher sensitivity increases detection depth but can be affected by ground mineralization and electromagnetic interference.
7.4 Mineralization Switch
Use the MINERALIZATION switch to match the ground conditions. Start with NORMAL and adjust to HIGH for very mineralized areas (e.g., black sand) or LOW for less mineralized or highly conductive soils. Re-ground balance after changing this setting.
7.5 Audio Boost (BOOST Mode)
When searching for very small or deep targets, switch to BOOST mode. This amplifies faint target signals, making them more audible without increasing the volume of larger, shallower targets. This mode is particularly useful for detecting tiny gold nuggets.
Image 7.1: The Gold Bug 2 is designed for use in various outdoor conditions.
8. Maintenance
Proper care ensures the longevity and performance of your metal detector:
- Cleaning: Wipe down the control housing and stem with a damp cloth after each use. The search coil is waterproof and can be rinsed with fresh water. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Battery Care: Always remove batteries if the detector will not be used for an extended period to prevent corrosion from leakage.
- Storage: Store the detector in a cool, dry place. Avoid extreme temperatures.
- Cable Care: Inspect the coil cable regularly for cuts or damage. Avoid sharp bends or excessive pulling on the cable.
9. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Gold Bug 2, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power | Dead or incorrectly installed batteries | Replace batteries; check polarity. |
| Erratic signals / False signals | High sensitivity, poor ground balance, electromagnetic interference, loose coil cable | Reduce SENS; re-ground balance; move away from power lines/electronics; check coil cable connection. |
| Poor detection depth | Low sensitivity, incorrect ground balance, highly mineralized soil | Increase SENS (if stable); re-ground balance; adjust MINERALIZATION switch. |
| No audio | Volume too low, headphones not connected, faulty speaker/headphones | Increase VOLUME; check headphone connection; test with different headphones or without. |
10. Specifications
Technical specifications for the Fisher Gold Bug 2 Metal Detector:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Fisher |
| Model | Gold Bug 2 |
| Operating Frequency | 71 kHz |
| Search Coil Size | 10.5 inches (Elliptical) |
| Power Source | Battery Powered (2 x 9-volt batteries) |
| Battery Life | Up to 35 hours (with alkaline batteries) |
| Item Weight | 2.9 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 24.7 x 10.1 x 7.9 inches |
| International Protection Rating | IP44 (Dust and moisture resistant control housing) |
| Material | ABS Plastic |
11. Warranty and Support
The Fisher Gold Bug 2 Metal Detector is covered by a manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product for specific terms and conditions. For technical support, service, or inquiries, please contact Fisher customer service through their official website or the contact information provided in your product packaging.
For additional resources and product information, visit the official Fisher website: www.fisherlab.com
