Introduction
The Teknetics Alpha 2000 is a user-friendly metal detector designed for both beginners and experienced hobbyists. It features a lightweight design, adjustable sensitivity, and an 8-inch waterproof searchcoil, making it ideal for various treasure hunting environments. This manual provides essential information for the proper assembly, operation, and maintenance of your Alpha 2000 metal detector.
Figure 1: The Teknetics Alpha 2000 Metal Detector, showcasing its full assembly with the control unit, shaft, and searchcoil.
Setup and Assembly
Follow these steps to correctly assemble your Teknetics Alpha 2000 metal detector.
1. Unpacking and Component Identification
Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Ensure you have the following parts:
- Control Housing with LCD Display
- Upper Stem with Armrest
- Middle Stem
- Lower Stem
- 8-inch Waterproof Searchcoil
- Fastening Bolt and Nut for Searchcoil
2. Assembling the Stem
- Insert the middle stem into the upper stem. Ensure the spring clips align and lock into place.
- Insert the lower stem into the middle stem. Adjust the length to a comfortable position for your height. The adjustable length feature allows for ergonomic use.
3. Attaching the Searchcoil
- Align the mounting tabs of the 8-inch searchcoil with the holes at the end of the lower stem.
- Insert the fastening bolt through the holes and secure it with the nut. Do not overtighten; the searchcoil should pivot slightly.
- Wrap the searchcoil cable securely around the stem, ensuring it is not loose or dangling.
- Plug the searchcoil connector into the corresponding port on the control housing. Twist the locking collar to secure the connection.
4. Installing Batteries
The Teknetics Alpha 2000 requires four (4) AA batteries for operation. The battery life is approximately 30 hours.
- Locate the battery compartment on the back of the control housing.
- Open the battery compartment cover.
- Insert four AA batteries, observing the correct polarity (+/-) as indicated inside the compartment.
- Close the battery compartment cover securely.
Figure 2: A user demonstrating the comfortable handling of the Teknetics Alpha 2000, highlighting its lightweight and ergonomic design.
Operating Instructions
This section details how to operate your Alpha 2000 metal detector effectively.
Control Panel Overview
Figure 3: Close-up view of the Teknetics Alpha 2000's user-friendly LCD display and control buttons.
The Alpha 2000 features an intuitive LCD display that provides essential detection information, including target ID, depth indication, and battery level. The control buttons allow for easy adjustment of settings.
- Power Button: Turns the unit on/off.
- Menu Button: Accesses different settings.
- +/- Buttons: Adjust sensitivity, discrimination, and other parameters.
- Arrow Buttons: Navigate through menu options.
Basic Operation
- Power On: Press the Power button to turn on the detector. The LCD display will illuminate.
- Adjust Sensitivity: Use the +/- buttons to adjust the sensitivity. Higher sensitivity increases detection depth but may also increase false signals in mineralized ground. Start with a moderate setting and adjust as needed.
- Discrimination Settings: The Alpha 2000 offers 3 tones of discrimination and 2 search modes. Use the Menu and +/- buttons to set the discrimination level. This allows you to ignore unwanted items like iron and focus on valuable targets.
- Ground Balance: The unit features preset ground balance, simplifying operation for beginners.
- Sweeping the Searchcoil: Hold the detector with the searchcoil parallel to the ground, about 1-2 inches above the surface. Sweep the searchcoil slowly from side to side in overlapping passes.
- Target Indication: When a target is detected, the unit will emit an audible tone, and the LCD display will show a target ID and estimated depth.
Understanding Tones and Target ID
The Alpha 2000 provides distinct audio tones for different types of metals, aiding in target identification before digging. Refer to the on-screen target ID for more precise identification.
| Target Type | Typical ID Range | Audio Tone |
|---|---|---|
| Iron/Foil | Low (e.g., 0-20) | Low Tone |
| Nickel/Small Gold | Medium (e.g., 21-40) | Medium Tone |
| Copper/Silver/Brass | High (e.g., 41-99) | High Tone |
Figure 4: The Teknetics Alpha 2000 is versatile, suitable for various environments including stream beds, thanks to its waterproof searchcoil.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your metal detector.
- Cleaning: After each use, wipe down the searchcoil and stem with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents. The control housing is not waterproof; avoid exposing it to moisture.
- Storage: Store the detector in a cool, dry place when not in use. If storing for an extended period, remove the batteries to prevent leakage and corrosion.
- Cable Care: Ensure the searchcoil cable is not kinked or pinched. A damaged cable can affect performance.
Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Alpha 2000.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No Power | Dead or incorrectly installed batteries. | Replace batteries with fresh AA batteries, ensuring correct polarity. |
| Constant Beeping/False Signals | High sensitivity setting; electrical interference; highly mineralized ground. | Reduce sensitivity; move away from power lines or other electronics; adjust discrimination. |
| Poor Detection Depth | Low sensitivity setting; incorrect ground balance; searchcoil not parallel to ground. | Increase sensitivity; ensure searchcoil is swept correctly; check battery level. |
| Inaccurate Target ID | Multiple targets; target too deep; ground mineralization. | Sweep slower; try pinpointing the target; adjust sensitivity. |
Specifications
Detailed technical specifications for the Teknetics Alpha 2000 Metal Detector.
- Brand: Teknetics
- Model: Alpha 2000
- Operating Frequency: 7.8 KHz
- Searchcoil: 8-inch Open-Face Waterproof Searchcoil
- Display Type: LCD
- Discrimination: 3 Tones of Discrimination, 2 Search Modes
- Ground Balance: Preset
- Power Source: 4 x AA Batteries (not included)
- Battery Life: Approximately 30 Hours
- Item Weight: 2.3 Pounds (1.04 kg)
- Product Dimensions: 5"L x 8"W x 53"H (Adjustable Length)
- Material: Metal
- International Protection Rating: IP54 (for searchcoil, control housing is not waterproof)
- Manufacturer: First Texas
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Teknetics website or contact their customer service department. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Manufacturer: First Texas
For further assistance, visit the Teknetics Store on Amazon.
