1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Maclean MCE969 Metal Detector. This manual provides essential information for the proper assembly, operation, and maintenance of your device. Please read it thoroughly before using the metal detector to ensure safe and effective operation.
2. Safety Information
Always prioritize safety when operating your metal detector. Failure to follow these guidelines may result in injury or damage to the device.
- Use the metal detector in safe areas.
- Do not use near power lines or electrical equipment.
- Avoid using the detector in areas with unexploded ordnance or other hazardous materials.
- Always obtain permission before searching on private property.
- Be aware of local regulations regarding metal detecting.
3. Product Overview and Components
The Maclean MCE969 Metal Detector is designed for ease of use and effective metal detection. Familiarize yourself with its main components:
- Control Box: Houses the electronics, display, and controls.
- Stem: Adjustable shaft connecting the control box to the search coil.
- Armrest: Provides support and comfort during use.
- Search Coil: The waterproof sensor that detects metal objects.

Figure 3.1: Full view of the Maclean MCE969 Metal Detector, showing the control box, adjustable stem, armrest, and search coil.

Figure 3.2: Close-up of the control panel, featuring the target indicator, sensitivity (SENS) knob, discrimination/tone (DISC/TONE) knob, mode buttons (ALL METAL, DISC, TONE, TARGET), low battery indicator, and headphone jack (PHONE).

Figure 3.3: The waterproof search coil, approximately 25cm in diameter, designed for detecting metal objects.
4. Setup and Assembly
Follow these steps to assemble and prepare your metal detector for use:
4.1. Assembly
- Attach the search coil to the lower stem using the provided bolt and nut. Ensure it is securely fastened but allows for slight angle adjustment.
- Connect the lower stem to the middle stem, and then connect the middle stem to the upper stem (which includes the control box and armrest).
- Wrap the search coil cable around the stem, ensuring it is snug but not overly tight, and plug the connector into the corresponding port on the control box.
- Adjust the stem length to a comfortable position, allowing the search coil to be parallel to the ground when you are standing upright.
- Adjust the armrest for comfortable support.
4.2. Battery Installation
The Maclean MCE969 requires batteries for operation (not included). Locate the battery compartment on the control box, open it, and insert the required batteries, observing the correct polarity. Close the compartment securely.
5. Operating Instructions
Your metal detector offers various modes and settings to optimize your search.
5.1. Controls Overview
- SENS (Sensitivity) Knob: Adjusts the detector's sensitivity to metal objects. Turn clockwise to increase sensitivity for deeper detection, counter-clockwise to decrease sensitivity to reduce interference.
- DISC/TONE Knob: Used for discrimination and tone adjustment. In DISC mode, it helps filter out unwanted metals. In TONE mode, it can assign different tones to different metal types.
- ALL METAL Button: Activates the All Metal mode, detecting all types of metal without discrimination.
- DISC Button: Activates Discrimination mode, allowing you to filter out certain types of metal.
- TONE Button: Activates Tone mode, providing distinct audio tones for different metal categories.
- TARGET Button: Used for pinpointing the exact location of a detected object.
- LOW BAT Indicator: Illuminates when batteries are low and need replacement.
- PHONE Jack: For connecting headphones (not included) for private listening and clearer audio signals.
5.2. Operating Modes
The MCE969 features four working modes:
- ALL METAL: Detects all types of metal. Ideal for general searching when you want to find everything.
- DISC (Discrimination): Allows you to ignore certain types of metal, such as iron, to focus on more valuable targets. Adjust the DISC/TONE knob to set the discrimination level.
- TONE: Provides different audio tones for various metal types, helping you identify targets without looking at the display.
- TARGET (Pinpoint): Once a target is detected, press and hold the TARGET button to narrow down its exact location.
5.3. Basic Operation
- Turn the SENS knob clockwise from OFF to turn on the detector.
- Select your desired operating mode (ALL METAL, DISC, or TONE).
- Adjust the SENS knob to a suitable level. High sensitivity is for deeper targets but may pick up more interference.
- Hold the detector with the search coil parallel to the ground, about 1-2 inches above the surface.
- Sweep the search coil slowly from side to side in overlapping motions.
- When a metal object is detected, the detector will emit an audio signal, and the target indicator on the control panel will respond.
- Use the TARGET button to pinpoint the exact location of the object before digging.
6. Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and performance of your metal detector.
- Cleaning: Wipe down the control box 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.
- Battery Care: Remove batteries if the detector will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage. Replace batteries when the LOW BAT indicator illuminates.
- Storage: Store the detector in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Cable Management: Ensure the search coil cable is not kinked or damaged.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Maclean MCE969, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power or no response | Dead or incorrectly installed batteries. | Check battery polarity and replace with fresh batteries. |
| False signals or erratic behavior | High sensitivity, electromagnetic interference, loose cable, or detector bumping objects. | Reduce SENS setting. Move away from power lines or other electronics. Ensure search coil cable is securely connected and not damaged. Avoid bumping the detector. |
| Poor detection depth | Low sensitivity, ground mineralization, or small/deep targets. | Increase SENS setting. Ensure search coil is swept parallel to the ground. |
| Short battery life | Old batteries, continuous use, or high sensitivity settings. | Use high-quality fresh batteries. Reduce usage time or sensitivity if not needed. |
8. Specifications
Key technical specifications for the Maclean MCE969 Metal Detector:
- Model: MCE969
- Brand: Maclean
- Dimensions: Approximately 28 x 13 x 70 cm (assembled, adjustable)
- Weight: Approximately 1.77 kg
- Material: Metal
- Power Source: Battery-powered (batteries not included)
- Display Style: LCD (Analog indicator)
- Search Coil: 25cm diameter, waterproof
- Operating Modes: ALL METAL, DISC, TONE, TARGET
- Features: Adjustable sensitivity, discrimination, audio signal, headphone jack, low battery indicator.
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact Maclean customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.





