Minelab VANQUISH 440/540 Metal Detector User Manual

Quick Start

Follow these three simple steps to begin detecting:

1. Power On: Press the power button.
2. Wait 5 Seconds: Allow the detector to initialize.
3. Detect: Start searching for targets.

Search Modes

The VANQUISH 440/540 features four distinct search modes, each with its own identification pattern, to help you find what you're looking for:

• Coin: Ideal for finding modern coins in trashy areas. It ignores iron targets and small iron trash.
• Jewellery: Excellent for finding lost jewelry, offering superior discrimination and depth. It ignores iron targets.
• Relic: Designed for finding relics buried deep in the ground. It offers the greatest depth but has slightly less discrimination than other modes. It ignores iron targets and small iron trash.
• Custom: Allows you to save your preferred settings and discrimination patterns for quick access.

Control Panel

Familiarize yourself with the control panel:

1. Backlight On/Off (540 only): Toggles the backlight.
2. Power On/Off: Turns the detector on or off. Long-pressing (7 seconds) when off resets to factory settings.
3. Volume Adjust: Controls the audio volume.
4. All Metal: Activates All Metal mode, which detects all targets, including iron. Long-press to switch iron bias settings (540 only).
5. Pinpoint: Activates pinpoint mode to precisely locate a target.
6. Sensitivity: Adjusts the detector's sensitivity.
7. Accept/Reject: Turns discrimination segments on or off.
8. Discrimination Pattern Edit: Allows editing of discrimination segments.
9. Search Mode: Cycles through available search modes. Long-press to save the current pattern as a custom mode.
10. Bluetooth On/Off (540 only): Enables Bluetooth for wireless headphones. Long-press to pair headphones.
11. Target ID Guide: A reference for target types corresponding to Target ID segments.

Display

The display provides key information:

1. Battery Level: Shows remaining battery power.
2. Backlight Icon (540 only): Indicates the backlight is active.
3. Bluetooth Icon (540 only): Shows Bluetooth is active.
4. Volume: Displays the current volume level.
5. Sensitivity: Displays the current sensitivity level.
6. Iron Bias Icon (540 only): Indicates Iron Bias is set to 'low'.
7. Target ID Number: Displays a numerical value to help identify targets. Negative numbers indicate iron, positive numbers indicate non-ferrous metals.
8. Depth Gauge: Indicates the approximate depth of a detected target.
9. Search Mode: Shows the currently active search mode.
10. Discrimination Segments: Divides the Target ID range into segments that can be accepted or rejected.
11. Pinpoint Indicator: Shows that pinpoint mode is active.

Settings

Volume

Adjust the volume using the '+' and '-' buttons. The volume display shows the current level.

Backlight (540 only)

Press the backlight button to turn the backlight on or off. The backlight icon will appear on the display when active.

Sensitivity

Adjust sensitivity for optimal performance. The sensitivity meter on the display shows the current level.

Noise Cancel

The detector automatically performs noise cancellation upon power-up. Keep the coil still over the ground until the two large dashes align in the Target ID display.

Iron Bias (540 only)

This feature helps differentiate iron targets. In 540 models, Iron Bias can be set to 'low' to improve performance with non-ferrous targets amongst iron trash. To set Iron Bias to low, long-press the All Metal button for approximately 2 seconds. The Iron Bias icon will appear on the display.

Pinpoint

Pinpoint mode helps you accurately locate buried targets. Use the audio tones and volume changes to determine the target's position and depth.

Pinpoint Visual Display

When pinpoint mode is active, the discrimination segments show the target signal strength. As the coil center approaches the target, the segments fill from the outside in. When all segments are filled, the target is directly under the coil center.

Target Search

1. With the coil away from the target's approximate location, long-press the Pinpoint button to activate. A crosshair indicator will appear on the display.
2. Sweep the coil slowly 2-3 times over the target location, keeping it parallel to the ground. This refines the pinpoint function for more accurate audio feedback.
3. Identify the target's center by listening for the loudest signal or observing the visual display. The detector will progressively reduce sensitivity to mask weaker signals, helping pinpoint the exact location.
4. If all discrimination scale segments are filled, the target is directly under the coil center.

Manual Target Search

You can locate targets without pinpoint mode, but it requires practice. This method is useful when targets are surrounded by trash.

1. Sweep the coil slowly around the target's location, keeping it parallel to the ground.
2. Listen for the loudest signal to determine the target's center.
3. Mark this position.
4. Move to one side, perpendicular to the initial direction, and repeat steps 1 and 3.
5. The target is buried where the two imaginary lines intersect.

Depth Gauge

The depth gauge indicates the approximate depth of detected targets. Fewer arrows indicate a shallower target, while more arrows indicate a deeper target. Accuracy varies with target type and soil conditions.

The depth gauge displays for up to 5 seconds after a target is detected, or until the next target is found. If no target is detected, the depth gauge icons and arrows will be off.

Example of depth gauge readings for a US 25-cent coin:

• 2" (50 mm)
• 4" (100 mm)
• 6" (150 mm)
• 8" (200 mm)
• >8" (>200 mm)

Wireless Audio (540 only)

The VANQUISH 540 supports standard Bluetooth® headphones. For optimal performance, Minelab recommends aptX™ Low Latency headphones like the ML 80 wireless headphones.

Bluetooth On/Off

Press the Bluetooth button to turn Bluetooth on or off. Long-press the button for 2.5 seconds to initiate pairing.

If no connection is made within 5 minutes, Bluetooth will turn off automatically. When Bluetooth is on, the Bluetooth icon appears on the display, indicating the connection status:

• Fast Blinking: Detector is attempting to pair with a Bluetooth device.
• Solid On: Detector is connected to Bluetooth headphones.
• Slow Blinking: Detector is attempting to reconnect to previously paired Bluetooth headphones.

ML 80 Wireless Headphones

The VANQUISH 540 Pro Pack includes Minelab ML 80 Bluetooth® headphones with aptX™ Low Latency audio. These headphones are also available as an accessory.

Refer to the headphone manual for detailed pairing and control instructions.

Target ID

Target ID Number

The Target ID number ranges from -9 to 40. Iron targets typically fall between -9 and 0. The number displayed helps identify the target's material (iron or non-ferrous).

For example, a US 25-cent coin usually has a Target ID of 29.

Discrimination Segments

These segments at the top of the display divide the Target ID range. Each segment corresponds to a Target ID number. When a target is detected, its corresponding segment will flash.

Accept/Reject

To reject a target, press the Accept/Reject button while the Target ID is displayed. The corresponding discrimination segment will turn off. To accept, press the button again.

Note: Discrimination patterns revert to default settings upon power-up, except in Custom modes. Save your custom patterns to retain changes.

Editing Discrimination Patterns

You can edit the preset discrimination patterns for each search mode. Changes made in Coin, Relic, and Jewellery modes will revert to default upon power-up. To save your custom patterns, long-press the Search Mode button for 5 seconds. 'St' will appear on the display, indicating the pattern is being saved.

Saving Custom Search Modes

You can save your custom settings and discrimination patterns to any search mode. This allows for quick access to your preferred configurations.

1. Select the search mode you wish to edit.
2. Long-press the Search Mode button for 5 seconds. 'St' will appear on the display, confirming the save. The custom mode icon and the original mode icon will flash twice.
3. Use the discrimination pattern edit buttons (left/right arrows) to select the segment you wish to adjust. The selected segment will flash.
4. Press the Accept/Reject button to turn the selected segment on or off.
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 until your discrimination pattern is complete.
6. The editing screen will time out after 3 seconds of inactivity.

All Metal

In All Metal mode, all discrimination segments are active, allowing detection of all metallic targets, including iron. This mode is useful for ensuring no targets are missed but may result in detecting more trash.

When All Metal mode is active, the Accept/Reject and Discrimination Pattern Edit buttons are disabled.

Activating All Metal Mode

1. Press the All Metal button to activate All Metal mode.
2. All discrimination segments will turn on, and all metals will be detected.
3. To deactivate All Metal mode, press the All Metal button again. The discrimination pattern will return to the last used setting.

Inspecting Targets in All Metal Mode

All Metal mode allows you to inspect non-ferrous targets to determine the presence of iron. If a target produces a mixed response (iron and non-ferrous), it may be a large iron object or a bottle cap. If the response is consistently non-ferrous, the target likely contains no iron.

Creating Custom Discrimination Patterns

To improve your chances of finding valuable items and avoid wasting time on trash, create custom discrimination patterns. Identify the Target IDs of various targets by sweeping them over the coil at different depths. Save these patterns for specific search modes.

Target Tones

Target tones assign different audio pitches to different Target IDs, allowing for quick identification without constantly looking at the display.

• VANQUISH 440: Features three tones (low, mid, high).
• VANQUISH 540: Features five tones (T1-T5).

Tone break points are where the pitch of the target tone changes. Note that these points may vary slightly between search modes.

Battery and Charging

The VANQUISH series supports both rechargeable and non-rechargeable AA batteries.

Warning: Never mix rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries, as this may damage the detector or batteries.

Battery Level

The battery level indicator shows the remaining battery power. This is an approximate indication, as rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries discharge at different rates.

Low Battery

When the battery level is critically low, the detector will automatically shut down after approximately 20 minutes. The 'bF' symbol will appear on the Target ID display 5 seconds before shutdown, accompanied by a shutdown tone.

Auto Shutdown

The detector will automatically shut down if the battery level becomes critically low. For non-rechargeable batteries, this occurs about 20 minutes after the battery indicator starts flashing. For rechargeable batteries, it occurs about 20 minutes after the last bar on the indicator disappears.

Note: Some types of rechargeable batteries may not display 'bF' before automatic shutdown.

Battery Life/Charging Time

With Minelab rechargeable NiMH AA batteries, charging takes approximately 8 hours, and operation time is approximately 11 hours. Non-rechargeable AA alkaline batteries provide about 10 hours of operation.

Care and Safety

• Wash your hands before handling the detector after applying sunscreen or insect repellent.
• Do not use solvents for cleaning. Wipe away dirt with a cloth dampened with mild detergent.
• Avoid contact with gasoline, petroleum, or petroleum-based liquids.
• Keep sand and dust away from the shaft and coil assembly. Clean these areas with a damp cloth if necessary.
• Do not expose the detector or accessories to sharp objects.
• Wipe away scuff marks on the shaft with a damp cloth.
• Do not leave the detector in extremely hot or cold conditions. Use a cover for protection when not in use. Avoid leaving it in a hot car.
• Ensure the coil cable is in good condition and avoid applying excessive force.
• Handle the display screen with care to avoid scratches and damage.
• Do not expose the detector to extreme temperatures. Storage temperature range: -20°C to +70°C (-4°F to +158°F).
• Do not expose non-waterproof accessories to liquids or excessive moisture.
• Keep the detector and accessories out of reach of children to prevent choking hazards.
• Always follow the instructions in the accessory manual when charging batteries or accessories.
• Avoid charging batteries or accessories in extreme temperatures.
• Remove batteries before air transport.

Error Codes

If your detector displays an error code, try the following solutions before contacting a service center.

Coil Connection Fault

If a coil connection fault occurs, 'Cd' will be displayed in the Target ID number field.

1. Check that the coil connector is securely attached to the control unit.
2. Inspect the coil cable for damage.
3. Ensure the coil connector pins are clean and free of debris.
4. Check the coil for visible signs of damage.
5. If possible, try using a different coil.
6. Turn off the detector, perform a factory reset (see page 20), and then long-press the power button for 7 seconds.

System Error

System errors are indicated by 'E' followed by a number (e.g., 'E2'). The detector will shut down 5 seconds after displaying a system error.

1. Restart the detector to see if the error persists.
2. Ensure the coil is properly attached.
3. Turn off the detector, perform a factory reset (see page 20), and then long-press the power button for 7 seconds.
4. If the error continues, contact your nearest authorized service center.

Troubleshooting

Detector Not Turning On or Turning Off Unexpectedly ('bF' may be displayed)

1. Replace the batteries.

Abnormal or Excessive Noise

1. Move away from sources of electromagnetic interference (EMI).
2. Restart the detector and wait for automatic noise cancellation to complete.
3. Reduce sensitivity (see page 7).

No Sound - Wired Headphones

1. Ensure the detector is powered on and has completed its startup sequence.
2. Check that the headphone jack is connected.
3. Ensure the volume is set to an audible level.
4. Disconnect the headphones and check if sound is audible from the detector's speaker.
5. If possible, try a different set of headphones.

No Sound - ML 80 Headphones

1. Check if the headphones are powered on.
2. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on the detector and paired with the headphones (Bluetooth icon is solid).
3. Check if the headphones are charged.
4. Ensure the detector's volume is set to an audible level.
5. Ensure the headphones' volume is set to an audible level.
6. Try a different set of Bluetooth headphones.
7. Try wired headphones.

ML 80 Headphones Not Pairing

1. Turn off the ML 80 headphones and try re-pairing.
2. Ensure the headphones are within 1 meter (3 feet) of the control unit and that there are no obstructions between them.
3. Move away from potential sources of interference, such as mobile phones.
4. If many Bluetooth devices are nearby, pairing may take longer. Move to a different area and try pairing again.
5. Perform a factory reset on the headphones and try re-pairing with the detector.
6. Try pairing a different set of Bluetooth headphones with the detector, then attempt to re-pair the ML 80 headphones.

Distorted/Crackling Sound with ML 80 Headphones via Bluetooth

1. Lower the headphone volume. If necessary, increase the detector's volume to compensate.

Technical Specifications

The VANQUISH 540 Pro Pack is based on the standard VANQUISH 540 but includes Bluetooth wireless headphones and a V8 8"x5" DD coil and V8 skid plate. Wired headphones are not included. Minelab reserves the right to change designs, equipment, and technical features at any time without notice.

Factory Reset

A factory reset restores all detector settings to their original factory presets.

1. Ensure the detector is powered off.
2. Long-press the power button for approximately 7 seconds.
3. 'FP' will appear in the Target ID display, indicating that the factory preset settings have been restored.
4. Release the power button. Automatic noise cancellation will begin once the factory reset is complete.

Disclaimer

Minelab metal detectors are designed and manufactured to high standards for recreational treasure and gold hunting in safe environments. They are not designed as mining detectors or for detecting unexploded ordnance. Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. Qualcomm aptX is a product of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. Qualcomm is a trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated. aptX is a trademark of Qualcomm Technologies International, Ltd.

Regulatory Compliance: EAC, FCC, CE. This product complies with ISED technical specifications.

Contact Information

Minelab Electronics Pty. Ltd.
Australia & Asia Pacific
+61 8 8238 0888
minelab@minelab.com.au

Minelab Americas Inc.
North, Central & South America
+1 877 767 6522
info@minelabamericas.com

Minelab International Ltd.
Europe & Russia
+353 21 423 2352
minelab@minelab.ie

Minelab MEA General Trading LLC
Middle East & Africa
+971 4 254 9995
minelab@minelab.ae

Minelab do Brasil
Brazil
+55 47 3406 3898
minelabdobrasil@minelab.com

Visit: minelab.com/vanquish