Garrett AT Gold Owner's Manual

Thank You for Choosing Garrett Metal Detectors!

Congratulations on the purchase of your new Garrett AT Gold™ metal detector. It was designed to find tiny gold nuggets in the most challenging prospecting environments, including shallow fresh water hunting.

The AT Gold operates at a high frequency optimized for gold prospecting and includes a True All Metal Mode. The All Metal Mode is preferred for prospecting because it provides the greatest possible depth and sensitivity. It also provides a continuous audio response to allow the operator to hear the subtle detection signals produced by faint targets.

The AT Gold is a Motion All Metal detector, meaning that slight motion of the searchcoil is required to maintain detection, although static detection of targets can be achieved while in Pinpoint mode. The AT Gold includes manual and automatic Ground Balance—plus an exclusive Ground Balance Window™ feature—to optimize the detector's performance in highly mineralized ground, where gold is most often found. This detector is also waterproof to a maximum depth of 10 feet (3 meters) for searching in freshwater lakes and streams.

In addition to its True All Metal Mode, the AT Gold includes two Discrimination Modes, making it a versatile coin and relic hunting machine. When selecting either the DISC 1 or DISC 2 mode, the operator gains more Tone ID information from targets in addition to the ability to discriminate unwanted trash targets (e.g. nails, foil, pull tabs).

The AT Gold also features simple, one-handed operation for all controls—no dials or knobs that require a second hand to adjust.

AT Gold Control Panel Overview

The control panel features:

• Target ID Legend: Indicates metal types (e.g., Iron, Gold, Silver, Bronze).
• Digital Target ID: Displays a numerical value for target identification.
• Target ID Cursor: Indicates probable target identity, working with the Target ID Legend.
• Lower Scale (Discrimination Pattern): Shows the current discrimination setting.
• Depth Indicator: Shows the approximate depth of a coin-sized target.
• Mode Indicator: Selects detection modes (ALL METAL, DISC 1, DISC 2).
• Sensitivity Setting: Adjusts the detector's sensitivity.
• Iron Disc Pushbutton: Adjusts the level of iron discrimination.
• Iron Audio Pushbutton: Toggles Iron Audio feature ON/OFF.
• ON/OFF Power Button: Hold for 1 second to power on/off.
• MODE Button: Press to cycle through detection modes.
• RESET Button: Hold for 5 seconds to restore factory settings.
• PINPOINT Pushbutton: Press and hold to pinpoint target location.
• FREQ Pushbutton: Toggles through 4 frequencies.
• GROUND BALANCE Pushbutton: Used for automatic or manual ground balancing.
• THRESHOLD Pushbutton: Adjusts the background sound level.
• Battery Level Indicator: Shows remaining battery power.

Quick Start Guide

1. Install Batteries: The AT Gold uses four (4) AA batteries, typically pre-installed.
2. Power ON: Press and release the ON/OFF button. The detector powers on in the last used mode (default is ALL METAL).
3. Select Mode: Use the MODE button to choose a detection mode if desired.
4. Adjust Settings: Adjust Sensitivity or Discrimination settings as needed.
5. Begin Scanning: Lower the searchcoil to within 1" (2.5cm) of the ground and sweep left to right at approximately 3 feet (1m) per second.

AT Gold Components

The AT Gold detector consists of the following main parts:

• Control Housing with S-shaped stem
• Upper and lower stem assembly with camlock fasteners
• Searchcoil (standard 5"x8" DD searchcoil)
• Wing nut, mounting washers, and threaded bolt for searchcoil attachment
• Arm strap
• Handle Grip
• Detector Stand
• Padded Arm Cuff

The package typically includes the control housing/stem, stem sections, searchcoil, owner's manual, warranty card, and headphones.

Assembly Instructions

1. Loosen the camlock on the upper and lower stem assembly by twisting clockwise.
2. Slide the lower stem out to engage spring clips in the upper stem holes.
3. Align mounting washers with posts on the lower stem and press firmly.
4. Slide the searchcoil onto the stem.
5. Insert the threaded bolt through the lower stem and searchcoil; hand-tighten with the wing nut.
6. Loosen the camlock at the end of the upper shaft (counter-clockwise). If it slides off, reattach and tighten slightly.
7. Depress the spring clip in the S-stem (control housing) and insert it through the upper camlock collar into the upper stem. Ensure the spring clip engages the first stem opening for battery access. Hand-tighten the camlock collar.
8. Depress the spring clip in the lower stem and adjust to a comfortable length. Hand-tighten the lower stem camlock collar.
9. Wrap the searchcoil cable snugly around the stem.
10. Insert the coil connector into the 4-pin control housing connector; hand-tighten after aligning pins until the O-ring is felt to be fully inserted.
11. Adjust the arm cuff if needed by moving the cuff to another hole and reinserting the screw. Secure the headphone cable clip.
12. Attach headphones to the 2-pin connector on the control housing, ensuring the O-ring is properly seated.
13. Secure the headphone cable under the arm cuff clip.

Powering On

Press and release the ON/OFF Power button to turn the detector on. It will resume hunting with the last used settings. To turn off, press and hold the button for one second. To restore factory settings, press and hold the power button for five seconds.

Target Information

The AT Gold provides target information via its LCD screen:

• Target ID Legend: Displays metal types (Iron, Gold, Silver, Bronze).
• Target ID Cursor: Indicates the probable identity of a detected target on the Upper Scale (20 graphic segments).
• Lower Scale (Notch Discrimination): Shows which targets are accepted (on) or rejected (off).
• Depth Indicator: Shows the depth of a coin-sized target in 2" (5cm) increments.

Digital Target ID

The Digital Target ID provides a precise numerical value (1-99) for target identification. Higher numbers (closer to 99) indicate more conductive targets (like large gold and silver), while lower numbers (closer to 1) indicate ferrous targets. The cursor on the LCD represents a range of 5 digital points.

Note: Detection depth can sometimes exceed the Target ID depth; faint targets may be heard but not displayed on the ID scale.

Sensitivity

The AT Gold has eight sensitivity settings. Use the (+) or (-) SENSITIVITY buttons to adjust. Higher settings are for small or deep targets. Lower settings are recommended in areas with high metallic trash, mineralized soil, electrical interference, or other detectors causing erratic operation.

Ground Balance

Ground balancing is crucial for optimal performance, especially in mineralized soil, as it cancels unwanted ground signals. The AT Gold offers automatic and manual ground balance.

• Automatic Ground Balance: Press and hold the GND BAL button while bouncing the searchcoil 1-8 inches (2-20 cm) above the ground until a minimal audio response is heard. Release the button to begin hunting.
• Manual Ground Balance: Press the GND BAL button, then bounce the searchcoil. Use the THRESHOLD (+) or (-) buttons to adjust the Ground Balance setting until a minimum audio response is achieved.

Adjustable Ground Balance Window™: This feature allows the detector to simultaneously ground balance to a range of values, smoothing audio responses in mineralized ground. Access it via Manual Ground Balance mode and adjust the window size (0-6) using the IRON DISC buttons. This setting applies only to the All Metal Mode.

Typical Ground Balance Ranges:

Frequency Adjustment

The AT Gold can operate at four frequencies (F1-F4) to minimize interference from electrical sources or other detectors. Press the FREQ button to cycle through the settings.

Threshold Adjustment

Threshold sets the constant background "hum." Use the (+) or (-) Threshold buttons to adjust from -9 to +23. A faint, barely audible threshold is recommended for hearing faint signals. Negative values subtract audio, reducing chatter.

Search Modes Overview

The AT Gold offers three modes:

• ALL METAL Mode: Preferred for prospecting and deep searches. Provides maximum depth and sensitivity with continuous audio response. Detects all metal types.
• DISC 1 Mode (Zero Discrimination): Similar to All Metal but with some ground response filtered. Responds to all metal types. Useful for international coins, jewelry, relics.
• DISC 2 Mode (U.S. Coins Discrimination): Preset to exclude most iron targets, foil, and pull tabs. Optimized for U.S. coins. Less sensitive to small/deep targets than All Metal.

In all modes, the searchcoil must be in motion for detection, except when using Pinpoint.

Iron Discrimination

Features high-resolution iron discrimination (0-40 levels) for precise control over iron rejection. Adjustments made in DISC 1 or DISC 2 modes are retained when the detector is switched off.

Iron Audio

This feature allows discriminated iron targets to produce a Low-Tone ID, helping to identify flat iron objects like bottle caps. In DISC modes, iron targets below a set discrimination level produce low tones. In ALL METAL mode, it can help audibly indicate ferrous content with a Low-Tone response.

Tip: In areas with high iron concentration, consider switching Iron Audio OFF. If a target has an inconsistent response, switch Iron Audio ON to check if it's iron.

Audio Characteristics

The AT Gold's advanced audio provides fast recovery speed, crucial for separating closely spaced targets. Proportional audio response means signal loudness correlates with target strength (faint for small/deep, loud for large/shallow).

• Example A: Adjacent targets produce distinct audio peaks.
• Example B: Deeper targets yield softer signals than shallow ones of the same size.
• Example C: Larger targets produce stronger signals than smaller ones at the same depth.

Bench Tests

Conducting bench tests with items like gold nuggets (or coins), iron nails, and bottle caps helps familiarize users with modes and features. Test items individually across the searchcoil at 3-4 inches (8-10cm) distance in ALL METAL and DISC modes. Observe Target ID and audio responses.

Discrimination Test: Adjust Iron Discrimination to eliminate an iron nail. In DISC 1 (factory preset 0), a nail might produce a Medium Tone. Increase Iron Disc to 26 to eliminate it. DISC 2 has a preset of 35.

Iron Audio Test: Test the Low-Tone response for iron targets in DISC modes and the Low-Medium-Low response in ALL METAL mode.

Sweeping the Searchcoil

Keep the searchcoil at a constant height, parallel to the ground. Sweep from side to side at about 3 feet (1 meter) per second. Overlap each sweep by half the coil's length (approx. 4 inches) for thorough coverage.

Correct Swing: Coil parallel to ground, consistent height.

Incorrect Swing: Coil lifted or tilted at the end of swings.

Pinpointing

To pinpoint a target, press and hold the Pinpoint button. Sweep the searchcoil over the target area at a fixed height (1 inch/2cm). The LCD bar graph indicates signal strength; maximum segments indicate the center of the coil is over the target. The symbol "PP" appears on the LCD.

Tip for Narrowing Detection Area: While holding Pinpoint, move the coil towards the target until the upper scale shows a full response. Quickly release and press the Pinpoint button again to retune and narrow the detection field. Repeat to find the central peak response.

Alternative Pinpointing:

• DD-Tip or Tail: Pinpoint off the tip or tail of the DD searchcoil by moving the coil towards the target until peak response, then pulling it towards you (or pushing away for tail).
• DD-Wiggle: Use fast, narrow side-to-side swings (2-4 inches/5-10cm) while slowly moving sideways towards the target until a consistent beat is heard. Then, rotate 90° to find the front-to-back position.

Practicing these techniques improves accuracy, leading to smaller holes and more efficient hunting.

Advanced Tips and Techniques

• Ground Balance Frequently: Re-balance as ground conditions change (e.g., due to noise). Gold prospecting often occurs in areas with frequently changing mineralization.
• Determining Ground Mineralization: Ground balance the detector, then adjust the setting up or down by 5-10 points while pumping the coil. Minimal response indicates low mineralization; a significant response indicates high mineralization.
• Hot Rocks/Terra Cotta: These can mimic good targets due to mineralization. In lightly mineralized ground, balance to them, but reduce Iron Discrimination. In highly mineralized ground, use minimal IRON DISC or a Discrimination Mode.
• Searching for Meteorites: The AT Gold's high frequency, All Metal Mode, and sensitivity are effective for meteorite detection. Meteorites often contain iron and may register similarly to hot rocks.
• Isolating Adjacent Targets: The DD searchcoil's narrow field aids separation. Use narrow swings in trashy areas.
• Uneven Terrains: Swing the coil parallel to the ground surface (e.g., rock structures, wash-outs) to minimize negative effects from uneven ground.

Prospecting Tips

Gold is found in various forms (nuggets, lode, placer deposits). For best results in mineralized ground, use ALL METAL Mode and precise ground balance, especially for tiny nuggets. While discrimination modes can find larger nuggets, they are less sensitive to tiny ones. Higher iron mineralization can indicate gold-rich areas; magnetite black sand is often associated with gold.

Expect to dig nonferrous trash (lead, brass, aluminum). A magnet can help distinguish gold (non-magnetic) from iron and hot rocks (magnetic).

Success in prospecting requires hard work, patience, and research. Joining prospecting clubs can provide valuable group outing opportunities.

Underwater Operation

The AT Gold is submersible in freshwater up to 10 feet (3 meters). Exceeding this depth can cause damage and void the warranty. Saltwater use is not recommended due to its conductivity affecting ground balance and target detection. The detector performs well on dry sand beach areas.

Standard headphones are water-resistant for wading but not for submersion. Optional waterproof headphones are required for full submersion.

Care and Maintenance

• Battery Replacement: Replace batteries when only one bar remains on the Battery Level Indicator. NiMH rechargeable batteries are compatible.
• Storage: Avoid extreme temperatures. Remove batteries if storing for over 30 days.
• Cleaning: Wipe the control housing and stem/searchcoil with a damp cloth.
• Battery Use: Use quality alkaline batteries; replace all batteries simultaneously for optimal performance.
• Connectors: Replace the protective cover on connectors when not in use.

Troubleshooting Guide

• No Power: Check battery installation and replace old batteries.
• Erratic Sounds/Cursor Movement: Ensure coil connection, check for indoor interference, adjust frequency, or reduce sensitivity.
• Intermittent Signals: May indicate a deeply buried or angled target. Scan from different directions. Iron targets can cause intermittent signals; use Iron Audio.
• Not Finding Specific Targets: Ensure correct mode is selected (e.g., DISC 2 for U.S. coins).
• Target ID Cursor Bounces: Often indicates an iron target, or a target on edge, or adjacent junk targets. Scan from different directions. Use Iron Audio to identify iron.

Metal Detecting Code of Ethics

Adhere to principles of respecting property and sites, obeying laws, aiding authorities, avoiding damage, filling holes, not littering, and practicing good manners.

Cautions

Observe precautions such as obtaining permission for private property, avoiding hazardous areas (pipelines, electric lines), not hunting in military zones, and using caution when digging.

Warranty & Service

The AT Gold is warranted for 24 months for parts and labor, excluding damage from alteration, misuse, or submersion beyond 10 feet. Check batteries and connectors first. Contact your dealer for service. For international warranty information, visit www.garrett.com.

AT Gold Accessories

Optional accessories enhance the AT Gold's capabilities:

• 4.5" (11.5cm) Super Sniper™ Searchcoil: For small, shallow targets or trashy areas.
• 6" x 9" (15 x 23cm) PROformance Concentric Searchcoil: Waterproof, good depth in less mineralized soils.
• 9" x 12" (23 x 30.5cm) PROformance Concentric Searchcoil: Waterproof, excellent depth for larger targets in less mineralized soils.
• 8.5" x 11" (21.5 x 28cm) PROformance DD Searchcoil: Waterproof, maximum depth for larger targets in mineralized soils, good separation.
• Waterproof Headphones: Required for submersion.
• 5" x 8" (13 x 20cm) DD Searchcoil Cover: Protects the searchcoil.
• Garrett PRO-POINTER® Pinpointing Detector: Aids in pinpointing and target recovery.
• 1/4" Headphone Adapter: Allows standard headphones with a 1/4" plug to be used (not for submerged use).

Visit www.garrett.com for a complete collection of accessories.

Suggested Reading

RAM Books, a division of Garrett Metal Detectors, offers titles on treasure hunting, gold prospecting, coin hunting, and relic recovery. Visit www.garrett.com for more information.