Minelab Vanquish 340 Metal Detector User Manual

Quick Start Guide

Get started with your Minelab Vanquish 340 in three simple steps:

1. Turn On the Detector: Press the power button.
2. Wait 5 Seconds: Allow the detector to initialize.
3. Start Detecting: Select your desired search mode and begin.

Search Modes

The Vanquish 340 features 3 preset search modes, each with a different discrimination level, to help you find more targets.

Buttons and Settings

Familiarize yourself with the control panel:

Display Indicators

The display provides essential information about your detection session:

Detector Settings

Volume

The volume control adjusts the intensity of the audio tones. Press the volume button to increase volume. Once maximum volume is reached, it cycles back to the lowest level. A bar graph on the display indicates the selected volume level.

Sensitivity

The Vanquish detectors are highly sensitive and allow for sensitivity adjustment. Optimizing sensitivity based on ground conditions can improve detection depth. Always choose a sensitivity level that maintains stability for best performance.

Press the sensitivity button to increase the sensitivity level. Once maximum sensitivity is reached, it cycles back to the lowest level. A bar graph on the display indicates the current sensitivity level.

Setting Sensitivity

1. With the coil still, increase sensitivity until false signals are heard.
2. Reduce sensitivity just enough for the false signals to disappear. (If levels 2, 3, or 4 are selected, press three times to reduce by one level).
3. Sweep the coil over clear ground (no metal targets) and reduce sensitivity if false signals persist.

False Signals

False signals can occur due to electromagnetic interference (EMI) from power lines, cell towers, or other detectors. If you experience false signals:

1. Move away from potential EMI sources.
2. Restart the detector and wait for the automatic interference reduction process to complete.
3. If false signals continue, reduce the sensitivity level.

Automatic Noise Cancellation

The Vanquish detectors feature automatic noise cancellation that activates on startup. This calibrates the detector to avoid interference. For best results, keep the coil still above the ground until the process is complete (indicated by two large dashes on the ID display).

Pinpoint Mode

Locating a Target

Once a target is detected, Pinpoint mode helps you precisely locate its center before digging, saving time and effort.

1. Slowly sweep your coil over the target, keeping it parallel to the ground.
2. Listen for the loudest signal to identify the target's center.
3. Memorize or mark the spot.
4. Move to the side and sweep over the target at a 90-degree angle to your first sweep.
5. Repeat steps 1 and 3 from new positions. The target's exact location is where the imaginary lines from your sweeps intersect.

Depth Gauge

The depth gauge provides an approximate indication of how deep a target is buried. Few arrows suggest a shallow target, while multiple arrows indicate a deeper one. Accuracy can vary based on target type and soil conditions. The gauge remains visible for 5 seconds after detection or until a new target is found. When no target is detected, the gauge and arrows are off.

Example display for a US 25-cent coin:

• 50 mm (2 inches): 1 arrow
• 100 mm (4 inches): 2 arrows
• 150 mm (6 inches): 3 arrows
• >150 mm (>6 inches): 4 arrows

Target Identification

Target ID Number

Target Identification (ID) numbers range from -9 to 40. Ferrous targets are typically indicated by IDs from -9 to 0. When a target is detected, its ID number appears on the screen, indicating its composition. For example, a US 25-cent coin typically registers an ID of 29. The ID of the last detected target remains on screen for 5 seconds or until a new target is detected. Two large dashes appear if no target is detected or if a rejected target is passed over.

Discrimination Segments

These segments are located along the top border of the display and the conductivity scale. They group target IDs into distinct zones. Each numerical ID has a corresponding segment that will flash when a target with that ID is detected.

Discrimination / Search Modes

Discrimination segments can be activated or deactivated to accept or reject specific targets. Activated segments produce audio (accepted targets), while deactivated segments do not (rejected targets). Combinations of accepted and rejected segments form the search modes. The Vanquish 340 has 3 modes: Coin, Jewellery, and All-Metal (see page 9).

All Metal Mode

In All Metal mode, all discrimination segments are active, meaning all metallic targets, including iron, will be detected. This mode ensures you don't miss any target, but it may also result in finding more iron trash. It can be useful for verifying if a target is ferrous or not.

Activating All Metal Mode

1. Press the search mode button until the All Metal icon (e.g., a horseshoe ⛓️) is selected.
2. All discrimination segments will activate, and all metallic targets will be detected.
3. To exit All Metal mode, press the search mode button and select Coin or Jewellery.

Using All Metal Mode to Verify a Target

If a target provides a mixed response (both ferrous and non-ferrous) in All Metal mode, it might be a large iron object or a can. If a repeated non-ferrous response occurs, the target is likely non-ferrous. Note that large iron targets and cans are often misidentified as non-ferrous by other detectors; the Vanquish 340 is designed to detect them as trash.

Target Tones

Different tones are assigned to each discrimination segment, allowing quick target identification by sound. The Vanquish 340 offers 3 tones: Low (grave), Medium, and High (aigu). The tone break point is the conductivity scale position where the tone changes. These break points vary slightly between search modes.

Batteries and Charging

The detector accepts AA alkaline or rechargeable batteries. ⚠️ ATTENTION: Never mix rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries, as this can damage the detector. Using an incompatible battery model may pose an explosion risk.

Battery Level

The battery indicator shows the current charge level. Note that rechargeable and standard batteries discharge at different rates, so the indicator provides an approximation.

Low Battery

If using standard batteries, the indicator will flash 20 minutes before automatic shutdown. With rechargeable batteries, a bar will disappear 20 minutes before shutdown. The indicator 'BF' will appear on screen with a specific sound 5 seconds before automatic shutdown.

With some rechargeable batteries, 'BF' may not appear before automatic shutdown.

Automatic Shutdown

When the battery level is critically low, the detector will automatically turn off.

Battery Life and Charging Time

• Minelab AA NiMH rechargeable batteries require 8 hours of charging for approximately 11 hours of use.
• Standard AA alkaline batteries provide approximately 10 hours of use.

Rechargeable Batteries

Minelab AA NiMH rechargeable batteries and chargers are available for separate purchase.

Attention: Only use the Minelab charger designed for NiMH batteries.

Safety and Maintenance Instructions

• Wash hands before using the detector if you have applied insect repellent or sunscreen.
• Clean the detector with a damp cloth and mild soap. Do not use solvents, gasoline, or other hydrocarbons.
• Avoid getting sand in the shaft or collars. Clean with a damp cloth if sand accumulates.
• Protect the detector from sharp objects to prevent scratches.
• Clean any scratches on the shaft with a damp cloth.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures (hot or cold). Do not leave the detector in a hot vehicle.
• Ensure the coil cable is in good condition and protected from undue stress.
• Handle the control box and screen with care, as they are sensitive parts. Protect them from scratches and impacts.
• Do not expose the detector to temperatures below -20°C (-4°F) or above 50°C (122°F).
• Keep accessories dry and away from excessive moisture.
• Keep children away from the detector and its accessories to prevent choking hazards from small parts.
• Follow battery charging instructions.
• Remove batteries and power cells before air travel.

Error Codes

If a problem occurs, an error code may appear on the screen. Try the suggested actions before contacting your dealer or an authorized repair center.

Coil Disconnected ('Cd')

If 'Cd' appears, the coil is disconnected. Check:

• The coil cable is securely connected to the control box.
• The cable is not cut or damaged.
• The connector is free from dirt or debris.
• The coil itself is not cracked.
• Try with a compatible coil if possible.
• Perform a factory reset (see page 14).
• If the problem persists, contact your nearest authorized repair center.

System Error ('E' code, e.g., E2)

A system error code, such as 'E2', will appear, and the detector will shut down for 5 seconds. If a system error occurs, try:

• Restarting the detector to see if the error disappears.
• Checking that the coil cable is securely connected to the control box.
• Performing a factory reset (see page 14).
• If the problem persists, contact your nearest authorized repair center.

Troubleshooting

Detector Won't Turn On or Turns Off Automatically (with or without 'bf' error code)

1. Replace the batteries.

Interference and False Signals

1. Move away from potential sources of electromagnetic interference (EMI).
2. Restart the detector and wait for the automatic interference attenuation process to complete.
3. Reduce the sensitivity level (see page 6).

No Sound in Wired Headphones

1. Verify the detector is on and the startup procedure is complete.
2. Ensure the headphone cable is properly connected.
3. Check that the volume is set to an audible level.
4. Unplug the headphones and check if the speaker volume is audible.
5. If possible, try another set of wired headphones.

Technical Specifications

The VANQUISH 540 Pro-Pack is based on the VANQUISH 540 with the following differences: the VANQUISH 540 Pro-Pack includes Bluetooth wireless headphones and a second 8-inch x 5-inch Double-D coil with its coil cover. Wired headphones with a 3.5 mm (1/8 inch) jack are not included.

Equipment may vary depending on the model or accessories ordered with your detector. Minelab reserves the right to make modifications to the design, equipment, and technical specifications at any time due to improvements or technical progress.

For the latest updated specifications of your VANQUISH, consult the website www.minelab.com.

Factory Reset

The factory reset function restores the detector's settings to their default values.

1. Ensure the detector is turned off.
2. Turn the detector on by pressing and holding the power button for at least 7 seconds.
3. 'FP' will appear on the screen, indicating that the factory settings have been restored.
4. Release the power button. The automatic noise cancellation process will begin once the reset is complete.

Warnings and Compliance

WARNING: The Minelab detector described in this manual was designed and manufactured to high-quality standards. It is particularly suited for finding gold and treasures in safe environments. This detector is not designed as a tool for detecting mines or active munitions.

The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc.; any use of such marks by Minelab is under license.

Qualcomm aptX is a product of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. or its subsidiaries. Qualcomm is a trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated, registered in the United States and other countries. aptX is a trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated, registered in the United States and other countries.

CERTIFICATION OF CONFORMITY FOR CANADA: This product complies with the technical specifications in force in Canada.

REGULATORY INFORMATION: Canadian Compliance Notice: This product complies with the technical specifications set by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISDE).

Contact Information

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

Minelab Americas Inc.
Central, North & 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 us online: www.minelab.com/VANQUISH