Garrett ATX Extreme Pulse Induction Metal Detector Owner's Manual

Introduction

Thank you for choosing Garrett Metal Detectors! Your Garrett ATX™ is a highly advanced pulse induction detector backed by 50 years of extensive research and development. It was specifically designed to overcome the most challenging prospecting and relic hunting environments, including extremely mineralized soils and saltwater environments.

Although the ATX was designed for the extreme needs of gold prospectors, it is a highly capable instrument for many other types of searching. Its ability to overcome mineralized soils, salts, and mineralized stones, bricks, terra cotta, etc., creates numerous opportunities for industrial use, historical archaeology, and game wardens (detection of poachers' bullets), etc.

Relic hunters who encounter areas of highly mineralized ground will benefit from detection depths not available from conventional detectors. The optional 20" Deepseeker® searchcoil is ideal for use in searching for caches and other deeply buried large objects.

In order to take full advantage of the special features and functions of the ATX, you are urged to carefully read this instruction manual in its entirety.

ATX Components and Parts

The ATX detector is designed for rugged outdoor use. Its main components include:

• Search Coil with Adjustable Tilt
• Control Panel/LED Display
• Telescoping Stem and Nuts
• Handle
• Adjustable Arm Cuff with Strap
• +/- 90° Coil and Stem Rotation Lock
• Battery Pack (one on each side)
• Electronics Housing

The ATX package includes the following parts:

• Detector with alkaline batteries
• Soft carry case
• Headphones
• Coil cover (not shown)
• User's manual
• Battery charger kit with eight rechargeable batteries
• Garrett detector sling

Accessory items are subject to change. If any part is missing, contact your local dealer.

Equipment Setup

Adjusting the Searchcoil and Stem

Fold open the searchcoil. Disengage the armrest and stem rotation locks to allow the stem to rotate. Rotate the stem and searchcoil to level and release the spring-loaded rotation lock to allow it to automatically reengage. The searchcoil can also be locked at 90° to the left or right for scanning walls and embankments. When the searchcoil is locked in your preferred orientation, reengage the armrest lock.

The ATX can be operated with the stems fully collapsed (preferred for shallow diving), fully extended, or anywhere in between. To extend the telescopic stem to the desired operating length, loosen the bottom stem nut closest to the search coil, fully extend the bottom stem, and tighten the nut. Then, loosen the middle stem nut, extend the middle stem, and tighten the nut. The upper stem is used for final adjustments.

The correct operating length should allow you to stand upright (no stooping forward) and swing the coil in front of you without stretching or bending.

Illustration: Diagram showing the ATX detector stem assembly with labels for Armrest, Armrest Lock, Stem Rotation Lock, Telescoping Stem, Searchcoil, and Stem Nuts.

Adjusting the Armrest

To move the armrest forward or backward, open the armrest locking lever, slide the armrest to the desired position, and lock the lever.

Images: Two images showing the armrest locking lever in open and locked positions.

Adjusting Searchcoil Tension

To adjust the tension on the searchcoil, use a thin coin or a flat-head screwdriver. Turn the screw clockwise to increase tension. When properly tightened, the searchcoil should maintain its position parallel to the ground while still allowing tilting during operation. Do not overtighten.

Attaching the Headphones

Remove the dust cap from the headphone connector on the back panel. Ensure the connector is clean. Align the headphone plug with the connector pins in the proper orientation. If the detector will be submerged, lubricate the O-ring on the connector with silicone grease.

Fully insert the connector until it snaps snugly into place. Slide the metal locking collar onto the threads and tighten by hand. Do not over tighten.

Image: Close-up of the headphone connector showing the O-ring. Text: "Lubricate O-ring for underwater operation."

Image: Hand tightening the headphone connector collar. Text: "Hand-tighten connector collar."

Power On and Battery Check

Switching the Detector On

The On/Off switch is located on the back of the electronics housing. It is best to switch on and operate the detector outdoors and away from sources of electrical interference (e.g., power lines, electrical equipment, fluorescent lights, transmitters, etc.).

Image: Close-up of the detector's rear panel showing the On/Off switch in the 'On' position.

Verifying Battery Level

Immediately after turning the detector on, listen for one to four audio beeps indicating the battery charge level:

• Four (4) beeps: Fully charged.
• Three (3) beeps: Approximately 75% battery charge.
• Two (2) beeps: Approximately 50% battery charge.
• One (1) beep and a flashing low battery warning light: Low charge; batteries should be replaced (see page 32).

During operation, the yellow low-battery warning light will flash when approximately thirty (30) minutes of battery life remain. A brief audio alarm will sound every 60 seconds in addition to the flashing LED.

If no beep is heard after switching the detector on, verify the batteries have been properly installed.

Image: Close-up of the control panel highlighting the Low Battery Indicator LED.

Audio Signals and Indicators

The ATX operates with a continuous audio that responds proportionately to the target's signal strength. This enhances the ability to hear faint targets and better judge a target's size, shape, and depth.

High-performance pulse detectors can be noisier than VLF detectors; some minor audio noise/chatter is normal. An experienced operator will learn to distinguish random background noise from repeatable target signals.

The ATX produces different audio tones to help identify a target's size and effective conductivity.

Audio Signals in Motion Mode

In Motion Mode, the searchcoil (or target) must be in motion to create a response.

• Poor conductors (small nuggets, jewelry, pull-tabs, nickels, small bronze/hammered coins): Produce a high tone followed by a low-tone echo.
• Good conductors (large nuggets, copper/silver coins, large bronze coins): Produce a low tone followed by a high-tone echo.
• Borderline conductors may fluctuate between high and low tones.
• Iron typically produces a low tone followed by a high-tone echo, behaving like a good conductor for a PI detector.

Audio Signals in Non-Motion Mode

Non-Motion Mode does not require the coil (or target) to be in motion for a response.

• Poor conductors produce a high tone.
• Good conductors produce a low tone.
• There is no echo heard in Non-Motion Mode.

Chart: A chart illustrating audio signals in Motion vs. Non-Motion modes, showing High Tone/Low Tone Echo for Poor/Good Conductors in Motion Mode, and High Tone/Low Tone with No Echo for Poor/Good Conductors in Non-Motion Mode.

Signal Strength Indicators

Target signals are visually indicated by the upper row of LEDs. A trio of red LEDs moves from left to right in response to increasing signal strength. No lighted LEDs indicate zero signal response. During adjustments, these LEDs also show the settings.

Image: Close-up of the control panel showing the LED indicators. Text: "Three red LEDs to the far right indicates maximum target signal strength."

Controls and Functions

Primary and Secondary Controls

The ATX has two levels of controls: primary and secondary.

• Primary Controls (white text): Sensitivity, Threshold, Retune, Pinpoint, Frequency Scan, Iron Check. Directly accessible.
• Secondary Controls (red text): Discrimination, Volume, Mode, Ground Track, Ground Balance. Accessed by pressing the SHIFT button (red Shift LED illuminates). Adjustments must be made while SHIFT LED is lit; otherwise, the ATX exits Secondary mode after 5 seconds.

When adjusting any setting, the initial button press shows the current setting. Subsequent presses within 1.5 seconds adjust the setting; otherwise, LEDs return to showing signal strength.

Motion vs. Non-Motion Detection Mode

The ATX can detect targets in either Motion Mode (coil/target must move) or Non-Motion Mode (static detection). Motion Mode is the default.

To Switch Detection Mode:

1. Press and release the SHIFT button to access Secondary controls.
2. Press the NON-MOTION/ MOTION button to toggle between modes. The first press shows the current setting; quick subsequent presses change the mode.
3. Motion Mode: Central LEDs scan back and forth.
4. Non-Motion Mode: LEDs are stationary.
5. Press and release SHIFT button again to exit Secondary adjustments.

The Red Shift LED must be visible to switch detection modes.

Motion Mode is preferred for its stability and quietness but requires searchcoil motion. When in Motion Mode, the ATX constantly adjusts Threshold (Auto-Threshold). It can also help suppress unwanted ground signals in highly mineralized ground. Target signals produce an echo effect.

Non-Motion Mode can provide additional detection depth and allows slow or stationary scanning. It is better at isolating targets as signals do not produce an echo. However, Non-Motion Mode may be less stable, noisier, and require more frequent Retunes. It leaves Threshold tuning to the user and can be more susceptible to ground variations, especially in highly mineralized ground. Requires practice and is not recommended for beginners.

Illustration: Diagram showing how to change detection mode using the SHIFT and NON-MOTION/MOTION buttons. Text: "Change detection Mode by pressing the SHIFT button, then the NON-MOTION/ MOTION button."

Image: Control panel highlighting the mode LEDs. Text: "Five stationary LEDs indicates Non-Motion Mode."

Discrimination

The ATX can reject or discriminate certain types/sizes of targets. It has twenty-five (25) levels of discrimination. The default is zero discrimination (1st LED) for maximum detection of all metals.

To Adjust Discrimination:

1. Press and release the SHIFT button to access Secondary controls.
2. Use the DISC (+) and (-) buttons to adjust discrimination.
3. LED 1 indicates zero discrimination; LED 13 indicates maximum discrimination. Half-step adjustments are indicated by two LEDs lit simultaneously.
4. Press and release SHIFT button again to exit Secondary adjustments.

The Red Shift LED must be visible to adjust discrimination.

Image: Control panel highlighting DISC adjustment LEDs. Text: "LEDs 4 and 5 illuminated indicates a Discrimination setting of 4.5."

As discrimination increases, targets that are poor conductors (saltwater, nickel) and very small, thin targets (foil, thin coins) are gradually lost. Large iron is the last to be discriminated. It is recommended to search with the default Discrimination level of zero (1st LED).

Increasing discrimination can eliminate certain small targets (pull tabs, foil) but may also eliminate small desirable targets. It can also reduce interference from highly mineralized ground, though this is rarely required.

Sensitivity and Threshold

Sensitivity

Increase the ATX's Sensitivity setting to achieve greater detection depth and enhanced detection of small targets. Be aware that increasing Sensitivity can also increase susceptibility to electrical interference and other external conditions.

The ATX has thirteen (13) settings for sensitivity. The default setting is 10.

To Adjust Sensitivity:

• Use the SENS (+) and (-) buttons to adjust Sensitivity to your preferred level.

In general, set Sensitivity as high as possible while achieving stable operation. Use higher settings for very small or deep targets. Use lower settings in locations where the detector behaves erratically (due to metallic trash, electrical interference, or other detectors) and the erratic operation cannot be resolved with ground balance or frequency scan.

Image: Control panel highlighting SENS adjustment. Text: "As Sensitivity levels are adjusted, the new level will be temporarily indicated on these LEDs."

Threshold

Threshold is the constant audio background "hum" added to the target response. The ATX has twenty-five (25) levels of Threshold adjustment. The default setting is Level 7.

To Adjust Audio Threshold:

• Use the THRESH (+) and (-) buttons to adjust the Threshold to your preferred level.

It is recommended that the Threshold be set to a barely audible level, or just below, based on hearing ability and surrounding audio conditions. Faint targets may only create a small variation in audio; a high Threshold may obscure such signals. Setting the Threshold too low may prevent faint signals from being heard. Readjust the audio Threshold level as conditions change (e.g., strong winds, surf noise) that affect your ability to hear the background hum.

Image: Control panel highlighting THRESH adjustment. Text: "As Threshold levels are adjusted, the new level will be temporarily indicated on these LEDs."

Volume and Ground Balance

Volume

The ATX's Volume adjustment affects only the maximum audio level produced by a large signal and does not affect the audio level or sensitivity of a faint signal. Volume acts as a "limiter", not a gain control, thereby ensuring maximum detection of faint signals. The ATX has twenty-five (25) levels of Volume adjustment. The default setting is 10.

To Adjust Audio Volume:

• Press and release the SHIFT button to access Secondary controls.
• Use the VOL (+) and (-) buttons to adjust Volume to your preferred level.
• Press and release SHIFT button again to exit Secondary adjustments.

The Red Shift LED must be visible to adjust Volume level.

Image: Control panel highlighting VOL adjustment. Text: "As Volume levels are adjusted, the new level will be temporarily indicated on these LEDs."

Ground Balance

Ground mineralization (minerals and salts) can create "ground noise" and reduce performance if not compensated for. The ATX has advanced Ground Balance capabilities for all ground conditions, including ironstone and saltwater, without needing a special mode.

It is recommended to Ground Balance the ATX in each new environment to ensure maximum stability and depth.

To Ground Balance:

1. Find an area clear of metallic objects and raise the searchcoil about 6 inches above the ground.
2. Press and release the SHIFT button to access Secondary controls.
3. Press and hold the GND BAL button and wait for a double beep (about one second) to indicate the function is engaged.
4. While holding GND BAL, quickly bounce the searchcoil from 1 to 6 inches above the ground.
5. Continue to pump the coil until the ground response is completely eliminated (typically 3 to 7 seconds). Release the GND BAL button and begin hunting.

The first few seconds of Ground Balance audio indicate how mineralized the ground is. Lightly mineralized ground produces weak audio; heavily mineralized ground produces strong audio.

At its Factory Ground Balance setting, the ATX provides the greatest possible depth on most targets. Use Factory Reset or ground balance to the air to obtain Factory Ground Balance (see page 26).

Image: Control panel showing GND BAL button. Text: "To Ground Balance, press the SHIFT button, then press and hold down the GND BAL button while pumping the searchcoil above the ground."

Ground Track, Retune, Pinpoint, Frequency Scan, and Iron Check

Ground Track

When switched on, Ground Track provides slow, continuous tracking to ground mineralization. It does not replace the need to Ground Balance first. The ATX has four Ground Track settings: OFF, SLOW, MEDIUM, and FAST. OFF is the factory default.

To Change Ground Track Setting:

1. Press and release the SHIFT button to access Secondary controls.
2. Repeatedly press the GND TRACK button to step through the four settings. OFF is indicated by LED 1, SLOW by LED 5, MEDIUM by LED 9, and FAST by LED 13.
3. Press and release SHIFT button again to exit Secondary adjustments.

The green LED will blink during operation when Ground Track is on.

Ground Track may reduce detection depth due to slow tracking, especially with repeated swings over a target. It should only be used when changing ground mineralization requires frequent re-ground balancing.

Image: Control panel showing GND TRACK adjustment. Text: "Change Ground Track setting by pressing the SHIFT button, then repeatedly press the GND TRACK button to step through settings." Text: "Medium Ground Track setting indicated by LED 9" and "Blinking LED indicates Ground Track is on."

Retune

Press and release the RETUNE button to instantly reset the detector's audio/LED response back to zero. Use this function to quickly cancel out unwanted ambient signals if the detector's audio/LED response has drifted.

Retune is rarely required unless in Non-Motion Mode, or if a very large response persists and does not automatically decay away while in Motion Mode.

Image: Control panel highlighting RETUNE button. Text: "Press and release the RETUNE button to reset the audio signal back to zero."

Pinpoint

Press and hold the PINPOINT button to pinpoint a target's location. See page 22 for pinpointing techniques.

Image: Control panel highlighting PINPOINT button. Text: "Press and hold the PINPOINT button to utilize pinpointing."

Frequency Scan

Use this function to obtain the quietest operating frequency. Operating near power lines, other detectors, fluorescent lights, etc., may cause interference. To check, hold searchcoil stationary away from any metal and listen for signal interference (noisy operation).

To Perform Frequency Scan:

1. Hold searchcoil stationary away from any metal.
2. Press and release the FREQ SCAN button.
3. The searchcoil must remain stationary during the entire frequency scan process.
4. The frequency scan function lasts for 35 seconds, indicated by scanning LEDs and audio pings. Completion is indicated by a triple-beep.

The new setting remains in memory until the next time this function is performed, even after power is switched off and batteries are removed.

If you accidentally activate Frequency Scan and want to abort, press FREQ SCAN again to stop. The setting will return to its previous value.

Image: Control panel highlighting FREQ SCAN button. Text: "Press and release the FREQ SCAN while holding searchcoil stationary away from any metal."

Iron Check

This feature audibly identifies iron targets. Iron Check only works with the DD searchcoil and not with mono coils. If IRON CK button is pressed with a mono coil, a repeating dual-tone warning alarm indicates an invalid action.

To Utilize Iron Check:

1. Move the searchcoil to the side of the target.
2. Press and hold the IRON CK button and wait for the double beep.
3. Continue holding IRON CK while quickly scanning back and forth over the target with very flat, level swings.
4. If desired, check the target from different directions by rotating around 90 degrees. Maintain very flat, level swings.

Iron produces a very low-tone growl/grunt sound. Non-ferrous and/or weak targets produce normal tones or may be silent, but not the iron tone.

Image: Control panel highlighting IRON CK button. Text: "Press and hold the IRON CK button, and then repeatedly scan back and forth over the target to check for iron."

Iron Check is conservative to ensure good signals are not misidentified as iron. Small/weak iron targets may not identify as iron. Steel bottle caps may not identify as iron due to their large, flat surface area. Examples of iron targets that produce the tone: a 3-inch nail to about 5 inches deep; a 3/4-inch boot nail to about 1 inch deep. In highly mineralized areas, accuracy may be affected; use flat, level swings.

Factory Reset and Default Settings

Factory Reset

All changes made to ATX settings are saved when the unit is switched OFF. To return all settings to Factory values, press and hold the RETUNE/ PINPOINT button while switching the unit ON.

ATX Factory/Default Settings

• Mode: Motion
• Discrimination: Zero discrimination (1st LED)
• Sensitivity: 10
• Threshold: 7
• Volume: 10
• Ground Balance: Neutral
• Ground Track: OFF

Searchcoil Basics

Use Proper Sweep of Searchcoil

Keep your searchcoil at a constant height (less than 1" if possible) and parallel to the ground at all times for best detection results. Do not lift the coil at the end of swings.

Walk slowly, scanning in a straight line or slight arc from side to side at a speed of about 2 feet (60 cm) per second. Advance the searchcoil forward about half its length (approximately 6" or 15 cm) at the end of each sweep for full coverage. In Non-Motion Mode, a slower swing speed improves detection depth.

Diagram: Illustrates sweep speed and overlap. Text: "2ft (60 cm)/second" and "Overlap swing by 6" (15 cm)".

Pinpointing Techniques

Accurate pinpointing enables quick target recovery with minimal digging. Several techniques are offered; use what works best for you.

To Utilize the Pinpoint Button:

1. Place the searchcoil on or near the ground, to the side of the target's suspected location.
2. Press and hold the PINPOINT button and wait for the single beep.
3. Continue holding PINPOINT and sweep the searchcoil over the target area, maintaining the same fixed height above the ground.
4. Sweep the coil side-to-side and front-to-back in a crosshair pattern to locate the peak signal (strongest audio and maximum LEDs).
5. The center of the target should be directly beneath the center of the searchcoil.

To locate a target without the PINPOINT button, sweep the coil side-to-side and front-to-back in a cross-hair pattern, listening for the peak signal. In Motion Mode, keep the searchcoil in motion (wiggling) to pinpoint the peak signal area. In Non-Motion Mode, static pinpointing is possible by scanning until the coil is over the peak signal.

For best pinpointing results, maintain a constant coil height above the ground and ensure the detector is properly ground balanced. Practice pinpointing in a test plot.

Image: Control panel highlighting PINPOINT button. Text: "Press and hold the PINPOINT button to locate the peak signal." Text: "Three red LEDs to the far right indicates maximum target signal strength."

Diagram: Illustrates pinpointing with a searchcoil. Text: "Indicates pinpointing center of the 10"x12" DD searchcoil."

Diagram: Shows sweeping the searchcoil side-to-side and front-to-back to locate the peak signal at the center of the coil.

Bench Testing

Conduct bench tests to familiarize yourself with the ATX's audio signals and operation using different Modes, Discrimination settings, Iron Check, etc. Suggested test items include:

• Various size gold nuggets or gold rings (U.S. nickels or small bronze coins can imitate their response).
• Coins or relics expected in your search area.
• Various size iron targets for testing Iron Check.

The ideal position for bench testing is to extend the lower stem and lay the searchcoil back on top of the stem, allowing one hand near controls while reaching the coil with targets.

It is best to test outdoors, away from electrical interference (power lines, fluorescent lights, transmitters). Tests should be performed with the searchcoil stationary and several feet away from any large metallic object.

Image: Shows the ATX detector set up for bench testing outdoors.

Test Procedure:

1. Setup: Start with Factory Default settings (Motion Mode) and run Frequency Scan for quiet operation. If not quiet, move to a different location.
2. Basic Testing: Pass targets side-to-side across the searchcoil, near and far, to hear Proportional Audio (loud for strong signals, faint for weak).
3. Tone Polarity Test: Pass poor conductors (small nuggets, nickels) and good conductors (large nuggets, silver coins) to hear tone polarity (High/Low vs. Low/High).
4. Discrimination Test: Increase Discrimination. Observe how poor conductors disappear first, while good conductors are less affected. Test iron objects. Return to zero Discrimination.
5. Iron Check Test: Press and hold IRON CK, wait for double beep, then scan targets. Note which iron targets produce the low-tone growl and at what distances. Note orientation changes. Small iron may not register. Test ferrous and non-ferrous targets at various depths.
6. Sensitivity Test: Increase/decrease Sensitivity to observe effects on detection depth and noise.
7. Pinpoint Test: Hold target aside, press/hold PINPOINT, wait for beep, sweep in crosshair pattern, note peak response over coil center.
8. Non-Motion Mode Test: Switch to Non-Motion Mode and note differences from Motion Mode (no echo, static detection). Note it can be noisier and require more Retunes.

Tips and Techniques

• Scanning Walls: Rotate and lock searchcoil at 90° for scanning walls, embankments, rock ledges, or high places.
• Mind Your Metal: The ATX is sensitive; keep other metal objects (picks, shovels, steel-toed boots) away from the coil.
• Avoiding Surface Clutter: Lift the coil 2 or 3 inches above the ground to eliminate smaller surface clutter. Larger targets are still detected. Most effective with larger searchcoils.
• Don't Cancel a Target: Be careful not to ground balance over a target, as it may be eliminated.
• Advanced Ground Balance Tips: Ground balance can reduce detection depth. The ATX can operate at its Factory Ground Balance setting for greatest depth, but this may increase ground response and instability. Two ways to obtain Factory Ground Balance: 1) Factory Reset (page 20), or 2) Ground balance to the air (hold coil stationary about a foot above ground for 4 seconds).
• Hot Rocks: These ferrous rocks can resemble targets. Ground balance to the hot rock if possible, or to the soil in extremely mineralized areas (hot rock may produce a faint low tone). When in doubt, dig it out.
• Disappearing Targets: If a target response disappears during digging, it was likely a pocket of concentrated ground minerals or decomposed iron disturbed by digging.
• Coil Covers: Use a coil cover to protect the coil from abrasion and damage, and prevent false responses from impacts.
• Non-Uniform Soil Conditions: In areas with mixed conductive (salt) and ferrous (ironstone, hot rocks) minerals, operate effectively by first locating salty soil only and increasing Discrimination (3-7) to reduce salt response. Then, locate a ferrous vein or hot rock and Ground Balance to it. Use Discrimination for conductive components and Ground Balance for ferrous components. Reduce Sensitivity if needed for stable operation. For uniformly mixed soils (e.g., black sand beach), Ground Balance to the homogenous mixture without increasing Discrimination.

Image: Moistened ancient salt bed with iron mineralization, illustrating non-uniform soil conditions.

Water Use

The ATX can be submerged in water up to a 10-foot depth (maximum) for searching in and along shorelines, rivers, piers, docks, or swimming holes. Use beyond 10 feet can cause leaks and damage, voiding the manufacturer's warranty.

The ATX is shipped with land-use headphones (waterproof connector/cable), but the headset itself is not submersible. Fully submersible headphones are available as an optional accessory. For water hunting, use an open coil cover or no cover to reduce drag.

After using the ATX in water, rinse the detector with fresh water before collapsing stems. Saltwater and freshwater sediment can inhibit stem operation.

Saltwater Operation

Saltwater's conductivity can cause detectors to respond as if it were a metal target, similar to foil or fine gold. Techniques to eliminate saltwater response (Ground Balance or Discrimination) will reduce detection depth for low conductivity targets.

Three Common Methods for Saltwater Environments:

1. Discrimination Method: Increase Discrimination (or Delay) until saltwater response is sufficiently eliminated (setting of 3-7 usually suffices). Ground Balance is not required. This method maintains normal tone responses but reduces detection depth for low conductivity items (fine gold, jewelry). Reduce Discrimination toward zero when moving from wet sand to dry.
2. Ground Balance Method: Preferred method. Ground balance out the saltwater response without increasing Discrimination, providing better response to low conductors and good balance of detection/stability. This method produces a low-tone response for all targets. Leave Discrimination at minimum (or one step up) and Ground Balance to the saltwater. Ground Balance when moving to a new beach region (e.g., wet to dry sand) for optimal stability.
3. Default Ground Balance Method: Produces greatest detection on low conductivity items but with the most saltwater response. Return ATX to factory default Ground Balance (Factory Reset or ground balance to air). Set Discrimination to minimum (or one step up). Use only if your experience level and environment allow stable operation. The DD searchcoil can help cancel some saltwater response.

Basic Techniques for Water Hunting:

• Swing the searchcoil flat and at a constant height. Do not bounce or lift the coil at the end of swings.
• Hunt each region (dry sand, wet sand, submerged) one at a time.
• Swing parallel to the water's edge to minimize moisture level changes.

Detectors may become less stable in shallow, breaking surf due to constantly changing environments. Experiment with the methods above and reduce Sensitivity if necessary for stable operation.

Image: Person wearing waterproof headphones, indicating their use for submerged operation.

Searchcoil Removal/Installation

Each ATX searchcoil is permanently attached to its telescoping stem assembly. To switch coils, the entire assembly must be removed and installed.

Searchcoil Removal:

1. Fully collapse the telescopic stem and tighten stem nuts.
2. Remove the armrest by disengaging the armrest lock and sliding it forward. One battery cover may need removal to allow the cuff to slide fully forward.
3. Disengage the stem rotation lock, hold it open, and rotate the stem 180° counterclockwise (coil upside down).
4. Partially slide the stem assembly out to access the coil connector.
5. Slide the connector cover down the cable to expose the connector. Loosen and disconnect from the electronics housing by hand.
6. Remove the searchcoil/stem assembly from the electronics housing.

An optional method allows searchcoil removal without fully removing the armrest or battery cover. At step 2, disengage the armrest lock and slide the armrest forward without removing it. Reinserting the connector and tightening the collar is done in a more restricted space.

Images: Series of images illustrating searchcoil removal steps (Figures 1-8).

Searchcoil Installation:

1. Fully collapse the telescopic stem and tighten stem nuts.
2. Partially slide the stem into the electronics housing.
3. Reattach the searchcoil connector by aligning pins, fully inserting, and tightening the collar by hand.
4. Rewind the coiled cable if necessary to fit inside the stem assembly (spin stem clockwise a few revolutions).
5. Rotate the stem assembly to the 180° position (coil upside down) and fully insert into the electronics housing.
6. Disengage the stem rotation lock, rotate the stem to the desired position, and release the lock to reengage.

Images: Figures 9 and 10 illustrating searchcoil connector reattachment.

Battery Replacement and Charging

The ATX uses eight AA batteries (alkaline and rechargeable included). It accepts alkaline, 1.5V rechargeable AA, or 1.5V lithium batteries (3.7V lithium batteries must NOT be used as they can damage the detector).

Replace batteries when the unit indicates a low battery level (one beep at turn-on, flashing low battery light, periodic audio warnings).

• Average operation time: Alkaline batteries ~12 hours; rechargeable ~10 hours.

Battery Replacement

Battery compartments are on both sides of the armrest. Press in the battery cover, rotate a quarter-turn counter-clockwise to release the lock, and pull to remove.

Images: Figure 1 showing battery compartment location, Figure 2 showing battery cover removal.

Tip the detector forward to allow the battery pack to slide out. When installing batteries, ensure correct polarity (+/-) as marked inside the pack and on the detector. Reinstall the battery pack with correct polarity. Replace the cover and rotate clockwise to lock.

If the ATX will be submerged, lubricate the O-rings on each battery cover with silicone grease.

Image: Figure 3 showing battery installation and polarity markings. Figure 4 showing O-ring detail.

Battery Charging

Use the included charger for rechargeable batteries. The charger accepts one to eight AA batteries at a time.

Caution: Use only Ni-MH type batteries on this charger. Do not attempt to recharge lithium, alkaline, or carbon batteries.

Eight individual LEDs indicate charging status for each battery:

• Steady Red LED: Rapid charging in progress.
• Steady Green LED: Battery fully charged.
• Flashing Red LED: Battery is faulty or not suitable for charging.
• Flashing Green LED: Battery is undergoing a discharge cycle.

Image: Battery charger with batteries being charged.

Storing ATX in Soft Case

The soft carry case protects the detector during travel and when not in use. It can hold the ATX, optional searchcoils, and accessories.

Images: Figures 1-6 show the ATX detector and accessories packed in various configurations within the soft carry case.

Care and Maintenance

The ATX is a rugged detector designed for outdoor use. Proper care maintains its high performance.

• Avoid extreme temperatures (e.g., storing in a hot car trunk or sub-freezing weather).
• Keep the detector clean, especially the touchpad and telescoping stem assembly.
• After underwater use, rinse the unit with fresh water to remove sand, sediment, etc. Vigorously rotate stem nuts and work stems in and out under running water to flush grit from stem nuts and the rotation lock. Wipe down with a clean cloth.
• If a freshwater source is unavailable after water hunting, rinse the unit in the body of water you were hunting in. Work stems in and out to free trapped sediments, then wipe clean before collapsing.
• For storage, leave stem nuts in a loose (untightened) mid-point position to prevent deposits from seizing them.
• When storing for longer than one month, remove batteries.
• Install the protective cover on the connector when not using headphones.

Images: Showing rinsing stems and rotating stem nuts.

Troubleshooting Guide

Metal Detecting Code of Ethics

Many treasure hunt clubs and hobbyists endorse this Code of Ethics to preserve the hobby:

• Respect private and public property, historical and archaeological sites; obtain proper permission.
• Stay informed on and obey all local and national legislation regarding found treasures.
• Aid law enforcement officials whenever possible.
• Cause no willful damage to property (fences, signs, buildings).
• Always fill the holes dug.
• Do not destroy property, buildings, or remains of deserted structures.
• Do not leave litter or discarded junk.
• Carry all rubbish and dug targets when leaving a search area.
• Observe the Golden Rule: use good outdoor manners and conduct yourself to add to the stature and public image of metal detecting.

Cautions

When searching for treasure with your Garrett detector, observe these precautions:

• Never trespass or hunt on private property without permission.
• Avoid areas where pipelines or electric lines may be buried.
• National and state parks/monuments are off-limits.
• Deepseeking detectors can find concealed pipes, wiring, and other dangerous material; notify proper authorities.
• Do not hunt in military zones where explosives may be buried.
• Do not disturb pipelines, especially those carrying flammable gas or liquid.
• Use reasonable caution when digging, particularly in areas with uncertain ground conditions.
• If unsure about using your detector in an area, seek permission from proper authorities.

Warranty and Service

Your ATX detector is warrantied for 24 months, limited parts and labor. Damage from alteration, modification, neglect, accident, or misuse is not covered. Use of the ATX at submerged depths exceeding 10 feet (3 meters) will void this warranty.

If you encounter problems, read this Owner's Manual carefully. Press and hold the RETUNE/PINPOINT button while switching the detector ON to return to factory settings.

Ensure you have:

1. Checked batteries, switches, and connectors. Weak batteries are a common cause of problems.
2. Contacted your dealer for help, especially if unfamiliar with the ATX.

For repairs or warranty service, contact the local retail outlet where the detector was purchased. To avoid excessive shipping and import charges, do not return Garrett products to the factory in the United States.

Information on international warranty/repair needs is available on the Garrett website: www.garrett.com. Click on the Hobby Division and then the Technical Support page for more details.

Accessories

Searchcoils

• 8" (20cm) Mono Searchcoil (Part No. 2234000): Excellent sensitivity on small targets. Enhanced maneuverability in heavy scrub and tight areas. Lightweight. Includes searchcoil and full stem assembly.
• 15" x 20" (38 x 50cm) Deepseeker® Mono Searchcoil (Part No. 2234100): For locating larger, deeply buried objects. Reduces response to small debris. Includes searchcoil and full stem assembly.

Headphones

• Waterproof Headphones (Part No. 2202100): Required when headphones will be submerged in water.
• 1/4" Headphone Adapter (Part No. 1626000): Allows use of standard headphones with a 1/4" male phone plug with the Garrett ATX (not intended for submerged use).

Other Accessories

• 15" SuperSluice Gold Pan (Part No. 1650400): For wet or dry panning/finishing. Traps fine gold up to nuggets over 1 oz. Features twin 1/2-inch riffles and a deep throat funnel.
• Hard Carry Case (Part No. 1626500): Military-grade transport case to protect ATX and optional searchcoils. Foam-padded interior houses ATX in its soft case. Watertight and durable.
• PRO-POINTER® Pinpointing Detector (Part No. 1166000): Assists in pinpointing hard-to-find targets with proportional audio/vibration, 360° side scan. Water resistant with LED light. Includes belt holster and 9-volt battery.

To see Garrett's complete collection of metal detector accessories and gold pans, please visit www.garrett.com and view products in the Hobby Division.