White's BeachHunter 300 Metal Detector

Assembly

This section details the assembly of the BeachHunter 300 metal detector. The main components include:

• Loop: The search coil.
• Center Rod Section: Connects the lower rod to the upper rod.
• "S" Rod: The main shaft of the detector, often curved.
• Control Box: Houses the detector's electronics and controls.
• Headphone: For listening to audio signals.
• LED Target Indicators: Lights that indicate target type.
• Loop Cable: Connects the loop to the control box.
• Cable Retainers: Velcro straps to secure the loop cable along the rod.
• Camlocks: Mechanisms to adjust and secure rod sections.
• Clevis Lower Rod: Connects the loop to the main rod.
• Elbow Cup Strap: Secures the detector to the user's arm.
• Elbow Cup Foam Pads: Provide cushioning for the elbow.
• Battery Compartment Latch: Secures the battery compartment door.
• Washers: Placed between the loop ears and the clevis.

Assembly Instructions

1. Remove all parts from the shipping carton and verify they are present. Detach the control box from the "S" rod by compressing spring clip buttons and pivoting the box. The loop, headphone, and their cables are permanently attached and waterproofed.
2. Unlock the "S" rod camlock, insert the reduced end of the center rod into the curved "S" rod, aligning spring clip buttons with holes, and secure with the camlock.
3. Fit rubber washers between the clevis/lower rod and the searchcoil ears. Use non-metallic washers, a fiber bolt, and thumbnut to secure the loop. Insert into the center rod, aligning spring buttons with adjustment holes, and secure with the camlock.
4. Unravel the loop cable and wind it around the rod assembly, starting with the first revolution OVER the top of the rod, leaving some slack before applying cable retainers. This allows the coil to be moved back without straining the cable. Wind cable firmly to the rod's curve. Attach the control box by compressing rod clips and aligning the lid bracket. Secure the cable with retainers near the coil and the padded handle.
5. Grip the instrument by the handle, with your arm in the secured elbow cup, and sweep the coil over the ground. Adjust elbow cup position or rod length if the fit is uncomfortable, ensuring the searchcoil can be held near the floor without stooping.
6. Adjust the elbow cup strap to be loose enough for easy arm movement. Apply elbow cup foam pads to the inside of the cup.
7. Install batteries as described in the next section.
8. The control box can be mounted forward or aft on the rod, or hip-mounted using a provided pouch and a belt.
9. Note that indoor use may yield unexpected results due to metal construction and electrical interference. Practice outdoors for stable results.

Proper Care

1. Cleaning: The BeachHunter 300 is waterproof and can be cleaned with water and mild soap.
2. Battery Door: Keep the rubber battery door clean and free of sand. Do not lubricate.
3. Weather: Avoid exposing the detector to extreme temperatures (e.g., car trunk in winter/summer). Protect from direct sunlight during storage.
4. Water: Saltwater is corrosive. Rinse the detector with fresh water after exposure. Wipe the control box with a damp cotton cloth. Prevent water from entering the battery compartment or control box.
5. Storage: Turn the THRESHOLD knob fully counterclockwise to OFF. For storage longer than several weeks, remove the battery holder and store the instrument indoors.
6. Additional Precautions: Avoid dropping the detector. Do not use it for leverage when standing up. Do not modify the instrument during its warranty period.

Batteries

The standard battery holder accommodates eight "AA" cell batteries. Alkalines are recommended for approximately 40 hours of hunting time. Non-alkalines or rechargeables provide about 30 hours.

Using the Standard Battery Holder

1. Open the battery holder lid by applying gentle upward pressure on the tab. Slide the door away from the battery box.
2. Remove old cells and note the polarity (+/-) markings inside the tray. Install new "AA" cells, carefully observing the correct (+) and (-) positions. Incorrect installation may require service.
3. Close the door until it snaps securely.
4. Insert the battery holder into the detector with the decal facing up, and the door tab and metal contacts facing inward. Ensure the large rubber battery compartment door is dry and free of debris before reinserting and latching it.

An optional rechargeable system (White's nicad #802-5211 and charger #509-0022) is available.

Battery Weakness Indicators: The blue/green light will fail to light when the SENSITIVITY control is turned to BATT CHK. Beep volume over targets will decrease, and eventually, the instrument will no longer respond to metals.

Quick Start

Quick Start Instructions

1. With the detector assembled and batteries installed, turn the THRESHOLD knob until a slight hum is heard.
2. Turn the SENSITIVITY knob to BATT CHK to check the blue/green light, then set it to "P" (Preset).
3. Set the GROUND control to the center position (half rotation).
4. Set the toggle switch to the ALL METAL position (left).
5. Lower the search coil approximately 1" above the ground. Pump the coil slowly up and down (from 1" to 4") and observe changes in the background hum's volume.
6. Ground Balancing: If the hum increases on the downstroke, turn the GROUND control LEFT. If it decreases, turn it RIGHT. The goal is to find a setting where the hum remains consistent as the coil moves.
7. Set the toggle switch to the DISC position (center).
8. Begin sweeping the coil 1" above the ground with wide, overlapping strokes. Listen for low (iron/trash), medium (jewelry/nickel/aluminum), and high (coins/silver) tones, and observe the corresponding LED lights.

Controls

Threshold

The THRESHOLD knob turns the instrument ON/OFF and adjusts the steady background hum. The ideal setting is the softest audible hum. Turning it slightly counterclockwise can silence it, though performance may be affected. Turn fully counterclockwise to OFF when not in use for extended periods (over two weeks), and remove the battery holder.

Sensitivity

The SENSITIVITY control adjusts responsiveness to targets and interference from external sources and ground conditions. It also serves as a battery check when turned fully counterclockwise to activate the blue/green LED. The "P" (Preset) position is generally ideal. Reduce sensitivity (counterclockwise) if interference (false signals, instability) occurs. Increasing sensitivity (clockwise) can improve detection depth if stable results are maintained. Sensitivity also affects the I.D. display; if set too high, accuracy may decrease.

Ground Control and Balancing

The GROUND control rejects ground mineralization. Proper tuning improves performance, especially in All Metal mode. To fine-tune:

1. Go to the search area.
2. Place the loop on the ground at search height.
3. Turn THRESHOLD clockwise until a slight hum is heard.
4. Set the TOGGLE to ALL METAL.
5. Pump the loop (lift 4 inches, lower to search height) and listen to the hum. It should either stay the same, increase, or decrease.
6. Balancing: If the hum decreases on the downstroke, turn GROUND control clockwise (up). If it increases, turn counterclockwise (down). Continue pumping the loop while adjusting. When the hum is consistent, the detector is ground balanced.
7. Switch the TOGGLE to DISC if trash rejection is desired.

Tips on Ground "Balancing": Think of the GROUND control as a volume for the ground. Adjust it so the threshold hum changes little as the coil is moved up and down. If a steady hum is difficult, slightly reduce SENSITIVITY.

Toggle Switch

The TOGGLE selects between DISC and ALL METAL modes.

• ALL METAL: Responds to all metals with a single tone. May detect deeper and is best for pinpointing.
• DISC: Provides three tones: Low tone (iron/steel), Medium tone (jewelry/nickel, aluminum, lead), and High tone (coins, silver, large brass/aluminum).
• RESET: Resets LED display lights. Holding RESET while switching accesses the All Metal mode for quick pinpointing; releasing returns to DISC.

L.E.D. Display

What the lights mean

The high-intensity LED display indicates the possible category of metal. Random indications are normal during use. The display resets automatically with new targets. Reduce SENSITIVITY if display accuracy is reduced due to interference.

• Red LED: Indicates iron or steel (nails, bottle caps, relics).
• Yellow LED: Indicates mid-range metals like jewelry, nickel, aluminum, and lead.
• Green LED: Indicates high-end metals such as coins (copper/silver) and large brass/aluminum items.

Searching

Operator Techniques

Practice with known targets (nail, coin, jewelry) to learn the distinct tones. Iron/steel typically produces a lower, inconsistent tone. Jewelry yields a medium, consistent tone. Coins produce a higher, consistent tone. Learn to ignore trash sounds and focus on valuable metal signals. After locating a target with a consistent tone, sweep the coil directly over it and check the LED display for I.D. The display may fluctuate on trash but is more consistent on valuable metals. Rely on audio cues first.

When you get a Beep!

To pinpoint a target, place the TOGGLE in ALL METAL and "X" the loop slowly over the area. The loudest, highest tone indicates the target's center. Practice pinpointing is recommended. For fast pinpointing, use the TOGGLE's Reset position momentarily. For detecting iron/steel targets like tools or relics, keep the TOGGLE in the ALL METAL position. Proper GROUND control setting is crucial in ALL METAL mode. If experiencing static chatter, increase the distance from other metal detectors.

Responsible Detecting

Use appropriate digging tools to minimize impact on terrain and property. Sand scoops or spades may be suitable depending on the area. Beaches are good locations due to shifting sands and lost valuables. Consider searching yards and areas inhabited before 1965 for older coins. Always obtain permission before searching private or public property. Contact relevant authorities (City Hall, Parks Department) for permits. Historical sites and monuments are often off-limits. Search productive areas from multiple directions (90-degree angles). For extreme conditions, reducing SENSITIVITY may improve performance.

Owner Information

Service

White's offers factory-trained service. If your unit requires servicing or repair, return it to the factory. Unauthorized work will nullify the warranty.

White's Authorized USA Service Centers:

• Centerville Electronics: 10063 Wellington Rd., Manassas, Virginia 20110. Toll Free: 1-888-645-0202. Fax: 1-703-222-8625. E-Mail: centelec@vwx.com
• Electronic Exploration: 575 West Harrison, Lombard, Illinois 60148. Toll Free: 1-800-392-3223. Fax: 1-630-620-1005. E-Mail: tony@ee-il.com
• White's Electronics, Inc.: 1011 Pleasant Valley Road, Sweet Home, Oregon 97386. Telephone: 1-541-367-6121. Fax: 1-541-367-6629. E-Mail: nbaker@whiteselectronics.com

Before shipping detectors for service:

• Contact your Dealer for potential quick fixes.
• Double-check batteries and try detecting in a different area to rule out interference.
• Send all necessary parts (search-coil, batteries, holders) with the detector.
• Include a detailed written explanation of the issue.
• Package instruments securely and insure the shipment.

Warranty

White's provides a 24-month manufacturer warranty from the original purchase date for defects in material or workmanship. White's will repair or replace parts at its option. Return the complete detector to the Dealer or an Authorized Service Center with proof of purchase and a detailed explanation of the symptoms. This warranty is transferable.

Warranty Exclusions: Non-rechargeable batteries, accessories not standard, shipping/handling costs outside the continental USA, and special delivery costs. Shipping/handling costs within the continental USA are covered for 90 days.

Warranty Limitations: Implied warranties (merchantability, fitness for purpose) are limited to the stated warranty period. White's is not liable for incidental or consequential damages. Some states may not allow these limitations.

Warranty Coverage: Does not cover damage from accident, misuse, neglect, alterations, unauthorized service, or prolonged exposure to corrosive compounds like salt.

Warranty Transfer (USA)

To transfer the remaining warranty upon selling the detector, fill out the Warranty Transfer form with original and new owner details, serial number, and original purchase date. Send to White's Electronics, 1011 Pleasant Valley Road, Sweet Home, Oregon 97386.

Warranty (UK)

White's Electronics (UK) Ltd. offers a 24-month warranty for defects in material or workmanship. Return the detector to the factory in Inverness, Scotland, with fault details. Unauthorized service nullifies the warranty. The Warranty Registration Card must be returned within 10 days of purchase. This warranty does not cover damage from accident, misuse, neglect, alterations, unauthorized service. It does not affect statutory legal rights. Disposal must comply with WEEE directive; return units to a White's Dealer/Distributor.

White's Electronics (UK) Ltd. Contact: 35 Harbour Road, Inverness, Scotland, IV1 1UA. Telephone: (01463) 223456. Fax: (01463) 224048. Email: sales@whelects.demon.co.uk. Web site: www.whites.co.uk.

Warranty Transfer (UK)

To transfer the warranty, fill out the Warranty Transfer form with serial number, previous owner, and new owner information. Send to White's Electronics (UK) Ltd., 35 Harbour Road, Inverness, Scotland, IV1 1UA.