Minelab F3 Compact Mine Detector Field Guide
Unfolding Procedure and Operation
Unfolding Procedure
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Step 1
Connect the lower shaft assembly to the main control box unit.
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Step 2
Insert the upper shaft into the lower shaft.
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Step 3
Attach the search coil to the end of the lower shaft.
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Step 4
Secure the coil cable by wrapping it around the shaft.
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Step 5
Adjust the shaft length to the desired position, approximately 90° for initial setup.
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Step 6
Lock the shaft mechanism securely.
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Step 7
Extend the upper shaft to its full length.
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Step 8
Align and connect the coil cable to the control box port.
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Step 9
Lock the coil cable connector in place.
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Step 10
The detector is now assembled and ready for use.
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Step 11
Hold the detector correctly for operation, with the coil parallel to the ground.
Pack Up
To pack up the detector: Release the locking mechanisms on the shafts, detach the search coil, and collapse the shafts. Ensure all components are secured for transport.
Operation
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Step 1: Switch On
Turn the power dial (labeled 1-9) to position 1. Hold the detector with the search coil approximately 60 cm (24 inches) from the ground. The device will perform a self-test and calibration sequence for approximately 12 seconds ⏱️.
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Step 2: Ground Balance
Hold the search coil approximately 15 cm (6 inches) above the ground. Press and hold the green button ? on the control box until the device emits a tone ?, indicating that ground balance has been successfully completed.
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Step 3: Test Piece
Use a known metal object (test piece) to verify detector response. Move the coil slowly over the test piece. The detector should respond with an audible tone ? and a visual indicator on the display. Test with different sensitivity settings (dial 1-7) and observe the response. A red circle with a line through it [no detection] ❌ and a green checkmark [detection] ✔️ indicate the status.
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Step 4: Audio Reset
If the audio signal becomes undesirable or needs resetting, press the green button ? on the control box.
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Step 5: Noise Cancel
If experiencing interference from external sources (e.g., power lines, other electronic devices), initiate noise cancellation. Hold the detector with the coil approximately 60 cm (24 inches) from the ground. Press and hold the power button for 2 seconds to start the noise cancellation process, which takes approximately 45 seconds ⏱️.
Volume Control
Adjust the audio volume using the '+' and '-' buttons. The current volume level is indicated by illuminated LEDs on the control panel. The default setting is displayed on the right side of the control panel, showing a scale from 1 to 9.