Manuals+

Teknetics Omega 8500 Metal Detector

Owner's Manual

A photograph of the Teknetics Omega 8500 metal detector, showing its adjustable shaft, control box, and circular searchcoil. It is depicted standing upright.

Getting Started Recommendations

If you are new to metal detecting, Teknetics strongly recommends the following:

  1. Adjust the Sensitivity to a low setting to avoid false signals. Always start with reduced sensitivity. High sensitivity may cause chatter or internal noise.
  2. This detector is for outdoor use only. Indoor use can be affected by electromagnetic energy from household appliances (computers, televisions, microwave ovens). If performing an indoor demonstration, reduce sensitivity and keep the searchcoil away from such appliances. If the detector beeps erratically, turn off nearby appliances and lights. Also, keep the searchcoil away from metal objects like floors and walls.
  3. Use only a 9-volt ALKALINE battery. Do not use Heavy Duty Batteries.

The Omega 8500 is also available with an 11" DD coil (Item# OMEGA-11DD).

Table of Contents

Terminology

ELIMINATION
Reference to a metal being "eliminated" means the detector will not emit a tone, nor light up an indicator, when a specified object passes through the coil's detection field.
DISCRIMINATION
When the detector emits different tones for different types of metals, and when the detector "eliminates" certain metals, we refer to this as the detector "discriminating" among different types of metals. Discrimination is an important feature of professional metal detectors. Discrimination allows the user to ignore trash and otherwise undesirable objects.
RELIC
A relic is an object of interest by reason of its age or its association with the past. Many relics are made of iron, but can also be made of bronze or precious metals.
IRON
Iron is a common, low-grade metal that is an undesirable target in certain metal detecting applications. Examples of undesirable iron objects are old cans, pipes, bolts, and nails. Sometimes, the desired target is made of iron. Property markers, for instance, contain iron. Valuable relics can also be composed of iron; cannon balls, old armaments, and parts of old structures and vehicles can also be composed of iron.
FERROUS
Metals which are made of, or contain, iron.
PINPOINTING
Pinpointing is the process of finding the exact location of a buried object. Long-buried metals can appear exactly like the surrounding soil, and can therefore be very hard to isolate from the soil.
PULL-TABS
Discarded pull-tabs from beverage containers are the most bothersome trash items for treasure hunters. They come in many different shapes and sizes. Pull-tabs can be eliminated from detection, but some other valuable objects can have a magnetic signature similar to pull-tabs, and will also be eliminated when discriminating out pull-tabs.
GROUND BALANCE
Ground Balancing is the ability of the detector to ignore, or "see through," the earth's naturally occurring minerals, and only sound a tone when a metal object is detected. This Detector incorporates proprietary circuitry to eliminate false signals from severe ground conditions.

Assembly

Adjusting the Armrest

The armrest may be moved forward or backward by removing the single screw and nut and then repositioning the 2-piece armrest. Users with shorter arms may find the armrest more comfortable in the forward position. In order to move the armrest backward, the plastic plug must be removed from the aluminum tube.

Armrest Strap (Optional accessory)

The strap is available for purchase as a separate accessory. Some users prefer to use the strap when swinging the detector vigorously, in order to hold the detector secure against the arm.

The detector can also be used without the strap with no compromise to detector balance and stability under most conditions.

An exploded view diagram showing the components of the metal detector assembly: Armrest, Handgrip, S-Rod, Middle Stem, Lower Stem, Searchcoil, Battery Compartment, 1/4" Headphone Jack, Cable Plug, and various fasteners (Nut, Screw, Bolt, Washer) and adjustment mechanisms (Velcro Strap, Locking Collar, Silver Button, Knurled Knob).

Assembly Steps

  1. Position S-Rod upright.
  2. Rotate the LOCKING COLLAR fully in the counterclockwise direction.
  3. Insert your finger inside the tube and make sure the INTERNAL CAM LOCK is flush with the inside of the tube.
  4. Insert the MIDDLE STEM into the S-ROD, with the SILVER BUTTON pointed upward.
  5. Rotate the MIDDLE STEM until the SILVER BUTTON locates in the hole.
  6. Twist the LOCKING COLLAR fully in the clockwise direction until it locks.
  7. Repeat this process on the LOWER STEM.
  8. Using the BOLT and KNURLED KNOB, attach the SEARCHCOIL to the LOWER STEM.
  9. Adjust the LOWER STEM to a length that lets you maintain a comfortable upright posture, with your arm relaxed at your side, and the SEARCHCOIL parallel to the ground in front of you.
  10. Wind the CABLE securely around the STEMS.
  11. Connect CABLE PLUG to housing. Do not twist the Cable or Plug. Turn Locking Ring only. Use minimal finger pressure to start the threads. Do not cross-thread. When the Locking Ring is fully engaged over the threaded connector, give it a firm turn to make sure it is very tight. When the Locking Ring is fully engaged over the threaded connector, it may not cover all of the threads.
  12. Tighten both LOCKING COLLARS.

* Note: Very tall users can purchase the optional Extended Lower Stem (TUBE5X), for extended reach.

Batteries

The detector requires a single 9-volt ALKALINE battery (battery not included). Do not use ordinary zinc carbon batteries. Do not use "Heavy Duty" batteries.

Rechargeable batteries can also be used. If you wish to use rechargeable batteries, we recommend using a Nickel Metal Hydride rechargeable battery.

The battery compartment is located on the back side of the housing. Slide the battery door to the side and remove it to expose the battery compartment.

Battery Life

Expect 20 to 25 hours of life from a 9-volt alkaline battery, longer if using headphones. Rechargeable batteries provide about 8 hours of usage per charge. Backlight use decreases battery life with significant drain at maximum brightness.

Speaker Volume and Battery Charge

You may notice the speaker volume drop while one battery segment is illuminated. With one segment flashing, low speaker volume will be very apparent.

Battery Indicator

The remaining battery life is proportional to the percentage of the battery icon illuminated.

After the battery indicator begins flashing, expect the detector to shut off within 10 minutes.

Battery Disposal & Recycling

Alkaline batteries may be disposed of in a normal waste receptacle or recycled. Non-Alkaline batteries should be recycled. In the state of California all battery types must be recycled. Please refer to local municipalities for detailed disposal and recycling requirements.

Quick-Start Demonstration

I. Supplies Needed

II. Position the Detector

  1. Place the detector on a table with the searchcoil hanging over the edge. Or better, have a friend hold the detector, with the searchcoil off the ground.
  2. Keep the searchcoil away from walls, floors, and metal objects.
  3. Remove watches, rings, and jewelry.
  4. Turn off lights or appliances whose electromagnetic emissions may cause interference.
  5. Pivot the searchcoil back.

An illustration showing a hand holding the searchcoil of a metal detector over the edge of a table.

III. Power On and Set Gain

Press and hold the [Pinpoint Button] then turn on the detector with the GAIN knob. Release the [Pinpoint Button]. Set GAIN at the 12:00 position.

IV. Set Threshold

Turn the THRESH knob all the way counterclockwise until it clicks.

V. Wave Objects Over Searchcoil

Wave each object over the searchcoil. Notice a different tone for each object:

Motion is required. Objects must be in motion over the searchcoil to be detected in this mode.

VI. Activate Discrimination Level

Press and release the [Menu Button]. DISC LVL will be activated. Press [+] until the word "IRON" disappears from the screen. Ensure the word "FOIL" is still illuminated.

VII. Test Discrimination

Wave the nail over the searchcoil. The nail will not be detected. The nail has been "discriminated out."

VIII. Test Other Settings

Firmly press and release [Menu Button] once. DISC LVL will be activated. Press [+] until the words IRON, FOIL, NICKEL, P-TAB, S-CAP and ZINC all disappear.

IX. Test Nickel Detection

Wave the Nickel over the searchcoil. The nickel will not be detected.

X. Activate Notch Function

Firmly press and release [Menu Button] twice. NOTCH will be activated. Press [+] twice. The word "NICKEL" will start flashing. Wait until the flashing stops. "NICKEL" will be illuminated.

XI. Test Notched Nickel

Wave the Nickel over the Searchcoil. The nickel is now again detected. The nickel has been "notched in."

XII. All Metal Mode

Rotating the THRESH knob clockwise places the detector in All Metal Mode. Keep rotating the knob clockwise until you hear a faint hum. Pass the quarter over the searchcoil. Vary the distance from the searchcoil on each pass. Notice the changing pitch and volume.

XIII. Pinpoint Mode

Press-and-hold the [Pinpoint Button]. Notice motion is not required. A motionless searchcoil over a metal target will induce a sound. Notice the single audio tone. PINPOINT produces only this single tone, regardless of the type of metal detected. Vary the distance of the quarter to the searchcoil and notice the changing depth-display values. The 2-digit reading indicates depth distance in inches from the searchcoil.

XIV. Return To Factory Default

To reset the detector to the original factory default settings:

  1. Turn off detector.
  2. Press and hold [Pinpoint Button] and then turn detector on.
  3. Release [Pinpoint Button].

The Basics of Metal Detecting

A hobby metal detector is intended for locating buried metal objects. When searching for metals, underground or on the surface, you have the following challenges and objectives:

  1. Ignoring signals caused by ground minerals.
  2. Ignoring signals caused by metal objects that you do not want to find, like pull-tabs.
  3. Identifying a buried metal object before you dig it up.
  4. Estimating the size and depth of objects, to facilitate digging them up.
  5. Eliminating the effects of electromagnetic interference from other electronic devices.

Your metal detector is designed with these things in mind.

1. Ground Minerals

All soils contain minerals. Signals from ground minerals can interfere with the signals from metal objects you want to find. All soils differ, and can differ greatly, in the type and amount of ground minerals present. You therefore want to "calibrate" the detector to the specific ground conditions where you are detecting. This detector incorporates both automated and manual ground-balancing features which will eliminate false signals from most types of soils. If you want to maximize the detector's target identification accuracy and depth of detection, use the GROUND GRAB®. See the section on GROUND GRAB® Computerized Ground Balancing for details.

2. Trash

If searching for coins, which will induce higher tone sounds, you want to ignore items like aluminum foil, nails, and pull-tabs. These undesirable items induce lower tones. You can listen to the sounds of all objects detected, and decide on what you want to dig up. Or you can eliminate unwanted metals from detection by using the DISCRIMINATION features.

3. Identifying Buried Objects

When searching in the DISCRIMINATION Mode, different objects induce different tones (high, medium, low, bass) and are classified on the display screen in different categories. A 3-digit numerical reading is also provided in the middle of the display for more precise target identification. The DISCRIMINATION Mode requires motion: sweep the coil over the metal object.

4. Size and Depth of Buried Objects

When using the detector in the motion DISCRIMINATION Mode, the relative depth of an object is displayed in the center of the display with the SIGNAL strength indicator. A more accurate depth reading is available in a no-motion search, using PINPOINT. PinPoint displays approximate target depth in inches. This no-motion feature does not require the coil to be in motion to detect metals. The ability to hold the searchcoil motionless over the target also aids in tracing an outline of the buried object, or in pinpointing the exact location of the object using techniques described in the pinpointing section.

5. EMI (Electromagnetic Interference)

The searchcoil produces a magnetic field and then detects changes in that magnetic field caused by the presence of metal objects. This magnetic field is susceptible to the electromagnetic energy produced by other electronic devices. Power lines, microwave ovens, lighting fixtures, TVs, computers, motors, etc., all produce EMI which can interfere with the detector and cause it to beep when no metal is present, and sometimes to beep erratically.

The GAIN control lets you reduce the strength of the magnetic field, and thereby lessen susceptibility to EMI. You may want to operate at maximum Gain, but the presence of EMI may make this impossible, so if you experience erratic behavior or "false" signals, reduce the sensitivity, by adjusting your GAIN and THRESHOLD controls.

Headphone Jack

The detector has a 1/4" headphone jack on the left side of the housing. When a headphone is connected, speaker audio is disabled. The headphone jack has a rubber plug that will keep dirt and moisture from entering the control box.

Using Headphones

Using a detector with headphones facilitates detection of the weakest signals and also extends the battery life. It also allows you to hear subtle changes in the sound more clearly, particularly if searching in a noisy location. For safety reasons, do not use headphones near traffic or where other dangers are present. This device is to be used with interconnecting cables/headphone cables shorter than three meters.

A diagram showing the control box of the metal detector, highlighting the 1/4" headphone jack with its rubber plug.

Operation and Controls

Display and Controls

A detailed diagram of the Teknetics Omega 8500's LCD display, labeling various indicators such as Mineralization Readout, Target Category Identifiers, Iron Indicator, Overload Indicator, Signal Strength Bargraph, Target Categories, Ground Error window, Auto Ground Offset, and Number Identifiers. It also labels the control buttons and knobs: ON/OFF/GAIN, GND GRAB, PIN POINT, MENU/QUICKSWITCH, DISC/AM/THRESH, PLUS and MINUS, and indicates Mode, Battery, Backlight, and Menu Items.

Control Knobs

1. ON/OFF/GAIN:

a. Click right to turn on. Click left to turn off. b. Turning the knob clockwise increases the detector's Gain; the higher the Gain, the deeper targets will be detected, and the more likely the detector will be able to detect very small targets. c. As you turn the knob, notice the value at the center of the screen will display your current Gain setting. d. We suggest keeping the GAIN below 70 until you become familiar with the detector's operation. e. At values greater than 70, some internal circuit noise will be noticed. The higher the number, the higher this background "static" will be. Many seasoned detectorists prefer to operate at high sensitivity level, with the accompanying noise. They call this "working into the noise". When some background level of noise is audible, small changes in the volume and tone will denote the presence of buried metal.

2. DISC/AM/THRESH

a. Click clockwise to enter the All Metal Mode. b. This is the detector's most sensitive mode of operation. c. It is a motion mode of operation; the coil must be in motion to detect metal. d. All Metal Mode induces a hum whose pitch and volume vary with the size of the target. Larger targets and targets moving closer to the searchcoil will increase the tone's pitch and its volume. e. As you turn the knob, the THRESH value will be display at the center of the screen. f. Turning the knob clockwise increases the threshold, and allows more signal into the machine. At about zero threshold the noise floor should start becoming audible. g. See the section "Deep and Threshold settings interaction" (page 15).

Close-up view of the control knobs: ON/OFF/GAIN and DISC/AM/THRESH.

Touchpad Controls

GND GRAB: Ground Grab Computerized Ground Balancing

This allows you to set the detector's internal ground setting equal to the phase of the ground you are searching.

See the section on Ground Balancing (page 19), for a more throughout explanation of this feature.

Press-and-hold the [GND GRAB Button] to invoke automatic ground balancing. This will "grab" the ground value.

In order to determine the most accurate ground value, pump the coil up and down over the ground while standing in one place over a patch of ground-free of metal.

  1. Locate a patch of metal free soil.
  2. Start with the searchcoil about 6" above the ground. Press and hold the [GND GRAB Button], lower and raise the coil to within an inch of the ground in a pumping motion.
  3. Continue this pumping motion and watch the Ground Phase number in the center of the display.
  4. Once this number remains constant, the detector has correctly measured the Ground Phase.
  5. Release the [GND GRAB Button]. This will internally set the Ground Phase to the value displayed.

To manually adjust the ground setting, see the "GROUND" menu item on page 16. If while performing Ground Grab, one of the arrows in the GROUND ERROR window is flashing, see the "Ground Grab Offset" section on page 17.

Illustration showing the motion of pumping the searchcoil up and down for automatic ground balancing with the Ground Grab button.

PINPOINT

Press and hold the [Pinpoint Button] to activate. Searchcoil motion is not required; a motionless searchcoil over a metal target will induce sound. Audio is VCO The 2 digit number displayed indicates target depth, in inches. The scale is calibrated to coin-sized objects.

After you have identified a target using a motion mode of detection, press and hold the [Pinpoint Button] to identify the target's exact location. This technique can yield more information about the target's shape and size and also find its exact location to facilitate extraction.

PINPOINT AS FOLLOWS:
  1. Position the searchcoil just barely off the ground, and to the side of the target.
  2. Press and hold the [Pinpoint Button].
  3. Move the searchcoil slowly across the target and locate it by sound. The target is located directly below where the sound is the loudest.

Pinpoint Retuning

Retuning in Pinpoint Mode is useful in narrowing down the location of a target. To retune the detector, release the button and immediately depress it again.

  1. To Narrow the response further, position the center of the searchcoil slightly off the center of the target, while still depressing the [Pinpoint Button].
  2. Release the [Pinpoint Button].
  3. Immediately press-and-hold again.
  4. Repeat this procedure to narrow the field of detection further.

Note: Depth indication is less accurate after narrowing.

MENU/QUICKSWITCH

This double function touchpad is used to activate and navigate the menu and to momentarily change modes. To operate the Menu, firmly press and release the touchpad. Note that the Menu actuates on the release of the touchpad. Press and Hold to momentarily switch modes.

MENU. The menu system packs the feature set in a dynamic and intuitive fashion. It also has extended hidden features for the advanced user.

Access: Press and release the [Menu Button], to enable menu items.

QUICK SWITCH. Quick Switch alternates between ALL METAL and DISCRIMINATION Modes. It is useful when trying to listen a deeper target, or when trying to pinpoint the target without using the static signal.

Access: Press and hold the [Menu Button] to alternate between DISCRIMINATION and ALL METAL Modes

PLUS and MINUS

Use the [+] and [-] buttons to modify and adjust the active menu item. Press and release once to modify menu items, or press and hold for continuous adjustment.

Ground Balancing

WHAT IS GROUND BALANCING? Why do I need to Ground Balance?

All soils contain minerals. Signals from ground minerals are often tens or hundreds of times as strong as the signal from a buried metal object. The magnetism of iron minerals, found in nearly all soils, causes one type of interfering signal. Dissolved mineral salts, found in some soils, are electrically conductive, causing another type of interfering signal.

Illustration showing the motion of pumping the searchcoil up and down for ground balancing, with arrows indicating UP and DOWN, and a note about using the Ground Grab button.

Ground Balancing is the process by which the metal detector cancels the unwanted signals coming from the ground minerals while still detecting the signals from buried metal objects. This is accomplished by matching the detector's ground balance setting to the phase of the ground signal.

When the detector is calibrated to the soil, the result will be deeper target detection, quieter operation, and more accurate target identification.

How to Ground Balance your Detector:

  1. Turn the detector on and set GAIN at the 12 o-clock position.
  2. Click the right knob to All Metal Mode.
  3. Adjust the THRESHOLD control knob to the point where you can hear a slight background hum.
  4. Sweep searchcoil across the ground to find a clear patch of ground with no metal present.
  5. Press and hold the [GND GRAB Button] touch pad, and pump searchcoil repeatedly over the clean ground, keeping it level with the ground. Start about 6" above the ground and lower to within 1" of the ground. See illustration above.
  6. When the ground phase value number displayed in the screen center settles down to an unchanging number, the detector has been ground balanced. Release the [GND GRAB Button] touch pad.

If during this process you see a blinking arrow in the Ground Error window that indicates an automatic GROUND GRAB OFFSET has been programmed.

Understanding ground conditions assists the user in setting up the detector, knowing when to readjust ground balance, and in understanding the responses of the detector while searching.

This detector provides two kinds of ground data:

  1. The type of mineralization (which affects where the ground phase should be set.) This is GND PHASE.
  2. The amount of mineralization (the greater the amount of mineralization, the greater the loss of detection depth & ID accuracy; the loss is more pronounced in Discrimination Mode. This is the Fe3O4.

GROUND BALANCING -Technical Info

Fe3O4 BAR GRAPH

The Fe3O4 4-segment bar graph indicates the amount of ground mineralization, independent of type, expressed as an equivalent volume concentration of magnetite (Fe3O4). It updates every second. It is sensitive to motion and will give the most accurate readings if you "pump" the searchcoil up and down several times over the ground. The presence of metal or "hot rocks" will cause the readings to be inaccurate. If you stop moving the searchcoil, the bar graph will go blank.

INDICATIONFe3O4% FeSUSCEPTIBILITY
4 Bars -High0.4 - 1.61,000 - 4,000
3 Bars -Medium0.1 - 0.4250 - 1,000
2 Bars -Low0.025 - 0.160 - 250
1 Bars -Very Low0.006 - .02515 - 60
Noneless than .006less than 15

Magnetic susceptibility is expressed in micro-cgs units. In a salt water environment in the absence of iron minerals, the bar graph indicates relative electrical conductivity.

In soils with greater than 4,000 micro-cgs units magnetic susceptibility, the signal from the soil may saturate ("overload") the circuits. This will not harm the detector but the machine will not be usable in that condition. The solution is to hold the searchcoil several inches above the soil surface so it isn't "seeing as much dirt". By listening and watching you will know how high you need to hold the searchcoil in order to avoid overload.

The highest magnetic susceptibilities are usually found in soils developed over igneous rocks, in alluvial 'black sand" streaks on beaches, and in red clay soils of humid climates. The lowest magnetic susceptibilities are usually found in white beach sands of tropical and subtropical regions, and soils developed over limestone.

Ground Error

The bottom left-hand corner of the display contains a graphic which indicates if your detector's ground balance setting needs to be adjusted.

The Omega has a tracking system which continually analyzes the phase of the ground you are scanning. It then compares this ground phase value with the internal Ground Setting established at the time the detector was ground balanced using GND GRAB or the manual ground balance method.

To maintain maximum detector performance, keep the Ground Error to a minimum by adjusting the Ground Setting.

Before making an adjustment, it is best to verify the Ground Error as follows:

  1. Place the detector into All Metal Mode.
  2. Pump the searchcoil up and down over a patch of ground free of metal, repeatedly moving the coil to within 1" of the ground and lifting it up about 6" over the ground.

If bars appear at the top of the graph, manually adjust the Ground Setting negatively until all of the bars disappear. If bars appear at the bottom of the graph, manually adjust the Ground Setting positively until all of the bars disappear.

While in ALL METAL Mode, pumping the searchcoil over the ground, you will also hear audible evidence of an out-of-adjustment Ground Setting. If the Ground Setting is too low, there will be a difference in the sound as the searchcoil is moving away from the ground. It will sound like you are pulling the sound out of the ground. If the Ground setting is too high, it will sound like you are pushing the sound into the ground.

GROUND ADJUSTMENT CHART

If bars appearpumping coil sounds likeor in Auto-Tune
AT TOPPUSHING SOUND OUT OF GROUNDDECREASE THE GROUND SETTING
AT BOTTOMPULLING SOUND INTO GROUNDINCREASE THE GROUND SETTING
NO BARSSAME SOUND WHEN RAISING AND LOWERINGNO ADJUSTMENT NECESSARY

Depth and Target Display

READING THE DISPLAY

The Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) shows the PROBABLE identification of the targeted metal, as well as the PROBABLE depth of the target.

The detector will register a consistent target identification, upon each sweep of the coil, when a buried target has been located and identified. If, upon repeated passes over the same spot, the target identification reads inconsistently, the target is probably a trash item, or oxidized metal. With practice, you will learn to unearth only the repeatable signals.

The segment identifications are highly accurate when detecting the objects described on the label. However, if an object registers in a given category for an unknown buried object, you could be detecting a metallic object other than the object described on the label, but with the same metallic signature. Also, the greater the distance between the target and the coil, the less accurate the target identification.

GOLD TARGETS

Gold objects will register toward the middle or left-of-center on the LCD scale. Gold flakes will register under iron. Small gold items will register under foil or 5¢. Large gold items will register toward the center of the scale.

SILVER TARGETS:

Silver objects will register to the right of the scale, under DIME or QTR.

IRON:

All sizes of iron objects will register on the far-left side of the scale. This could indicate on item such as a nail, or a historic iron relic.

FOIL:

Aluminum foil, such as a gum wrapper, will register as foil. A small broken piece of pull tab may also register here.

NICKEL:

Most newer pull-tabs from beverage cans, the type intended to stay attached to the can, will register here. Many gold rings will also register here.

P-TAB:

Older pull tabs, which always detached completely from the can, register here. Many medium size gold ring also register here. Pull-tabs from older beverage cans will also register here. Some newer pull-tabs will also register here. Many gold rings will also register here.

S-CAP:

Older screw caps from glass bottles will register here. Large gold rings, like a class ring, could also register here. Some non-U.S. coins of recent vintage will also register here.

Reading the display (cont.)

ZINC:

Medium conductivity objects and many non-U.S. coins of recent vintage are classified here.

Caution: The target indications are visual references. Many other types of metal can fall under any one of these categories. While the detector will eliminate or indicate the presence of most common trash items, it is impossible to accurately classify ALL buried objects.

DEPTH INDICATOR:

The Depth Indicator is calibrated for coin-sized objects. It indicates the probable depth of the target, in inches.

While holding the [Pinpoint Button] and passing over a metal object, "DEPTH" will appear under to the two-digit number in the middle of the screen.

TARGET-ID INDICATORS (TID)

In Discrimination Mode the three-digit target indicator, in the middle of the LCD display, provides a specific target value to help identify buried targets. When in All Metal Mode, it is a two-digit number. With practice you will learn to associate target values with the probable identification of buried objects. The target value can vary each time the coil passes over the target, depending upon the angle of the object and the distance from the coil. For reference, see the chart on the next page for some common Target-ID numbers.

Note Discrimination and All Metal TID systems are separated. You can double-check Target-IDs by using the quick switch feature.

Diagram of the LCD display showing the Primary and Secondary Target-ID indicators, with categories like IRON, FOIL, NICKEL, P-TAB, S-CAP, ZINC, DIME, QTR.

Multiple Target Category System.

This feature is available only in Discrimination Mode. For each target, the Omega 8500 calculates four independent numerical Target-ID's on each pass of the coil; one primary and three secondary. Each one of the Target-ID's will correlate to a target category on the LCD. There will be one solid primary category lighting up and up to three additional secondary target categories. All are different readings of the same target, with the primary category being the one with most reliable signal. If the Target-ID's vary, they will show up as multiple illuminated categories, and this could indicate the detector is picking up noise, a faint/weak signal or that the target is irregularly shaped.

Reading the display (cont.)

Noise can trigger secondary TIDs without a primary, so it is possible to see secondary TID categories light up on the display, without a primary solid TID category. Secondary Target-IDs don't produce any audio report and cannot be discriminated out. All the audio reports correspond to the primary TID, and any category that has been discriminated or notched out will not be able to display a primary TID or audio report. You will still have the benefit of all the secondary IDs even if the secondary IDs fall in categories that have been discriminated or notched out.

If you see only a primary TID, it means all primary and secondary TIDs agreed on that category.

A bottle cap that reads as iron in air will most likely have all TIDs agree that it is in fact iron. A bottle cap that reads as nickel or foil due to oxidation or orientation relative to the coil will most likely have TIDs disagree and several secondary TID categories will show up. All TIDs can agree and still miss-identify a target. Please use your skills as the ultimate discriminator.

IRON INDICATOR:

The iron segment will react to every iron signal and promptly display it at the center of the screen. This signal is speed dependent, so it may blink rapidly if the coil is swung too fast. Heavily mineralized soil can also illuminate the Iron Segment Indicator.

TARGET Readout

The table below lists some common target values. With experience you will recognize many types of metal object by their numeric value.

TYPICAL VALUEPOSSIBLE OBJECTS
10-39Iron
56-57Nickel
60-62Pull-Tab (old style)
62-65Pull-Tab (new style)
66-72Screw Cap
76-78Zinc Penny
82-83Dime & Copper Cent
86-87Quarter
90-91Half Dollar
94-95Silver Dollar

Search Techniques (Motion modes)

Target Verification

After detecting a target, do the following:

  1. Walk around the target in a circle.
  2. While circling the target, continue sweeping the searchcoil across the target.
  3. Sweep once every 30° or 40° of the circle.
    • If the tone does not change and the Target-ID value is consistent as you circle the target, you can be highly confident of the target's identification.
    • If the tone or Target-ID changes as you circle the target, you may have multiple targets or an irregularly shaped object.
    • If the tone completely disappears at different angles, the target may be trash or a low-value metal.
    • If you are new to the hobby, dig all targets. With practice in the field, you will soon identify audible and visual target feedback with certain types of metal objects.

Illustrations labeled "WRONG" and "CORRECT" demonstrating incorrect pendulum-like coil movement versus correct level, close-to-ground movement.

COIL MOVEMENT

When swinging the coil, be careful to keep it level with the ground about 1/2 inch from the surface. Never swing the coil like a pendulum.

Pinpointing process in motion modes:

  1. Sweep over target in narrowing side-to-side pattern.
  2. Take visual note of spot on ground where "beep" occurs.
  3. Rotate 90° to one side of the target.
  4. Sweep coil over same area, at 90° to 1st sweep pattern.
  5. This pinpoints the target location with an "X".

Target Pinpointing (static search)

After you have identified a target using a motion mode of detection, press-and-hold the [Pinpoint Button] to identify the target's exact location. This technique can yield more information about the target's shape and size and also find its exact location to facilitate extraction. Pinpoint also changes the readout to indicate target depth in inches.

Pinpoint as follows:

  1. Position the searchcoil just barely off the ground and to the side of the target. Press and hold the [Pinpoint Button].
  2. Now move the searchcoil slowly across the target, and you can locate it by the sound. The target is located directly under where the sound is loudest.

Narrow It Down:

  1. To narrow the response further, position the center of the searchcoil near the center of the response pattern, but not directly over the center.
  2. Release the [Pinpoint Button].
  3. Press-and-hold the [Pinpoint Button] again.
  4. Repeat this narrowing procedure to narrow the field of detection further.

Note: Depth indication is less accurate after narrowing.

COIL DRIFT

If you plan to use the PINPOINT Mode for continuous searching, realize that drift will occur over time, causing the detector to gain or lose sensitivity. Periodic retuning of the detector is required to minimize drift; release and press PINPOINT again to retune.

Photograph of a person using a metal detector, demonstrating the searchcoil positioning for pinpointing a target.

Treasure Hunter's Code of Ethics:

5-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

Register your warranty on-line for a chance to win a FREE DETECTOR. For details, visit www.tekneticst2.com

The Omega metal detector is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship under normal use for five years from the date of purchase to the original owner.

Damage due to neglect, accidental damage, or misuse of this product is not covered under this warranty. Decisions regarding abuse or misuse of the detector are made solely at the discretion of the manufacturer.

Proof of Purchase

Proof of Purchase is required to make a claim under this warranty.

Return Your Detector for Service

Liability under this Warranty is limited to replacing or repairing, at our option, the metal detector returned, shipping cost prepaid to First Texas Products. Shipping cost to First Texas Products is the responsibility of the consumer.

To return your detector for service, please first contact First Texas for a Return Authorization (RA) Number. Reference the RA number on your package and return the detector within 15 days of calling to:

First Texas Products L.L.C.
1465 Henry Brennan Dr.
El Paso, TX 79936
Phone: 915-633-8354

NOTE TO CUSTOMERS OUTSIDE THE U.S.A.

This warranty may vary in other countries, check with your distributor for details. Warranty does not cover shipping costs.

According to FCC part 15.21 Changes or Modifications made to this device not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the users authority to operate this equipment. This device complies with FCC Part 15 Subpart B Section 15.109 Class B.

Copyright© 2015 by First Texas Products, L.L.C. All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce this book, or parts thereof, in any form, except for the inclusion of brief quotations in a review.

Published by First Texas Products, L.LC.

Copyright© 2015 All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce this book, or parts thereof, in any form.

TEKNETICS®
1465 Henry Brennan El Paso, TX 79936 (915) 633-8354 MADE IN THE USA

Accessories

Teknetics Padded Carrying Bag.

Made of rugged double-stitched nylon construction. Includes handy outside zip-pocket for extra batteries or small accessories. - CBAG-T

Teknetics Camo Pouch

Camo pouch with two inside pockets, belt included. - PCH-T

Stereo Headphones

Use with Teknetics metal detectors with true stereo. Utilizes 1/4-inch stereo & 1/8-inch plug. Compatible with all Teknetics models with 1/4-inch & 1/8-inch jacks. - HEADT

Pinpointer

Pinpoints the exact location of buried metal objects. Audio signal indicator and vibrator. No assembly required, runs on (1) 9-Volt Battery. - PINPOINTER

Teknetics Gold Pick

Tempered steel head is 10" long and the edge is 3 1/4" wide. The overall length is 19" with a durable fiberglass handle and a rubberized hand grip. Includes a powerful super magnet attached to the head to quickly discriminate iron targets and magnetic hot rocks. - GOLDPICK

Replacement/Accessory Searchcoils

Coil Covers

Specially made to protect your coil from abrasion and damage.

Lesche Knife

Made from high quality heat-treated tempered steel. The ultimate digging tool. Comes with a durable sheath. 12" in length with a 7" serrated blade - LESCHE KNIFE

Teknetics T-Shirt

100% cotton with Teknetics Logo. Sizes: S, M, LG, XL & XXL - TKTSHIRT

Teknetics Baseball Cap

One size fits all. - TKCAP

Neoprene Face Rain Cover

Specially made to protect from weather - FACE-COVER

Gold Prospecting Kits

PART NUMBER:Gold KitDeluxe KitHardrock Kit
GOLDKIT1GOLDKIT2GOLDKIT3
Items Included:
10 1/2" Gold PanXXX
14" Gold PanXXX
ClassifierXXX
2 Shatterproof VialsXXX
Snuffer BottleXXX
Black Sand MagnetXX
Treasure ScoopXX
TweezersX
MagnifierX
Crevice ToolX
Rock PickX
Instruction BookletXXX
BackpackXX

FOR COMPLETE DETAILS VISIT WWW.TEKNETICST2.COM 1-800-413-4131

PDF preview unavailable. Download the PDF instead.

Teknetics Omega8500 Manual EN QuarkXPress(R) 9.54r1 3-Heights(TM) PDF Optimization Shell 4.5.24.1 (http://www -tools.com)

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