Minelab VANQUISH 440/540 User Manual

Quick Start

Get started with your VANQUISH 440 or 540 metal detector.

1. Power On: Press the power button.
2. Wait 5 Seconds: Allow the detector to initialize.
3. Start Detecting: Begin your search.

Search Modes

The VANQUISH 440 and 540 offer four distinct search modes, each with unique target identification patterns, to help you find what you're looking for.

• Coin Mode: Designed to detect modern coins from around the world, while automatically ignoring trash found in parks and on beaches. This mode offers excellent target separation, making it ideal for areas with iron trash. It can reject iron trash like foil.
• Jewelry Mode: Capable of finding precious jewelry wherever it may be lost. This mode features excellent target separation and depth analysis, making it a versatile option for finding various shapes, sizes, and metal compositions of jewelry. It primarily rejects ferrous (iron) targets.
• All Metal Mode: Detects all ferrous metal targets, including iron. This mode ensures you don't miss any targets but will also detect more trash. The discrimination pattern accepts all ferrous (iron) and non-ferrous targets. Adjusting target tones can help classify trash as common non-ferrous targets like foil.
• Custom Mode: Allows you to save your preferred search modes and custom discrimination patterns. Changes made in this mode are retained even after the detector is turned off. Refer to page 13 for instructions on "Saving Custom Search Modes." The default discrimination pattern rejects all ferrous (iron) targets and various non-ferrous trash like foil and pull tabs.

Controls

Familiarize yourself with the control panel of your VANQUISH detector.

Diagram Description: The control unit features a display screen showing target information, sensitivity, depth, and mode. Buttons are arranged around the screen for power, volume, search mode selection, accept/reject, and other functions.

1. Backlight (540 Only): Turns the backlight on/off (see page 6).
2. Power On/Off: Turns the detector on and off. Press and hold for 7 seconds to reset to factory settings (see page 20).
3. Volume Control: Adjusts the audio volume (see page 6).
4. All Metal: Turns the 'All Metal Discrimination Mode' on/off to detect all metal targets, including iron (see page 14). Press and hold to switch 'Iron Bias' (540 only) (see page 7).
5. Pinpoint: Press and hold to center the coil over a target for precise location before digging (see page 8).
6. Sensitivity: Adjusts sensitivity (see page 7).
7. Accept/Reject: Turns discrimination segments on/off to accept or reject targets (see page 12).
8. Discrimination Mode Edit: Navigate left/right to select individual discrimination segments when editing discrimination (see page 13).
9. Search Mode: Selects the next search mode (see page 3). Press and hold to store the current search mode's discrimination pattern into a custom search mode (see page 13).
10. Bluetooth On/Off (540 Only): Enables Bluetooth to connect wireless headphones (see page 11). Press and hold to enable Bluetooth pairing to connect new headphones (see page 11).
11. Target ID Guide: A reference indicating the type of target that can be found for the corresponding 'Target ID segment' (see page 12).

Display

Understand the information shown on the detector's LCD screen.

Diagram Description: The display shows various icons and numerical readouts. Key indicators include battery level, backlight status, Bluetooth status, volume level, sensitivity level, iron bias setting, target identification number, depth indicator, search mode, discrimination segments, and pinpoint indicator.

1. Battery Level: Indicates the current battery charge (see page 15).
2. Backlight Indicator (540 Only): Shows when the backlight is on (see page 6).
3. Bluetooth Indicator (540 Only): Shows when Bluetooth wireless audio is on (see page 11). This includes standard Bluetooth and Bluetooth Qualcomm® aptX™ Low Latency for optimal wireless audio performance.
4. Volume: Displays the detector's volume level (see page 6).
5. Sensitivity Level: Shows the current sensitivity level (see page 7).
6. Iron Bias Indicator (540 Only): Indicates when Iron Bias is set to 'Low' (see page 7).
7. Target ID: Displays the numerical value of a detected target, allowing for identification before digging. For example, US coins consistently display the same Target ID numbers. Negative numbers indicate ferrous targets, while positive numbers indicate non-ferrous targets from pure gold (low ID) to large silver (high ID).
8. Depth Indicator: Shows the approximate depth of the detected target (see page 10).
9. Search Mode: Displays the active search mode (see page 3).
10. Discrimination Segments: Groups target ID numbers into a scale. Segments can be turned on or off to create discrimination patterns (see page 12). Discrimination segments correspond to the Target ID Guide.
11. Pinpoint Indicator: Shows when pinpointing is enabled (see page 8).

Detector Settings

Volume

The volume control adjusts the intensity of target signals. Use the minus (-) and plus (+) buttons to adjust the volume. Each press decreases or increases the volume by one level.

Diagram Description: A visual representation of volume adjustment buttons and a volume level indicator on the display. A low beep sounds when maximum or minimum volume is reached. The display shows approximate volume levels, with each bar representing two levels.

Backlight (540 Only)

The VANQUISH 540 features a red backlight for detection in low light conditions. By default, the backlight turns off with each startup to conserve battery. Press the 'Backlight' button to turn it on or off. When the backlight is on, a backlight indicator appears on the display.

Diagram Description: Images of the backlight button and the backlight indicator on the display.

Sensitivity

VANQUISH detectors offer high sensitivity that can be adjusted. Set the appropriate sensitivity level for various detection conditions to maximize detection depth. Always select the highest stable sensitivity setting for optimal performance.

Diagram Description: A sensitivity level indicator on the display, showing bars representing levels. The display shows maximum sensitivity (10 levels).

Adjusting Sensitivity Level

1. Keep the coil still, then increase sensitivity using the 'Sensitivity' button until false signals begin.
2. Use the sensitivity minus button to decrease sensitivity until the false signals disappear.
3. Sweep the coil over a clean patch of ground. If any ground noise is encountered, decrease sensitivity further.

Noise Too High

Sometimes, excessive noise can occur during detection. This may be caused by sources like power lines, mobile phone towers, or other metal detectors due to electromagnetic interference (EMI). If you experience noise issues, try the following steps until the noise is eliminated:

1. Move away from local sources of electromagnetic interference (EMI).
2. Restart the detector and wait for the auto-noise cancel process to complete.
3. If restarting the detector does not eliminate excessive noise, try reducing the sensitivity level.

Iron Bias (540 Only)

The Iron Bias function is set to 'High' by default. This allows the detector to correctly classify large or complex ferrous targets (e.g., rusty nails or bottle caps) as iron, making them easier to reject. The VANQUISH 540 allows the 'Iron Bias' level to be set to 'Low'. This enables the detector to better identify coins in dense iron trash.

Setting Iron Bias to 'Low' (540 Only)

The Iron Bias setting reverts to default each time the detector is powered on. To set it to 'Low':

1. Press and hold the 'All Metal' button for approximately 2 seconds.
2. The Iron Bias indicator will appear to the left of the Target ID numbers on the display, indicating 'Low' Iron Bias is selected.
3. To reset 'Iron Bias' to 'High', press and hold the 'All Metal' button for approximately 2 seconds again. When 'Iron Bias' is set to 'High', the Iron Bias indicator turns off, and no icon is displayed.

Auto-Noise Cancel

VANQUISH series detectors feature an Auto-Noise Cancel function that automatically cancels noise each time the unit is powered on. It calibrates the detector to avoid excessive noise. For best results, keep the coil stationary above the ground until the 'Auto-Noise Cancel' process is complete (indicated by two large dashes appearing in the Target ID field).

Pinpointing

Pinpointing helps you quickly narrow down the location of a buried target, allowing you to determine its exact position before digging. Differences in tone and volume will help you locate the target's position and depth.

Using Pinpoint to Locate a Target

1. Hold the coil away from the approximate target location, then press and hold the 'Pinpoint' button to enable 'Pinpoint' mode. The Pinpoint indicator (crosshairs) will appear on the display.
2. Sweep the coil slowly over the target location two or three times, keeping the coil parallel to the ground. This calibrates the 'Pinpoint' function for a more accurate pinpointing audio response.
3. Locate the center of the target by listening for the loudest signal and/or observing the Pinpoint indicator on the display.
4. Note: The Pinpoint function progressively masks the target response with each sweep, leaving only a very narrow target response. This helps identify the target's exact location.
5. When all segments on the 'Discrimination Scale' are illuminated, the target is directly beneath the center of the coil.

Diagram Description: Visuals showing target signal strength on the discrimination segments. High tone/loud volume indicates a strong signal. Low tone/quiet volume indicates a weak signal. The Pinpoint indicator shows crosshairs. The discrimination segments fill up as the coil approaches the target's center.

Manual Target Location

You can locate targets successfully without using Pinpoint, but it requires practice. This method may be necessary when the desired target is surrounded by trash.

1. Sweep the coil slowly over the target location, keeping the coil parallel to the ground.
2. Locate the center of the target by identifying the largest target signal response.
3. Note the location, then use your shoe or a digging tool to mark a line in the soil.
4. Move to one side, so you can sweep the coil perpendicular to the initial direction.
5. Repeat steps 1 and 3 from the new position.
6. Locate the target at the intersection of the two imaginary lines.

Diagram Description: Two diagrams illustrating the manual pinpointing process. The first shows sweeping and marking a line (steps 1-3). The second shows sweeping from a perpendicular direction and identifying the intersection (steps 4-5). Audio cues ("Beep~!") are shown.

Depth Indicator

The Depth Indicator shows the approximate depth of detected targets. The indicator is for reference only. Fewer arrows indicate a shallower target, while more arrows indicate a deeper target. Accuracy may vary depending on target type and ground conditions.

When a target is detected, the Depth Indicator will remain on the LCD for up to 5 seconds, or until the next target is detected. When no target is detected, the Depth Indicator icon and arrows will turn off.

The following shows examples of Depth Indicator readings and approximate target depths for US coins:

Diagram Description: A series of icons representing depth. Each icon has a number of downward-pointing arrows and a corresponding depth measurement in millimeters and inches (e.g., 50 mm / 2", 100 mm / 4", 150 mm / 6", 200 mm / 8", >200 mm / >8").

Wireless Headphones (540 Only)

The VANQUISH 540 can be used with any standard Bluetooth® headphones or earbuds. However, using aptX™ Low Latency headphones, such as the Minelab ML 80 wireless headphones, is recommended for optimal wireless audio performance.

Turning Bluetooth On/Off

Press the Bluetooth button to turn Bluetooth on or off. Press and hold the Bluetooth button (2.5 seconds) to initiate pairing.

Diagram Description: An image of the Bluetooth button. Below it are icons and text describing Bluetooth connection status:

• Flashing rapidly: Detector is attempting to pair with a Bluetooth device.
• Solid: Detector is connected to Bluetooth / Bluetooth aptX-LL headphones.
• Flashing slowly: Detector is attempting to reconnect to existing Bluetooth / Bluetooth aptX-LL headphones (previously paired).

ML 80 Wireless Headphones

The VANQUISH 540 Pro-Pack includes the Minelab ML 80 Bluetooth® headphones, powered by Qualcomm® aptX™ Low Latency audio. These headphones are also available as an accessory.

Diagram Description: An image of the Minelab ML 80 wireless headphones with charging cable and optional audio cable.

Refer to the headphone manual for pairing and other control details.

Target Identification

Target ID Numbers

Target ID numbers range from -9 to 40. Ferrous (iron) targets are in the -9 to 0 range. When a target is detected, it is displayed as a number in the 'Target ID' field on the screen. This indicates the target's ferrous or non-ferrous property, allowing for quick and easy identification. For example, US coins have a Target ID of 29. This means that each time a target with a number of 29 is detected, there is a high probability it is a US coin.

Diagram Description: The display shows a Target ID number (e.g., 29) along with icons indicating ferrous (iron) and non-ferrous targets. The Target ID number displayed will flash when the corresponding target ID segment is detected. The last detected target number remains on the display for five seconds, or until the next target is detected. If no target is detected or the detector passes over a rejected target, the display shows two large dashes.

Accept/Reject

When a target with an acceptable Target ID is detected, there will be a target response and the Target ID number will be displayed.

While the number is still displayed, press the Accept/Reject button to reject the detected target. Targets within the discrimination segment range that are turned off will no longer provide a response.

Diagram Description: An image of the Accept/Reject button.

Note: The discrimination pattern reverts to its default settings each time the detector is powered on, except for the 'Custom Search Mode'. To avoid losing changes, use the save function to store settings in a custom mode. Refer to page 13 for more information on 'Saving Custom Search Modes'.

Discrimination Segments

Discrimination segments are located at the top of the LCD. They display grouped target numbers. Each target number has a corresponding discrimination segment, which will flash when a target with that number is detected. Discrimination segments are turned on (accept) or turned off (reject) to create discrimination patterns (see page 13). The discrimination segments correspond to the Target ID Guide.

Discrimination Mode Editing and Saving Custom Modes

Discrimination Mode

Discrimination segments can be turned on or off to detect or ignore targets. All segments that are turned on will be heard (accepted), and all segments that are turned off will not be heard (rejected). The combination of accepted and rejected segments is called a discrimination pattern.

Diagram Description: An example of a discrimination pattern display showing accepted (lit) and rejected (unlit) segments.

Discrimination Mode Editing

You can create your own discrimination patterns to detect or ignore specific target types, allowing you to dig more treasure and less trash. The preset discrimination patterns for each search mode can be edited. Note that changes made to 'Coin', 'Relic', and 'Jewelry' modes will revert to their preset 'Discrimination Patterns' each time the detector is powered on.

To avoid losing changes, use the save function to store settings in a custom mode. Refer to page 13 for 'Saving Custom Search Modes'.

1. In any search mode, press the 'Accept/Reject' button without detecting a target (i.e., no Target ID displayed).
2. The 'Ed' will appear in the 'Target ID' field, indicating that the 'Discrimination Pattern' is being edited.
3. Use the 'Discrimination Pattern Edit' arrow buttons to navigate to the segment you wish to adjust. The selected segment will flash.
4. Press the 'Accept/Reject' button to turn the selected segment on or off.
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 until you have created your discrimination pattern.
6. If no action is taken, the 'Edit' screen will time out after 3 seconds.

Diagram Description: Images showing the 'Accept/Reject' button and the 'Discrimination Pattern Edit' arrow buttons. The display shows 'Ed' and a flashing segment.

Saving Custom Search Modes

Any search mode (Coin, Relic, or Jewelry) can be saved into a 'Custom Search Mode'. The detector's current settings and discrimination pattern will be saved for quick access. When saving a custom search mode, the search mode's unique target interval and depth characteristics are also saved (refer to page 3 for the characteristics of each search mode).

1. Select and edit the search mode you wish to save.
2. Press and hold the 'Search Mode' button (for 5 seconds). 'St' will appear on the 'Target ID' screen, followed by an audible confirmation tone.
3. The newly saved custom search mode will now be active and can be edited at any time.

Diagram Description: The display shows 'St' in the Target ID field, indicating that the custom search mode is being saved. The Custom Search Mode icon and the source mode icon flash twice.

All Metal and Target Tones

All Metal

In the 'All Metal' search mode, all 'Discrimination Segments' are enabled, meaning all metal targets, including iron, will be detected. This ensures you don't miss any targets but will also detect more trash.

Note: When 'All Metal' is enabled, the 'Accept/Reject' and 'Discrimination Mode Edit' buttons cannot be used.

Enabling All Metal

1. Press the 'All Metal' button to enable 'All Metal' mode.
2. All 'Discrimination Segments' will turn on, and all metal targets will be detected.
3. To disable 'All Metal', press the 'All Metal' button again. The discrimination pattern will revert to its last used setting.

Diagram Description: An image of the 'All Metal' button.

Using All Metal to Detect Targets

The All Metal detection mode can be used to check non-ferrous targets to see if they also contain ferrous material. If a target gives a mixed response (non-ferrous and ferrous) when 'All Metal' is enabled, the target might be a large iron object or a bottle cap. If there is a repeatable non-ferrous response, the target does not contain iron, meaning it is more likely to be a good (non-ferrous) target.

Creating Your Own Discrimination Patterns

To obtain ideal targets (e.g., coins specific to your region), swing each target over the detector's coil at a certain height. The Target ID for each target will be displayed. Note that you may need to enable 'All Metal' mode to ensure your targets are not discriminated against during this process.

Discrimination patterns (including preset patterns for search modes) typically ignore ferrous targets, as these are usually trash. It is worth noting that some countries have ferrous coins, so it is best to check the Target ID for the coins you are looking for to avoid them being accidentally masked.

A list of Target ID numbers can be saved and used to create custom discrimination patterns that specifically accept those Target IDs, thereby increasing efficiency.

Target Tones

Target tones are assigned different pitches to allow the operator to roughly classify Target IDs without looking at the display. The VANQUISH 440 has three target tones: Low, Medium, and High. The VANQUISH 540 has five target tones: T1 to T5.

Tone break points are the points on the discrimination scale where the target tone changes from one pitch to another. Note that the exact tone break points vary slightly for each search mode.

Diagram Description: Graphs showing the tone break points for VANQUISH 440 (Low, Medium, High) and VANQUISH 540 (T1-T5) in relation to the Target ID scale (-9 to 40).

Battery & Charging

The VANQUISH series is compatible with both rechargeable and non-rechargeable AA batteries.

Warning: Never use non-rechargeable and rechargeable batteries simultaneously in the detector, as this may damage the detector or batteries.

Battery Level

The battery level indicator shows the current battery charge. Note that rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries have different discharge rates, so the battery level indicator is only approximate.

Diagram Description: An icon representing the battery level indicator on the display.

Low Battery

If non-rechargeable batteries are used, the battery level indicator will flash for approximately 20 minutes before automatically shutting off. If rechargeable batteries are used, the battery level indicator will show a single bar for approximately 20 minutes before automatically shutting off. The detector may not display 'bF' before automatic shutdown when using certain brands/types of rechargeable batteries.

Auto-Shutoff

The detector will automatically shut off when the battery level becomes critically low. 5 seconds before automatic shutdown, the Target ID number field will display 'bF', accompanied by a shutdown tone.

Diagram Description: The 'bF' indicator shown in the Target ID field.

Battery Life / Charge Time

Minelab AA NiMH rechargeable batteries provide approximately 8 hours of charging time and 11 hours of operation. Non-rechargeable AA alkaline batteries provide approximately 10 hours of operation.

Rechargeable Batteries

The VANQUISH 540 and VANQUISH 540 Pro-Pack come with four AA NiMH rechargeable batteries and a battery charger. These accessories are also available for separate purchase.

Diagram Description: Images of the Minelab AA NiMH battery charger and Minelab AA NiMH rechargeable batteries.

Warning: Minelab NiMH battery chargers are intended for charging NiMH rechargeable batteries only.

Detector Care & Safety

• Wash your hands before operating the detector if they have sunscreen or insect repellent on them.
• Do not use solvents for cleaning. Clean using a damp cloth with a mild soap detergent.
• Do not allow the detector to come into contact with gasoline or other petroleum-based liquids.
• Avoid getting sand and grit in the shaft and reinforced parts (e.g., coil shaft and cam locks). If sand accumulates in these parts, wipe them clean with a damp cloth.
• Do not allow the detector or accessories to come into contact with sharp objects, as this may cause scratches and damage.
• If the shaft is noticeably scratched, wipe it thoroughly with a damp cloth.
• Do not place the detector in excessively cold or hot environments. Covering it when not in use will help protect it. Avoid leaving it in hot vehicles.
• Ensure the coil cable is in good condition and is not subjected to excessive stress.
• Take protective measures when transporting or storing the detector. Although the detector is made from the highest quality materials and has undergone rigorous durability testing, the display screen can be scratched or severely damaged if not protected.
• Do not place the detector in extreme temperature conditions. Storage temperature range is -20°C to +70°C (-4°F to +122°F).
• Do not expose accessories that are not listed as waterproof to liquids/moisture or excessively damp environments.
• Do not allow children to play with the detector or accessories; small parts can cause choking hazards.
• Charge rechargeable batteries and accessories only according to the provided instructions.
• Avoid charging rechargeable batteries and accessories in extreme temperatures.
• Remove batteries before air shipping.

Error Codes

Certain detector malfunctions will display error codes in the 'Target ID' field. Before contacting an authorized service center, try the suggested measures below.

Coil Disconnection

If the coil is disconnected, 'Cd' will appear in the Target ID field.

If the coil is disconnected, follow these steps:

1. Check the coil connector's connection on the back of the control unit.
2. Check the coil cable for damage.
3. Check the coil connector pins for dust and debris.
4. Check the coil for any visible signs of damage.
5. If you have a spare coil, try another coil.
6. Turn off the detector, perform a factory reset, and then press and hold the power button for 7 seconds (refer to 'Factory Reset' on page 20).
7. If the malfunction persists, return the detector to your nearest authorized service center for repair.

System Fault

System error codes are displayed as 'E' followed by a fault code number, for example, 'E2'. After reporting a system fault, the detector will shut down for 5 seconds.

Diagram Description: An example error code 'E2' displayed in the Target ID field.

If a system fault occurs, follow these steps:

1. Restart the detector to determine if the fault is still present.
2. Confirm the coil is correctly installed.
3. Turn off the detector, perform a factory reset, and then press and hold the power button for 7 seconds (refer to 'Factory Reset' on page 20).
4. If the error persists, return the detector to the nearest authorized service center for repair.

Troubleshooting

Detector Not Turning On or Shutting Down (With or Without 'bF' Indicator)

1. Replace the batteries.

Unstable / Too Much Noise

1. Move away from local sources of electromagnetic interference (EMI).
2. Restart the detector and wait for the auto-noise cancel process to complete.
3. Reduce sensitivity (see page 7).

No Sound – Wired Headphones

1. Check that the detector is turned on and has power.
2. Check that the headphones are plugged in.
3. Check that the volume is set to an audible level.
4. Unplug the headphones and confirm the detector's speaker is audible.
5. If you have spare headphones, try another set.

No Sound – ML 80 Headphones

1. Check that the headphones are turned on.
2. Check that the detector's Bluetooth is turned on and paired with the Bluetooth headphones (i.e., the Bluetooth icon is solid).
3. Check that the headphones are charged.
4. Check that the detector's volume is set to an audible level.
5. Ensure the volume control on the headphones is set to an audible level.
6. Try another set of Bluetooth headphones.
7. Try using wired headphones.

ML 80 Headphones Not Pairing

1. Turn off the ML 80 headphones and then re-pair them.
2. Ensure the headphones are within 1 meter (3 feet) of the detector's control unit, with no obstructions between the headphones and the detector (including your body).
3. Move away from sources of interference, such as mobile phones.
4. If there are many other Bluetooth devices nearby, pairing may take longer. Move away from the area and try pairing again.
5. Perform a factory reset on the headphones and then try re-pairing them with the detector.
6. Pair the detector with other Bluetooth headphones, then try re-pairing the ML 80 headphones with the detector.

Distorted / Crackling Sound from ML 80 Headphones When Connected via Bluetooth

1. Reduce the volume on the headphones until the distortion stops. If necessary, increase the detector's volume to compensate for the reduced headphone volume.

Technical Specifications

Compare the specifications of the VANQUISH 340, 440, and 540 models.

VANQUISH 540 vs. VANQUISH 540 Pro-Pack: The VANQUISH 540 Pro-Pack is based on the standard VANQUISH 540 but includes Bluetooth wireless headphones and the V8 8"x5" Double-D coil and V8 skid plate. It does not include 3.5mm (1/8") wired headphones.

Device specifications may vary depending on the detector model or items ordered. Minelab reserves the right to change designs, specifications, and features at any time in response to ongoing technological advancements.

For the latest specifications on VANQUISH detectors, visit www.minelab.com.

Factory Reset

The Factory Reset function will restore all detector settings to their factory default state.

1. Ensure the detector is turned off.
2. Press and hold the power button (for approximately 7 seconds).
3. 'FP' will appear in the 'Target ID' display field, indicating that the factory presets have been restored.
4. Release the power button. The detector will begin auto-noise cancelling after the factory reset.

Diagram Description: The 'FP' indicator shown in the Target ID display field after a factory reset.

Disclaimer

Minelab metal detectors described in this user manual are designed and manufactured to be high-quality metal detectors recommended for prospecting for gold and silver in non-hazardous environments. These metal detectors are not designed for use as landmine detectors or live ordnance detectors.

The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Minelab is under license. Qualcomm® aptX™ is a product of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. Qualcomm is a trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated, registered in the United States and other countries. aptX is a trademark of Qualcomm Technologies International, Ltd., registered in the United States and other countries.

Compliance Marks: EAC, FCC, CE, Bluetooth logo, Qualcomm aptX Low Latency logo.

Canadian Compliance Statement

This product complies with the technical specifications of Innovation, Sciences and Economic Development Canada (ISED).