Minelab X-TERRA Voyager Metal Detector User Manual

Quick Start Guide

Follow these steps to quickly start using your X-TERRA Voyager metal detector:

1. 1. Power On: Press the [Power Button] to turn the detector on.
2. 2. Wait 5 Seconds: Allow the detector to complete its startup calibration.
3. 3. Start Detecting: Begin sweeping the coil over the ground.

[Diagram: Shows three icons representing power on, a 5-second wait, and a person sweeping with a metal detector.]

Parts Overview

Familiarize yourself with the components of your X-TERRA Voyager:

1. Control Unit: Houses the display and controls.
2. Speaker: Emits audio signals.
3. Coil Connection Socket: Where the search coil cable connects.
4. Battery Compartment: Holds the batteries.
5. Battery Cover: Secures the battery compartment.
6. Headphone Jack: 1/8" (3.5 mm) socket for headphones.
7. Wired Headphones: Included headphones for audio output.
8. Handle: Ergonomic grip for holding the detector.
9. Mounting Hook: Secures the control unit to the handle.
10. Control Unit Screw: Fastens the control unit.
11. Locking Mechanism: Secures shaft sections.
12. Grip: Part of the handle assembly.
13. Armrest Adjustment Lock: Secures the armrest position.
14. Upper Shaft: The top section of the shaft.
15. Armrest with Stand: Provides comfort and stability.
16. Middle Shaft: The middle section of the shaft.
17. Locking Mechanism: Secures shaft sections.
18. Lower Shaft: The bottom section of the shaft.
19. Rubber Washers (x2): Used during coil attachment.
20. Nut and Bolt for Coil: Secures the coil to the lower shaft.
21. Search Coil: The primary component for detecting metal.
22. Skidplate: Protects the search coil.
23. Yoke Mount: Connects the coil to the shaft.
24. Coil Cable: Connects the coil to the control unit.
25. Coil Connector: The plug for the coil cable.
26. Locking Ring: Secures the coil connector.

[Diagram: An exploded view of the metal detector showing all numbered parts.]

Assembly

Follow these steps to assemble your X-TERRA Voyager:

Attaching the Control Unit

1. Place the control unit onto the mounting hook on top of the handle.
2. Secure it with the control unit screw.

[Diagram: Shows the control unit being placed on the handle hook and a screw being inserted.]

Assembling the Shafts

3. Open the locking mechanisms on the shaft sections.
4. Insert the middle shaft into the handle assembly and then insert the lower shaft into the middle shaft.
5. Close the locking mechanisms to secure the shaft sections.

[Diagram: Shows the shaft sections being connected and locked.]

Attaching the Search Coil

6. Ensure the rubber washers are in place on the lower shaft.
7. Slide the lower shaft into the yoke mount on the search coil and align the holes. Secure with the provided plastic bolt and nut. Note: Do not overtighten with tools, as this can cause damage.

[Diagram: Shows the coil being attached to the shaft with a bolt and nut, highlighting the rubber washers.]

Assembly (Continued)

Winding the Cable and Plugging In

8. Wrap the coil cable sufficiently around the shaft to take up slack, ensuring the coil can still tilt freely.
9. Align the coil connector with the socket on the back of the control unit. Insert it and then tighten the locking ring. Note: Do not use tools to tighten the locking ring, as this can cause damage. Note: Do not force the connector if there is resistance, as this can cause damage.

[Diagram: Shows the coil cable being wrapped around the shaft and the connector being plugged in and secured with a locking ring.]

Adjusting Detector Length

10. Open the locking mechanism for adjusting the armrest.
11. Rest your arm in the armrest and adjust as needed – the armrest should be just below your elbow.
12. Close the locking mechanism.

[Diagram: Shows the armrest adjustment lock being opened, the arm in the rest, and the lock being closed.]

Installing Batteries

13. Remove the battery cover.
14. Connect two 9V alkaline batteries to the battery terminals, ensuring correct alignment with the polarity symbols (+ and -).
15. Replace the battery cover. Note: Turn off the detector before replacing batteries. Refer to page 15 for more important battery information.

[Diagram: Shows the battery compartment with two 9V batteries being inserted.]

Controls

Familiarize yourself with the control elements on the detector:

1. Power [Power Button]: Turns the detector on and off.
2. MINUS [-] / PLUS [+]: Adjusts the sensitivity level (when sensitivity adjustment is enabled) (page 10). Press these buttons when editing a custom search mode to enable or disable a target group (page 8).
3. SENSITIVITY ADJUSTMENT ENABLE: Press this button to enable sensitivity adjustment (then use -/+ to adjust). To disable sensitivity adjustment, press the button again or wait 3 seconds, and the function will automatically turn off.
4. SEARCH MODE [Search Mode Button]: Selects the next available search mode (page 8).
5. PINPOINT [Pinpoint Button]: Press and hold to use Pinpoint mode for accurately locating a detected target (page 11).
6. VOLUME ADJUSTMENT [Volume Button]: Adjusts the audio volume from low to high (page 10). Press and hold to turn the LCD backlight on or off.

[Diagram: Shows the control panel with numbered buttons.]

Note: The detector will automatically turn off if no button is pressed or if no target is detected within 15 minutes.

Display Screen

Understand the information displayed on the X-TERRA Voyager screen:

1. TARGET-ID REFERENCE: A reference guide indicating the types of targets found for the respective target group.
2. TARGET GROUPS: Represent groups of Target-ID numbers. The icon indicates the types of targets typically found at that position on the Target-ID scale (page 13). Target groups align with the Target-ID reference above.
3. BATTERY LEVEL: Indicates the current battery level (page 15).
4. HEADPHONE INDICATOR: Shows that headphones are connected.
5. VOLUME LEVEL: Displays the detector's audio volume (page 10).
6. SENSITIVITY LEVEL: Displays the current sensitivity level. Each bar represents one level.
7. TARGET-ID NUMBER: Displays the numerical value of a detected target, allowing for identification before digging. This number is assigned based on the target's metal composition, with ferrous metals having low IDs (0-30) and non-ferrous metals having higher IDs (31-99). For example, a US Quarter will consistently display a Target-ID number of 86.
8. DEPTH METER: Shows the estimated depth of a detected target (page 12).
9. SEARCH MODES: Displays the active search mode (page 8). There are four modes: All Metal, Custom, Jewelry, and Learn.

[Diagram: Shows the LCD screen with numbered display elements and indicators.]

Search Modes

The VOYAGER offers four search modes optimized for finding different types of metal objects.

Press the [Search Mode Button] to cycle through the search modes.

All Metal

Detects all metal objects, including iron. Detecting in 'All Metal' mode ensures no target is missed.

Jewelry

Designed for finding jewelry such as rings, bracelets, and necklaces. This mode can also find coins, relics, and other non-jewelry items. It ignores iron, meaning most nails and small iron pieces are not detected, making it suitable for trashy locations.

Custom

Allows you to select which Target-ID groups are detected. This helps you find specific object groups while ignoring others, which is useful in dirty locations or for targeting specific items.

1. Press the [Search Mode Button] until 'Custom' mode is selected.
2. Use the Minus [-] and Plus [+] buttons to navigate to the Target Group you wish to change. The icon will flash for 3 seconds and then change to its inverted status. You can also press the [Search Mode Button] while the icon is flashing to toggle the group on or off.

[Diagram: Shows example screen displays for Custom mode, indicating which target groups are enabled/disabled.]

Learn

Designed to 'learn' a specific metal target, allowing you to find only that type of object.

1. Have the target ready that you want the VOYAGER to learn – a coin is used as an example.
2. Press the [Search Mode Button] until 'Learn' mode is selected.
3. Sweep the coin over the coil. The detector learns the metal properties of that exact coin and disables all target groups except the one the coin belongs to.

[Diagram: Shows an example of Learn mode for a US Quarter, indicating Target ID 86.]

Operation

These steps guide you through operating your detector from power-on to finding a target.

1. Selecting a Search Mode and Turning On

Press the [Power Button] to turn the detector on and wait a few seconds for startup calibration. Press the [Search Mode Button] to select the mode best suited for your detecting needs, typically 'Jewelry' or 'All Metal'.

2. Starting Detection

The search coil must be in motion to detect metal – keep the coil moving.

Sweep the coil back and forth, close and parallel to the ground. Do not touch or bump the ground with the coil. This maximizes detection depth and improves response to small objects.

Sweep the coil back and forth over the ground, moving forward slowly at the end of each sweep. An average sweep speed is 2 to 3 seconds from right to left to right. Overlap each sweep slightly to ensure complete ground coverage.

[Diagram: Illustrates the correct sweeping motion of the coil.]

3. Detecting a Target

When a target is detected, the detector will emit a tone, and a Target-ID number will appear on the screen. The corresponding Target Group icon will also flash, indicating the type of object you may have found.

The depth meter (page 12) on the screen provides an approximate depth of the buried target, giving you an idea of how deep you need to dig.

4. Pinpointing a Target

Once you have detected a target you wish to excavate, use the Pinpoint function to determine its exact location. This allows you to dig a smaller hole, recovering the target more quickly and neatly. Follow the steps on "Locating a Target with Pinpoint" on page 11.

5. Excavating the Target

Carefully excavate the target, ensuring you do not damage it with your digging tool. Once the target is found, check the hole again in case other targets are present.

6. Filling the Hole

Always fill your hole after you have finished digging.

Factors Affecting Detection

Detection accuracy can sometimes be affected by:

• The angle of the target buried in the ground.
• The depth of the target.
• The target's oxidation/rust level.
• The target's size.
• Environmental electrical interference.

In highly mineralized ground, fertile soil, or wet sand, the detector may false alarm even without metal. In such cases, you can lower the sensitivity or raise the search coil higher above the ground.

Metal digging tools can also affect detection if they are close to the search coil. It is best to keep them slightly further away.

Detector Settings

Volume

The Volume setting adjusts the loudness of target signals. Press the volume button to cycle through volume settings from low to high. If maximum volume is reached, pressing the volume button again will return to the lowest volume level.

[Icon: Volume indicator bars.] The volume level indicator on the screen shows the current volume level. Each bar represents one level.

Sensitivity

The VOYAGER detector is highly sensitive and features adjustable sensitivity. Setting the correct sensitivity level for individual detection conditions maximizes detection depth. Always choose the highest stable sensitivity setting for optimal performance.

The Sensitivity Level indicator on the screen shows the current sensitivity level. Each bar represents one level.

[Icon: Sensitivity indicator bars.] The indicator for the sensitivity level.

Backlight

The VOYAGER has a backlight for detecting in low-light conditions. The backlight is disabled by default at each startup to conserve battery power. Press and hold the Volume/Backlight button to turn the backlight on or off.

[Icon: Volume/Backlight button.]

Note: Turn off the backlight when not needed to conserve battery.

Adjusting the Sensitivity Level

1. Hold the coil still and then press the [Sensitivity Button] to enable sensitivity adjustment. Note that sensitivity adjustment will turn off automatically after 3 seconds of inactivity.
2. Press the Plus [+] button to increase sensitivity until false signals begin to occur.
3. Press the Minus [-] button to reduce sensitivity just enough to eliminate the false signals.
4. Sweep the coil over a clear patch of ground and further reduce sensitivity if ground noise is still present.

Excessive Noise

Excessive noise during detection can be caused by electrical interference from sources like power lines, mobile phone towers, or other metal detectors.

If noise is a problem, try these steps in order until the noise subsides:

1. Move away from local sources of electrical interference.
2. Restart the detector.
3. If restarting the detector does not resolve the excessive noise, try lowering the sensitivity level.

Pinpoint Function

Pinpointing helps quickly determine the location of a buried target, allowing you to pinpoint its exact location before digging. When Pinpoint is active, the detector emits a tone while the search coil is held still over a target.

Locating a Target with Pinpoint

1. Hold the coil away from the estimated target location and press and hold the [Pinpoint Button] to activate Pinpoint. The Target ID number will begin to flash 'PP'. Wait for 'PP' to stop flashing.
2. Slowly sweep the coil over the target location.
3. Locate the center of the target by listening for the loudest signal.
4. Trace the search coil by stepping to the side of the target. Repeat steps 2 and 3.
5. The target is located where the signal was loudest.
6. Release the [Pinpoint Button] and return to normal detecting.

[Diagram: Shows the Pinpoint button and an icon indicating the Pinpoint function.]

Depth Meter

The depth meter provides an approximate depth of a detected target. The depth meter is a guideline only. Fewer arrows indicate a shallower target, while more arrows indicate a deeper target. Accuracy can vary depending on the target type and size, and ground conditions.

After a target is detected, the depth meter remains on the LCD screen for a maximum of 5 seconds, or until the next target is detected. If no detection occurs, the depth meter icon and arrows are turned off.

Here is an example of the depth meter reading and estimated target depth for a US Quarter:

[Diagram: Shows depth meter readings with arrows indicating depth: 1" (25 mm), 3" (75 mm), 5" (125 mm), 6" (150 mm), >6" (>150 mm).]

Target Identification

Target-ID Number

Target-ID numbers range from 0 to 99, with ferrous targets typically ranging from 0 to 30. 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 properties for quick and easy identification.

For example, a US Quarter has a Target-ID of 86. This means that each time a target with an ID of 86 is detected, it is likely to be a US Quarter.

Target Groups

Target Groups are located at the top of the screen. Each Target-ID number has an associated Target Group icon that flashes when that type of target is detected. Target Groups are aligned with the Target-ID reference above.

Examples of Targets

Targets have a wide variety of metallic properties, so no single target can be identified with absolute certainty. This table is a guideline only.

The last detected Target-ID remains on screen for 5 seconds or until another target is detected. If no detection occurs, or if the detector passes over a rejected target, two large dashes are displayed.

[Diagram: Shows the screen display with Target-ID numbers and Target Group icons.]

Target Tones

Target-ID groups are assigned tones of different pitches, allowing the user to classify the Target-ID at a glance without looking at the screen. The VOYAGER has three target tones: Low, Medium, and High. The tone break point is the point on the Target-ID scale where the target tone transitions from one pitch to another.

[Diagram: Shows a scale from 0 to 99 with indicators for Low, Medium, and High tone ranges.]

Batteries

Two 9V batteries are required to power the VOYAGER. Alkaline batteries are recommended.

Replace batteries when no segments are visible on the battery level indicator.

[Icon: Battery level indicator.] Batteries need replacing.

Note: Replace both batteries simultaneously with new ones – do not mix old and new batteries.

Caution: Dispose of used batteries properly. Never bury or burn them.

Note: Remove batteries if you will not be using the detector for a week or longer. Batteries can leak chemicals that can destroy electronic components, so do not store the detector with batteries installed for extended periods.

Battery Level

The battery level indicator shows the current battery level. This indicator is approximate only.

If the battery is nearly depleted, the detector will automatically shut off.

Maintenance and Safety

• Wash your hands before touching the detector after applying sunscreen or insect repellent.
• Do not use solvents for cleaning. Use a damp cloth with mild soap.
• Never allow the detector to come into contact with gasoline or other petroleum-based liquids.
• Prevent sand and grit from entering the shafts and fittings (e.g., coil yoke and locking mechanisms). If sand and grit accumulate in these parts, clean them with a damp cloth.
• Do not bring the detector or accessories into contact with sharp objects, as this can cause scratches and damage.
• If the shafts show noticeable scratches, wipe them thoroughly with a damp cloth.
• Do not leave the detector in excessive cold or heat for longer than necessary. Covering it when not in use will provide better protection. Avoid leaving it in a hot vehicle.
• Check that the coil cable is in good condition and not subjected to excessive tension.
• Take precautions when transporting or storing the detector. Although made from high-quality materials and subjected to rigorous durability testing, the display screen can be scratched or severely damaged if not handled carefully.
• Do not expose the detector to extreme temperatures. The storage temperature range is -20°C to +70°C (-4°F to +158°F).
• Do not expose accessories not listed as waterproof to liquid/moisture or excessive humidity.
• Do not allow children to play with the detector or accessories; small parts can pose a choking hazard.
• Remove batteries before air transport or if storing for periods longer than one week.

Troubleshooting

Detector Will Not Turn On or Turns Off by Itself

1. Replace the batteries.

Detector Detects Nothing

1. Check if Target Groups are enabled for the objects you are detecting, or select the 'All Metal' mode.
2. Ensure you are holding the coil close enough to the ground (i.e., ensure the coil is close enough to the target to detect it).
3. Check that the search coil is properly connected.
4. Increase the sensitivity level (page 10).

Erratic/Excessive Noise

1. Restart the detector and check for noise again.
2. Move away from local sources of electrical interference.
3. Lower the sensitivity level (page 10).

Multiple Target Groups Flashing and Many Beeps

1. It is possible that you are detecting multiple different targets simultaneously (overlapping objects).
2. The detected object is complex (rusty or made of multiple metal types), causing the detector to identify it incorrectly. Try approaching the target from a different angle or use a different search mode.

No Sound When Headphones Are Connected

1. Check that the headphones are properly connected.
2. Check that the detector's volume is set to an audible level.
3. If using headphones with their own volume control, check that they are set to an audible level.
4. Disconnect the headphones and check if the detector's speaker is audible.
5. Try a different set of headphones if available.

Technical Specifications

Equipment may vary depending on the model or items ordered with your detector. Minelab reserves the right to respond to ongoing technical advancements by making changes to design, equipment, and specifications at any time. For the most current specifications for your VOYAGER detector, visit www.minelab.com.

Compliance

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Declaration

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

US Responsible Party: MINELAB AMERICAS INC, 123 Ambassador Drive, Suite 123, Naperville, IL 60540, USA. ComplianceManager@minelab.com.au

Recycling of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)

[Icon: WEEE symbol - a crossed-out wheeled bin.] This symbol indicates that the device and its electrical accessories must not be disposed of as household waste. These items must not be discarded as unsorted municipal waste and must be taken to a certified collection point for recycling and proper disposal. See 2012/19/EU (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment).

Simplified EU Declaration of Conformity

Hereby, Minelab Electronics Pty Ltd declares that the radio equipment type [Refer to equipment listed in Table 1] is in compliance with Directive 2014/53/EU. The full text of the EU declaration of conformity is available at the following internet address: www.minelab.com/compliance

[Table 1: Shows VOYAGER, 5.82 kHz, < -30 dBm]

This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0) License. To view a copy of this license, visit: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/

[Icons: Creative Commons logos.]