Teknetics T2+ Professional Metal Detector: Comprehensive Operating Manual and Guide to Metal Detecting

Introduction to the Teknetics T2+

The Teknetics T2+ is a high-performance, multi-purpose professional-grade metal detector. It incorporates the latest advancements in electronic technology and features a functional design representing the leading edge of metal detector engineering. The T2+ is designed to be easier to learn and use than comparable metal detectors, offering a combination of light weight and balance for unmatched comfort. Its primary uses include coinshooting, relic hunting, and gold prospecting.

Product Features

• Simple, easy-to-use controls
• Large LCD screen with Target Identification and operating control displays
• Straightforward menu-driven user interface
• Bar graph readout of ground mineral concentration
• Trigger-actuated FASTGRAB™ ground canceling with manual override
• Waterproof 11-inch open-frame BiAxial™ searchcoil
• Single-Filter All Metal Mode for maximum detection depth
• Double-Filter Discrimination Modes for searching in trashy areas
• Trigger-actuated target pinpointing with variable audio pitch

For questions or assistance, contact Teknetics Customer Service at 1-800-413-4131.

Quick Start

Follow these steps to begin using your T2+ metal detector:

1. Assemble the detector as described on pages 5-6.
2. Install four AA alkaline batteries with the positive terminals pointing up.
3. Turn the ON/OFF & Volume knob clockwise to power on the unit and set audio volume to maximum.
4. Upon startup, the T2+ defaults to All Metal Mode with Sensitivity preset to 60 and Hum Level preset to +1. Sweep the searchcoil parallel to the ground; the sound will stop if the coil motion ceases. The probable target type is indicated on the LCD screen.
5. The detector should remain silent when the searchcoil is not in motion and not near metal.
6. If false signals occur due to electrical interference, soil conditions, or trash metal, press the Menu button. With 'Sensitivity' highlighted, rotate the Settings knob counterclockwise to reduce sensitivity until false signals disappear. The menu will exit automatically after 5 seconds.
7. Test the detector by tossing a coin on the ground and sweeping over it to familiarize yourself with its response.
8. You are now ready to search.
9. Use the trigger switch to activate PinPoint mode, which helps locate targets precisely for easier recovery. In PinPoint mode, the searchcoil does not need to be in motion, and the 2-digit numeric display shows approximate target depth in inches.

Mechanicals

Assembly

The detector consists of an S-Rod, Middle Stem, and Lower Stem. Assembly involves:

1. Positioning the S-Rod upright.
2. Rotating the LOCKING COLLAR counterclockwise.
3. Ensuring the INTERNAL CAM LOCK is flush inside the tube.
4. Inserting the Middle Stem into the S-Rod with the SILVER BUTTON pointing upward.
5. Rotating the Middle Stem until the SILVER BUTTON aligns with the hole.
6. Twisting the LOCKING COLLAR clockwise to lock the stem.
7. Repeating steps 3-6 for the Lower Stem.
8. Attaching the SEARCHCOIL to the Lower Stem using the BOLT and KNURLED KNOB.
9. Adjusting the Lower Stem length for a comfortable posture with the searchcoil parallel to the ground.
10. Securing the searchcoil cable around the stems.
11. Connecting the CABLE PLUG to the housing, ensuring it is not twisted and the locking ring is tightened securely.
12. Tightening both LOCKING COLLARS.

Diagram Description: The assembly diagram shows the main components: S-Rod with hand-grip and control housing (containing ON/Off & Volume Switch, Menu Button, Settings Switch, Dual-function Trigger switch), Middle Stem, Upper Stem, Searchcoil Cable, Lower Stem, and the Biaxial Searchcoil. It also indicates the Battery Compartment, Headphone Jack, and Release Clip.

Batteries

The T2+ uses four AA batteries. Alkaline batteries provide the best performance, offering approximately 40 hours of service. Rechargeable NiMH batteries are also compatible but may offer slightly less service time. Always use batteries of the same type and charge state. The LCD screen displays the battery condition.

Caution: Do not mix old and new batteries.

Armrest

The armrest is adjustable in both width and position. The sides can be bent inward or outward to fit your forearm comfortably. For a secure fit, some users prefer to bend the armrest tightly against their forearm.

Arm Rest Position on Pole

The armrest position on the pole can be adjusted forward or backward by removing and reinserting two bolts. Ensure the power cable is not damaged during this process. Tighten the bolts securely to prevent movement while swinging the detector.

Diagram Description: Two diagrams illustrate adjusting the armrest in/out and forward/back along the pole.

Headphones

The T2+ features a 1/4-inch stereo headphone jack. Stereo headphones are recommended for optimal performance; mono headphones will not work. Using headphones improves battery life, reduces ambient noise interference, and allows for clearer detection of subtle target signals. For safety, avoid using headphones near traffic or other hazards. Use cables shorter than three meters.

Introduction to the Teknetics T2+

General Information

High Performance

The Teknetics T2+ is a versatile, high-performance computerized metal detector. It offers high sensitivity and advanced ground cancellation for professional gold prospecting, precise discrimination for relic hunting in challenging conditions, and visual Target-ID essential for coin hunting. The ground cancellation system is adjustable for use on saltwater beaches. Operating at 13 kHz, the T2+ provides excellent sensitivity to gold nuggets and jewelry, as well as coins. It comes equipped with an 11-inch elliptical Bi-Axial searchcoil for maximum detection depth in mineralized soils.

User Comfort

The T2+ is lightweight and exceptionally well-balanced, allowing for effortless swinging. The armrest position is adjustable to fit the user's arm, and the grip is made of durable, high-friction foam elastomer for comfort in various weather conditions. Controls are conveniently located and intuitive to use, with locking collars on the stems to prevent rattling.

Easy-to-Use & Informative Interface

The entire menu is always visible on the LCD display, which shows the electrical signature (Target-ID) of detected metal objects. The display provides continuous updates on battery condition and ground mineralization levels, which affect detection depth. Helpful messages appear automatically on the lower right corner of the display when needed.

Low Operating Cost

Powered by four AA alkaline batteries, the T2+ typically offers over 40 hours of use before requiring battery replacement.

Designed by Experienced Engineers

The T2+ was developed by a design team led by John Gardiner (firmware engineer) and David Johnson, whose expertise is drawn from many years of experience with leading high-performance metal detectors from major U.S. manufacturers.

Specifications

• Mechanical: S-rod design with electronics housing on the handgrip, 3-piece breakdown, batteries located under the elbow, 2-way adjustable armrest (forward/backward and around forearm).
• Searchcoil: 11" (28 cm) open-frame elliptical double-D, waterproof.
• Batteries: 4 AA, alkaline or NiMH (not included).
• Weight: 3.5 pounds (1.6 kg) with alkaline batteries installed.
• Static Balance: 0.47 pounds (0.22 kg) in vertical plane normal to elbow, varies with adjustment and user physiology.
• Dynamic Balance: Axial moment of 0.29 foot-pounds (0.39 newton-meters), varies with adjustment and user physiology.
• Sweep Effort: Lateral moment of 5.2 foot-pounds (7.1 newton-meters).
• Operating Principle: VLF induction balance.
• Operating Frequency: Nominal 13 kHz, quartz crystal timing reference.
• Basic Sensitivity: 5 x 10⁹ root Hertz (detectivity).
• Lag Coefficient: 70 milliseconds.
• Reactive Overload: Approximately 10,000 micro-cgs units (volume susceptibility).
• Resistive Overload: Approximately 1,200 micro-cgs units (volume susceptibility).
• Ground Cancellation Range: From ferrite to salt, inclusive.
• Discrimination Ground Suppression: Combination of second and third order methods.
• ID Ground Suppression: Third order.
• Battery Life: Typically 40 hours with good quality alkaline batteries; less with NiMH rechargeable.
• Operating Temperature Range: -4 to +122 degrees F (-20 to +50 degrees C).
• Operating Humidity Range: 0-90% non-condensing.

Controls

ON-OFF & VOLUME Knob

Located under the elbow, this knob controls power and audio volume for both the speaker and headphones. It does not affect the detector's sensitivity or susceptibility to electrical interference.

MENU Pushbutton

Located on the right of the front panel, the MENU button allows you to:

1. Step through menu selections on the display. Each press highlights the next selection, and the SETTINGS knob adjusts the value.
2. Recall the last adjusted setting. An arrow next to a menu selection indicates its stored value, which can be recalled with a single press.
3. Temporarily deactivate the bP setting by pressing and holding the button. The standard 2+ # OF TONES selection becomes active. Releasing the button returns to the bP setting. This function has no effect when using # OF TONES settings other than bP.

SETTINGS Knob

Located on the left of the front panel, the SETTINGS knob is used to:

1. Change the setting or value of the highlighted menu selection.
2. Select the operating MODE when the top line of the menu is highlighted. Switching between All Metal and Discrimination modes occurs as soon as the selection is highlighted. All Metal Mode detects all metal objects, while Discrimination Mode ignores trash metal like nails and foil.
3. Recall the last adjusted setting.

Diagram Description: The diagram shows the control panel of the T2+ detector, highlighting the Settings knob, Menu button, and the dual-function trigger switch.

Controls (continued)

TRIGGER SWITCH

Located under the control housing in front of the grip:

• Pulled Back: Activates PinPoint mode, allowing temporary detection of metal objects without searchcoil motion, aiding in precise location.
• Pushed Forward: Activates FASTGRAB™ automatic ground cancellation. The detector analyzes soil minerals to cancel interference, applying this information to both All Metal and Discrimination modes.

The Menu System

The LCD display shows the current mode and settings. There are two search modes: All Metal and Discrimination. To switch modes, highlight the top line of the menu and rotate the SETTINGS knob. Each mode has three adjustable settings:

• All Metal: Sensitivity, Hum Level, and Manual Ground Cancellation (see page 14).
• Discrimination: Sensitivity, Discrimination Level, and Number of Tones (see page 15).

To select a function, press the MENU button until the desired function is highlighted. The word 'SETTING' appears, followed by the current value. Rotate the SETTINGS knob to adjust values (clockwise to increase, counterclockwise to decrease). If no change is made within 5 seconds, the menu exits automatically. Pressing MENU or rotating SETTINGS during normal operation returns to the last menu feature accessed.

Ground Cancellation

What is Ground Cancellation?

Soil minerals can create signals that interfere with metal detection. Ground Cancellation is the process by which the detector cancels these unwanted signals while preserving signals from metal objects. This is achieved by calibrating the detector's internal Ground Phase setting to the specific soil conditions. Proper calibration leads to deeper target detection, quieter operation, and more accurate Target Identification.

Ground Cancellation can be performed automatically via the Trigger Switch (FASTGRAB™) or manually within the All Metal menu. The setting applies to both All Metal and Discrimination modes.

Automatic Ground Cancellation Procedure (FASTGRAB™)

1. Find a spot of ground free of metal.
2. Hold the detector with the searchcoil about one foot above the ground.
3. Push the TRIGGER SWITCH forward with your index finger.
4. Pump the searchcoil and detector up and down over the ground, lifting it about 6 inches and lowering it to within 1 inch, approximately once or twice per second.
5. A 2-digit value representing the Ground Phase setting will appear on the display.

If the detector cannot cancel the ground signal, the message 'CAN'T GC' will appear. In this case, find a different spot and try again.

Manual Ground Cancellation

Manual ground cancellation is recommended for situations like gold prospecting, searching on wet saltwater beaches, or in areas with excessive metal trash where automatic cancellation may be difficult. It requires some practice to master.

The ground cancellation setting ranges from 0 to 99, with each number representing 5 detent steps on the SETTINGS knob. The Fe3O4 bar graph indicates magnetic mineralization, and the G.C. Phase number shows the type of ground mineralization. The detector will not cancel ground where readings are less than 40; manual cancellation is required in such cases.

Ground Mineralization Types (Typical):

Manual Ground Cancellation Procedure

1. Select the MANUAL G.C. function. The 'G.C. PHASE' legend appears, showing the current setting (0-99). The message 'PUMP COIL TO G.C.' will display.
2. Pump the searchcoil and detector up and down as described in the automatic procedure.
3. Turn the SETTINGS KNOB to adjust the level, aiming to eliminate the sound as the coil is pumped. The audio feedback should be consistent when lowering and raising the coil.

Incorrect Adjustment: If the sound is louder when raising the coil, increase the ground cancellation setting. If louder when lowering, decrease it.

Positive and Negative Response: Ground cancellation adjusts the detector to ignore ground minerals. An incorrect setting can result in a positive (sound increases as coil approaches ground) or negative (sound decreases or becomes silent as coil approaches ground) response from minerals.

All Metal Mode

The All Metal Mode is more sensitive and provides better target 'feel' than Discrimination Mode, detecting all metal objects. Searchcoil motion is required for detection. This is a single-filter mode similar to 'fast Auto-Tune' or 'SAT' modes found in other detectors.

• Sensitivity: Controls electronic gain (1-99). High sensitivity may cause noisy operation in the presence of electrical interference or high ground mineralization. Settings above 90 may reveal internal circuit noise. Personal preference plays a role, but some noise is necessary to detect small or deep objects.
• Hum Level: Also known as audio threshold, adjustable from -9 to +9. Set high enough to be barely audible for maximum sensitivity to weak signals. Setting it in the negative region can make the machine run silently.
• Manual Ground Cancellation: Can only be performed in All Metal Mode, but the setting carries over to Discrimination Mode.
• bP: BOOST: When # OF TONES in the DISCRIM menu is set to bP, All Metal Mode response characteristics change. This setting increases sensitivity to larger, deeper gold nuggets. Sweeping too fast with bP may cause missed detection of small surface nuggets; maintain a slow sweep speed.

Discrimination Mode

This mode is used to ignore trash metal objects like nails, aluminum foil, and pull-tabs. It incurs a slight loss of sensitivity to small or deep objects. Searchcoil motion is required for detection.

• Sensitivity: Adjustable from 1 to 99. Designed to operate silently when no metal is present. Reduce sensitivity if noise occurs.
• Discrimination Level: Adjustable from 0 to 80. Objects with numeric values below the selected level are eliminated. A setting of 40 typically eliminates iron, while 80 eliminates aluminum trash and zinc pennies but may also reject nickels.
• Number of Tones (# OF TONES): Offers various audio discrimination methods for different search conditions and user preferences. Signals are processed either continuously or via sampling.
• Continuous Processing: Provides a continuous signal response, offering good 'feel' for target size, depth, and shape. Preferred for relic hunting in rough terrain.
• Sampled Processing: Captures a snapshot of the signal at its strongest point, offering more accurate Target Identification but less target 'feel'. Preferred for coinshooting in trashy areas.

# OF TONES Selections:

• 1: Single Medium pitch tone: Continuous processing, good for plowed or rocky ground.
• 1+: Medium-to-High pitch tone: Varies with signal strength, producing a squeal for large shallow objects. Provides more information but can be annoying. Good for plowed or rocky ground.
• 2+: Two tones: Similar to 1+, but iron produces a low-pitched tone. Useful for hearing all targets.
• 3: Three different audio tones: Iron produces a low tone, aluminum trash/zinc pennies a medium tone, and coins a high tone. Combination of continuous and sampled processing. Preferred for coinshooting in trashy areas.
• 3b: Bottle Cap Mode: Similar to 3, but modified to produce inconsistent tones for steel bottle caps, reducing false positives.
• 4: Four different audio tones: Adds a fourth medium-high tone for targets in the 73-79 numeric range, useful for identifying older coins.
• bP: Boost: Enhanced sensitivity version of 2+ # OF TONES. Useful for deep targets or when the searchcoil must be held higher due to vegetation. Allows slower sweep speeds without loss of sensitivity.
• dP: Delta Pitch: Tone pitch varies with visual ID number. Good for relic hunting. Primarily continuous sampling.

What You See vs. What You Hear: The visual Target-ID is based on sampled processing, while audible response may differ. The T2+ allows independent optimization of audio and visual systems.

PinPoint Feature

After locating a target, the PinPoint feature helps pinpoint its exact location for easier recovery. Unlike other modes, PinPoint detects metal even when the searchcoil is stationary over the target.

Ground Pick-Up

If ground cancellation has not been performed, PinPoint may produce a ground signal. To mitigate this, perform ground cancellation first, or place the coil close to the ground off to the side of the target, pull the trigger, and then raise the searchcoil slightly over the target.

How to Pinpoint

1. Position the searchcoil just off the ground, to the side of the target.
2. Pull the trigger and raise the searchcoil about 2 inches. This makes the ground signal negative (silent).
3. Move the searchcoil slowly across the target. The sound indicates the target's location. The loudest sound and highest audio pitch pinpoint the center. A wide area of sound indicates a large object.

Narrow It Down

To further refine the target location, position the searchcoil near the center of the response pattern, release the trigger, and pull it again. This will only produce a response directly over the target. Repeat to narrow the zone further.

Controlling Sensitivity in PinPoint Mode

The default PinPoint sensitivity is 60. To adjust it, pull the trigger (without releasing) and rotate the SETTINGS knob. Changes are saved when the trigger is released but revert to default when the T2+ is powered off.

LCD Visual Display

Numeric Target-ID (2-digits)

When the searchcoil passes over a metal object, a 2-digit Target-ID is displayed for 4 seconds. The number may fluctuate if the signal is weak or ground mineralization is high. An arrow at the top of the display indicates the object's classification.

Typical Target-ID Ranges:

Probable Target Identification

The display shows probable Target-ID zones based on signal ranges. The microprocessor analyzes the signal and categorizes it. For example, signals matching zinc pennies and aluminum screw caps will show an arrow above the 'zinc/screw cap' icon.

Copper pennies (pre-1982) typically read in the 10¢ zone. Gold jewelry often reads in the 40-60 range, while silver jewelry reads higher. Target-IDs are probable, and digging is often the only way to confirm identification.

Target Depth

When PinPoint is engaged, the display shows estimated depth, assuming a coin-sized target. Small objects may read deeper, and large objects shallower, than their actual depth.

G.C. PHASE

Displays the ground cancellation setting (0-99) during manual or automatic ground cancellation.

SETTING

Indicates when the user is in the menu. The displayed number is a setting, not a Target-ID.

MESSAGES

• OVERLOAD - RAISE COIL: Appears when a target or magnetic soil is too close, overloading the circuit. Raise the coil to clear the message and resume normal detection.
• RAISE COIL: Appears with 3b or dP methods, indicating a target may be too close for accurate identification. Sweep farther from the ground.
• PUMP COIL TO GC: Appears when initiating ground cancellation.
• CAN'T GC: Appears during FASTGRAB™ if the detector cannot measure soil suitable for cancellation, often due to the presence of metal. Try a different spot.

Bar Graphs Fe3O4 (magnetite)

This graph displays the soil's magnetic mineralization factor. High Fe3O4 values can affect detection depth. Pumping the searchcoil provides the most accurate Fe3O4 reading.

Fe3O4 Range and Description:

Battery Condition Indicator

Fresh alkaline batteries show four bars. When no bars are displayed and the 'BATT' legend flashes, batteries are low. For NiMH batteries, the display may stay on the second or third bar until the first bar appears, indicating imminent depletion.

Frequency Shifting

To mitigate electrical interference causing chatter or false signals, the operating frequency can be shifted. Hold the MENU button, then push the trigger forward to increase frequency or pull it back to decrease it. Each press of MENU changes the frequency by one value (F1 to F7). The default frequency is F4.

Capabilities and Limitations

Depth

The T2+ can detect U.S. coins up to 12-15 inches deep under good conditions. Large objects like 55-gallon drums can be detected several feet deep. Electrical interference and highly mineralized soils can reduce detection depth.

Target Identification

The T2+ identifies probable metal objects by measuring effective electrical conductivity (0-99 on the LCD). Factors like metallic composition, size, shape, and orientation influence readings. Coins are generally identified accurately. Identification of pull-tabs and foil is less consistent. Smaller objects and those made from lower conductivity alloys (iron, brass, zinc) read lower, while larger objects of higher conductivity alloys (silver, copper, aluminum) read higher. Gold typically reads low. Identification accuracy in air is about 10 inches; soil minerals can reduce this accuracy, though effective identification is possible to at least 8 inches in most soils.

Requirement for Motion; Pinpoint Feature

Searchcoil motion is required for detection and identification in All Metal and Discrimination modes. The PinPoint feature allows detection without motion and is used for precise target location, not identification.

Ground Canceling

Essential for maximum depth in All Metal and Discrimination modes, and for PinPoint. Automatic (FASTGRAB™) or manual cancellation is available. Discrimination Mode works reasonably well without cancellation, but All Metal Mode requires it. Automatic cancellation does not work for saltwater; manual cancellation is necessary.

Discrimination

Allows ignoring specific metal categories, primarily iron and aluminum, making searches in trashy areas more pleasant. The T2+ offers a wide variety of discrimination features.

Depth Reading

Estimated depth is based on signal strength and calibrated for coin-sized targets. Small objects may appear deeper, and large objects shallower, than they actually are.

Air Testing

Testing can be done without sweeping over the ground, ensuring the detector is stable and away from large metal masses. Wave metal objects briskly over the searchcoil. Ground cancellation cannot be tested in air without iron mineral samples.

Sweep Speed

The T2+ is known for its quick response, enabling efficient target identification in trashy areas. Faster sweep speeds can increase depth and Target-ID accuracy for targets deeper than 8-10 inches.

Checking a Target

Unlike other detectors, the T2+ provides accurate Target-IDs with deliberate, shoulder-width sweeps across the target. Non-standard sweep methods may lead to inconsistent IDs.

Steel Bottle Caps & Flat Iron Trash

Identifying steel bottle caps and flat iron trash can be challenging. Methods to minimize unnecessary digging include using the 3b (bottle cap) or dP modes, sweeping at an angle, or sweeping the rear of the coil. Repeatable IDs around 81-84 suggest a dime or copper penny. Non-repeatable or fluctuating IDs often indicate bottle caps.

Search Techniques

Sweeping Searchcoil

Keep the searchcoil in motion, parallel to the ground, without lifting at the end of the sweep. Use broad, deliberate sweeps for accurate Target-ID. Avoid short sweeps.

Shallow Targets

Shallow targets may give multiple responses; the last one is usually sampled at the coil's edge and may be inaccurate. To improve accuracy, lift the searchcoil slightly and slow the sweep speed to get a single, consistent response.

Large Shallow Targets

These can cause signal overload, indicated by a siren sound. Raise the searchcoil until the warning disappears and sweep at the increased height.

Large Targets

Overloading not confined to a small spot may indicate a large object like an iron pipe. Locating smaller objects near large metal masses can be difficult.

Using the Special BOOST (bP) Selection

Use bP when vegetation or obstacles prevent sweeping close to the ground. It enhances sensitivity for deeper targets. Slowing the sweep speed with bP improves target separation, comparable to the 2+ selection. bP is also more tolerant of sloppy sweep technique when fatigued.

Pinpointing With the Trigger Switch

After locating a target in All Metal or Discrimination Mode, use the trigger switch to pinpoint its exact location. Position the searchcoil 1-2 inches above the ground, to the side of the target. Pull the trigger and move the coil slowly across the target. The sound indicates the location. A wide sound area suggests a large object.

Narrow It Down

To further refine the target location, position the searchcoil near the center of the response pattern, release the trigger, and pull it again. This isolates the response directly over the target.

Estimating Target SIZE, DEPTH, and SHAPE

The PinPoint display estimates depth based on coin-sized targets. Differentiating objects like aluminum cans from coins involves observing how the response diminishes as the searchcoil is raised: a quick diminution suggests a coin, while a slow diminution with a broad response indicates a can. Ring-shaped or flat, round objects (like coins) give a narrower response than irregular shapes. Long, skinny iron objects may produce double responses.

Estimating Target-ID

A single sweep usually shows a 2-digit Target-ID. Variations between sweeps can provide clues. Steel bottle caps often read in the coin range and show fluctuating IDs, unlike consistent coin IDs. The visual ID and discriminator are independent systems, providing complementary information.

False Signals and Chatter

Causes include electrical interference, nuisance buried objects, ground minerals, hot rocks, and high sensitivity causing internal circuit noise. Reducing sensitivity is often the solution. Electrical interference can stem from power lines, appliances, cell phones, etc. Frequency shifting can help mitigate this.

Nuisance Buried Objects

Weak signals from trash like rusty iron or foil can be difficult to pinpoint due to depth and size. Reducing sensitivity is often the best solution. Trash objects very close to the searchcoil may not be fully eliminated by discrimination. Multiple iron objects close together can fool the detector into thinking the gap between them is nonferrous metal.

Ground Minerals

Conductive mineral salts produce broad signals. Common causes include fertilizer, salt residue, and urine. Intense fire can alter soil minerals, affecting ground cancellation settings. Electrically conductive industrial minerals like coke or slag may require sensitivity reduction or a high discrimination level.

Hot Rocks

Hot rocks contain iron minerals and cause the detector to sound off. Negative hot rocks (often black, heavy, and attracted to magnets) produce a 'boing' sound in All Metal Mode. Positive hot rocks (often reddish, smaller, and may sound like gold nuggets) can be difficult to distinguish from targets. Discriminators can often eliminate them, but large concentrations may require ignoring non-repeatable signals.

Using the Sensitivity Control

Initial sensitivity is set for coinshooting. Higher settings are preferred for relic hunting and gold prospecting. Reduce sensitivity to quiet operation during electrical interference or nuisance signals. If you are consistently getting signals but not recovering targets, reducing sensitivity might help detect smaller or deeper objects.

Tips on Ground Canceling

The T2+ defaults to a ground cancellation phase number of 90. Ground cancellation is usually necessary in All Metal Mode but often not in Discrimination Mode. Always find a metal-free spot to perform cancellation. Check the success by sweeping the area; there should be little to no audible response to the soil. If cancellation is unsuccessful, try another spot. If no suitable spot is found, turn the machine off and on again to restore the default preset. Soil conditions can change, requiring frequent re-calibration, especially in geologically complex areas or after soil disturbance.

Sandy or gravelly soils typically read 75-95, loams and clays 50-80, and red clays 35-55. Higher mineralization requires more frequent ground canceling for optimal depth.

The Fe3O4 bar graph indicates iron mineralization. Pumping the coil provides the most accurate readings. Mapping soil types and mineralization can help locate areas that have been dug or subjected to fire, revealing site history.

Detecting Activities

Coinshooting

Coinshooting involves searching for coins in parks, schoolyards, and yards. These areas often contain trash like pull-tabs, bottle caps, and nails. Discrimination is typically used to filter out iron and aluminum trash, though this may cause some jewelry to be missed. In lawn areas where digging can damage turf, a hand-held pinpointer is recommended. Recovering targets involves precise pinpointing, cutting a slit in the turf, and firm tamping. Deep targets may be missed due to turf damage concerns, so reducing sensitivity can help minimize nuisance signals.

Always obtain permission before searching on private property. Public places usually have ordinances that permit metal detecting as long as no damage is caused. Act as a public service by picking up trash, and be proficient in target recovery without damaging lawns. If jewelry with personal identification is found, attempt to return it to the owner.

Relic Hunting

Relic hunting focuses on historical artifacts such as battlefield debris, coins, jewelry, buttons, and tools. Iron objects like nails and rusted cans are common unwanted finds, though some iron items like weapons can be valuable. Exercise caution at sites with potential unexploded ordnance.

Relic hunting locations are often fields, forests, and vacant lots where digging is permissible. Good depth sensitivity is important. In areas with significant iron trash, discrimination is necessary, even if it means missing some valuable artifacts.

Obtain permission before relic hunting. Research local laws regarding artifact recovery. Understanding the historical context and provenance of finds enhances their value. Documenting finds and their locations is crucial. Mapping soil conditions using the detector's features can help reveal site history.

Gold Prospecting

Gold is found in various regions of the United States, including western states, Alaska, and parts of the Appalachians. Success in gold prospecting involves understanding local geology and the processes that formed gold deposits. Hillsides are prime locations as they are less affected by panning and dredging. Gold found on hillsides tends to be larger and more detectable than alluvial gold.

Geological areas for prospecting include exposed quartz veins ('reefs'), ground above weathered veins, downhill slopes where erosion has moved gold, and stream channels where gold concentrates with gravel and sand. Placer gold is often associated with magnetite black sand, which can affect detector performance. 'Desert placer' deposits are formed by erosion and deposition from flash floods.

Understanding the geology of an area is key. In humid regions, gold may be too deep to detect. Arid regions often have thinner soils, exposing gold. Be aware of 'hot rocks' (iron-oxide-rich rocks that sound like metal) which can be a nuisance. If you are digging small pieces of trash metal, you are likely to find gold nuggets if they are present.

A strong magnet is essential for gold prospecting, acting as a 'hot rock discriminator'. Iron and magnetite are attracted to magnets; gold and other nonferrous metals are not. High sensitivity and true ground balance are crucial for gold prospecting. Learning to interpret the sounds of the detector in relation to ground minerals is important. Prospectors often prefer headphones for better audio clarity.

Cache Hunting

A cache is a hidden accumulation of valuables. Searching for caches requires research to identify potential locations and understand the circumstances of their hiding. Information from old newspapers or local 'old timers' can be valuable. Ownership of caches can be complex. Caches are typically large and deep, making All Metal Mode or PinPoint mode (with frequent trigger release) advantageous.

Shallow Water Hunting

Teknetics searchcoils are waterproof for shallow water (up to two feet deep). Be cautious not to wet the electronics housing. Avoid salt spray, which can damage electronics. Beaches are popular for detecting, and recovering lost jewelry can be rewarding. For beach hunting, All Metal Mode or Discrimination Mode with iron elimination is recommended. Digging is usually easy, and beach cleanup is a public service. Saltwater's high conductivity can cause false signals; special precautions are needed for wet sand or saltwater beaches, including reduced sensitivity, manual ground cancellation, and specific discrimination settings.

How Metal Detectors Work

Most hobby metal detectors use VLF Induction Balance technology. The searchcoil contains two induction coils that transmit and receive alternating magnetic fields. When metal is present, it distorts the field. Electronic circuits amplify and analyze these signals to determine target characteristics, conveying information via visual display or audio tones. Iron minerals in soil also distort magnetic fields, potentially obscuring weak signals or causing misidentification. Modern detectors use software to filter out unwanted mineral signals while retaining metal object signals.

Treasure Hunter's Code of Ethics

• Always comply with Federal, State, County, and local laws.
• Respect private property; obtain owner's permission before entering.
• Take care to refill all holes and leave no damage.
• Remove and dispose of all trash and litter found.
• Appreciate and protect natural resources, wildlife, and private property.
• Act as a thoughtful, considerate, and courteous ambassador for the hobby.
• Never destroy historical or archaeological treasures.
• Conduct yourself with courtesy and consideration, as your example reflects on all treasure hunters.

5-Year Limited Warranty

The Teknetics T2+ metal detector is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for five years from the date of purchase under normal use. Damage from neglect, accidental damage, or misuse is not covered. Proof of purchase is required for warranty claims. Liability is limited to repair or replacement at the manufacturer's discretion. Shipping costs to First Texas Products are the consumer's responsibility.

To return your detector for service, contact First Texas Products for a Return Authorization (RA) Number. First Texas Products L.L.C. is located at 1120 Alza Drive, El Paso, TX 79907. Phone: 1-800-413-4131.

Warranty terms may vary in other countries. This device complies with FCC Part 15 Subpart B, Section 15.109 Class B.

Accessories

Teknetics offers a range of accessories to enhance your metal detecting experience:

• Teknetics® Padded Carrying Bag (CBAG-T): Durable nylon bag with a zip pocket for accessories.
• Stereo Headphones (HEADT): Compatible with Teknetics detectors, featuring 1/4-inch and 1/8-inch plugs.
• Tek-Point: A waterproof pulse induction pinpointer with 3 sensitivity levels, audio signal indicator, and vibrator. Runs on 2 AA batteries.
• Replacement/Accessory Searchcoils: Available in 15" DD Elliptical, 11" DD Elliptical, and 5" DD Round sizes.
• Coil Covers: Protective covers for the various searchcoil sizes.
• Neoprene Face Rain Cover (FACE-COVER): Protects the detector's face from weather.
• Neoprene Elbow Rain Cover (ELBOW-COVER): Protects the detector's elbow area from weather.
• The Digger: A tough carbon steel digging tool with a double-edge blade and 32 cutting teeth, including a cordura carry sheath.
• Teknetics® T-Shirt: 100% cotton T-shirt with Teknetics logo, available in various sizes.
• Teknetics® Baseball Cap: One-size-fits-all cap.

For complete details, visit www.tekneticsdirect.com or call 1-800-413-4131.