Minelab MF5 Metal and Conductive Detector Operations Manual

Disclaimer

This document contains intellectual property, technical and proprietary data and information owned solely by Minelab Electronics Pty Limited. This material must not be used without the prior written permission of Minelab Electronics Pty Ltd. © Minelab Electronics Pty Ltd. All Rights Reserved.

This document is protected by copyright. Apart from any use permitted under the Australian Copyright Act 1968 (Cth) or other applicable laws, any unauthorised use, appropriation or reproduction of this document or any part of it is strictly prohibited. No part of this document may be used or reproduced by any means or by any process, in any form, without the prior written permission of the copyright owner Minelab Electronics Pty Ltd of 2 Second Avenue, Mawson Lakes SA 5095, Australia.

Patents and Trademarks

Patents may apply to this product: www.minelab.com/patents. MINELAB™ and MF5™ are trademarks of Minelab Electronics Pty. Ltd.

System Overview

MF5 Overview

Since 1996, Minelab has designed, developed and manufactured its range of metal detectors to meet the requirements of landmine, unexploded ordnance and Improvised Explosive Device (IED) clearance operations throughout the world. Minelab continually strives to improve equipment detection capability and Operator safety throughout the development of its unique technologies and products.

Performance

Minelab's MF5 metal detector has a uniquely simple and ergonomic design. The detector is reliable, robust and simple to use, allowing an Operator to focus on detecting targets. The MF5 is designed to detect and pinpoint all types of metal and conductive targets to include fine wires and carbon rods. Using complex interrogation algorithms, the MF5 can also provide an Operator with information regarding target composition.

Simple

The MF5 is designed for simple and intuitive use by an Operator, thereby reducing the time required for equipment training. Target detection alerts provided to an Operator can be a combination of audio (Main Speaker and/or Earset), visual (visible or Infrared [IR] Light Emitting Diodes [LED]) and haptic (vibration) responses. An Operator can select IR LED when operations require the use of night vision goggles.

Safe

This manual describes procedures for the safe and effective operation of the MF5. However, local Standard Operating Procedures should take precedence, provided all Minelab recommended safety procedures are observed. The MF5 incorporates several safety features such as Low Battery and System Fault warnings with continuous microprocessor controlled internal self-testing. The inclusion of a Test Piece provides the Operator with a quick and easy check to ensure the detector is functioning at its operational capability.

Robust

Components of the MF5 are manufactured within tightly controlled parameters so that they can be interchanged in the field without any requirement for calibration. The MF5 is designed to comply with MIL-STD-810G.

NOTE: Although the MF5 can withstand immersion to a depth of three metres for short periods of time, it is NOT designed for use as an underwater detector.

Detecting Set

The MF5 is supplied as a detecting set with the following items:

Standard Items

• MF5 Detector
• Carry Bag
• Hard Transit Case
• C cell Batteries (NiMH or Alkaline × 4)
• Earset
• Test Piece
• Operations Manual
• Field Guide

Optional Items

• Battery Charger and Cables
• Battery Charger Carry Bag
• Audio Adaptor Cable

The Hard Transit Case stores the detector inside the Carry Bag and protects the detector when in transit or placed in storage. The Carry Bag allows the Operator to comfortably carry the detector when use of the Hard Case is impractical. The Carry Bag is not suitable for use when transporting the detector by road or air. For added protection during road or air transport, it is recommended that the MF5 be packed in the Hard Transit Case.

NOTE: Items and specifications may vary from those shown and are subject to customer specific requirements.

MF5 Main Detector Parts

Major component parts of the MF5 include:

MF5 Detector Components

• Battery Compartment: Contains four NiMH Rechargeable C Cell or Alkaline batteries. A battery map is provided to indicate correct alignment of batteries when inserted into the compartment.
• Earset Connector: Provides connection for the Earset.
• Main Body: Waterproof housing containing the detector electronics and batteries.
• Controls: Sensitivity knob and keypad containing Power, Volume UP / Down / Mute, Vibration and LED Buttons.
• Shaft Hinge: Pivot point for unfolding or folding the shafts. The hinge is only locked in position when the Handle Assembly is in its deployed position.
• Upper, Middle & Lower Shafts: Carbon fibre shafts that are adjustable for Operator comfort and for changes in operating positions.
• Upper & Lower Camlocks: Self-cleaning locking mechanisms to secure middle and lower shafts.
• Coil: Waterproof open web coil which can be rotated 270 degrees.
• Coil Pivot Assembly: Permits the tilt and rotation of the Coil and provides a tension screw for adjustment as required.
• Handle Assembly: Collapsible handle that contains user interface buttons and LED display and a latch to permit quiet set-up and collapse.
• Test Piece: Conveniently stowed on the Armrest to allow the Operator to ensure the detector is working at its operational capability.
• Armrest & Strap: Provided for Operator comfort when the detector is used for prolonged periods. The Armrest can also be extended for Operator comfort.

Getting Started

MF5 Preparation

To prepare the detector for use, conduct the following procedure:

1. Remove from the case / bag: Open the Hard Transit Case and / or Carry Bag.
2. Inspect for damage: Inspect for obvious signs of damage. If damage is evident, report to the supervisor / team leader.
3. Insert batteries: Unlock the Battery Compartment Lid by twisting the Battery Locking Lever counter-clockwise one-quarter turn. Once unlocked, pull the lid away from the Battery Compartment; the lid will stay attached by a tether. Using the battery map located on the side of the Main Body, insert four C cell batteries. Taking care not to snag or trap the tether, replace the Battery Compartment Lid and rotate the Battery Lock Lever clockwise one-quarter turn. If the batteries are inserted incorrectly, the detector will fail to function when switched on.
4. Unfold and adjust: This involves several steps:
   • Slide down armrest strap.
   • Fold out coil and shafts.
   • Slide handle up.
   • Extend coil outwards.
   • Rotate coil 270°.
   • Unlock camlocks.
   • Extend shafts then lock camlocks.
   • Slide back armrest.
   • Adjust armrest and strap.
5. Extend for operation: Extend the Lower and Middle Shafts to suit standing, kneeling or prone operating positions.
   NOTE: The MF5 requires four C cell batteries for operation. Use only high quality NiMH rechargeable or Alkaline batteries. Minelab recommends that only rechargeable batteries with a capacity of 4000 mAh or greater be used with the MF5. Rechargeable batteries have specific charge / discharge maintenance requirements which should be strictly followed to ensure maximum battery life. Do not mix old and new batteries. Do not mix different battery brands.
   NOTE: Electronics within the MF5 ensure that its performance remains consistent as the charge state of the batteries begins to reduce. A Battery Low Alarm will occur when there is approximately 30 minutes of battery life remaining.
   Important Safety Warnings and Advice: When the Critically Low Battery Alarm occurs, the Operator must immediately STOP operations. The MF5 should be switched off and new or recharged batteries inserted.
   CAUTION -- Risk of explosion if battery is replaced by an incorrect type.
6. Connect Earset: Undo the dust caps from the Earset Plug and Earset Socket on the detector. Gently hold the Earset by the rubber collar using thumb and index finger; the raised double arrow should be uppermost. Align the plug with the Earset Socket and firmly slide the collar onto the socket. The MF5 is now ready for operations.
   NOTE: The Earset Connector is waterproof and must be connected and disconnected from the Earset Socket by holding the rubber collar. Do not attempt to connect or disconnect the Earset by pushing or pulling on the strain relief or wire at the rear of the rubber collar.

Pack up

To repack the MF5, reverse the preparation procedure. Lifting the latch and gently sliding the handle back allows for quiet stowage of the handle assembly.

Functional Description

Basic Functions

For ease of use, all controls and displays for the MF5 are located on the Handle Assembly and Main Body.

Dual Function: Several buttons have a dual function as notated on the decal icon. For example, the Volume Down Button can also be used to mute the audio. Where a button has a dual function: Short-press (< 0.5 s) for the primary function. Long-press (> 0.5 s) for the secondary function.

Controls and Displays

• 1. LED Display: A display of nine LEDs provides a visual indication of detection signal strength when in Detection and Pinpoint Modes and information regarding target composition when in Interrogation Mode.
• 2. Ground Balance Button: Ground Balance should be conducted every time the MF5 is switched ON and when first changing between IED and Conventional Operations or vice versa. The automated Ground Balance procedure removes interference or false alarms from mineralised soils and rocks whilst maintaining sufficient sensitivity to detect targets of interest. NOTE: Whenever the MF5 is restarted, the previous Ground Balance condition is retained, although a new Ground Balance is recommended.
• 3. Mode Button (Yellow): The MF5 operates in one of three sensor modes:
  • Detection Mode: Detection Mode is the default sensor mode to be used for detecting all targets. It is the most sensitive mode.
  • Interrogation Mode: By pressing and releasing the Mode Button once, the MF5 will enter into Interrogation Mode, which provides additional target information to the Operator.
  • Pinpointing Mode: By pressing and holding the Mode Button, the MF5 will enter Pinpointing Mode, which assists the Operator to accurately map and pinpoint the target. When the Mode Button is released, the MF5 will revert to Detection Mode.
• 4. Power Button: To switch the MF5 ON or OFF, Long Press (> 0.5 s) the Power Button. The MF5 will complete start-up procedures and internal diagnostics to ensure the detector is operational and working within design parameters. By default, the MF5 will commence in Detection Mode and emit a double-tick heartbeat every 15 seconds.
• 5. Sensitivity Knob: The MF5 can be operated in one of five sensitivity levels in either Conventional or IED Operations. To select a sensitivity level, the Sensitivity Knob must first be lifted slightly and then rotated. The need to first lift the Sensitivity Knob prevents accidental or inadvertent changes to sensitivity without the Operator's knowledge.
  • IED Operations (Default): IED Operations should be selected when searching for all types of targets, including carbon rods and fine wires.
  • Conventional Operations: Conventional Operations result in the MF5 being less sensitive to carbon rods and wires and is most suitable for the detection of metal contained in conventional ordnance or landmines. Conventional Operations is also more effective when searching in ground with high salt content, for example, beach areas.
  After switching on the MF5 in IED or Conventional Operations, a Ground Balance procedure must be conducted. NOTE: After switching on the MF5, when selecting IED or Conventional Operations for the first time, a Ground Balance procedure should be completed. Provided the detector is not Factory Reset, subsequent selections of IED or Conventional Operations do not require another Ground Balance. When the detector is switched off, Ground Balance profiles for IED and Conventional Operations are retained. When conducting the Test Piece procedure, select sensitivity Level 3 in either IED or Conventional Operations. Warning: When detecting targets with low metal signatures, the sensitivity level must not be lower than Level 3 in either IED or Conventional Operations.
• 6. Noise Cancel Button: Noise Cancel should be conducted whenever the MF5 receives interference from electrical sources such as power lines, generators, or other detectors operating in close proximity.
• 7. Target Alert Responses: An Operator can be alerted to a target by audio, visual (LED), or haptic (vibration) responses. All three alert responses can be enabled or individually selected by the Operator. NOTE: For safety purposes, it is impossible to disable all three target alert responses simultaneously. It is recommended that the audio alert response be enabled at all times unless the tactical situation dictates otherwise.
• 8. Tactical Mode: The Operator has the option of selecting Tactical Mode at any time during the operation of the MF5 or when the detector is switched ON. Tactical Mode provides a vibration alert response which can be deselected if required. In Tactical Mode, the LED display is changed to IR for use with night vision goggles.
• 9. Battery Alarms: The MF5 battery status can be checked at any time (see Additional Functions on page 17). Warnings will be provided to the Operator whenever the following conditions occur:
  • Low Battery Alert: When using NiMH batteries, a Low Battery Warning will occur when approximately 30 minutes of NiMH battery life remains. The alarm, via the enabled alert responses, will be provided every 45 seconds. During this period, the MF5 will continue to function within operational limits.
  • Critically Low Battery Warning: Continuous alarm via the enabled alert responses, and the MF5 can no longer be used.
  • Battery Shutdown: The MF5 is shut down due to lack of battery power.
  Warning: Once the Low Battery Warning occurs, batteries should be replaced immediately or as soon as possible before the Critically Low Battery Warning occurs.

Additional Functions

The MF5 provides additional functionality which can be selected at any time during operations as required.

NOTE: Unless Factory Reset is conducted, or the MF5 starts in Tactical Mode, the MF5 will operate using the previously selected additional functions when restarted. Battery Status indication will be accurate for NiMH batteries but not for other battery chemistries.

Functional Tones

The MF5 emits tones that vary in pitch and volume to alert the Operator to targets, automatic detector functions, or equipment alarm conditions. The following table summarises the tones emitted by the MF5.

Operating Procedures

The MF5 is designed to ensure that the operation of the detector is as simple and intuitive as possible, thereby eliminating the need for lengthy training requirements. Local Standard Operating Procedures and drills should take primacy, provided Minelab recommended safety procedures are observed.

Standard Procedure

After preparing the MF5 for operations, complete the following THREE step standard procedure:

1. STEP 1: Switch On
   • a. Hold the coil at least 600 mm (24 in) from the ground, and away from any metallic objects.
   • b. Ensure Sensitivity is set to Level 3 (default).
   • c. Long press (> 0.5 s) the Power Button. The MF5 will emit a series of start-up tones and finish with either a double ACK beep (default sensitivity -- Level 3) or single ACK beep (non-default sensitivity). NOTE: If the audio alert response is disabled, either of the remaining alert responses will provide applicable feedback.
2. STEP 2: Ground Balance
   • a. Ensure this procedure is carried out on ground that contains no metal targets and is representative of the ground in the intended search area.
   • b. Short press the Ground Balance Button to initiate the Ground Balance process. During ground balance, the ground balance tones / vibration / LED pattern will indicate that ground balance is in progress.
   • c. Sweep the Coil left and right across the metal-free ground. Covering more ground will improve the resulting ground balance. If the detector is noisy or affected by interference, perform a Noise Cancel as described in Optional Procedures on page 23.
   • d. After eight seconds, there will be a success tone / vibration / LED pattern and the detector will return to Detection Mode. If the Ground Balance procedure was not successful, there will be a failure tone / vibration / LED pattern depending on which alert responses are enabled.
   • e. Sweep the Coil back over the metal-free ground checking for any ground noise or false detections. Repeat Ground Balance if required. NOTE: After switching on the MF5, when selecting IED or Conventional Operations for the first time, a Ground Balance procedure should be completed. Provided the detector software is not upgraded, subsequent selections of IED or Conventional Operations do not require another Ground Balance. When the detector is switched off, Ground Balance profiles for IED and Conventional Operations are retained. Completing the Ground Balance procedure may allow the selection of a higher sensitivity level due to reductions in ground noise and false detections.
3. STEP 3: Test Piece Procedure

   NOTE: The MF5 is supplied with a Test Piece designed to confirm that the detector is working to correct specifications. The sensitivity of the detector should be checked with the Test Piece when the Sensitivity Knob is at Level 3 for either IED or Conventional Operations.

   • a. Ensure hands and arms are free of metallic objects (watches, rings, etc.) and that no other metallic objects are near the Coil.
   • b. Select sensitivity Level 3 in either IED or Conventional Operations.
   • c. Fully slide back the Armrest and rotate the Test Piece to remove it from its stowed position.
   • d. Hold the Test Piece by the end that contains the metal test-target. Hold the Test Piece perpendicular to the bottom of the Coil, lightly touching the surface of the Coil with the tip of the Test Piece. Move the Test Piece across the Coil from one side to the other at a rate of 0.5 to 1 m/s (1.7 to 3.3 ft/s). A faint but clear response (a rise in volume) should be heard. With the LED display enabled, the Test Piece procedure should result in the illumination of at least one LED. If a clear response cannot be heard, increase the volume level of the detector until the Test Piece procedure is successful. If the Test Piece does not produce a response, Factory Reset the detector and repeat the Test Piece procedure. If after increasing the volume level of the detector the Test Piece response cannot be heard, increase the sensitivity level of the detector to Level 4, Ground Balance and repeat the Test Piece procedure. NOTE: In some instances, inert mines or targets may be used as test pieces because they represent the local threat. Minelab recommends that the MF5 always be first tested with the supplied Test Piece before the use of local test pieces. Warning: If the Test Piece procedure fails, the detector is faulty and must NOT be used in operations.

Optional Procedures

Noise Cancel

1. a. Hold the Coil stationary and away from the ground and metal targets, approximately 60 cm (24 in).
2. b. Short-press the Noise Cancel Button to initiate the Noise Cancel process. Holding the detector stationary, the Noise Cancel tone / vibration / LED pattern will indicate that Noise Cancel is in progress. After 25 seconds, Noise Cancel will finish. The detector will play a success tone / vibration / LED pattern depending on which alert responses are enabled. Once Noise Cancel is complete, continue with Standard Procedure Steps 2 and 3. NOTE: If the MF5 is restarted, it remembers the Noise Cancel setting, and therefore another Noise Cancel may not be required.

Enable LED Display and Vibration Alert Responses

If the detector is operating with audio alert response only, the LED display and vibration alert responses can be enabled as follows:

• LED Display: Short press the LED Button on the Main Body.
• Vibration: Short press the Vibration Button on the Main Body.

Alert Responses and Heartbeat Ticks

Heartbeat ticks will be given depending on the alert responses enabled by the Operator. However, only one type of heartbeat tick will be provided based on the following alert response selection combination.

Sensor Modes

The MF5 may be operated in the following sensor modes:

Detection Mode

Detection Mode is optimised for maximum detection performance and is the default mode used for searching new ground. In Detection Mode, a double-tick heartbeat is emitted every 15 seconds via the applicable alert response. When in Detection Mode, the MF5 operates as a dynamic detector, meaning the Coil must be moving relative to the target in order to register a detection response. The audio alert response will have pitch and volume that is proportional to the target's signal strength. Large and / or close targets will be loud / high-pitched, and small and / or deep targets will be quieter / low-pitched.

NOTE: Detection Mode is more sensitive than Interrogation Mode and Pinpoint Mode. Therefore, very small targets detected in Detection Mode may not be detected when using Interrogation Mode or Pinpoint Mode. If this occurs, use Detection Mode to locate the target rather than Pinpoint Mode.

Interrogation Mode

Once a target is detected, the Operator may select Interrogation Mode by short pressing the Mode Button. This will provide additional information about the target which may be useful. When in Interrogation mode, a single-tick heartbeat is emitted every 15 seconds. When in Interrogation Mode, the audio response is based on the characteristics of the target and not the target size and proximity, as is the case with Detection Mode.

Warning: Interrogation mode only provides information on the characteristics of a target and is incapable of providing conclusive target identification. The MF5 cannot distinguish between a target of interest and another target that has similar metallic properties.

Ferrous Targets

Ferrous (Iron) targets will give a very low-pitched beep tone and low intensity vibration. The LED target response for a ferrous target is displayed as 1 to 8 LEDs illuminated left to right. The number of illuminated LEDs indicates the level of conductivity of the target.

Non-Ferrous Targets

Non-ferrous targets give a medium to high-pitched beep tone depending on target conductivity (higher pitch corresponds to higher conductivity). The vibration intensity is scaled to match the audio pitch. The LED target response is displayed as 1 to 8 LEDs illuminated from right to left. The number of LEDs illuminated indicates the level of conductivity of the target.

Carbon Rod and Fine Wires

Carbon rods or fine wires, often used in IEDs, exhibit low conductivity, resulting in a very high-pitched audio tone and high intensity vibration. In this instance, the centre three LEDs will be illuminated.

Pinpoint Mode

Pinpoint Mode permits a fast and accurate method of precisely mapping a target. By pressing and holding the Mode Button, the MF5 enters into Pinpoint Mode, providing a static response to a target. This means a detection alert response will occur even when the Coil is stationary over a target. There are no heartbeat ticks in Pinpoint Mode. When the Mode Button is released, the detector will return to Detection Mode.

NOTE: It is not necessary to enter Interrogation Mode prior to Pinpoint mode. There may be instances where local ground conditions and contamination limit the additional information Interrogation Mode can provide.

Sensor Overload

When operating any of the Sensor Modes (Detection / Interrogation / Pinpoint), large metal objects very close to the Coil may overload the detector. Sensor overload is an indication that the target is larger than the detector's maximum target response. If this occurs, then depending on the enabled alert responses, the vibration motor will pulse repeatedly, the LED will strobe, or the overload tone will repeat. Sensor overload will continue until the Coil is moved away from the location of overload. Sensor overload is not harmful to the MF5 electronics.

Search Techniques

Once the MF5 has completed the Standard and, if necessary, Optional Procedures, then searching an area can commence.

Search Speed

In Detection Mode, the MF5 should be swept with a smooth and even motion, ideally between 0.5 and 1 m/s (1.7 and 3.3 ft/s). If the detector is swept too fast or too slow, then it is possible that small or deep targets may be missed.

Search Overlap

Use a half-Coil (13 cm, 5 in) overlap distance to ensure full ground coverage.

Search Height

Ensure that the Coil is swept as parallel to the ground as possible, at a height as close to the ground as practical without touching or impacting the ground. Depth of detection depends on the target distance from the Coil, not the depth of the target under the ground.

Locating the target

When a target is initially detected, the Operator should stand in place and continue to sweep beyond the target (Local Standard Operating Procedure [SOP] takes primacy) in an attempt to find clear ground beyond the target. In doing so, the Operator will:

• Immediately gain an impression of the size of the target, prior to commencing mapping; and
• Confirm the target is not in close proximity to a second target, thereby avoiding a possible booby trap.

Once the Operator has obtained an approximate idea of the size and position of the target, the target can be mapped for greater accuracy. Use the Target Edge Mapping and Target Pinpointing procedures to map the target.

Sensor Head Null Zone

The detection response increases to a maximum when the Coil is over the target centre when in Detection Mode. In Pinpoint Mode, there is a maximum response when the target is below the left or right side of the coil (on both sides), with a 'null zone' precisely centred over the target.

Coil Orientation

Approach targets with the long sides of the Coil. Avoid using the back and front of the Coil to approach a target, as the target may not be detected, or may be inaccurately located.

Target Edge Mapping

The Target Edge Mapping procedure uses an 'edge detection' technique to locate the outer edges of a target, thereby mapping the size and shape of the target. Pinpoint and Detection Modes can also be used during the mapping process.

NOTE: Pinpoint Mode is slightly less sensitive than Detection Mode and may not work well for extremely weak target detections. In these instances, use Detection Mode to map the target. Where a target is small, Target Edge Mapping may not be required, and so proceed to Target Pinpointing.

Target Edge Mapping Procedure

1. Move the Coil away from the suspected area of the target and enable Pinpoint Mode by pressing and holding the Mode Button.
2. Move the Coil to approach the target area from a variety of angles.
3. When there is a target response, mentally mark the position on the ground.
4. Continue this process until a clear mental picture of the target size and shape is obtained.

Target Pinpointing

Having mapped the area of a suspected target, the Target Pinpointing procedure can be used to determine the centre of a target.

1. Hold the Coil away from the mapped target and enable Pinpoint Mode by pressing and holding the Mode Button.
2. Sweep the coil over the target. The detector alarm response will increase to the maximum before reducing when the null zone on the Coil is directly above the target. Small Coil movements left and right of the null causing an alarm response will confirm the position of the target.
3. When the null point is reached, mentally mark the centreline.
4. Repeat the process with the detector oriented at 90° to the first sweep. The intersection of the two lines will indicate the target location.
5. If necessary, enter Interrogation Mode to obtain or confirm information about the target composition.

Warning: Extreme care must be taken when mapping the target to ensure the Coil does not touch the ground or exposed parts of the threat.

Mapping Multiple Targets

There may be occasions when multiple targets are encountered in a small area. For example, small anti-personnel landmines may be buried in a cluster, or a large anti-tank landmine may be surrounded by smaller anti-personnel landmines or booby traps.

1. Using Target Edge Mapping, outline the suspected area.
2. After mapping out the area, select Pinpoint Mode and sweep across the area approaching from different angles. Separate alarm responses may occur, indicating the location of different targets.
3. Once several targets have been pinpointed, and if necessary, select Interrogation Mode to obtain further information about each target.

Warning: The volume from a large target may mask that of a small target if the small target is located too close to the large target.

Operating Multiple Detectors in Close Proximity

On occasion, it may be necessary to operate MF5 detectors in close proximity. In normal circumstances, MF5 detectors can operate at distances less than two meters (7 ft) separation without suffering excessive mutual interference.

Noise Cancel for Proximity Operation

To achieve the minimum operating distance between detectors, conduct Noise Cancel as follows:

1. With all other detectors switched OFF, switch ON the first detector and perform Noise Cancel.
2. Once Noise Cancel is finished on the first detector, leave it switched ON and locate the second detector at a distance of two metres and conduct Noise Cancel on the second MF5.
3. Repeat this process for all additional detectors.

Troubleshooting, Safety and Maintenance

Routine Care

The MF5 is designed for prolonged use in harsh operating environments, provided proper care and maintenance is conducted. The following should be observed:

• Do not use solvents or chemicals to clean the MF5. If any part of the detector comes into contact with corrosive substances, wash the detector with clean fresh water and dry with a clean cloth.
• During rest periods, wherever possible, the detector should be sheltered from direct sun, rain, snow, etc.
• Before collapsing the shafts, fully extend each shaft and remove any dirt or dust with a damp cloth.
• Ensure the MF5 is dry before stowing in the Carry Bag.
• Ensure the batteries are removed from the Battery Compartment before stowing the detector.
• Check Earset and Test Piece are properly stowed.

Troubleshooting

The following is a troubleshooting guide in the event the MF5 displays a fault. Before commencing troubleshooting, perform a Factory Reset to confirm if the fault still exists.

Advisory Errors

Advisory errors are conditions that will not affect detector performance. An advisory error is given when the control box temperature sensor is below or above range, or corrupted settings are loaded. Advisory errors are indicated on all enabled feedback modes. These include a short error tune, LED bank illumination from right to left, and vibration pulses which repeat every 30 seconds. The Operator may elect to continue detecting as normal in the presence of an advisory error.

General Error and Coil Error

The MF5 has a Built-in Test (BIT) capability for identifying faults and errors. When a fault occurs, the MF5 will emit an alarm via enabled audio, vibration, and visual responses.

• Audio: A low-pitched double-tone will repeat every five seconds for a Coil fault, or a low-pitched oscillating tone will commence for general errors.
• Vibration: Repeating two strong pulses of different durations.
• Visual: Repeating alternating illumination of four right-hand LEDs followed by five left-hand LEDs (general error) or four right-hand LEDs followed by four left-hand LEDs (coil error).

Initial Action

Where a fault occurs, conduct the following initial action:

1. Switch the detector OFF and ensure fresh or fully charged batteries are inserted into the detector.
2. Switch ON and if a fault alarm occurs, switch OFF and conduct Factory Reset by pressing and holding the Power Button for five seconds.
3. If the fault alarm is removed, conduct the Test Piece procedure to confirm correct operation of the MF5.
4. If the fault alarm continues, switch OFF and return the detector to an Authorised Service Centre.

Safety Advice

The MF5 is safe to transport, store, and operate when handled with due care. Safety hazards applicable to this equipment are identified below.

Specifications

MF5 Detector Specification

General Specifications

Detection Specifications

Regulatory Information

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Statement: This device complies with part 18 of the FCC Rules.

Compliance Statement for Canada: This product meets the applicable Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada technical specifications. Le present produit est conforme aux specifications techniques retenues par l'Innovation, Sciences et Developpement economique Canada (ISDE).

Simplified EU Declaration of Conformity: Hereby, Minelab Electronics Pty Ltd declares that the radio equipment type MF5 complies 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.

Modification: Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the grantee of this device could void the user's authority to operate the device. Toute modification non approuvee explicitement par le fournisseur de licence de l'appareil peut entrainer l'annulation du droit de l'utilisateur a utiliser l'appareil.