Minelab X-TERRA INTREPID
USER MANUAL
Quick Start
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1. Turn On
Press the power button ?. Wait a few seconds for start-up calibration.
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2. Wait For 5 Seconds
Allow 5 seconds 5️⃣⏳ for the detector to stabilize.
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3. Begin Detecting
Sweep the coil close and parallel to the ground to start detecting.
Parts Overview
CONTROL POD
- 1. Speaker ?
- 2. Coil Connector Socket
- 3. Battery Compartment
- 4. Battery Cover
HANDLE ASSEMBLY
- 5. Locating Hook
- 6. Control Pod Screw
- 7. Camlock
- 8. Handgrip
- 9. Armrest Adjustment Camlock
- 10. Upper Shaft
- 11. Armrest with Stand
MIDDLE SHAFT
- 12. Camlock
LOWER SHAFT
- 13. Rubber Washers (x2)
- 14. Coil Nut & Bolt
COIL
- 15. Skidplate
- 16. Yoke Bracket
- 17. Coil Cable
- 18. Coil Connector
A diagram illustrates these parts, showing the control pod, handle assembly with armrest, middle and lower shafts, and the coil with its cable and connector.
Assembly
ASSEMBLE THE SHAFTS
- Open the Camlocks.
- Insert the Middle Shaft into the Handle Assembly, and then insert the Lower Shaft into the Middle Shaft.
- Close the Camlocks.
A diagram shows the three shaft sections being connected and secured with camlocks.
ATTACH THE CONTROL POD
- Place the Control Pod on the Locating Hook on the top of the Handle.
- Secure with the Control Pod Screw.
A diagram shows the control pod being attached to the handle assembly.
ATTACH THE COIL
- Check that the Rubber Washers are inserted into the Lower Shaft.
- Slide the Lower Shaft into the Yoke Bracket on the Coil, aligning the holes. Fasten with the supplied plastic Bolt and Nut.
CAUTION: Do not use tools to tighten – overtightening may cause damage.
A diagram illustrates attaching the coil to the lower shaft with a bolt and nut.
WRAP THE CABLE AND PLUG-IN
- Wrap the Coil Cable around the Shaft enough times to take up the slack, but so that the Coil can still tilt easily.
- Align the Coil Connector with the socket on the back of the Control Pod. Plug it in.
CAUTION: Do not force the connector if there is resistance – this may cause damage.
Diagrams show cable wrapping and plugging in the coil connector.
ADJUST THE DETECTOR LENGTH
- Open the Armrest Adjustment Camlock.
- Rest your arm in the Armrest and adjust as needed – the armrest should be positioned just below your elbow.
- Close the Camlock.
Diagrams illustrate adjusting the armrest length.
INSERT BATTERIES
- Remove the Battery Cover.
- Place the two 9V alkaline batteries inside the battery compartment. Ensure terminals align correctly with polarity symbols (+ and -).
- Replace the Battery Cover.
CAUTION: Turn off the detector before changing the batteries. See page 12 for additional information about batteries.
Diagrams show battery insertion and polarity.
Controls
The control panel features several buttons:
- 1. POWER ON/OFF ?: Turns the detector On and Off.
- 2. VOLUME ADJUST (SEARCH MODE) ?: Adjusts the audio Volume Level, cycling from low to high. A long press changes the Search Mode (ALL METAL / NO IRON).
- 3. PINPOINT ?: Press-and-hold to use Pinpoint Mode to accurately locate a detected target.
- 4. MINUS (-) / PLUS (+) ➖ / ➕: Adjusts the sensitivity level.
- 5. LONG PRESS: Allows switching between ALL METAL and NO IRON reader.
ℹ️ Note: The detector turns Off automatically if no button is pressed or no target is detected within 15 minutes.
Display
The display provides various information:
- TARGET ID REFERENCE: A reference guide indicating target types. Icons include a horseshoe ?, coin ?, ring ?, dollar ?, and battery ?.
- TARGET GROUPS: Icons representing groupings of Target Identification Numbers.
- BATTERY LEVEL ?: Indicates the current battery level.
- VOLUME LEVEL ?: Displays the detector audio volume.
- HEADPHONE INDICATOR ?: Shows when headphones are connected (headphones sold separately).
- TARGET IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: Displays the numerical value of a detected target (0-99).
- DEPTH GAUGE ⬆️⬇️: Shows the approximate depth of a detected target.
- A question mark icon ❓ is also present.
Operation
Follow these steps for successful operation:
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1. TURN ON
Press the Power button ? to turn the detector On, waiting a few seconds for start-up calibration.
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2. BEGIN DETECTING
The detector coil does not detect metal when stationary – keep the coil moving. Sweep the coil close and parallel to the ground, avoiding ground contact or bumping. This maximizes detection depth and improves response to small objects. Sweep the coil side-to-side while walking forward, overlapping each sweep for full ground coverage. An average sweep speed is 2 to 3 seconds.
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3. DETECT A TARGET
When a target is detected, the detector beeps and the display shows a Target ID number. The corresponding Target group icon will flash. The Depth Gauge ⬆️⬇️ will show the approximate depth.
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4. PINPOINT A TARGET
Once a target is detected, use the Pinpoint function to narrow its exact location. Press-and-hold the Pinpoint button ?. The Target ID number will flash 'PP'. Wait for 'PP' to stop flashing. Sweep the coil slowly over the target location and listen for the loudest signal to find the center. Release the Pinpoint button to return to normal detecting.
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5. RECOVER THE TARGET
Carefully dig the target, avoiding damage. Check the hole again for other targets.
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6. FILL THE HOLE
Always fill your hole when finished digging.
FACTORS THAT AFFECT DETECTING
Detection accuracy can be affected by:
- The angle of the target buried in the soil.
- The depth of the target.
- The level of oxidization/rustiness of the target.
- The size of the target.
- Electrical interference in the environment.
In highly mineralized ground, fertile ground, or wet sand, the detector may sound even without metal. In such cases, decrease sensitivity or lift the coil higher. Metallic digging tools can also affect detection; keep them away from the search coil.
Detector Settings
VOLUME ?
The Volume setting changes the loudness of target signals. Press the Volume button to cycle through settings from low to high. Maximum volume returns to the lowest level when pressed again.
The Volume Level indicator on the display shows the current level; each bar represents one level.
SENSITIVITY
The INTREPID detector is highly sensitive with adjustable sensitivity. Setting the correct level for conditions maximizes detection depth. Always choose the highest stable setting for optimum performance.
The Sensitivity Level indicator on the display shows the current level; each bar represents one level.
To Adjust the Sensitivity Level
- Hold the coil stationary, press the Plus button ➕ to increase sensitivity until false signals occur.
- Press the Minus button ➖ to reduce sensitivity just enough for false signals to disappear.
- Sweep the coil over a clear patch of ground and reduce sensitivity further if ground noise persists.
Excessive Noise
Excessive noise can be caused by environmental electrical interference (power lines, mobile phones, other detectors). If noise is a problem, try these steps:
- Move away from local sources of electrical interference.
- Restart the detector.
- If noise persists, reduce the Sensitivity Level.
SEARCH MODES
The INTREPID has two search modes: ALL METAL (default) and NO IRON. A long press of the Volume button ? switches between them. Use ALL METAL for all targets; use NO IRON to filter out iron junk. In NO IRON mode, the IRON (1-30) Target Group is not displayed.
Pinpoint and Depth Gauge
Pinpoint
Pinpointing helps narrow down the location of a buried target for precise digging. While Pinpoint is active, the detector plays a sound when the coil is stationary over a target.
LOCATE A TARGET WITH PINPOINT
- Hold the coil away from the target, then press-and-hold the Pinpoint button ? to enable Pinpoint. The Target ID number will flash 'PP'. Wait for 'PP' to stop flashing.
- Sweep the coil slowly over the target location.
- Locate the center by listening for the loudest signal.
- Rotate the Search Coil by stepping to the side of the target and repeat steps 2 and 3.
- The target is located where the loudest signal sounded.
- Release the Pinpoint button to return to normal detecting.
Depth Gauge
The Depth Gauge indicates the approximate depth of a detected target. Fewer arrows ⬆️⬇️ indicate a shallower target; more arrows indicate a deeper target. Accuracy varies by target type, size, and ground conditions. The gauge remains on the LCD for up to 3 seconds after detection or until the next target is detected. When there is no detection, the gauge is Off.
Example Depth Gauge readings for a US quarter:
1" (25 mm) | 3" (75 mm) | 5" (125 mm) | 6" (150 mm) | > 6" (> 150 mm) |
⬆️⬇️ | ⬆️⬆️⬇️⬇️ | ⬆️⬆️⬆️⬇️⬇️⬇️ | ⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️ | ⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️ |
Target Identification
TARGET IDENTIFICATION NUMBER
Target ID numbers range from 0 to 99. Ferrous (iron) targets are typically 0 to 30. The display shows a number indicating the target's ferrous or non-ferrous properties for quick identification. For example, a US quarter usually has a Target ID of 86.
TARGET GROUPS
Target Groups are indicated by icons at the top of the display. Each Target ID Number corresponds to a Target Group icon that flashes when that type of target is detected.
Target Examples
Targets have varied metallic properties; this table is a guide only:
ID Range | Types of Targets |
---|---|
1-30 | Iron ? |
31-55 | Small coins, fine jewelry, foil, US 5¢ ? |
56-85 | Mid-sized coins, pull tabs, jewelry, US 1¢, pull tabs, US 10¢ ? |
86-99 | Large coins, silver coins, US 25¢, Bottlecaps, silver coins, US 50¢ ? |
TARGET TONES
Target IDs are assigned Target Tones of different pitches for broad classification without looking at the display. The INTREPID has three Target Tones: Low, Medium, and High. The tone break position is where the pitch changes on the Target ID scale.
Tone Scale: Low (0-30), Medium (30-55), High (55-99)
Icons representing target types are shown along the tone scale.
Batteries
Two 9V alkaline batteries are recommended to power the INTREPID. Replace batteries when no segments remain on the Battery Level indicator ?.
NOTE: Replace both batteries with fresh ones simultaneously; do not mix old and new batteries.
NOTICE: Dispose of old batteries properly. Never bury or burn them.
NOTICE: If not using the detector for a week or longer, remove the batteries. Batteries can leak chemicals that can destroy electronic parts. Do not store the detector for long periods with batteries inside.
BATTERY LEVEL
The Battery Level indicator shows the current battery level. When critically low, the detector will automatically shut down.
Detector Care and Safety
- Wash hands before handling the detector after applying sunscreen or insect repellents.
- Do not use solvents to clean; use a damp cloth with mild soap detergent.
- Never allow the detector to contact gasoline/petrol or other petroleum-based liquids.
- Avoid sand and grit in shafts and fastenings. Wipe clean with a damp cloth if accumulation occurs.
- Do not bring the detector or accessories into contact with sharp objects, as this may cause scratches and damage. If shafts become scratched, wipe them thoroughly with a damp cloth.
- Do not leave the detector in excessive cold or heat longer than necessary. Covering it when not in use helps protect it. Avoid leaving it in a hot vehicle.
- Ensure the coil cable is in good condition and not subject to undue stress.
- Take precautions when transporting or storing the detector. The display screen can be prone to scratching or serious damage if not treated with care.
- Do not expose the detector to extreme temperature conditions. 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 are a choking hazard.
- Remove batteries prior to air transportation or for storage periods longer than one week.
Troubleshooting
Detector does not turn on, or turns off by itself
- Replace the batteries.
Detector does not detect anything
- Make sure you are sweeping the coil close enough to the ground to detect the target.
- Ensure that the Search Coil is connected properly.
- Increase the Sensitivity level (page 9).
Erratic/excessive noise
- Restart the detector and check for noise again.
- Move away from local sources of electrical interference.
- Reduce the Sensitivity level (page 9).
Multiple Target Groups are flashing, and there are lots of beeps
- You may be detecting multiple different targets at the same time (overlapping objects).
- The detected object is complex (rusty or made of multiple types of metal), so the detector is unable to properly identify it. Try approaching the target from different angles.
Technical Specifications
Specification | Value |
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Operating Frequency | 5.82 kHz |
Sensitivity | 5 levels |
Volume | 3 levels |
Target Tones | 3 tones (Low, Mid, High) |
Discrimination Segments | 4 segments |
Pinpoint Mode | Yes |
Target ID's | 0 to 99 |
Depth Gauge | 5 levels |
Length | Extended: 55 in (140 cm) Collapsed: 28.3 in (72 cm) |
Weight (excluding batteries) | 2.7 lbs (1.2 kg) |
Display | Monochrome LCD |
Supplied Coil | 10" Concentric |
Audio Output | In-built loudspeaker |
Additional Included Accessories | 2× 9V Batteries |
Waterproof | Coil waterproof to 3.3 ft (1 m) |
Operating Temperature Range | -10°C to +40°C (+14°F to +104°F) |
Storage Temperature Range | -20°C to +70°C (-4°F to +158°F) |
Equipment may vary according to the model or items ordered with your detector. Minelab reserves the right to respond to ongoing technical progress by introducing changes in design, equipment and technical features at any time. For the most up-to-date specifications for your INTREPID detector, visit www.minelab.com.
Compliance
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC) STATEMENT
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. Email: ComplianceManager@minelab.com.au
Recycling Information ♻️
This symbol indicates that the equipment and its electrical accessories should not be disposed of as household garbage. These items should not be disposed of as unsorted municipal waste and should be taken to a certified collection point for recycling and proper disposal. Refer 2012/19/EU (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment).
SIMPLIFIED EU & UKCA DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Hereby, Minelab Electronics Pty Ltd declares that the radio equipment type [Refer to equipment listed in Table 1] complies with Directive 2014/53/EU and The Radio Equipment Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1206). Full text of the EU & UKCA declarations of conformity are available at the following internet address: www.minelab.com/compliance.
Table | Tabeli 1
INTREPID | 5.82 kHz | < -30 dBm |
EU Authorised Representative: Minelab International Ltd., Penrose One, Penrose Dock, T23KW81, Ireland. Email: minelab@minelab.ie
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0) International License. To view a copy of this license, visit: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/.
The Polish text on page 16 is a declaration of conformity, which is also covered by the English text provided.