Always have spare power for your detector and pinpointer.
One crucial yet straightforward tip for metal detecting success is to always carry spare power for your detector and pinpointer. Ensuring you have extra power on hand can mean the difference between a fruitful detecting session and a frustrating one cut short by dead batteries. Here’s why this tip is important and how to effectively implement it.
Why Carrying Spare Power Matters
*Continuous Operation: Metal detectors and pinpointers require a steady power supply to function. While you can manage without a pinpointer, although it will slow you down, running out of detector power during a detecting session can abruptly end your hunt.
*Maximize Detecting Time: Having spare power ensures that you can spend more time detecting without interruptions. This is particularly important during long detecting sessions or when traveling to remote locations.
*Avoid Missed Opportunities: A dead battery at a prime detecting site can lead to missed opportunities for valuable finds. Extra power helps you stay prepared and make the most of each outing.
*Peace of Mind: Knowing you have spare power provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on detecting rather than worrying about battery life.
How to Effectively Carry and Manage Spare Power
Traditionally, all detectors and pinpointers used replaceable batteries, either disposable or rechargeable. Nowadays, many detectors and some pinpointers come with built-in rechargeable batteries. These should be charged before you go out and typically last at least a full day before needing to be recharged. Such machines are usually charged using domestic electricity points.
*Know Your Equipment’s Requirements: Understand the specific power requirements for your metal detector and pinpointer. Check the user manuals or product specifications for this information.
—Common Battery Types: Metal detectors typically use AA, AAA, PP3-9V batteries, or rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, while pinpointers typically use PP3-9V batteries.
*Invest in Quality Batteries: Use high-quality, reliable batteries to ensure long-lasting power and consistent performance.
—Alkaline vs. Rechargeable: Decide whether to use disposable alkaline batteries or rechargeable batteries. Alkaline batteries often provide longer single-use life, while rechargeables can be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly in the long run. Bear in mind that most rechargeable batteries produce a lower voltage output then their equivalent single-use (1.2v instead of 1.5v); these may not suit some metal detectors.
*Keep Batteries Fresh: Check the expiration dates on disposable batteries and ensure rechargeable batteries are properly maintained and charged.
—Rotate Stock: Use older batteries first and replace them with fresh ones regularly to avoid carrying expired batteries.
*Store Batteries Properly: Keep spare batteries in a secure, dry, and easily accessible place in your detecting kit.
—Battery Cases: Use plastic battery cases or zip-lock bags to protect batteries from moisture, dirt, and accidental discharge.
—Temperature Considerations: Store batteries in a cool place, as extreme heat or cold can reduce their lifespan and effectiveness.
*Bring Enough for the Entire Session: Estimate the number of batteries you’ll need for your detecting session and bring extras. It’s better to have more than you need than to run out.
—Extended Hunts: Extended hunts require special consideration for detectors and pinpointers with fixed batteries requiring on-board charging. You may not have access to mains electricity overnight and will have to make provision for recharging. You can recharge a detector from your car using a suitable charger or portable power supply. Powerpacks are also available for many detectors which attach to the detector (adding extra weight) and plug in to the charging point. You could also bring a spare detector with replaceable batteries.
*Test Before You Go: Before heading out, check the battery levels of your metal detector and pinpointer to ensure they are fully charged or have fresh batteries.
—Pre-Flight Check: Perform a quick test of your equipment to make sure everything is functioning correctly.
*Plan for Emergency Replacements: In case you forget to bring spare batteries or run out unexpectedly, know where the nearest stores are that sell the required battery types.
—Local Stores: Identify local convenience stores, supermarkets, or electronic shops near your detecting area.
Additional Tips for Power Management
*Use Battery Savers: Some metal detectors have battery-saving modes or settings. Use these features to extend battery life during your hunts.
*Monitor Battery Levels: Keep an eye on the battery indicator of your metal detector and pinpointer, and replace batteries as soon as they show signs of depletion.
*Conserve Power: Turn off your equipment when taking breaks or moving between detecting sites to conserve battery power.
Conclusion
Carrying spare power is a simple yet essential practice for any metal detectorist. By ensuring you have extra power on hand, you can maximize your detecting time, avoid interruptions, and make the most of each outing. Proper battery management, including knowing your equipment’s requirements, investing in quality batteries, and storing them correctly, will keep your detecting sessions smooth and productive.
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