High-Frequency Metal Detectors | All You Need To Know

Over time, the technological advancements in the tech industry has revolutionized the way we can detect metal underground and has made metal detecting very beginner friendly.

But there are many different types of metal detectors out there in the market and many people don’t know the difference between them.

In this guide we will explain High-Frequency metal detectors and all you need to know about them.

Frequency is one of the major differences between them. Some devices have a single frequency, while others have multiple frequencies. It is important to have knowledge of the device’s frequency before purchasing it.

Frequency, measured in kilohertz or kHz, refers to the number of waves per unit of time. A metal detector sends electronic waves into the ground when searching for metal objects.

For example, when a metal detector transmits and receives 12,000 times per second, the frequency is 12 kHz. On the other hand, a frequency of 15 Hz indicates a signal that repeats 15 times per second.

What Are High-Frequency Metal Detectors?

Higher-frequency metal detectors have smaller wavelengths compared to lower-frequency devices. They are ideal for pinpointing small targets. High frequencies are particularly effective for detecting small gold nuggets.

Low frequencies work better for finding metals with low conductivity, like ferrous and non-ferrous metals. When using high-frequency detectors, the wavelengths achieve less depth during the search.

High-frequency detectors offer excellent accuracy when locating targets close to the surface. But, the minerals in the ground can easily disrupt their searches. To mitigate this, it is essential to ground balance the detector to filter out these minerals.

What Frequency Is Considered High in Metal Detectors?

A metal detector is considered high-frequency if its frequency is 35 kHz or above. Some devices even offer frequencies of 60 kHz, 70 kHz, or even 100 kHz.

A metal detector can find coins, jewelry, and artifacts best when set between 5 kHz and 15 kHz. This frequency range is commonly used for general-purpose metal detectors.

Some models have search modes that change the frequency to find certain targets. This range is also the easiest for beginners to control. 

After you learn the basics and get good with metal detectors, you can buy specialized ones. When searching for gold nuggets, it’s best to use frequencies between 17 kHz and 80 kHz.

Pros and Cons of High-Frequency Metal Detectors

Pros:

The benefits of using a high-frequency metal detector can be summarized as follows:

• Better for finding tiny metal objects, like small gold nuggets, even a few millimeters in size.
• Improved precision in receiving target signals.

Cons:

There are some disadvantages to using high-frequency metal detectors, including:

• Metal target detection at a shallower depth compared to low-frequency devices.
• Higher susceptibility to interference or electronic noise resulting from highly mineralized soils.
• Greater sensitivity to interference from ground mineralization.
• You have to deal with stability issues.

These devices are costly because they have a strong signal and are more powerful than basic detectors.

Learn the difference between Pulse induction Vs VLF to select the best device for yourself. 

Uses of High-Frequency Metal Detectors

Gold Prospecting

Gold is typically found in small quantities and in remote areas. If you are searching for gold, you will need a machine with a frequency of 14 kHz or higher.

As gold has very low conductivity, it can be challenging to detect if the frequency is too low. High-frequency detectors are more suitable for serious gold and jewelry hunting.

Industrial Purposes

High-frequency metal detectors also have industrial applications. They can detect harmful metal particles in medicines, syrups, and tablets.

Conclusion

If your metal detector has a low frequency, it will be easier to find metals with low conductivity. Higher operating frequencies make it easier to detect high-conductivity metals like gold nuggets. 

So before purchasing a metal detector be sure to take a look at it’s specifications sheet so you know that the metal detector you are buying is indeed a metal detector that will be useful to you in your search for treasure.

As we have mentioned all the necessary information regarding high-frequency metal detectors. We hope that you find whatever it is you are looking for. Good Luck!