Step 1 Mapping The Target - Minelab F3 Compact Operation Manual

STEP 1 Mapping the Target

Having detected a target using the sweeping procedure and obtained a rough idea
of its size and location, the precise location of the target can be 'mapped' using
the F3 Compact's 'Edge Detection' technique.
Edge detection makes use of the coil's consistent sensitivity around its
circumference to detect the area of a target. To conduct edge detection, the coil
should approach the target location from a variety of angles as shown in Figure 23.
As the coil approaches the target, the volume will increase (target detection)
indicating that coil is in close proximity to the target.
At the rise in volume, the operator should mentally mark the position on the
ground, move the coil away, and approach the target from another angle.
This process continues until the operator achieves a mental picture of the target area.
Extreme care must be taken when mapping the target to ensure that the coil does
not touch the ground (or any exposed parts of the mine) or snag on any previously
For large minimum metal anti-tank mines, it is possible that the area mapped out
After an initial detection, if the coil is repeatedly swept over a small deeply buried
target, the response may fade. If this occurs, move the coil away from the target and
perform an Audio Reset procedure (page 26), then return to the target location
F3 Compact Operations Manual
Figure 23: Mapping the target
WARNING
undetected trip wires.
may be less than the actual area of the mine.
and continue with the pinpointing procedure.
Operating Procedures | 31