l GP 3500 l page i

the Minelab
GP 3500

Minelab wishes to thank you for purchasing our most advanced gold detector ever, and
are confident the GP 3500 will lead you to success in your quest for gold and treasure.

GP 3500 GP
page 3500
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page ii l contents l
table of contents

1. introduction 1
Introducing the Minelab GP 3500 1
Unpacking your GP 3500 [easy reference] 2

2. assembly 3
List of pre-assembled sections and parts 3
Complete assembly instructions 4

3. batteries 9
Battery and charging 9

4. controls and operation 11

Detector sounds [easy reference] 11
Quick start instructions [easy reference] 12
Rear control functions – rear panel 13
Front control functions – front panel 20

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 l contents l page iii

table of contents

5. detecting 35
Detecting techniques 35
Prospecting techniques 39
Identifying target signals 40
Recovering the target 42

6. user information 44
Technical specifications for the Minelab GP 3500 44
Troubleshooting 45
Service repair form 46
Warranty 47
Glossary of common terms 48
Detector care and safety 51
Accessories 52

GP 3500 GP 3500
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page iv l contact l
contact
Contact Minelab
Minelab is always interested in your opinions so if you have any questions or comments regarding
the GP 3500 or any other Minelab product, please feel free to contact us via your local Authorized
Minelab dealer, or write to us:

Minelab Electronics Pty Ltd Minelab USA Minelab International Limited

PO Box 537 871 Grier Drive IDA Industrial Estate
Torrensville Plaza Suite B-1; Las Vegas Laragh; Bandon
South Australia 5031 Nevada 89120 Co. Cork
Australia United States of America Ireland

email: email: email:

[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
tel: + 61 8 8238 0888 tel: + 1 702 891 8809 tel: + 353 23 52101

Visit our site on the World Wide Web: http://www.minelab.com for the latest
information on Minelab products and services.

page iv GP 3500
 l 1 introduction l page 1

introducing the Minelab GP 3500

The Minelab GP 3500 utilises “Dual Voltage Technology” (DVT),

which assists accurate ground balance and increases sensitivity
by overcoming the potential problem of super-saturated
electro-magnetic fields in heavily mineralized ground.
Here are some features of the GP 3500:
• NEW Quick-Trak push button located in the handle
for fast and accurate ground balancing;
• NEW Manual Tune control for more precise
interference control & frequency band selection.
• NEW Operator select 3-Speed Ground Tracking
• Improved "Smart Point" diagnostic plug
• Separation of Level Adjust functions
• Easy Adjust Bow Knuckle and hand strap
Like its predecessor, the GP 3000, the GP 3500
can handle heavily mineralized and salty ground
conditions with greater ease than previous detectors,
which effectively opens up NEW detecting areas.
The new Low-Noise circuitry found in the GP 3500
results in a smoother threshold, enhancing your
ability to hear faint signals caused by small and
deep targets.

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 page 2 l 1 introduction l easy reference
unpacking your GP 3500

I
A
H
B

G
F

E
D

C
Figure 1.1 – Contents of the GP 3500 pack.

The GP 3500 as shipped

A. Shaft Assembly G. Handle Assembly
B. 11 inch Coil H. Mains Charger
C. Headphones I. Power Lead
D. Control Box J. Arm Rest
E. Battery and Backpack K. Instruction Manual
F. 12V Charger

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 l 2 assembly l page 3

list of pre-assembled sections and parts

Headphones (16)
Arm Strap (14)

Battery (17) & Armrest Cover (15)

Battery Pack (18) Upper Shaft (8)

Bungy Cord (21) Bungy Knuckle (22)

Battery Power
Cable(19)

Coil Cable (2) Control Box (10)

Velcro Cable
Straps (20)
Handle with
Wrist Strap (9)

Tear-drop Washers (5)

Nylon Nut & Bolt (6)
Fibreglass Nylon Bolts (12)
Lower Shaft (4)
Armrest Parts (11)

Nylon Nuts (13)

11 inch Double D Coil (1)
& Skid Plate (3)
Figure 2.1 – Pre-assembled sections and parts list

A.Lower Shaft Assembly 11. Armrest Parts (2)

1. 11 inch Double D Coil 12. Nylon Bolt (2)
2. Coil Cable 13. Nylon Nut (2)
3. Skid Plate 14. Arm Straps (2)
4. Fibreglass Lower Shaft 15. Armrest Cover
5. Teardrop Washers F. Extras
6. Nylon Nut & Bolt C.Headphones 20. Velcro Cable
16. Headphones Straps (2)
B.Upper Shaft Assembly 21. Bungy Cord
8. Upper Shaft D.Battery and Battery Pack 22. Bow Knuckle
9. Handle with Quick-Trak 17. Battery
push button 18. Battery Back-Pack
10. Control Box 19. Battery Power Cable

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complete assembly instructions
You will need to assemble the GP 3500 from all the various components, so we
have provided you with detailed assembly instructions.

Attaching the coil

Step 1. Check that the coil (1) has a skid plate (3) attached.

Step 2. Take two teardrop washers (5) from the bag and install them into the indentations
on the end of the lower fibreglass shaft (4).

NOTE – The washers should always be full thickness and should be replaced
regularly as they wear out and allow the coil to become loose.

Step 3. Push the lower fibreglass shaft (4) into the mounting brackets on the coil and ensure
that the spring clip at the rear of the fibreglass shaft, faces the rear of the coil.

Step 4. Line up the holes in the coil with the pivot end of the fibreglass shaft (4). Push the
nylon bolt through the holes and fit the nylon wing nut and tighten by hand.

NOTE – Do not over tighten the nut as the coil housing may be crushed or damaged.

Tear-drop Washers (5)

Nylon Nut & Bolt (6)

GP Series 1100 Coil (1)

& Skid Plate (3)

Figure 2.2 – The coil pivot end of the lower fibreglass shaft

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 l 2 assembly l page 5
complete assembly instructions – continued

Assembling the lower and upper shaft sections

Refer Figure 2.2

Step 1. Slide the lower shaft (4) with coil attached into the end of the upper shaft (8), snap
spring clip into place.

Attaching the handle and arm rest

Step 1. Slide the bow knuckle (22) onto the upper Figure 2.3 - Attaching the armrest
shaft (8) and slide it halfway down. refer also Figure 2.1

Step 2. Slide the handle (9) onto the

upper shaft (8) and slide down.

Step 3. Place the two armrest halves (11)

on either side of the upper shaft (8)
and ensure that the bolt holes are
aligned.

Nylon Bolts (12)

Step 4. Slide the two nylon bolts (12)
through the bolt holes and screw the Armrest Parts (11) Nylon Nuts (13)
nylon wing nuts (13) onto the bolts by a
couple of turns.

Step 5. Attach the armrest straps (14) using the press studs on both
sides of the arm rest.

Step 6. Push the armrest straps (14) through the slots in the
neoprene armrest cover (15) and then push the cover over
the armrest (11).

Step 7. Position your arm into the armrest and slide the handle to a
comfortable position. Tighten the two screws in the base of
the handle with a small screwdriver to hold the handle in position.

Tip: For the best balance, the rear of the armrest should be just in front of your elbow.

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complete assembly instructions – continued

Attaching the Control Box and achieving balance

Step 1. Position the ‘T-section" on top of the control box (10) into the armrest with the
battery plug at the rear. Tighten the nylon wing nuts by hand.
Step 2. Loop the Quick-Trak button cable from the handle, back along the shaft and plug it
into the Smart Point connection in the control box (10). (See page 33)
Step 3. Adjust the shaft length and coil angle for a comfortable position. The lower
fibreglass shaft can be set into position by locating the spring clip into
the holes provided in the upper shaft and hand tightening the
locking nut at the end of the shaft. The correct length of shaft
for your height, is at the point that the coil can be
swung in front without you bending, dropping your
shoulder or work in a position that will Handle with
be uncomfortable. Wrist Strap (9)

Bungy Cord (21)

Figure 2.4 – Handle and bungy cord

Bow Knuckle (22)

Securing and connecting the coil cable

NOTE – Always ensure that the control box is turned Off before connecting or
disconnecting the coil, to avoid damage to the detectors electronics.
Step 1. Wind the coil cable around the shaft and plug the coil connector into
the coil socket on the control box. Check that the cable is wound firmly
around the shaft without strain, leave enough slack at the bottom of the
cable near the coil to allow for adjusting the angle of the coil without
placing strain on the coil cable.
Step 2. Fasten the cable into position using the Velcro straps provided (20).
Step 3. Secure the bungy cord through the bow knuckle (22). Slide the knuckle up
or down the shaft (8) to find the balance point and tighten the wing-nut.

HINT If the coil cable is able to move around, especially near the coil, it will be
‘seen’ by the detector and cause random noises which may be confusing.

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complete assembly instructions – continued

Fitting and connecting the battery pack

Step 1. Fit the battery (17) into the backpack pouch (18).

Step 2. Connect the headphones (16) and the power cable (19) to the appropriate sockets in
the cap of the battery.

Step 3. Put on the backpack (18).

CAUTION – Use only the 6V battery supplied.

Headphones (16) Power Cable to Detector (19)

6Volt Battery (17)

Figure 2.5
The GP 3500 battery assembly

Backpack Pouch (18)

Step 4. Ensure that the power switch on the control box is switched Off before plugging
the power cable connector (19) into the socket on the control
box. This cable connects the battery and headphones to the detector.

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Adjust for your own comfort

Step 1. Adjust the bungy cord (21) from the knuckle (22) on the shaft
to the correct length to take some of the weight when prospecting.
Step 2. Adjust the hand strap on the handle (9) for your own comfort.
Step 3. Adjust the rear harness strap on the battery bag so that the battery
sits at a comfortable position on your back. The ideal position is when
the weight of the battery counter balances the weight of the detector, and
you can still switch on the detector without putting excess strain on the
bungy cord. Taking the time to adjust your detector properly is very
important for comfortable long term detecting.
TIP: You may need to change the length of the bungy cord or the position of the
bow knuckle when you change coils or detect on sloping ground.

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batteries

The Battery
The 6V rechargeable battery can provide enough power to operate the detector for
14-15 hrs, when fully charged.

The battery may be recharged at any time during the discharge cycle.

It is very important to fully charge the battery before storage.

Do not leave a battery fully discharged for longer than one day.

CAUTION: Never use a 12V battery because this could damage the detector. This damage
is not covered by warranty. The GP 3500 power supply is internally regulated and using an
external regulated power supply is not necessary, and may damage your detector. If you wish
to operate your detector at full power for longer, we would recommend that you own two
batteries and swap halfway through the day.

Low battery indication

If the battery level drops below the required power to give adequate function, a series of alarm
signal pulses are given at half second intervals.

Charging the battery

Step 1 Turn the detector Off before disconnecting the battery.

Step 2 Disconnect the battery cable from the detector and connect to the appropriate
charger.

Battery chargers
Two types of battery chargers (Mains and 12V Vehicle Charger) are supplied.

Important
When charging, the battery must be kept in an upright position.

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Mains battery charger

The mains battery charger will charge the battery from local mains (AC) power outlets.

Step 1. Connect the mains charger to a mains outlet.

Step 2. Connect charger to the battery using the power cable.

Step 3. Switch the mains outlet on.

The charger will recharge a completely flat battery in approximately 24 hours. Partially
discharged batteries will require a shorter period to recharge. Allow approximately 1.5 to
2 hours charging for each hour the battery was in use. The flashing rate of the charger
LED will decrease as the battery gains charge.

Vehicle battery charger

The vehicle battery charger will charge the battery from the cigarette lighter socket of most
motor vehicles.

Step 1. Connect the charger to the cigarette lighter socket and turn the ignition switch
to Accessories.

Step 2. Connect the detector battery to the charger using the power cable.
This supplies 12V power to the cigarette lighter socket. This voltage is converted by
the charger to charge the detector battery. A red LED indicator will flash while the
battery is charging. When the battery is flat the LED may flash fast enough so as to
appear constantly on. As the battery gains charge, the LED will flash at a slower rate.

Step 3. Leave the battery to charge for approx. 10 hours using this charger.
If the battery voltage of your vehicle drops below 11V, the charger will stop operating.
Therefore the battery charger should not flatten the vehicle battery. Check that your
vehicle battery is in good condition before camping in remote areas and run your
engine above idle speed for at least 30 minutes each day to keep your vehicle battery
charged.

CAUTION – The Vehicle Battery Charger is designed for use with vehicles, which
have a negative earth electrical system. Most cars manufactured after 1970 should have
negative earth electrical system. Connecting the charger to a vehicle with a positive earth
system will cause the fuse in the cigarette lighter plug to blow and the LED indicator will
not light. If you need to replace the fuse located in the cigarette lighter plug, you will need
to use a 3ag/10amp fuse.

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detector sounds

DETECTOR SOUNDS - Explanations

In the course of operating your detector, there will be various noises and sounds that you may
hear. Here is an explanation of some of these sounds.

Threshold and Tone

This is the background sound produced by the detector. The level is set using the Threshold
control. The tone of the threshold is set using the Tone control.

Target Signal
This is the abrupt change of the tone and volume of the threshold sound when a target is
detected.
• The maximum level is set by the Volume control.
• The amount of tone variation is set by the Signal control.
• If the tone falls first and then rises, as the coil is passed over a target, this generally
indicates a large target.
• If the tone rises first and then falls, as the coil is passed over a target, this generally
indicates a small target.

Ground Noise
Irregular noises that are difficult or impossible to pinpoint when moving the coil over the
ground. Ground noise is caused by the changing chemistry or 'mineralization' of the ground.
Maintaining an accurate ground balance will greatly reduce this effect.

Tune Indication
An initial beep sounds, then while the detector is testing the range of bands for the most
stable, the threshold may become more quiet or chattery. Once selection is complete, three
sharp ‘beeps’ are given.

Low Battery Indication

If the battery level drops below the desired power to give adequate function,
a series of alarm signal pulses are given at half second intervals.

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page 12 l 4 controls and operation l easy reference
Quick start instructions controls and operation – continued

Step 1. Set the Coil switch to Double D.

Step 2. Set Soil switch to N (Normal).

Step 3. Set Balance switch to Fixed.

Step 4. Set Iron Discriminate knob to All Metals.

Step 5. Set Boost to N (Normal) for general detecting.

Step 6. Set Volume to maximum and Signal to 2 o’clock.

Step 7. Turn Power Switch on and adjust the Threshold control so that a faint sound is
heard through the headphones.

Step 8. Adjust the Tone to suit your hearing.

Step 9. To tune out interference, hold the detector at waist height with the shaft
horizontal and the coil vertical.

Step 10. Slowly move the coil around your body through a half-circle until the noise from
the interference is loudest.

Step 11. Place the detector on the ground in that position and push the Tune button
once to start the tuning function. Leave the detector undisturbed until
finished sequence.

Step 12. Tuning takes approximately 60 seconds. A series of 3 beeps will indicate that the
optimum frequency has been selected.Do not move the detector during the
tuning process

Step 13. Keep the All Metal / Disc control in the All Metal position.

Step 14. Put the Balance switch to Fixed and while moving the coil up and down hold
down the Quick-Trak push button in the handle. This puts it into Tracking Mode

Step 15. Once Ground Balance has been achieved, release the push button.

Step 16. The detector is now ready for operation.

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controls and operation rear controls

TRY OUR WAY FIRST!

Take the time to read this manual thoroughly. The GP 3500 introduces new functions and
changes the way some others that you may have been familiar with, now work. However
experienced you are at using a metal detector, it is important that you read this chapter to
understand these new controls and how to use the GP 3500 to its full capacity.

Rear Control Functions

There are two control panels: the rear panel and the front panel.

Figure 4.1
Rear Panel

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rear controls – continued

Threshold - On/Off
NOTE – Always switch the detector Off before connecting or
disconnecting the coil or battery pack and when not in use.
This switch turns the power from the battery to the detector, On and Off.
It is also used to set the background “hum” of the detector. This “hum”
is known as the Threshold.

Figure 4.2 Operating Instructions: The Threshold control should be set at a

Threshold - On/Off point where the threshold is just audible and stable. This level should
control not be at a level where prolonged use may become irritating. Ideally it
should be a smooth, gentle hum.
NOTE – Small targets or large deep targets may not produce a distinct target signal, but may cause
only a small variation in the threshold level. If the threshold level is set too high or too low, these very
small variations may be missed. Experiment with known targets to assist in setting all controls to suit
your hearing.
Figure 4.3 Figure 4.4 Figure 4.5
Threshold control – too high Threshold control – too low Threshold control – just right

In Figures 4.3 - 4.5, the dotted line represents the level at which the
audio output becomes audible; signals cannot be heard if they are below
the dotted line.
If the threshold level is set too high then small variations in audio signal
might not be discernible above the threshold level and the threshold will
drown out very soft signals. An example of this would be to hear a
whisper within a crowded noisy room.
If the threshold level is set too low there is no audible background signal
and small target signals will not go above the threshold of audibility.

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rear controls – continued

Volume
Sets a maximum loudness of the target signal obtained from a large
target. Refer to Figures 4.7 - 4.9. The dotted line in these figures
represents the level of volume set by the volume control.

Operating Instructions:
• If the Volume is set to maximum (fully clockwise), the target signal
is unaltered and proportional to the target size and depth
Figure 4.6 (see Figure 4.7).
Volume control
• If the Volume control is turned down to half way, the target signal
is unaltered for a small target, but is limited for a bigger target
(see Figure 4.8).
• If the Volume were to be turned down close to minimum, it
potentially will limit all signals to such a degree that most targets
will be lost (see Figure 4.9).
Figure 4.7 Figure 4.8 Figure 4.9
Maximum volume Mid-range volume Minimum volume

NOTE – Threshold should be reset after adjusting the

Volume level.
Volume should be set so that target signals are clear and easy to hear
but loud signals are not uncomfortable to your hearing.
Set the Volume by passing the coil across a large target and adjusting
volume to a comfortable level. Now test a very small target at this level.

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rear controls – continued

Tone
Adjusts the tone of the threshold. The user may set this to the preferred
tone, e.g. the tone at which the operator’s hearing is most sensitive.
Some people will find that their hearing is best in a particular range of
pitch, setting the tone control to this pitch will mean that the operator is
listening more acutely, and probably more comfortably.

Figure 4.10 At minimum position, threshold gives a low tone. Turning clockwise
Tone control increases the tone to a higher pitch.

Operating Instructions: Adjust the Tone control until the threshold

is at a comfortable tone for your hearing then test it on a couple of small
targets. Adjust until you obtain the best signal response.

HINT Setting Tone to a high pitch may be more fatiguing, but is more
suitable for identifying soft target signals.

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rear controls – continued

Signal Audio
Human hearing is sensitive to changes in tone, so the operator is more
likely to hear a target signal when both the volume and the tone change
rather than volume alone. Interpretation of the target signals involves
understanding the difference between the rising and falling tone and
volume of the threshold in response to different targets.
The Signal control gives the operator the ability to choose between a
Figure 4.11 target signal that has a large variance of tone, or one which has less
Signal control variation. High variance can give the operator more signal definition to
interpret, however in highly mineralized ground this high variance of
signal may cause confusion and make the detector appear noisy so a
lower setting may be preferred.
The Signal Audio control adjusts the pitch response of the target signal.
As a target is located, the target signal will change tone. For small
targets it will often drop to a deeper pitch then rise to a higher pitch.
The range of variation is controlled using the Signal knob.
Figure 4.12 Figure 4.13
Reduced pitch variance Increased pitch variance

Operating Instructions:
In Figures 4.12 and 4.13 the curving line represents the high/low pitch
response to a target. The dotted line represents the threshold tone.
• At minimum position the high/low pitch variance of the target signal
is reduced.(see fig. 4.12) So target signals are more monotone.
• At maximum position the high/low pitch variance of the target signal
is increased.(see fig 4.13) So that there is a large variance between
high and low pitch of the target signal.

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Boost (Shallow/N/Deep)
Boost switch selects the type of processing and filtering applied to
the detector signals to enhance different target signals in different
circumstances.

• N (Normal) mode may be used for general detecting conditions.

This does not boost any signals.
Figure 4.14
Boost switch • Shallow mode boosts signals from small targets close to the
surface.
This makes faint target signals easier to hear. This setting may also
boost some ground noise, therefore Shallow is better suited for
'quiet' ground conditions or for pinpointing tiny targets.

• Deep may be used when searching for large targets at greater depth
in 'noisy' ground. Random soil signals are smoothed, making small
changes in the audio signal from large deep targets easier to hear.
This may mask some signals from very small targets near the
surface.

Selection of the more suitable position should be after considering both

the expected target size/depth and ground conditions.

NOTE – When Boost is changed, Threshold may also need to be

adjusted. External amplifiers may be used in addition to the Boost
switch, provided that they have loudness limiters built in. This
prevents loud signals becoming unpleasant or dangerous to the
user's hearing.

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rear controls – continued

Soil (Sensitive/Normal/Salt)
This switch is used to optimise the detector for different soil conditions
and targets by changing the signal processing.

Operating Instructions:
• N (Normal) mode may be used in all areas, including areas with
Figure 4.15
Soil switch highly mineralized soil. This position has very good sensitivity to
(Normal/Sensitive/Salt) a wide range of nugget sizes and is the most versatile of the three
positions.

• Sensitive mode may be used when searching for small nuggets,

especially in areas with highly mineralized soil. The extra stability
allows the coil to be used closer to the ground in areas of excessive
ground noise. Sensitive may not work well if the ground is salty.
This setting may reduce the depth at which large nuggets are
likely to be found.

• Salt mode may be used in areas containing a high salt content,

be they neutral or heavily mineralized. In highly mineralized
areas without salt, this setting may be less sensitive to small
nuggets than Normal or Sensitive settings, but the difference to
large targets is marginal

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front controls

Front Control Functions

Figure 4.16
Front Panel

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front controls – continued

Smart Point - A quality initiative from Minelab Electronics

Smart
Point
The Smart Point is an intuitive new feature of the GP 3500. It serves two
functions
1) It is the connection point for the Quick-Trak push button to
connect with the control box circuitry; (see page 33 - Quick-Trak
reset button for more details.

2) It is a diagnostic/test port that ensures that your detector is

Fig 4.17 operating at peak performance before it leaves the factory.
Smart Point Smart Point also allows Authorized Minelab Service Engineers
worldwide to service and test your machine to ensure consistent
and maximum performance at all times. For service information
please contact your local Authorized Dealer. (See p45)

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front controls – continued

All Metal/Iron Discriminate

Discrimination is the ability of a detector to distinguish between
different types of metal objects and to assist the user in identifying
a target.
The GP 3500 is capable of rejecting many iron objects while still
detecting non-ferrous metals. The ability of the detector to discriminate
ferrous targets means that, while detecting in littered goldfields, much
of the iron rubbish may be ignored, with a high probability that valuable
Figure 4.18 targets will not be missed.
All Metal / Iron
Discriminate switch When the control is turned off ( anti-clockwise), you will detect in
All Metal and will detect any type of metal. This is the preferred setting
for most operators and the use of discrimination is restricted for use in
high trash areas.
In All Metal mode, it will give varying volume and pitch signals but this
information does not indicate the type of metal in the object.
By rotating the control clockwise past the ‘click’, you switch into the
ferrous discrimination mode. In Disc, a strong response from a ferrous
(iron) object will cause the threshold and target signal to be momentarily
'blanked' or silenced.
NOTE – If the target response is too weak for accurate
discrimination, the detector will give a normal target signal
until you dig closer to the target and the signal strength improves.
As the control is turned further clockwise, the operator it able to
influence the recognition of a target being ferrous or non-ferrous metal.

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 l 4 controls and operation – front l page 23
front controls – continued

Discrimination - continued

Figure 4.19 – Discrimination levels

Iron discrimination with the GP 3500 is the silencing or ‘blanking’ of the threshold and target
signal, which occurs when the detector determines a target is comprised of ferrous metal.
There is no discrimination when Iron Discrimination is set to All Metal.
When a target has been located using Disc, the coil should be rapidly passed back and forth
over the target centre several times. Remember to set Ground Balance to Fixed for this and
keep the sweep across the target at a level height and as close to the ground as possible.
You should always test the target from at least two directions (90o to each other)
so that the detector sees the target from different profiles.
When detecting a piece of iron, a normal target signal will start to be heard until the
target signal becomes strong enough for the detector to determine that the object
is ferrous. At this point, the signal will 'blank'.

TIP: For large very deep targets, the hole being dug may not be wide enough for the coil to
move sideways across the target. Therefore the discrimination will not be accurate.

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front controls – continued

Discrimination - continued
The strength of the target response required for discrimination to occur may be altered by
rotating the control knob.
There is usually some merging of characteristics between targets, which are clearly ferrous
and others that ‘may-be’ ferrous. Rotation of the control knob allows the operator to make a
fine adjustment in the determination of the ‘may-be’ signals.
• (Fully anti-clockwise) – just past the ‘click’ turning discrimination on, will keep the
discrimination cautious and ‘may-be’ targets will respond with a normal non-ferrous
signal and only definite ferrous targets give the blanking. (as per Figure 4.20).

Figure 4.20
A normal signal on a
non-ferrous target.

• (Fully clockwise) In this position, the control becomes a little less cautious and some
‘may-be’ targets will be seen as ferrous and give a blanking signal (as per Figure 4.21).
In this position some small non-ferrous targets eg: coated in ironstone, could be
mistaken for ferrous.

Figure 4.21
Discrimination target
signal on a ferrous
target

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front controls – continued

Discrimination - continued
Keeping the control anti-clockwise requires a slightly stronger signal before discrimination
occurs, rotating it clockwise means that discrimination will occur on a weaker target.
Discrimination functions will only work with strong, positive target responses. Weak
responses will give normal 'all metal' type signals.
HINT It is usually best to dig out all targets and only use the discrimination
function in areas where a large amount of rubbish makes the digging of everything
impractical.
Discrimination will give the best results when used in combination with the specially designed
GP Series Double-D coils and will not work correctly when using mono coils.
NOTE – If Pinpointing a target prior to digging, best results will be from switching out
of discrimination and into all metals.

Selection of how far to turn the discrimination knob should be determined by how cautious
you want to be and how much trash is in the area. If the area is heavily littered, you may want
to use a less cautious discrimination and have the knob in the 5.00 o’clock position. If there is
little trash in the area and most close to the surface you may prefer a more cautious position
of 9 – 12.00 o’clock.

TIP: If you are on a known gold producing site or successful patch, it is best to dig up all targets.

GP 3500 GP 3500
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front controls – continued

Coil (Double-D/M/Cancel)
This control changes the sensitivity and search pattern of the coil to allow
the GP series of Double-D coils to become multi-versatile with different
characteristics to suit different environments. This is achieved by altering
the pattern of transmit (TX) and receive (RX) fields of the coil and how the
control box interprets the response. Selection of different positions of this
switch, changes the electromagnetic field of the coil, thus giving better
performance in certain environments.
Figure 4.22
Coil switch
• Double-D has the coil operate in a conventional Double D search
pattern and can be used in most areas of medium to very high
mineralization, being the most able to cope with these conditions.
It is also excellent for pinpointing targets as the response is strongest
from the centre of the coil.

• M (Mono) changes the way the coil transmits and receives its signal
and may be used in most locations of low to medium mineralization,
and for locating small nuggets with Soil switch set to Sensitive. Use of
Mono will often increase the sensitivity of the detector but may also be
a little more unstable in heavily mineralized ground. Pinpointing is not
centred in the middle of the coil, but to one side and may give a
complex signal when the target is very close to the coil.

• Cancel changes the electromagnetic field of the coil so that it is

particularly stable in areas of electrical interference. This position
is ideal in areas where the operator wants to detect close to suburbia
or where the Tune function has difficulty selecting a quiet operational
frequency (e.g.: near power lines, phone towers or under poor
atmospheric conditions). Pinpoint in Cancel will again be to one side
of centre and signals may be complex if the target is close to the coil.
This setting will limit sensitivity to deep targets.

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front controls – continued

Balance (Fixed/Tracking)
The ground you’re searching in contains not only sand, but also many
different chemicals, minerals and salts. These extra materials are referred
to as ground mineralization. This ground mineralization may often produce
a sound from the detector, known as ‘ground noise’.
The GP 3500 has the ability to cancel out the effects of ground
mineralization automatically. This minimises ground noise and retains
maximum sensitivity to metal targets. Cancelling the effects of ground
Figure 4.23
Balance switch
mineralization is referred to as 'ground balancing'. This ensures that
(Fixed/Tracking) target signals from objects, such as gold, are not confused with interfering
ground noise.
The GP 3500 automatic ground balance continually adjusts to minimise
the effects of changing ground mineralization when balance is set to
Tracking. The GP 3500 may be operated with fixed ground balance or
automatic tracking ground balance.

• When Balance is set to Fixed, the ground balance remains at the

current level. To re-balance, you just press the Quick-Trak push button
which triggers a fast re-balance, then returns to Fixed to continue
detecting once this button is released.
• When the ground is variable in mineral content requiring repeated
re-balancing, use Tracking as the detector continuously tests the
ground and makes changes to suit. (see Tracking Speed (p.32) for
more information.)

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front controls – continued

Ground Balancing Procedure

• Have the Fixed / Tracking switch in Fixed position
• Move the coil up and down between 20mm and 100mm above the ground and, while
moving the coil, press down the Quick-Trak push button in the handle
• When the button is depressed, the Tracking program initiates its automatic ground
balance. This begins with a 5 second very fast ground balance, therefore it is important
to be moving the coil when the button is held down.
• Keep moving the coil and keep the button depressed until all ground noise has stopped.
• A persistent signal may indicate a target in the ground. If this occurs, then move the coil
to a new location and repeat the procedure.
When there is no longer a change in the threshold, while the coil is being raised and
lowered, the detector is 'ground balanced'.
• Release the Quick-Trak button and you can commence searching.
You are now searching in Fixed position.

Figure 4.24
Ground Balancing
Procedure
20 – 100mm

GP 3500 GP 3500
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front controls – continued

Operating the GP 3500 in Fixed mode

In medium to quiet ground you will achieve better depth by operating your GP 3500 in the
Fixed position and using the Quick-Trak push button to re-balance when the ground changes
and/or threshold becomes erratic. If the ground is highly mineralized or variable, then
searching in Tracking may be the preferred position.

HINTS
• Where possible always search in Fixed position for best depth and only use Tracking mode
in areas with excessive ground noise or rapidly changing ground.
• When searching in Fixed position remember to re-balance periodically by pressing the
Quick-Trak push button in the handle. This returns you to Fixed once the re-balance is
completed and you release the button.
• Always Pinpoint a potential target in Fixed.
• If mineralization is excessive you may need to lift the coil off the ground by a cm or two,
rather than keeping it right on the ground. This will help to reduce the effects of high
ground mineralization and let you hear more targets much easier.

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front controls – continued

Operating the GP 3500 in Tracking mode

If the ground is highly mineralized or variable, search in Tracking mode.

To search in Tracking mode, switch the Fixed / Tracking switch on the control box into
Tracking position.

In this position the detector is continuously testing and re-balancing to compensate for
changes in the ground mineralization. There are three tracking speeds that you can search
in – Fast; Medium & Slow. – see next chapter for details.

When searching in Tracking mode, the Quick-Trak push button takes you into Fixed mode
while the button is depressed.

While in Tracking mode, the detector usually stops ground balancing when a target signal is
detected. However, a weak target response may not be recognised as a target if the coil is
repeatedly passed over it, and especially if operating in medium or fast tracking.
For this reason the push button should be used to change to Fixed when pinpointing a target.
When searching in Tracking, after locating a target or what you believe is a target, sweep the
coil around the target area, without passing across it, then hold in the Quick-Trak push button
and pinpoint the target location.

When releasing the button, the detector engages a short, fast tracking mode (indicated by a
beep) then returns to the Tracking mode.

TIP: When in tracking, you can use the push button as a ground balance reset.
Simply raise and lower the coil a few centimeters, periodically to check the
ground balance, and if it not completely balanced just push and release the
button while continuing the ground balance procedure.

GP 3500 GP 3500
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front controls – continued

Tracking Speed
If searching in Tracking position, the operator can choose the speed that
is best suited to the area. In effect, this gives the operator 4 options to
search in: Slow, Medium & Fast plus the 4th being Fixed Balance which
is the recommended position subject to variability of the ground mineral-
ization.
Tracking
NOTE – The Tracking Speed switch does not effect the speed of
Speed the initial very fast auto-ground balance. This very fast initial
ground balance only lasts 5 seconds.

Figure 4.25 If the area being detected has the mineralization changing too often for
Tracking the operator to search in Fixed position, the GP 3500 now allows the
speed operator to gradually step through from Slow auto-tracking, into Medium
speed, then into Fast auto-tracking.

Choosing the preferred speed of tracking should be simply stepping

through the speeds from Slow through to Fast, with the preferred speed
being the slowest speed which still keeps up with the variability of the
ground mineralization.

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 l 4 controls and operation l page 33
front controls – continued

Quick-Trak push button

Located in the handle of the GP 3500 is a push button which allows easy operation of
ground balancing.
The Quick-Trak push button has two functions depending on where the balance switch is set
on the control box.

If set to Fixed mode:

If the Balance switch on the control box is set into the Fixed position, the detector will
operate with Fixed ground balance while detecting. When the ground mineralization changes
and the operator needs to rebalance, by holding in the Quick-Trak push button, a 5 second
fast rebalance will occur. Once this has been completed, the push button can be released
and the operator can continue detecting in Fixed mode.

If set to Tracking mode:

If the Balance switch on the control box is set to Tracking, the detector will continuously
test and change ground balance to compensate for changes in the ground mineralization,
(the speed of this is controlled by the Tracking speed switch). If a target signal is heard,
the operator can change into Fixed mode by pressing and holding in the Quick-Trak push
button and while the the button is depressed, the detector will operate in Fixed mode for
better pinpointing.
On release of the button a short “beep” will be heard
and a quick auto-ground balance is initiated prior to
returning to Tracking Mode.

NOTE – The Quick-Trak

push button is only Figure 4.26
engaged and changing Quick-Trak
the operating mode Push Button
while the button is
depressed. Once the
button is relaxed, the
Balance mode returns
to that selected on
the control box.

GP 3500 GP 3500
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front controls – continued

Tune
The Tune function reduces the effects of electromagnetic interference
from sources such as power lines, radio transmitters and other metal
detectors. There are two controls allowing the operator the greatest
flexibility.

Auto push button

Pressing and releasing the Tune button starts automatic tuning. The
tuning process takes approx. 60 sec. and completion is indicated by
Figure 4.27
Tune control & button
three sharp ‘beeps’. Once pressed, the GP 3500 scans through a wide
range of search bands, testing each one for it’s susceptibility to outside
electromagnetic waves in the same or similar bands that would cause
interference. On completing the search, it selects the most stable band
for operating in the environment of operation.

NOTE – Interference in some locations can change during the

course of the day so you may need to re-tune from time to time to
maintain a smooth threshold as you move around the area.

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 l 4 controls and operation l page 35
front controls – continued

Set the Tune control

Tuning should be done initially with the Coil switch in Double D or in M (Mono). If the
interference is still severe after completing the tuning operation, change the Coil switch to
Cancel and then re-tune the detector again.
• Hold the detector at waist height and the coil vertical and slowly rotate through a
half-circle (eg: from East to West, or from North to South).
• Listen for any increase in interference as you move and when the interference is loudest,
stop moving. Lay the detector on the ground, facing that position, and keeping the
coil vertical.
• Press and release the Tune button.
• The detector will then scan through the available range of transmission frequencies and
automatically select the frequency that results in the greatest reduction of noise from
electromagnetic interference.
• The end of the tuning process (which takes approx. 60 sec.) is announced by three beeps.

NOTE – While the detector is selecting the preferred frequency, the coil must be
kept motionless and clear of metal objects. If you move the coil or allow it
to sense a metal target, the testing for the quietest band will be influenced.
When tuning the detector in close proximity to other detectors, each
operator needs to take turns tuning.
Do not try to tune two detectors at one time.

Figure 4.28
The Tuning
Process

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front controls – continued

After completing the Auto-tune, pick the detector up and with the coil rotated flat, into the
search position, listen to see if it is stable. If a slight interference is still present, you can use
the manual control to fine tune the selected band.

Manual Control
Manual tuning can now be used by the operator to fine tune after the Auto tuning is
completed. In areas where there is no interference being experienced, the Manual control
can be used to select a personal search band.

After completing the auto-tune, to fine tune the band, start turning the manual control quite
slowly in one direction, listening if the threshold becomes more stable or flaky. If this direction
does not improve it, try the opposite direction. It is quite important that you turn the control
slowly to make very fine adjustments.

If the interference persists after tuning, consider using the Coil switch set to Cancel position
and retune again

Hint: If detecting in a benign area of no interference, you may find that you can select a band
at one end of the scale or the other. Frequency bands in the counter-clockwise ‘start’ direction
are lower frequency bands and higher frequency bands are toward the clockwise end. Turn
the control in the desired direction until the one beep or two beep signal is heard. Then using
slow turns in the reverse direction find a band which is stable. This will not make much
difference but low frequency bands can give a little more depth to larger targets and high
frequency bands can give slightly more sensitivity to smaller targets close to the surface.

Important: The manual control will signal when you have moved to the end of the
range of frequency bands. When you arrive at the counter clockwise starting point
you will hear a single beep to denote that this is the start, moving clockwise to the
other end, you will hear two beeps to denote that it is the finish.

Note – When turning the control rapidly to move to the desired

end you want, you will notice noise caused by the rapid
movement through the frequencies. This is normal and
will not be present when the control is turned slowly.

There are 14 turns of the control from start to finish.

page 36 GP 3500
 l 5 detecting l page 37

detecting techniques
Hints and techniques for better detecting and happy prospecting that will help you to
utilise the power of your GP 3500

Some user tips:

• Always ensure that the battery is at full charge so that your detector is working at
optimum performance. A worthwhile recommendation is to own a spare battery which
you can swap half-way through the day thus making sure that you are always working
with full power.
• The battery should be worn in the backpack harness supplied. This places the battery
at the furthest practical distance from the coil.
• Ensure that you do not set the shaft length too short. If the coil is too close to your
body it might detect your pick, the battery or any other metal which you are carrying.
Steel toe boots can obviously cause a problem with false signals. If false signals are
occurring as you sweep the coil, check that they are not produced by any metal that you
are carrying. Move the coil closer, and then further away from your body, in order to
check if the signals are coming from items such as your pick, boots or battery. If they are,
you must increase the distance between the coil and these items.
• Take the time to experiment with the different settings, to fully understand how to get the
most out of your detector in different locations.

Motion detection
The GP 3500 is a 'motion' detector. Therefore the detector must be moving
over a target to detect it.
Figure 5.1 - Parallel Sweeping

Parallel Sweeping Procedure

• The coil should be swept over the ground in
a side-to-side sweeping motion.
• While sweeping the coil, it is important to
keep it parallel to, and at the same height
from, the ground at all times. Lightly skidding
the coil across the ground can sometimes
help in this, depending on mineralization.
• Do not raise the coil at the ends of each
sweep as this will reduce the detection depth
and may cause false signals.

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detecting techniques – continued

Covering the search area

• As the user moves forward slowly, the search pattern should resemble a snaking path.
• To ensure that productive ground is thoroughly searched, approach the area from
3 different directions.

Overlap each sweep

• Each sweep of the coil should overlap the area covered by the previous sweep to ensure
a full coverage of the area being searched.
• Be aware of the search pattern of the coil being used and overlap sweeps to take this
pattern into account. If using a Monoloop coil a tighter overlap is required to ensure that
targets at maximum depth are not overlooked.
• See also Pinpointing Technique,
page 41.

Figure 5.2 Search path

Figure 5.3 Search area from

3 directions

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 l 5 detecting l page 39

prospecting techniques
The GP 3500 has superior ground balancing and it is possible to find quite large
objects near the surface in well-worked areas where other detectors have been unable
to cope with the high degree of mineralization and/or salt. Therefore the user should
dig all target signals, even in previously detected areas.

• Very sudden or large changes in the mineralization of an area may produce a signal
from the detector. Usually this signal is very broad, and often only present in one
direction.
• In some goldfields, a response may be received from a concentration of orange/reddish
dyke material or clay. Remember, a metal target will get louder by getting the coil even
centimeters closer.
• If detecting areas of extremely variable mineralization, detecting with the contours rather
than across the changes will often stabilize the effect.
• In some ground (particularly heavily mineralized areas) the operator may need to sweep
the coil 1 or 2 cm above the ground. This should give a more stable threshold and less
ground noise.
• With faint or indistinct signals that you are not sure of scrape a few centimetres off the
surface with your pick and see if the signal becomes clearer.

Big GOLD.
Many detector operators have no trouble finding their share of small gold, but often are
disappointed at the lack of larger gold found at depth, even though they have dug up to
1m for a soft drink can or a horse shoe. The reason is that big gold gives a much
different response to the smaller shallower pieces. The signal is often quite broad, and
there is very little pitch variance. Just something to be aware of.

For Maximum Gold Recovery

• Keep the coil as close to the ground as possible.
• Listen very carefully - this is more important than looking.
• SLOW DOWN! Do not rush, take your time.
• Have a positive mind set, and imagine a nugget at every next sweep!!
• Remember that covering a small section of ground thouroughly will be
more productive than randomly searching a larger area.

GP 3500 GP 3500
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front controls – continued

Set the Tune control

Tuning should be done initially with the Coil switch in Double D or in M (Mono). If the
interference is still severe after completing the tuning operation, change the Coil switch to
Cancel and then re-tune the detector again.
• Hold the detector at waist height and the coil vertical and slowly rotate through a
half-circle (eg: from East to West, or from North to South).
• Listen for any increase in interference as you move and when the interference is loudest,
stop moving. Lay the detector on the ground, facing that position, and keeping the
coil vertical.
• Press and release the Tune button.
• The detector will then scan through the available range of transmission frequencies and
automatically select the frequency that results in the greatest reduction of noise from
electromagnetic interference.
• The end of the tuning process (which takes approx. 60 sec.) is announced by three beeps.

NOTE – While the detector is selecting the preferred frequency, the coil must be
kept motionless and clear of metal objects. If you move the coil or allow it
to sense a metal target, the testing for the quietest band will be influenced.
When tuning the detector in close proximity to other detectors, each
operator needs to take turns tuning.
Do not try to tune two detectors at one time.

Figure 4.28
The Tuning
Process

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 l 5 detecting l page 41
identifying target signals – continued

Pinpointing
To find an object and reduce the size of the hole required to remove it from the ground, it is
necessary to pinpoint the exact location of the object.

If a target is heard, first confirm it by setting an accurate ground balance and then pinpointing.
To ground balance, if detecting in Fixed position, hold down the Quick-Trak push button and
pass the coil around the area of the target, making sure that the target is not detected (keep
the coil well away from where the target is). Once completed relax the push button.

If detecting in Tracking mode, move the coil slowly around the area of the target, keeping well
away from the target itself, then hold down the Quick-Trak push button to go to Fixed and pin-
point across the target.

When a target is detected, sweep the general area with the coil, taking note of where the
strongest signal is received.

By shortening the length of the sweep it should be possible to draw an imaginary line in the
ground where the strongest signal is located.

Line up the target at 90° from the initial direction and repeat the process. The object is located
where the two imaginary lines cross (see Figure 5.4).

NOTE – Pinpointing will not locate a target in the centre of the coil if operating
with the Coil switch set to M (Mono) or Cancel, it will be slightly to one
side of centre

Target could be Sweep

anywhere in Direction
this Area
Exact
Location
of Target

Imaginary Line of
Strongest Signal
Sweep Coil 90 degrees
Figure 5.4 Pinpointing technique to Previous Sweep

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page 42 l 5 detecting l
recovering the target
When you are sure of the location of the target, it is necessary to dig it out. In order
to preserve the environment, the hole should be as small as possible. Afterwards,
always replace the soil and grass which is removed.
It is essential to carry at least one of the following digging tools with you when searching:
• small, strong digging spade or shovel.
• pick with broad scraping blade.
• crowbar (for very deep objects in hard ground).
Step 1 Before digging, clear the area of loose surface material and check that the target
signal is still there. If it is not, the target should be amongst the surface material.
Also remember if there are other signals close to your target. This is important
so that when you come to dig your hole, you do not heap the loose dirt on top of
another target already in the ground.
Step 2 If the target signal is still present, use your pick to dig to a depth of approx. 50mm.
Step 3 Sweep the coil over the hole to determine if it has been dug. If the target signal is
not heard, then the target should be in the pile just dug.
Step 4 Otherwise dig a little deeper and check again.
Step 5 Take care when you dig, as damaging a nugget may reduce its value. Start digging
approx. 100mm in front of the target to reduce the chance of damage.
Step 6 Pile the diggings carefully, ensuring that you do not make the pile on top of another
target (see step 1.), as it may be necessary to search them.
Step 7 If the target is located in the soil, which was removed, sweep the coil over the pile
and pinpoint its exact position.
Step 8 Keep halving the pile which has the target.
Step 9 If it is still difficult to find the target, place the detector on the ground with the
coil horizontal.
Step 10 Take a handful of the diggings and pass over the coil.

NOTE – Your hands and wrists must be free of any metallic jewellery and watches.

Step 11 If there is no signal, place the handful carefully in a new pile and repeat with
another handful.
Important: Always refill any holes before leaving, and scatter leaves, etc. to restore the
area to its original condition. Any rubbish you recover should be taken away with you and
disposed of properly. Removing rubbish and refilling holes will help metal detector users
maintain a good reputation. This should lead to more areas being readily accessible
for prospecting

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 l 5 detecting l page 43
recovering the target – continued

Recovering Deep Targets

The GP 3500 has depth capabilities that will surprise both new and experienced prospectors.
If the target appears to be buried deeply, it should help to use the following technique:

Step 1 Use the cross sweeping method to locate the target accurately.

Step 2 Dig a hole large enough to insert the coil, approx. 100mm deep.

Step 3 Keep testing the target location as you dig deeper.

Step 4 Take care that the target is not in the wall of the hole. You may dig past it.

Try pinpointing again to check your hole is in the correct position.

HINT
When the object has been recovered, it may be worthwhile sweeping the hole again to ensure
that there are no other targets.

If you find an object in a particular location, search the surrounding area very carefully.
It is likely that there are more objects nearby.

If you hear a target signal, keep searching until you find the object;
it is there and may be valuable.

Salty Environments
The GP 3500 will find objects at great depths in salty environments.
However, the interfering signals caused by highly concentrated salt may
not be able to be completely 'balanced out' if using automatic ground
balance alone.

HINT Change Soil switch to Salt setting for salty environments. To use the salt
setting, you will have to use the specially designed GP series range of coils.

GP 3500 GP 3500
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technical specifications

The GP 3500
Length Maximum 1300mm
Minimum 1100mm
Weight Complete with 11" coil 2400g
(excluding battery)
Configuration Shaftmount
Transmission Bi-level Pulse Induction
Technology Dual Voltage MPS Technology
Ground Rejection Automatic ground balance
Search Mode Motion detector
Controls On/Off - Threshold Pot w/ switch
Signal 1 turn control
Tone 1 turn control
Volume 1 turn control
Boost ( shallow/N/deep) 3 pos. Switch
Soil ( sens/N/salt) 3 pos. Switch
Tune (auto) Push switch
Tune (manual) Digital pot
Iron Discriminate (All Metal/Disc) Pot w/ switch
Coil ( DoubleD/M/Cancel)) 3 pos. switch
Track Speed ( Fast/M/Slow) 3 pos. switch
Balance (Fixed/Tracking) 2 pos. switch
Audio Output 6.35mm (1/4") headphone socket
Headphones Supplied
Coil (standard) 11" Double D
Coil (accessory) 18" Double D or 18", 11" and 8" Mono
Battery 6VDC 12Ahr sealed lead acid 14-15hrs

Patents Apply

NOTE: In the interest of product improvement, Minelab reserves the right to

make changes without notice.

page 44 GP 3500
 l 6 user info l page 45

troubleshooting
Use the following table to check for suggested solutions to problems.

Fault Suggestion
No sound Turn Threshold control fully clockwise.
Turn Volume control clockwise.
Check power cable and connections.
Check headphones.
Check battery.

Threshold but no target signal Try testing different coils.

Random noises Check for other detectors interfering.

Retune using Tuning button.
Charge the battery.
Set Coil switch to Cancel.
Ground balance again.
Check for thunderstorm build-up.

Battery will not charge Check for power to cigarette lighter socket
using vehicle charger in vehicle.
Check 10 amp fuse in charger plug.

Battery not holding charge Try alternative charger.

Check power cable.

Very noisy threshold Check for interference and re-tune.

Try detecting in a different location.
Set Coil switch to Cancel.

If you need to return your detector to Minelab for service, please

supply as many details as possible about the fault. This will enable our
service engineers to rectify the fault quickly and efficiently.

Return the detector in a cardboard box for protection along with a copy of
the Service Repair Form supplied in this manual.

Please supply your name, address and phone number along with purchase
date and serial number when sending detector parts for repair.
Do not open the control box as this will void your warranty.

GP 3500 GP 3500
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service repair form
Today’s date:

Detector Model: Serial No. :

Purchased from:

Purchase date:

Faulty part(s):

Description of fault:

Owner’s name:

Address:

Phone: Day ( ) Home ( )

Fax :( ) Email:

page 46 GP 3500
 l 6 user info l page 47

warranty
The GP 3500 control box has a 2 year warranty covering parts and labour. Refer to your
warranty card for details. The GP series coils have a warranty for one year against
malfunction.

Refer to either your supplier or Minelab directly for service.

The commencement of the warranty is the date of purchase.

The Minelab warranty does not cover damage caused by accident, misuse, neglect,
modifications or unauthorised service.

For specific details of the Minelab warranty please refer to the Product Warranty card.
It is the responsibility of the owner to pay all transport costs for the detector to Minelab.
The repaired detector will be returned to the owner freight free.

NOTE – This warranty is not transferable or valid unless the enclosed warranty
registration card is returned to Minelab Electronics Pty. Ltd. or an authorised
Minelab Electronics Pty. Ltd. regional distributor within 14 days of the
original purchase date,

Repairs
In the unfortunate circumstance that the detector needs to be
returned to Minelab for service, please fill out the Minelab Service Repair Form
(or a photocopy of the same) and enclose it with the detector.

Please supply as much detail about the fault as possible. This will assist our
service engineers to rectify the problem quickly and efficiently. (See p46)

GP 3500 GP 3500
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glossary of common terms
Control Box The control box encloses the electronic circuitry of the detector. The
control box originates the TX (transmit) signals sent by the coil and
interprets the RX (receive) signals detected by the coil. All user selectable
functions (knobs & switches) are located on the front and rear panels of
the control box.

Discrimination The ability of a metal detector to estimate if a located target is made from
ferrous metal (iron or steel) or non-ferrous metal (non-magnetic).

Double-D Coils Double D coils are coils that have two windings of wire that overlap in the
shape of two D's (one reversed). The characteristics of a Double D coil
are stability, especially in heavily mineralized ground, good depth and
sensitivity and a very thorough search pattern.

Electromagnetic Commonly called the 'signal from the coil'. An electromagnetic field is
Field generated within the wire windings of the search coil and this field is
pulsed or sent into the ground. The presence of a metal target in the
ground will disturb the pattern of this field and this disturbance is
registered by the receive system of the detector and indicated to the
operator by an audible target signal "beep".

False Signal False signals are signals, which sound similar to target signals but are
caused by other factors. Common causes for false signals are incorrect
ground balance, hot rocks, signals caused by knocking the coil on
obstacles, etc. With experience, the operator will learn methods to
minimise false signals and to hear subtle differences between target
signals and false signals.

Ferrous Metals Metals composed of or containing iron. A ferrous item is one, which is
attracted to a magnet and is predominantly or completely made of iron
or steel.

Ground Balance The ability of the metal detector to compensate for the effects of ground
mineralization. The GP 3500 has "automatic ground balance". When it is
used in Tracking mode it continually compensates for changes in the
ground mineralization.

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glossary of common terms – continued

Halo Effect After a metal object has remained undisturbed in the soil for a
considerable amount of time, a diffusion occurs around the object.
This has the effect of the object appearing to the detector to be
a larger size.

Hot Rocks A hot rock is an individual rock which has a particularly high
degree of mineralization as compared to the average ground
around it. Due to this high difference, the detector does not have
the opportunity to ground balance on the individual rock so
therefore gives a false signal.

Interference Electricity or radio waves in the area being detected can cause
instability or chattering of the detectors threshold. The types of
interference commonly occur due to power lines, underground
cables, radar, other detectors or climatic conditions like
thunderstorms.

Mineralization Most ground contains certain minerals, which can cause false
Ground signals to be given by a detector. Heavily mineralized ground
requires different ground processing than does neutral or lightly
mineralized ground (see Ground Balance).

Ground containing heavy salt concentrations require entirely

different processing again (sea salt).

Monoloop Coils Monoloop coils are the style of coil where the multiple strands of
wire are wound in a single loop around the circumference of the
coil. The field of search of Monoloop coils tend to be cone shaped.

Non - Ferrous Metals not containing significant levels of iron. Non-ferrous

Metals metals are non-magnetic such as Gold, Silver, Copper, Brass,
Lead or Aluminium.

Pinpoint The method of locating the precise location of a target prior to

digging. Pinpointing uses the design of the search coil windings
to determine the exact position of the detected target.

RX RX refers to the response or electromagnetic field which is

received back by the coil and is used by the control box circuitry
to detect a metal item in the ground.

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glossary of common terms– continued

Salt The presence of high salt content in the ground being searched
will have a similar but different effect on the metal detector ground
balance as does mineralization.
Salt content causes a negative (-) response rather than the
positive (+) response of laterite soils. The detector needs to
therefore use different filtering techniques to overcome this effect.

Search Coil The search coil is the circular plate which is swept across the
ground surface during detecting. It transmits electromagnetic
signals into the ground and receives the response.

Search Pattern The search pattern is the area of ground underneath the coil
which is being scanned. Depending on the style of coil (Double D
or Monoloop) and the Coil mode being operated in (Double
D/Mono/Cancel) different coils will have a different shaped area
being covered by each sweep.

Threshold The continuous audible level of sound emitted by the detector is

referred to as the Threshold. This threshold hum is the
background sound made as the detector operates. Threshold
can be set anywhere between silent and loud, but a soft, audible
level is normally suggested.

Target Response The electro-magnetic effect generated by the metal target under
the influence of the TX field.

Target Signal The audio signal (or change in threshold) caused by the presence
of a metal target as the coil passes across it.

Tracking The function of Automatic Ground Balance where the GP 3500

makes continuous adjustments to the ground balance to
compensate for changes in the mineralization of the ground.

TX TX refers to the transmit signals or electromagnetic pulses,

sent into the ground by the coil.

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detector care and safety

– take care
The GP 3500 is a high quality electronic instrument. It has been designed for
professional gold prospecting use and the electronics circuitry is encased in a rugged
housing. Take care of your detector in the following way:

Keep the detector clean and dry. It is very important to keep all electrical connectors clean
and dry.

The control box is not waterproof, even though it has been designed to be water-resistant.
Take care to avoid it becoming wet.

The coil is water resistant and may be used in rain or wet conditions. The coil is not
waterproof. Do not immerse the coil in water.

Regularly replace such items as teardrop washers and skidplates to give long life to
your detector.

Do not expose the detector to high temperatures or leave it in the sun for longer than is
necessary. Shading will help protect it. Do not leave the detector in a closed vehicle,
especially in the sun.

The coil housing will eventually wear through if you scrub the ground with it while searching.
Use of a replaceable skid plate will help to protect your coils.

To prevent dirt entering between the coil and the skidplate, silk tape, e.g. Leukosilk®, which
is available from chemists, may be used. The use of some other carbon based tapes,
e.g. insulation tape, may result in some loss of sensitivity.

The control box and coil should not come into contact with petrol or other oil-based liquids.
If any part of the detector comes into contact with corrosive substances, including salt or salt
water, it should be washed with fresh water.

Clean the detector with a damp cloth using a mild soap detergent.
Do not use solvents.

Do not open the control box as this will void your warranty.
All circuitry repairs should be sent back to Minelab or an Authorised repairer.

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accessories
Search coils
The GP 3500 is supplied with the 11" Double D coil. This coil has been specially designed to
take advantage of the new technology and features of this detector. In addition to this there
are also a number of other size coils now available to give improved performance to your
detector.
These range from smaller coils which give greater sensitivity to small targets and are lighter
and manoeuverable in heavy vegetation, up to larger coils which give greater depth. See your
Minelab retailer for the full range.

In some circumstances, other brand Double D and Monoloop coils will work on the GP 3500,
however there are limitations which will mean that a number of the new benefits of the DVT
technology will not work properly. In some cases the use of coils not designed for the GP
3500 will cause the detector to be unstable and noisy.

Batteries
Spare 12Ahr batteries can be an advantage, especially if travelling into the outback. Having
a spare battery that you can use after lunch can ensure that you’re always detecting at full
power.

A smaller light-weight battery is also available from Minelab. This is rated at 4.5Ahr and
gives approx. 3 - 4 hours running time per charge. The weight of this battery is 968g.

Corporate clothing
Minelab also has a range of good quality clothing,
e.g. caps, shirts and jackets available.

Ask your local dealer for details.

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