In this article: Using a calculator and a radio to detect metals Converting a smartphone into a metal detector Arming a kit for metal detector
Building your own metal detector is fun and educational. Although building a traditional metal detector may require a kit (or a thorough knowledge of electrical circuits), you can create simpler versions with home appliances. The fastest way to detect metals is using the magnetic field of your smartphone. However, a well-known method for making a metal detector is to use a calculator and a radio.
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Method 1
Use a calculator and a radio to detect metals
1
Tune the radio to the highest band in the AM setting. Make sure you are not tuned into a station. You will hear the static tone clearly and continuously. This will allow you to hear any difference in tone when your device detects a metal object. [one]
2
Build the search head. Turn on the calculator. Then, place the two devices back to back until you hear a light and constant tone. You may have to place the devices at certain angles or distances to get that tone. [two]
3
Stick the devices with adhesive tape in that position. Once the calculator and the radio produce the right tone, you should stick them with adhesive tape in that position. If the distance is too uncomfortable to stick the devices, install them in that position on a board. That way, the search head will stay firm and function properly while you search for metals. [3]
4
Hold the search head to an axis. An old broom handle or a similar stick can be a suitable axle for this purpose. Use multipurpose tape as a quick and safe method of installing the shaft. Another thing you can do is use plastic clamps to secure the two pieces together. Use any method that works best for the shape of the search head. [4]
5
Test your metal detector on some home metals. First, check that the metal detector works by placing a spoon on the table. Then, pass it on the spoon and listen until it beeps or a new sound (different from the constant tone it produces). Now you can take it outside or around your house to locate other metal objects.
Method 2
Convert a smart phone into a metal detector
1
Download an application to detect metals. Smartphones are electrical devices and, as such, produce a magnetic field. There are developed applications that allow you to use your phone's own magnetic field to detect metal objects. Go to your respective application store (which differs from platform to platform) and download the metal detector application. [5]
An example of a metal detector application is the "Metal Detector" application (metal detector).
2
Pass your phone over metals with the application open. Once the application has been downloaded, open it. Follow any configuration instructions within the application to work optimally. When the application is loaded and ready, start passing your phone over different metal objects. [6]
3
Observe the measurement of the magnetic field change. The application to detect metals works by measuring changes in the magnetic field of your phone. As you pass over the metal, it will interact with that field and the application will detect that interaction. These interactions are shown as fluctuations in the magnetic field as you move the phone from object to object. [7]
For example, as you pass the phone over a metal object, the magnitude of the field could increase dramatically, which indicates that you have found some metal.
Method 3
Assemble a kit for metal detector
1
Build the hardware You can buy kits for metal detectors that come with several pieces of hardware . Some include a coil and an axis. Others will only have a control box. Choose the right kit for you and assemble the parts according to the instructions. [8]
If you choose a kit with less hardware , you will have to make additional parts such as the shaft and the coil.
2
Solder the circuits. The control box will require welding to complete all the necessary circuits . You will need a gun or a soldering iron to solder the components . If you have never soldier before, consider asking a more experienced person for help. [9]
3
Check the metal detector. Once you have armed the metal detector, you must test it. Place different metals on the floor and pass the coil over them. If the coil detects metals, you will be ready to take your new metal detector and start looking for treasures. [10]
Warnings
- Do not use a metal detector near electronic devices, as magnetic fields could damage them.