Understanding your Minelab Equinox control panel is crucial for maximizing detection performance. Each button serves a specific purpose, and knowing these functions helps you adapt quickly to changing conditions in the field.
Equinox Control Panel Layout
The Minelab Equinox series features an intuitive control layout that remains consistent across the 600, 700, 800, and 900 models. The main differences lie in the available modes and advanced settings.
Your control box houses the LCD display at the top, with six primary buttons arranged below in two rows. This design allows for single-handed operation while maintaining your grip on the detector shaft.
Essential Button Functions
Power and Menu Navigation
The Power button serves dual purposes - turning your detector on/off and accessing the main menu system. Press and hold for two seconds to power up your Minelab Equinox 800 or other model.
Once powered, a quick press opens the settings menu where you can adjust sensitivity, ground balance, and discrimination patterns. Navigation through menus uses the Accept/Reject buttons as directional controls.
Detection Mode Selection
The Mode button cycles through your detector's preset programs. The Minelab Equinox 900 offers the most modes, including specialized gold and relic programs not found on entry-level models.
Each mode pre-configures multiple settings for specific hunting scenarios. Park modes work well for coins and jewelry, while Field modes handle mineralized soil better.
Sensitivity and Volume Controls
The Settings button provides quick access to sensitivity adjustment - your most frequently changed parameter. Higher sensitivity increases depth but may introduce ground noise in challenging conditions.
Volume control affects both threshold and target audio. Many experienced detectorists run volume high with wireless headphones to catch faint deep targets.
Display Information
Target ID Numbers
The large numerical display shows Target ID values from -9 to 40. Low numbers typically indicate iron and ferrous metals, while higher numbers suggest non-ferrous targets like copper, silver, and gold.
These numbers aren't absolute - soil conditions, target depth, and size all affect readings. A silver coin at 8 inches might read differently than the same coin at 3 inches.
Depth Indicator
The depth gauge provides estimates based on coin-sized targets in average soil. Larger targets will read deeper than actual depth, while small targets may not register on the depth scale at all.
Use depth readings as relative guides rather than precise measurements. Consistent signals with stable depth readings often indicate desirable targets worth digging.
Advanced Control Tips
Ground Balance Adjustments
Proper ground balance eliminates false signals from mineralized soil. Auto ground balance works in most conditions, but manual adjustment gives you finer control in challenging environments.
Track ground balance continuously adjusts as you sweep, ideal for areas with varying mineralization like old farmsteads or beaches.
Discrimination Pattern Customization
The Accept/Reject buttons let you modify discrimination patterns on the fly. You can notch out specific Target ID ranges that consistently produce trash in your hunting area.
Many park hunters reject the 22-24 range to eliminate pull tabs while accepting everything else. Beach hunters often run minimal discrimination to avoid missing gold jewelry.
Model-Specific Differences
Equinox 600 vs 800 Features
The Equinox 600 and 800 compatible accessories work across both models, but the 800 offers additional customization options through its expanded button functions.
Gold modes exclusive to higher-end models provide specialized settings for prospecting and relic hunting in highly mineralized ground.
Newer Generation Improvements
The Equinox 700 introduced improved button responsiveness and enhanced display visibility in bright sunlight. These refinements make operation smoother during long hunting sessions.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Button Responsiveness
If buttons become unresponsive, check for moisture or debris around the control panel. The Equinox is waterproof, but dried mud or sand can interfere with button operation.
Clean the control box with fresh water and a soft brush, ensuring all soap residue is removed before your next hunt.
Display Problems
Dim displays often indicate low battery levels. The Equinox will continue operating with reduced performance before shutting down completely.
Cold weather can temporarily affect LCD visibility. Allow the detector to warm up gradually rather than exposing it to sudden temperature changes.
Maximizing Your Equinox Performance
Regular practice with your control functions builds muscle memory for quick adjustments in the field. Set up test gardens with known targets to learn how different settings affect target response.
Consider upgrading to advanced Equinox models if you find yourself wanting more customization options or specialized hunting modes.
The button layout and display system represent years of engineering focused on practical field use. Master these controls, and your Equinox detector will serve you well across diverse hunting conditions.
