The Minelab Explorer SE Pro's Smartfind display turns target identification into a precise coordinate system. Instead of guessing what's buried, you get exact FE and CO values that pinpoint everything from iron nails to silver coins.
Understanding the FE/CO Coordinate System
The vertical axis rates the target on its size/conductivity (CO), ranging 0–31 from bottom to top. The horizontal axis rates the extent of the target's ferrous characteristics (FE), ranging 0–31 from right to left.
A FE value of 0 represents low ferrous characteristics and a value of 31 represents high ferrous characteristics. Similarly, a CO value of 0 represents low conductivity and 31 represents high conductivity.
Common Target Coordinates
- Silver coins: Typically appear at FE 12-15, CO 25-28
- Copper pennies: Usually register around FE 12-15, CO 23-26
- Gold rings: Vary widely, often FE 8-18, CO 8-22 depending on size and purity
- Iron nails: High ferrous readings, FE 25-31, CO varies
- Aluminum foil: Low ferrous, low conductivity FE 5-12, CO 5-15
Setting Up Discrimination Patterns
The Explorer SE Pro allows you to reject unwanted targets by blocking specific FE/CO coordinates. This eliminates iron trash while preserving good targets in similar ranges.
Create custom patterns for different hunting scenarios. Beach hunters often accept lower conductivity targets that park hunters would reject. Relic hunting requires different patterns than coin shooting in modern areas.
Advanced Pattern Tips
Don't over-discriminate when hunting old sites. Colonial-era artifacts often register in ranges you'd normally reject. Start with minimal discrimination and gradually eliminate problem targets as you encounter them.
Save multiple patterns in the detector's memory. Switch between them based on site conditions without reprogramming each time.
Reading Signal Strength and Stability
The Smartfind display shows more than just coordinates. Signal strength indicates target size and depth, while cursor stability reveals target clarity.
Jumping cursors suggest multiple targets, corroded items, or deep signals. Stable cursors with consistent audio indicate clean targets worth digging.
Dealing with Challenging Signals
Mineralized soil affects FE/CO readings. Ground balance properly and expect some coordinate drift in heavily mineralized areas. The overall pattern matters more than exact numbers.
Trash masking can pull good targets into bad coordinate ranges. Use different sweep directions and speeds to unmask hidden targets.
Comparing Explorer SE Pro to Modern Detectors
While newer Minelab metal detectors offer updated target ID systems, the Explorer SE Pro's Smartfind display remains highly accurate for experienced users.
The FBS technology in the Explorer SE Pro processes multiple frequencies simultaneously, providing target information that many single-frequency detectors miss. This makes it particularly effective for treasure and relic hunting in trashy sites.
Essential Accessories for Explorer SE Pro Users
Maximize your Explorer SE Pro's performance with quality metal detector accessories. A good pinpointer speeds recovery time, while quality headphones help you hear subtle audio changes that complement the visual display.
Consider upgrading coils for specific hunting conditions. Smaller coils improve target separation in trash, while larger coils increase depth and coverage for open areas.
Learning Curve and Performance Tips
The Explorer SE Pro rewards patience and practice. Spend time learning how different targets appear on your local sites before venturing to new locations.
Keep a finds log with FE/CO coordinates for different targets. This personal reference helps you make better dig decisions over time.
For those new to metal detecting, the Explorer SE Pro might seem complex initially. However, its learning curve pays dividends in target identification accuracy.
Browse our full selection of metal detectors to compare the Explorer SE Pro with other options, or explore our comprehensive range of Minelab metal detectors and accessories to complete your detecting setup.
