Minelab Equinox and Vanquish Technologies: Multi-IQ Frequency

by Serious Detecting

on Apr 09

Multi-IQ Simultaneous Multi-Frequency

Multi-IQ is simultaneous multi-frequency detection and can be considered as combining the performance advantages of both FBS and VFLEX in a new fusion of technologies. Multi-IQ achieves a high level of Target ID accuracy at depth much better than any single frequency detector can achieve, including switchable single frequency detectors that claim to be multi-frequency. When Minelab use the term 'multi-frequency' we mean 'simultaneous' – i.e. more than one frequency is transmitted, received and processed concurrently. This enables maximum target sensitivity across all target types and sizes, while minimising ground noise (especially in saltwater). The diagram is intended to be a simplified representation of how different frequencies of operation are better suited to different target types; i.e. low frequencies (e.g. 5 kHz) are more responsive to high conductors (e.g. large silver targets) and high frequencies (e.g. 40 kHz*) are more responsive to low conductors (e.g. small gold nuggets). With the Minelab Equinox metal detectors, you can operate across the full spectrum of frequencies simultaneously for maximum results. Minelab Multi IW

*20 kHz and 40 kHz not available as single operating frequencies in EQUINOX 600. Multi-IQ frequency range shown applies to both EQUINOX 600 and 800. | This diagram is representative only. Actual sensitivity levels will depend upon target types and sizes, ground conditions and detector settings.

Target ID Accuracy

Multi-IQ technology gives greater Target ID accuracy and increased detecting performance, especially in heavily mineralised ground. In benign ground, a single frequency may perform adequately, however, depth and stable Target IDs will be limited by ground noise. Multi-IQ simultaneous multi-frequency will achieve maximum depth with a very stable target signal. In mineralised ground, single frequencies will not be able to effectively separate the target signal from the ground signal, giving decreased results. Multi-IQ will still detect at depth, losing a minimal amount of Target ID accuracy. Minelab Multi-IQ Target ID Accuracy

Low frequencies typically give more depth on large targets than high frequencies, which are usually more sensitive to small targets, such as small gold nuggets. The EQUINOX 600 offers a choice of 3 single frequencies (5 kHz, 10 kHz, and 15 kHz) and the EQUINOX 800 offers the choice of 5 single frequencies (5 kHz, 10 kHz, 15 kHz, 20 kHz, and 40 kHz). Both models cover a much broader range of targets when operating in Multi than any one single frequency can, however, if excessive ground noise is present in a particular detecting location, switching into a single frequency can help to eliminate this.