SmartFind discrimination gives you a massive advantage in target identification by displaying both ferrous and conductive properties simultaneously. While most metal detector accessories focus on digging tools and coils, SmartFind revolutionizes how you interpret signals before you even start digging.
What Makes SmartFind Different from Standard Discrimination
Standard metal detector discrimination works on a single scale—ferrous to non-ferrous. SmartFind uses Minelab's two-dimensional approach that plots targets on both ferrous and conductive axes simultaneously.
This graphical representation appears as a grid where the horizontal axis shows conductivity (low to high) and the vertical axis shows ferrous content (ferrous to non-ferrous). Each target creates a signature pattern on this grid, giving you far more information than a simple beep or number.
SmartFind vs Traditional Discrimination Methods
- Traditional discrimination: Single-dimension analysis, prone to masking good targets
- SmartFind discrimination: Two-dimension analysis, reveals target characteristics that single-dimension systems miss
- Pattern recognition: Experienced users learn to identify specific target types by their SmartFind signatures
Compatible Minelab Metal Detectors
SmartFind technology appears on two specific Minelab metal detectors:
Minelab E-TRAC
The E-TRAC's SmartFind display shows a detailed 50 x 50 grid with precise target plotting. This treasure and relic metal detector excels at separating good targets from iron trash in heavily hunted areas.
Minelab Explorer SE Pro
The Explorer SE Pro uses a simplified SmartFind display but maintains the same two-dimensional discrimination principles. It's particularly effective for coin shooting and jewelry hunting.
Reading SmartFind Patterns
Different targets create distinct patterns on the SmartFind screen. Here's what to look for:
Coin Signatures
- Silver coins: Appear in the upper right quadrant with tight, consistent patterns
- Copper pennies: Display in the high-conductive, non-ferrous area
- Clad coins: Show predictable patterns in the mid-to-high conductive range
Jewelry and Relics
- Gold rings: Vary widely based on karat and alloy composition
- Silver jewelry: Similar to silver coins but may show more scatter
- Brass relics: Appear in the medium-conductive range
Iron and Trash Identification
SmartFind excels at iron identification. Iron targets typically cluster in the left portion of the screen (low conductivity) and often show scattered or elongated patterns rather than tight clusters.
SmartFind Setup and Optimization
Getting the most from SmartFind requires proper setup and understanding of your hunting environment.
Screen Settings
Both detectors allow you to customize the SmartFind display. Start with the default patterns and modify based on your local soil conditions and target preferences.
Discrimination Patterns
Create custom discrimination patterns by rejecting specific areas of the SmartFind screen. This lets you ignore trash while accepting desired targets with surgical precision.
Advanced SmartFind Techniques
Multi-Angle Analysis
Sweep your coil over targets from different angles. Legitimate targets maintain consistent SmartFind signatures, while iron trash often shows dramatic pattern changes.
Depth Considerations
Deep targets may show scattered or weak SmartFind patterns. Don't automatically reject targets that appear slightly outside normal ranges if other indicators suggest a good target.
Common SmartFind Mistakes
New users often over-discriminate by rejecting too much of the SmartFind screen. Start with minimal discrimination and gradually add rejection patterns based on actual trash you encounter.
Another common error involves ignoring targets that don't fit perfect patterns. Corroded coins, bent jewelry, and unique relics may display atypical SmartFind signatures.
SmartFind in Different Hunting Environments
Parks and Schools
Heavy trash environments benefit most from SmartFind's precision. You can reject specific trash signatures while accepting everything else.
Beach Hunting
Wet sand affects conductivity readings, but SmartFind's dual-axis approach still provides superior target identification compared to single-dimension discrimination.
Relic Hunting
Historical sites contain diverse targets with varying ages and corrosion levels. SmartFind helps identify promising signals that single-dimension discrimination might reject.
Both the E-TRAC and Explorer SE Pro represent the pinnacle of Minelab metal detectors technology from their respective eras. While newer models have replaced them in Minelab's current lineup, SmartFind discrimination remains one of the most sophisticated target identification systems ever developed.
For detectorists serious about target identification, understanding SmartFind opens up hunting opportunities that simpler discrimination systems simply can't match. Whether you're working trashy sites or trying to squeeze every good target from well-hunted areas, SmartFind gives you the tools to make informed digging decisions.
