How to Reset Your Minelab Explorer Metal Detector to Factory Settings

Serious Detecting
2011-11-02T13:59:23-04:00

Sometimes your Minelab Explorer gets so customized that you've forgotten what settings actually work. Maybe you've been tweaking discrimination patterns for hours, or you let someone else use your detector and now it's acting strange. A factory reset can save you from endless frustration.

When You Need a Factory Reset

Factory resets aren't just for troubleshooting — they're useful whenever you want a clean slate. Here's when we recommend hitting the reset button:

Your detector is chattering or giving false signals constantly

You've made so many custom changes you can't remember the original settings

You're switching hunting locations and want to start fresh

Someone else used your detector and changed all your settings

You're experiencing erratic behavior after a software glitch

How to Factory Reset All Minelab Explorer Models

The reset process is identical across the entire Explorer series — whether you're using an Explorer, Explorer SE, Explorer II, or Explorer SE PRO.

Here's the step-by-step process:

1. Make sure your detector is completely turned off

2. Press and hold the power button

3. Keep holding until you see "Reset" appear on the screen

4. You'll hear the startup tune play — that's your confirmation

5. Release the power button

The whole process takes about 5-10 seconds. Don't worry if it seems like nothing's happening at first — just keep holding that power button until you see the reset message.

What Gets Reset (And What Doesn't)

After a factory reset, your Explorer will return to these default settings:

Discrimination pattern: Open screen (accepts all targets)

Sensitivity: Auto +3

Volume settings: Default levels

Audio settings: Multi-tone

Display settings: Detect screen

All custom program changes

Your detector will keep its original factory programs intact — you're not losing those permanently stored settings.

After the Reset: Getting Back to Detecting

Once you've completed the factory reset, you'll want to do a quick ground balance before you start hunting. The Explorer series handles most ground conditions well with auto ground balance, but a manual balance in your specific soil will always give better performance.

If you were using custom discrimination patterns, you'll need to set those up again. Many detectors in the advanced and expert category have this same limitation — custom settings don't survive a factory reset.

Comparing Minelab Detectors and Reset Procedures

The Explorer series uses this hold-power-button method, but newer Minelab models like the Equinox series have different reset procedures. The Equinox 800, for instance, has become extremely popular among detectorists because of its simpler menu system and easier customization recovery.

If you're considering upgrading from your Explorer, the Equinox 800 offers similar depth capabilities with more modern features and faster recovery speed. The price point makes it accessible for most serious detectorists who want versatile all-purpose performance.

Upgrading Your Explorer Setup

While you're thinking about your detector settings, consider whether your coil setup is optimized for your hunting style. The Explorer series works excellently with aftermarket coils — larger coils for deeper targets, smaller ones for trashy areas.

For example, the coil size can significantly increase your depth range and ground coverage compared to the stock coil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a factory reset delete my saved programs?

No, the factory programs remain intact. You're only resetting user-modified settings back to their defaults.

How often should I factory reset my Minelab Explorer?

Only when necessary. Most detectorists never need to reset unless they're troubleshooting issues or want to start over with their settings.

What if the reset doesn't fix my problem?

If you're still having issues after a factory reset, the problem might be hardware-related. Check your coil connections, battery contacts, and consider having the detector serviced.

Remember, the Explorer series has proven itself over many years of reliable detecting. A simple factory reset often solves most software-related issues and gets you back to finding targets quickly.