More and more hobbyists are now venturing out into treasure hunting, with an aim to uncover incredible finds through innovative devices which of course includes metal detectors. These detectors now come in different models, offering superb features that will surely help you find what you are looking for. While it is common knowledge that metal detectors work because of electromagnetism, there are several things about a metal detector that you probably didn’t know.
Alexander Graham Bell invented the metal detector
You probably didn’t know that Alexander Graham Bell, the same person who invented the telephone, also invented the metal detector. In an attempt to assist physicians to find the bullet in the former President Garfield’s body when he was shot, Graham Bell made the first metal detector. Unfortunately, the device not only detected the bullet, but it also detected all the metal springs in the bed where the president was lying, causing a lot of confusion. In the end, the president perished.
Doctors use metal detectors
It is common knowledge that metal detectors are used by hobbyists to find treasure. Some use good metal detectors that are lightweight for their convenience. Others prefer the kind of metal detectors with a large LCD screen. However, it is not common knowledge that doctors use metal detectors to diagnose medical problems, especially in cases where the patient swallowed a metal object. This significantly helps physicians in determining whether a surgery is necessary, or the patient’s digestive system will be able to do the job of excreting the foreign material naturally.
Metal detectors do not use X-ray technology
Numerous people are led to believe that metal detectors depend on x-ray technology. However, this is just a myth. The truth is, metal detectors rely on very low frequencies, pulse induction, as well as beat-frequency oscillation. Very low frequency, or VLF, uses two distinct coils to create a magnetic field that induces a response from metal objects. Pulse induction, or PI, uses only a single coil which sends out a short pulse of current to create a magnetic field. Beat-frequency oscillation, or BFO, also uses two coils which oscillate at different frequencies to generate radio waves when they come across metal objects.
Certain laws prohibit the use of metal detectors
While finding treasure is indeed a great hobby, it should be noted that you cannot use your metal detector everywhere. There are certain private property laws that you need to adhere to and this encompasses historic sites. There are even laws that state that any discovery you find must be turned over to the proper authorities.
There are several metal detectors now out in the market, each type boasting of a specific feature or function that will most definitely help you find what you are looking for. With ample knowledge on metal detectors, it will be more effortless for you to get the specific device that is perfect for your intended use. If your goal is to use it for your hobby, VLF detectors are sufficient, while BFO are better if you need to use these detectors professionally.
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