Detection
The types of hidden objects and materials that the detector responds to and the maximum depth at which it is able to detect these objects and materials.
The detection depth is a rather conditional parameter, and in fact there are often deviations from the claimed values both in one direction and in the other (depending on the material inside which hidden objects are searched for). As for the detection itself, modern detectors, usually, are able to find not only electrical wiring, but also other metal objects of various compositions ( ferrous
metal and
non-ferrous metal), as well as
wooden structures and
plastic pipes. However, the specific capabilities of the device in each case still do not hurt to clarify separately.
Light indication
The presence in the device
of a light indicator — a pointer that gives a light signal when an object is detected in the depth of the "viewed" material. In addition, the light indicator can also work “at idle” — notifying that the device is turned on, in good working order and ready for operation. Detection signaling can be carried out by turning the indicator on and off, changing its colour or blinking frequency; such an indication is often more convenient and noticeable than the display readings. In fact, light signs are often combined with displays: the indicator provides the most basic notifications, and the screen displays more detailed information.
Location depth measurements
The ability
to determine the depth of the object detected by the detector.
Devices with this function allow you to localize the position of the “find” as accurately as possible: not only to find out under what part of the surface the object is located, but also to determine how deep it is located. However the accuracy of determining the depth is usually far from one hundred percent; however, an error of a couple of centimeters in most cases is not critical.
Display
Features of the
display provided in the device. Not all detectors have such equipment; there are
models without a screen.
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Without illumination. Displays with no backlight. Such screens are as simple and inexpensive as possible, however, in low light conditions, a flashlight or other external source of illumination is required to read the readings.
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With backlight. Screens equipped with their own backlight. Such a backlight can work continuously while the device is turned on, or turn on by pressing a special button. Anyway, it allows you to see the display readings even in low light conditions — up to complete darkness; at the same time, lighting is inexpensive. Therefore, this option is the most popular in modern wiring detectors.
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Touch. Displays with a built-in sensor — like those used in modern smartphones. This is the most advanced option: firstly, touch screens are usually made in colour, and secondly, they provide more options than buttons and other traditional controls. On the other hand, such displays are not cheap, and the aforementioned abundance of features in wire detectors is not required so often. Therefore, this option has not received much distribution.
Measurement accuracy
Measurement accuracy provided by the detector. It is indicated by the error that the device gives; accordingly, the lower the number in this paragraph, the more accurate this model, the smaller the error it gives during measurements. For models that have different accuracy with different materials, the smallest error value is indicated.
In the most advanced instruments, the measurement deviation is only 3 – 4 mm; in the least accurate — up to 13 – 14 mm. Note that high accuracy accordingly affects the price; so when choosing according to this indicator, you should not pursue
maximum accuracy, but soberly assess what error will be permissible during the planned work. Detailed recommendations on the required accuracy for various specific tasks can be found in special sources.
Auto power off
The auto-off time provided in the device.
Many modern wire detectors can automatically turn off after a certain period of inactivity. This saves battery life. The auto-off time is usually a few minutes — most often from 5 to 20.
Battery included
A
power supply is included with the device. In this case, a battery can mean both a disposable cell and a rechargeable battery; this point in each case should be clarified separately. Anyway, such a complete set eliminates the need to purchase a battery separately and makes it possible to use the device "out of the box" immediately after purchase.
Case (bag)
The presence of a case or cover in the delivery set of the device.
Soft cases provide mainly protection from dust and dirt, hard cases also protect against shocks and other contacts with foreign objects. What type of
case is included in the kit should be specified separately. However, anyway, the "native" case is better suited for the device than impromptu packaging.
