best settting on nox 800 to avoid iron and nails

Are you tired of accidentally hitting nails and iron while metal detecting with your Nox 800? It can be frustrating to spend hours searching for treasure only to end up with a pile of metal scrap. But fear not! By adjusting the settings on your Nox 800, you can significantly reduce the number of false signals from these unwanted targets. In this article, we’ll guide you through the optimal settings for your Nox 800 to help you avoid iron and nails like a pro.

Firstly, let’s address the Park 1 and Park 2 modes. These modes are designed to minimize interference from ground minerals and are ideal for general-purpose detecting. Park 1 mode is recommended for higher-mineralized soils, while Park 2 mode is suitable for less-mineralized soils. By selecting the appropriate Park mode, you can effectively reduce the number of false signals from iron and nails while maintaining sensitivity to valuable targets.

In addition to the Park modes, the Nox 800 also offers a variety of other settings that can help you avoid iron and nails. The Discrimination Pattern setting allows you to adjust the level of discrimination applied to targets. A higher discrimination setting will reject more iron and nails, but it may also cause you to miss out on some valuable targets. Experiment with different discrimination levels to find the balance that works best for your detecting conditions. The Iron Volume setting controls the volume of the audio signal for iron targets. By reducing the Iron Volume, you can make iron targets less audible, making it easier to focus on other targets.

Optimize Presets for Reduced Metal Detection

Refine Ground Balance Settings

Ground balance is crucial for minimizing interference from mineralized ground, which can mask small iron and nail targets. Begin by manually ground balancing your detector to match the soil conditions. Adjust the settings until the detector stabilizes and provides a consistent signal. Additionally, consider employing the following tactics:

Use a Narrow Discrimination Range

Limit the detector’s response to a specific range of conductivity values. This will help filter out nuisance signals from iron and nails, allowing you to focus on potential targets.
Adjust Sensitivity Settings

Reduce the sensitivity to mitigate interference from mineralized ground. A lower sensitivity setting will result in a quieter operation, making it easier to distinguish between desirable and unwanted targets.

Employ Notch Filters

Notch filters allow you to eliminate specific conductivity values from the detector’s response. This is particularly useful for targeting small iron or nail fragments. Consult the manufacturer’s user manual to determine the optimal notch filter settings for your specific model.

Table 1 provides general guidelines for optimizing Nox 800 presets to minimize iron and nail detection:

Preset	Ground Balance	Discrimination Range	Sensitivity	Notch Filters
General Search	Manual, Medium	0-15	Medium-High	Custom, 10-15
Park or Urban	Manual, Sensitive	0-20	Medium	Custom, 10-20
Beach or Saltwater	Manual, Very Sensitive	0-25	Low-Medium	Custom, 10-25

Adjust Sensitivity Settings for Enhanced Discrimination

The sensitivity settings on your NOX 800 detector play a crucial role in distinguishing between desired targets (e.g., gold or silver) and unwanted items such as iron and nails. By optimizing these settings, you can enhance the accuracy and efficiency of your metal detecting experience.

Fine-tuning Discrimination Settings

The NOX 800 offers advanced discrimination capabilities through its two main settings: Notch Discrimination and Tone Discrimination.

Notch Discrimination:

Allows you to create custom filters to block out specific target types. For example, you can create a notch for iron to eliminate responses from iron objects while still detecting other metals.

Tone Discrimination:

Assigns distinct audio tones to different target types based on their conductivity. This allows you to identify specific metals by their tonal response. For instance, gold may produce a high-pitched tone, while nails may sound lower pitched.

To optimize discrimination settings, follow these steps:

Setting	Description
Notch Width	Adjust the width of the notch to refine the level of discrimination. A narrower notch will eliminate a smaller range of targets, while a wider notch will filter out a broader range.
Notch Depth	Controls the strength of the notch. A deeper notch will completely eliminate the selected target type, while a shallower notch will only partially reduce its response.
Tone ID Levels	Sets the conductivity range at which specific audio tones are assigned. Fine-tuning these levels will help you distinguish between closely related targets based on their tones.

Calibrate Ground Balance for Better Target Identification

Insufficient ground balance can cause the detector to produce false signals due to ground mineralization. Proper ground balance helps eliminate these false signals and improve target identification.

Ground Balance Settings

Ground Type	Ground Balance Setting
Neutral Ground (Sandy Soil)	0
Mildly Mineralized Ground (Loam Soil)	1-5
Moderately Mineralized Ground (Clay Soil)	6-10
Highly Mineralized Ground (Saline Soil)	11-15

To adjust the ground balance setting:

Find an area with the corresponding ground type.
Set the Metal Type to “All Metal.”
Press and hold the [Ground Balance] button until the display reads “Auto GB.”
Slowly pump the search coil up and down until the detector stops beeping.

Pumping the Search Coil

Proper pumping technique is crucial for accurate ground balance:

Keep the search coil parallel to the ground: This minimizes soil influence and ensures a consistent reading.
Pump slowly and rhythmically: Aim for a steady, controlled motion.
Pump to a depth of approximately 6 inches: This allows the detector to average out the ground mineralization.
Avoid hitting the ground with the search coil: This can cause inaccurate readings.

Utilize Iron Discrimination Modes for Enhanced Accuracy

The Nox 800 metal detector offers advanced iron discrimination modes to help you avoid digging up unwanted iron targets and nails. These modes effectively distinguish between ferrous (iron) and non-ferrous (non-iron) metals, allowing you to focus your search on valuable targets such as coins, jewelry, and relics.

4. Adjust Iron Audio and Threshold Settings:

Fine-tune your iron discrimination by adjusting the iron audio and threshold settings. These settings impact the volume and pitch of ferrous signals detected by the detector.

Iron Audio:

Low: Produces a faint or muted sound for ferrous targets, making them easier to identify.
High: Amplifies the sound of ferrous targets, making them more noticeable.

Threshold:

High: Raises the background noise level, making it easier to distinguish faint ferrous signals.
Low: Lowers the background noise level, providing a quieter operation but potentially making it harder to detect weak iron signals.

Iron Audio	Threshold	Recommended for:
Low	High	General searching, emphasizing faint iron signals.
High	Low	Discriminating heavily against ferrous targets.
Medium	Medium	Balanced discrimination and target audibility.

Experiment with different iron audio and threshold settings to find the combination that best suits your searching conditions and personal preferences.

Fine-Tune Notch Filters for Precise Metal Exclusion

Notch filters are crucial for eliminating unwanted frequency components, particularly in metal detection applications. By precisely adjusting the notch filters on the Nox 800, you can effectively exclude iron and nails from your detection results, ensuring a more accurate and efficient search.

Steps for Fine-Tuning Notch Filters

Target the Interference: Identify the specific frequency range where iron signals are predominant. Consult the device manual or use a spectrum analyzer to determine the exact frequency.
Adjust the Notch Width: Set the notch width to a narrow band that minimizes false positives while effectively attenuating iron signals. A width of 20-30 Hz is typically a good starting point.
Set the Notch Depth: Adjust the notch depth to a level that significantly reduces the amplitude of iron signals without compromising the detection of other targets. A depth of 10-15 dB is often sufficient.
Fine-Tune the Notch Frequency: Center the notch frequency precisely over the target frequency range. Small adjustments of 1-2 Hz can make a significant difference in performance.
Test and Re-Adjust: Perform several test sweeps in areas with known iron presence to ensure accurate notch filter settings. Make incremental adjustments as needed to optimize performance. Consider testing in different soil conditions as well.

Advanced Notch Filtering Techniques

* Multiple Notch Filters: Use multiple notch filters to target specific iron or nail signals that may not be fully attenuated by a single filter.
* Adaptive Notch Filtering: Certain detectors offer adaptive notch filtering capabilities that automatically adjust the notch parameters based on real-time signal analysis.
* Phase-Shifted Notch Filtering: This technique combines notch filtering with phase shifting to enhance iron signal rejection while preserving the detection of other targets.

Consider Target Separation Settings for Improved Digging Efficiency

Target Separation Settings

Target separation is a crucial setting on the NOX 800. It helps to distinguish between different target types, minimizing the need for unnecessary digging. Utilize the following settings for optimal target separation:

Iron Bias: Medium to Low. This reduces the influence of ferrous targets, allowing for easier identification of non-ferrous targets.

Non-Iron Discrimination: Adjust to your desired level of discrimination. A higher setting excludes smaller non-ferrous targets, while a lower setting includes more targets.

Iron Mask and Rejection Audio

The NOX 800 features the Iron Mask setting, which limits the detection of ferrous targets. The Rejection Audio function emits a distinct audio signal when ferrous targets are detected, providing an audible indication to further refine target discrimination.

Iron Mask Settings

Setting	Description
Off	No discrimination against ferrous targets.
Low	Moderate discrimination, suppressing smaller ferrous targets.
Medium	More pronounced discrimination, reducing the detection of most ferrous objects.
High	Strongest discrimination, minimizing detection of ferrous targets.

For general prospecting, a Low to Medium Iron Mask setting is recommended. Adjust according to the specific conditions and target types being sought.

Explore Advanced Settings for Customized Detection

The NOX 800 metal detector offers advanced settings to tailor detection parameters to specific search conditions. These settings allow users to refine their search and minimize interference from unwanted targets, such as iron and nails. Here’s how you can optimize these settings to avoid iron and nails:

Sensitivity Adjustment

Adjust the sensitivity to reduce the detection range and minimize false triggers from small, low-conductivity targets like nails and iron.

Ground Balance

Calibrate the ground balance periodically to compensate for variations in soil mineralization. This adjustment helps reduce interference from ground signals that can mask the presence of valuable targets.

Discrimination Modes

Utilize the discrimination modes to separate desirable targets from undesirable materials. For example, the “Iron Reject” mode discriminates against ferrous metals, including iron and nails.

Target Identification (TI)

Interpret the target identification (TI) display to distinguish between different metals. The TI scale or digital readout indicates the conductivity of the detected target. Iron and nails typically have low conductivity, so they appear on the lower end of the TI scale.

Coil Selection

Choose a smaller coil, such as the 6″ or 10″ coil, to limit the detection depth and focus on near-surface targets like nails and iron. Smaller coils also provide better target separation.

Threshold Setting

Adjust the threshold to eliminate weak, intermittent signals and highlight only stronger, more promising targets. Setting a higher threshold can reduce false triggers from small, non-ferrous objects.

Expert Settings

For advanced users, the NOX 800 offers additional expert settings that can further customize detection parameters. These settings include:

Setting	Function
Retune	Fine-tune the frequency to minimize interference
Freq Shift	Adjust the operating frequency to avoid electromagnetic noise
Noise Cancel	Suppress background noise and improve target clarity

Use Headphones for Optimal Audio Feedback

Headphones provide a more immersive and accurate audio experience compared to speakers. By wearing headphones, you can better distinguish between different audio cues and isolate the sounds of metal objects. This makes it easier to pinpoint the exact location of iron and nails.

Here are some additional tips for using headphones with the NOX 800:

Use high-quality headphones that provide a wide frequency response and accurate sound reproduction.
Adjust the volume to a comfortable level that allows you to clearly hear the audio cues.
Position the headphones over your ears properly to ensure a good seal and minimize external noise.

By following these tips, you can maximize the audio feedback provided by the NOX 800 and improve your ability to detect iron and nails.

Operating Mode	Use Sensitivity	Ground Balance	Number of Tones	Discrimination	Pinpoint	Noise Cancel	Battery Life
All Metal Mode	Yes	Automatic	2	Yes	Yes	No	20+ hours
Discrimination Mode	Yes	Customizable	1	Yes	No	No	15+ hours
Pinpoint Mode	No	Fixed	0	No	Yes	No	10+ hours

Maintain Proper Detector Position for Maximum Coverage

To maximize coverage and effectively detect iron and nails, it’s crucial to maintain proper detector position. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Hold the detector parallel to the ground: Keep the detector level, with the search coil approximately 1-2 inches above the surface. This ensures optimal sensitivity to buried targets.
Sweep in overlapping passes: Move the detector in a back-and-forth motion, covering a width of about 6-8 inches. Overlap each pass by approximately 50% to minimize the chance of missing any targets.
Maintain a slow pace: Sweep the detector at a steady, consistent pace. This allows the coil to fully penetrate the ground and detect buried objects.
Keep the coil flat: Ensure that the search coil stays parallel to the ground throughout the sweep. Avoid lifting or tilting the coil, as this can significantly reduce detection depth.
Move the detector continuously: Avoid pauses or interruptions while sweeping. Constant motion helps maintain a consistent magnetic field and improves overall detection performance.

Additional Tips for Detecting Iron and Nails

Listen for the signal: When the detector passes over iron or nails, it will emit an audible signal ranging from a low hum to a sharp beep. The intensity of the signal indicates the target’s proximity and size.
Discriminate against small objects: Most metal detectors have a discrimination feature that allows you to ignore small pieces of trash like bottle caps and nails. Adjust the discrimination setting to focus on larger targets like iron.
Pinpoint the target: Once you’ve detected a target, use the pinpoint function to determine its exact location. Sweep the detector in smaller, side-to-side motions around the target until the signal is strongest.
Dig carefully: Use a small trowel or digging tool to carefully excavate the soil. Be cautious not to damage the target or disturb surrounding objects.

Target Type	Recommended Discrimination Setting
Iron	Low (Reject small, non-ferrous objects)
Nails	Medium (Discriminate against large pieces of scrap metal)

Practice and Experiment for Optimal Settings

### 1. Adjust the Sensitivity

Use a lower sensitivity to reduce detecting small, non-ferrous objects like nails. Fine-tune the sensitivity by adjusting the “Sensitivity” or “Threshold” setting in the detector’s menu.

### 2. Calibrate the Ground Balance

Ground balance compensates for the mineral content of the soil, reducing false signals. Calibrate the detector by placing the search coil flat on the ground and following the manufacturer’s instructions.

### 3. Use the Discrimination Mode

Discrimination mode allows you to filter out unwanted targets. Set the discrimination level on the higher end to ignore iron objects.

### 4. Optimize the Coil Frequency

Higher frequency coils are more sensitive to small objects, while lower frequency coils are better for larger targets. Experiment with different coils to find the optimal frequency for your target size and environment.

### 5. Utilize the Notch Mode

Notch mode lets you exclude specific target types, such as iron. Use the “Notch” setting to remove iron signals from the detector’s display.

### 6. Consider the Soil Type

Different soil types have varying mineral content, which can affect the detector’s performance. Adjust the detector’s settings accordingly, e.g., increase the sensitivity on mineralized soil.

### 7. Use a Pinpointer

A pinpointer can help you precisely locate iron and nails in the ground. Once you receive a signal from your Nox 800, switch to a pinpointer to narrow down the location.

### 8. Practice in Different Locations

Practice detecting in various environments to learn the detector’s capabilities and limitations. This will help you develop a better understanding of the optimal settings for each situation.

### 9. Experiment with Discrimination Patterns

Experiment with different discrimination patterns to find one that effectively eliminates iron while minimizing the impact on desirable targets. Utilize the “Pattern” feature in the Nox 800’s menu.

### 10. Utilize Advanced Features

Explore advanced features such as “Iron Bias,” “Ground Phase,” and “Tone Break” to further fine-tune your settings and reduce iron interference. These features provide granular control over the detector’s response to different targets.

Advanced Feature	Description
Iron Bias	Adjusts the detector’s bias towards iron, prioritizing non-ferrous targets.
Ground Phase	Optimizes ground cancellation, reducing false signals from mineralized soil.
Tone Break	Changes the detector’s audio response when a specific target type (e.g., iron) is detected.

Best Settings on Nox 800 to Avoid Iron and Nails

The Nox 800 is a popular metal detector for treasure hunting. However, it can also be used to avoid iron and nails, which can be a nuisance when searching for other metal objects. Here are some tips on how to adjust the Nox 800’s settings to minimize the detection of iron and nails:

Set the discrimination mode to “All Metal”. This will allow the detector to find all metal objects, including iron and nails.

Set the sensitivity level to “Low”. This will reduce the detector’s ability to pick up on small metal objects, such as iron and nails.

Set the ground balance to “Manual”. This will allow you to adjust the detector’s sensitivity to the specific ground conditions in your search area.

Use a smaller search coil. A smaller search coil will be less likely to pick up on small metal objects, such as iron and nails.

By following these tips, you can adjust the Nox 800’s settings to minimize the detection of iron and nails. This will help you to find the treasure you are looking for without being bothered by unwanted metal objects.