You’ll master the Garrett ATX by understanding its pulse induction fundamentals: it transmits short, high-energy pulses through its coil to detect eddy currents in metallic objects at superior depths. Start with the factory ground balance, run sensitivity near maximum (level 10), and maintain your coil parallel to the ground within 1 inch while sweeping at 2 feet per second. Choose between Motion Mode (730 pps, automatic threshold) for general hunting or Non-Motion for enhanced small nugget sensitivity. The following sections break down each critical adjustment for maximum performance.
Key Takeaways
- Pulse induction technology transmits high-energy pulses to detect eddy currents in metals, excelling in mineralized soils and saltwater environments.
- Keep search coil parallel to ground within 1 inch, sweeping at 2 feet/sec with overlapping passes for maximum detection depth.
- Motion Mode requires coil movement with automatic ground balance; Non-Motion Mode enhances depth sensitivity for small targets with frequent retuning.
- Start sensitivity at level 10 and adjust based on audio stability; use zero discrimination for maximum depth when detecting small gold.
- Balance ground in stable terrain, enable Ground Track for mineralized sand, and bounce coil in saltwater to cancel interference signals.
Understanding Advanced Pulse Induction Technology
While conventional metal detectors rely on continuous electromagnetic waves, pulse induction technology takes a fundamentally different approach by transmitting short, high-energy electrical pulses through a coil.
You’re working with a system that generates temporary electromagnetic fields lasting fractions of a second, creating detection capabilities that outperform VLF in mineral-rich soils and saltwater environments.
The pulse timing determines how your detector samples and processes signals. When each pulse collapses, it induces eddy currents in nearby metal objects.
Your receiver coil then measures the altered decay signal, analyzing both duration and intensity. The detector observes the voltage drop as pulse fades, known as “flyback,” which provides critical timing information for signal interpretation.
This straightforward mechanism delivers superior depth penetration without the ground interference that limits other technologies.
You’ll sacrifice target discrimination for raw detection power—the ATX responds to all conductive metals.
That’s the trade-off for unmatched performance in challenging conditions where conventional detectors fail. The system sends high amperage signals through the copper coil to generate the powerful electromagnetic field necessary for deep detection.
Technical Specifications and Build Quality
- Power system: 8 AA batteries (alkaline or rechargeable) provide 10-12 hours of continuous operation.
- Waterproof rating: Submersible to 10 feet (3 meters) for underwater detecting.
- Control interface: Single push-button operation enables one-handed adjustment in the field.
- Detection capabilities: 13 sensitivity levels, 25 discrimination settings, and automatic/manual ground balance. The detector’s pulse induction technology excels in mineralized environments where other detectors struggle.
- Weight and portability: The unit weighs 6.9 pounds and collapses to 20 inches for convenient backpacking and storage.
Your settings remain saved at power-off, eliminating repetitive configuration adjustments.
Search Coil Options and Configurations
The Garrett ATX offers three distinct search coil configurations that directly impact your detection performance across varying terrain conditions.
You’ll find the 8″ mono coil excels in pinpointing small targets within trashy environments and highly mineralized zones like saltwater beaches.
The 11×13″ closed coils, introduced in 2016, provide both DD and mono configuration options—each serving specific ground conditions.
Mono configurations deliver maximum sensitivity through their single or combined TX/RX coil design, though they’re vulnerable in mineralized soil.
DD configurations counter this weakness by overlapping D-shaped coils that minimize ground interference.
All coils feature waterproof coil material with standardized coil attachment systems.
The 8″ mono coil operates with smooth performance in tough ground conditions due to its specialized mono coil winding design.
The 11×13″ design incorporates a center-mount configuration that eliminates coil flop and improves overall detector balance during extended hunting sessions.
Your choice between compact precision and wide-area coverage fundamentally determines detection depth and target separation capabilities in challenging environments.
Operating Modes: Motion vs. Non-Motion Detection
The ATX offers two fundamental detection modes accessible through the SHIFT button: Motion Mode, which requires searchcoil movement and serves as the factory default, and Non-Motion Mode, which detects stationary targets but demands more operator skill.
Motion Mode delivers stable, quiet operation with automatic threshold adjustment and superior ground signal suppression in mineralized soils.
Non-Motion Mode provides enhanced depth and sensitivity for small nuggets, though you’ll need to retune frequently as the threshold drifts with environmental changes. This mode requires a slow scan speed to ensure proper target detection. You can identify which mode is active by observing the LED indicators—a steady LED signals Motion Mode while five LEDs illuminate for Non-Motion Mode.
Motion Mode Features
Motion Mode activates as your ATX’s default detection setting upon power-up, requiring either coil movement or target motion to register metallic objects beneath the surface. This operational framework delivers exceptional stability through its 730 pulse frequency transmission rate while automatically maintaining threshold consistency across varying terrain conditions.
Key Motion Mode Characteristics:
- Coil alignment sweep patterns trigger three central red LEDs that scan horizontally, indicating active detection status and maximum signal strength response.
- Auto-threshold adjustment continuously compensates for mineralized ground interference without manual intervention, preserving detection depth capabilities.
- Target audio responses generate distinctive echo effects through both the proprietary headphone socket and integrated speaker system.
- Ground signal suppression operates seamlessly during movement, eliminating static interference that compromises detection accuracy in challenging soil compositions. The detector’s advanced ground balance automatically adapts to various environmental conditions, from highly mineralized mountain terrain to saltwater beach environments. LED indicators display signal strength alongside current operational settings for straightforward interpretation during field operations.
Non-Motion Mode Benefits
Ground stability remains robust across mineralized soils and saltwater through four Autotune speeds and complete ground balance range.
You’ll customize discrimination across 25 threshold levels and 13 gain settings while LED indicators display real-time adjustments.
The mode supports Iron Check with dual tones, delivering unrestricted detection control in challenging environments.
Ground Balancing Techniques for Different Terrains
- Wet beach sand with black sand: Enable Ground Track (SLOW/MEDIUM/FAST) after initial balance to handle inconsistent mineralization without constant manual rebalancing.
- Saltwater beaches: Execute standard ground balance—bounce coil 1-6 inches for 3-7 seconds—to eliminate salt signals mimicking targets.
- Ironstone-rich terrain: Pump coil rapidly during balance procedure to suppress strong mineral interference and false readings.
- Stable wet sand environments: Consider factory ground balance (air balance method) for maximum depth; comparative testing shows 10-inch dime detection lost after standard balancing in these conditions.
Never balance directly over targets—you’ll eliminate their signals entirely.
Adjusting Sensitivity and Discrimination Settings
Once you’ve established proper ground balance, optimizing the ATX’s sensitivity and discrimination settings becomes critical for maximizing detection performance while maintaining audio stability.
Proper ground balance sets the foundation, but sensitivity and discrimination optimization separates competent operators from experts seeking maximum detection performance.
The detector’s 13 sensitivity levels (default at 10) directly affect depth capability. Run frequency adjustments through the Frequency Scan feature first to identify the quietest operating channel. Then increase sensitivity until you notice audio instability, backing off slightly for smooth operation.
In mineralized ground, hot rocks will demand reduced sensitivity despite theoretical maximums.
The 25 discrimination levels control target identification through pulse delay timing. Zero discrimination maintains maximum depth across all metals—essential for small gold detection.
Each discrimination increment sacrifices depth, particularly on low-conductivity targets. At level 7, you’ll filter certain targets while retaining reasonable depth.
Maximum discrimination drops detection to approximately five inches on small objects.
Proper Sweeping Technique and Target Detection
Maintaining ideal sweep speed at 2 feet (60 cm) per second ensures consistent target detection.
While overlapping each pass by half the coil width prevents gaps in coverage, you’ll achieve maximum detection depth by keeping your searchcoil parallel to the ground and within 1 inch of the surface throughout your sweeps.
In non-motion mode, reducing your swing speed actually improves detection depth.
Though, the ATX’s Double-D coil configuration allows you to detect targets whether the coil is moving or stationary.
Optimal Coil Sweeping Speed
Your sweep speed directly impacts the Garrett ATX’s ability to detect targets at maximum depth, with the ideal rate set at 2 feet per second (60 cm/sec) when operating in Motion Mode.
Master this cadence regardless of coil weight or coil shape to maximize your detector’s performance.
Execute these fundamental sweep patterns:
- Maintain parallel alignment – Keep your coil level with the ground throughout each pass, preventing angle variations that reduce detection capability.
- Overlap by half – Cover half the coil width on each return sweep to eliminate gaps in ground coverage.
- Use controlled arcs – Sweep in straight lines or gentle arcs while walking at a measured pace.
- Adjust for non-motion – Reduce sweep speed when operating without motion discrimination, as slower passes enhance depth penetration and target response clarity.
Maintaining Proper Coil Height
The ATX’s detection capability deteriorates rapidly when your coil exceeds 1 inch above the ground surface—even slight elevation changes can reduce depth penetration by several inches.
You’ll maximize target acquisition by keeping your search coil parallel to the ground throughout your entire sweep pattern. Don’t lift the coil at swing endpoints—this common mistake creates detection dead zones.
During pinpointing operations, maintain this height discipline for strongest audio and LED response. Regular coil cleaning prevents dirt buildup that affects ground clearance accuracy.
Proper coil calibration ensures your detector responds consistently at the best operating height. Your freedom to detect deeper targets depends on this fundamental technique—master it before advancing to complex ground conditions.
Watch your coil position constantly; it’s your primary control over detection performance.
Power Management and Battery Life
Unlike lithium-based pulse induction detectors that create shipping complications, the Garrett ATX runs on 8 standard AA batteries—a design choice that prioritizes field flexibility and regulatory compliance.
The Garrett ATX’s 8 AA battery system delivers field-ready power without lithium shipping restrictions—practical design meeting operational demands.
You’ll achieve 10-12 hours runtime with headphones, less with the speaker. Battery capacity remains consistent until sudden cutoff, eliminating performance degradation concerns.
Power consumption optimization starts at startup:
- Initial Battery Check: Four beeps confirm full charge; silence indicates improper installation.
- Low Battery Warning: Flashing indicator with audio alarm provides 30-minute advance notice.
- Power Conservation: Execute frequency scan, engage Motion Mode, and ground balance while pumping coil.
- Backup Strategy: Carry alkaline spares; both 110V and 12V charging systems support NiMH rechargeables.
Green LED confirms operation; blinking signals active ground tracking.
Maintenance and Waterproof Care
While Garrett’s IP68 waterproof rating permits full submersion to 10 feet, maintaining that protection requires deliberate post-hunt protocols. Rinse your unit under fresh water after sandy or underwater use, rotating stem nuts while flushing internal grit.
Loosen all camlocks immediately—they’ll tighten during drying and bind mechanisms. Never collapse muddy shafts; trapped sediment destroys smooth operation.
Before submersion, lubricate all O-rings with silicone grease per user manual interpretation. Insert headphone connectors until they snap, then hand-tighten without forcing metal collars.
Battery maintenance includes verifying proper installation before water contact.
Store with loosened stem nuts after complete drying. Wiping down electronics housing and air-drying prevents corrosion.
Run bench tests post-cleaning to confirm audio signals. Your ATX thrives on methodical care—neglect these protocols and you’ll compromise waterproof integrity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Garrett ATX Detect Gold in Saltwater Beaches Effectively?
You’ll detect gold nuggets as small as 0.1 grams in challenging saltwater conditions. The ATX’s pulse induction technology overcomes saltwater limitations through automatic ground balancing, delivering superior gold detection on mineralized beaches where VLF detectors fail completely.
What Is the Maximum Depth the ATX Can Detect a Coin?
You’ll detect coins to approximately 12 inches deep with the standard coil, though depth questions depend on coin size and soil mineralization. The ATX’s coin detection excels in challenging ground conditions where VLF detectors struggle, maximizing your hunting freedom.
Is the ATX Suitable for Beginners or Experienced Detectorists Only?
The ATX’s advanced detector settings—25 discrimination levels, 13 sensitivity adjustments, and shift-button controls—challenge beginners considerably. However, its waterproof features and motion mode offer entry points. You’ll need patience mastering proportional audio and ground balance tracking for ideal performance.
Can I Use Lithium Batteries Instead of Alkaline or Rechargeable AA Batteries?
Yes, you can use lithium AA batteries as your power source. The ATX accepts any AA battery chemistry that fits the 1.5V standard, and lithium delivers superior runtime and temperature performance compared to alkaline options.
How Does the ATX Compare to VLF Detectors for Relic Hunting?
While VLF detectors boast superior discrimination, they’ll betray you in mineralized soil where relics hide deepest. The ATX’s pulse induction technology delivers unmatched depth penetration and ground handling for serious metal detection, giving you freedom to hunt anywhere without limitations.
References
- https://detectorwarehouse.com/products/garrett-atx-pulse-induction-metal-detector-with-11×13-closed-dd-search-coil
- https://www.detectorprospector.com/magazine/steves-reviews/garrett-atx-pulse-induction-metal-detector/
- https://garrett.com/sites/default/files/2019-11/1534000_atx_user_manual_english.pdf
- https://bigboyshobbies.net/products/garrett-atx-extreme-metal-detector
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZQEubb0LmY
- https://www.highplainsprospectors.com/blogs/news/the-garrett-atx-metal-detector
- https://detecthistory.com/reviews/garrett-atx-review/
- https://www.metaldetector.com/products/garrett-atx-metal-detector
- https://garrett.com/understanding-how-pulse-induction-metal-detectors-work/
- https://megadetection.de/what-is-pulse-induction-pi-in-metal-detecting-and-when-to-use-pi-metal-detector/
