By Allan Robinson
The components of an electronic metal detector include a coil, a receiver and analyzer. An electrical current passes through the coil, which produces an electromagnetic field. A piece of metal moving through the field causes interference, which is detected by the receiver and analyzed. You can duplicate this process with a few common household items.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Things You'll Need:
- CD case
Ruler
AM radio (pocket-sized)
Calculator (solar-powered)
Scissors
Velcro
Tape
Metal piece
- CD case
- Ruler
- AM radio (pocket-sized)
- Calculator (solar-powered)
- Scissors
- Velcro
- Tape
- Metal piece
Step 1
Remove the plastic insert that holds the CD in the CD case. Measure areas on the backs of the radio and calculator where you can attach a section of Velcro. Cut out two pieces of Velcro of the correct sizes with the scissors.
Step 2
Separate the hook and loop piece for the calculator. Peel off the adhesive on one piece and place it on the back of the calculator. Peel off the other piece and attach it to one of the interior sides of the CD. Repeat this procedure with the radio and corresponding piece of Velcro.
Step 3
Attach the calculator to the inside of the CD case by pressing the Velcro piece on the back of the calculator firmly to the matching piece of Velcro on the CD case. Repeat this procedure with the piece of Velcro on the back of the radio and the matching piece on the CD case.
Step 4
Turn the radio and calculator on and turn the volume on the radio all the way up. Switch the radio to AM mode and tune it to the highest frequency that doesn't have a station broadcasting on it.
Step 5
Fold the CD case closed slowly and stop when you hear a distinct tone coming from the radio. This is an electromagnetic signal coming from the calculator. Open the CD case slowly until you can barely hear the tone and mark this position by attaching several pieces of tape across the partially open case. Test your metal detector by holding the case open as far as the tape will allow while moving it toward a metal piece. You should hear the tone from the radio once again when the CD comes within a few inches of the metal.
About the Author:
Allan Robinson has written numerous articles for various health and fitness sites. Robinson also has 15 years of experience as a software engineer and has extensive accreditation in software engineering. He holds a bachelor's degree with majors in biology and mathematics.
