Making your own metal detector is fun and educational. While making a traditional metal detector requires a special kit (as well as an in-depth knowledge of electronic device circuits), you can make a simpler version of the device with household appliances. The fastest way to detect metal is to use the magnetic field on your smartphone. Another, more popular way to build a metal detector is to use a calculator and radio.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Using a Calculator and Radio to Detect Metal
Step 1. Tune the radio to the highest AM frequency
Make sure you are not connected to any radio station. You should be able to hear the static sound clearly and steadily. This will allow you to hear the difference in sound when your device detects a metal object.
Step 2. Assemble the detector head
Turn on the calculator. Next, position the two devices back to back until you hear static. You may need to adjust the position or distance of the device for the sound to come out.
Step 3. Unite and glue the two devices with tape
Once the calculator and radio make these sounds, you will need to tape them down with tape. If the distance between the two devices is too difficult to glue together with tape, place them in that position on a board. This will keep the detector head stable and functioning properly during use.
Step 4. Connect the detector head to a stick
An old broom stick or other wooden stick is the best thing to do. Use high-adhesive tape to hold the detector head and rod together. You can also use a rope to tie the two devices together. Use the method that best fits the shape of your detector head.
Step 5. Test your metal detector on several household appliances
First, make sure the metal detector is working by placing a spoon on the table. Hold the detector close to the top of the spoon and listen for the sound it makes (this sound should be different from the static sound you hear). Now, you can take it outside or around the house to find various metal objects.
Method 2 of 3: Turning Smartphone Into Metal Detector
Step 1. Download metal detector app
Smartphones are electronic devices that produce magnetic fields. There are several applications that have been developed so that you can use the magnetic field of your phone to detect metal objects. Go to a phone app store (each phone operating system has a different app store) and download a metal detector app.
One example of a metal detector application is "Metal Detector"
Step 2. Hold the phone close to the metal object while opening the app
Once the download is complete, open the application. Follow all the installation instructions in the app for optimal performance. Once the app is ready to use, start holding your phone closer to various metal objects.
Step 3. Watch for changes in the magnetic field listed on the phone
Metal detector applications work by measuring changes in the magnetic field of the phone. When brought near, the metal will cause a change in the reaction of the magnetic field on the cellphone which will then be detected by the application. The interaction in the magnetic field will seem to fluctuate as you switch from one object to another.
As an illustration, when you bring your phone closer to a metal object, the amount of magnetic power can increase dramatically. This indicates that you have found an object made of metal
Method 3 of 3: Assembling the Metal Detector Kit
Step 1. Assemble the hardware
You can purchase metal detector kits that come with a variety of hardware. Some of them include copper coils and sticks. Some only include a controller box. Choose the kit that fits your needs and assemble it according to the installation instructions.
If you choose a kit with less hardware, you'll need to provide your own accessories, such as copper coils and sticks
Step 2. Patriot the circuit
The controller box needs to be soldered so that all the circuits are ready for use. You will need a soldering iron or gun to braze the components. If you've never brazed before, ask someone more skilled for help.
Step 3. Test the assembled metal detector
After the metal detector has been assembled, test the device. Place various metal objects on the floor and hold the copper coils close to them. If the tool detects them well, you're ready to take your metal detector outside for a treasure hunt.
