The History of Metal Detectors
Introduction
Metal detectors are devices that use electromagnetic induction to detect metallic objects. They have wide applications in archaeology, security, industry, and entertainment. This article will take you through the history of metal detectors and share some interesting stories along the way.
Origins and Early Development
The history of metal detectors can be traced back to the late 19th century. Inventors began experimenting with electromagnetic induction to detect metals. The first successful metal detector was invented by Alexander Graham Bell in 1881. His invention was intended to locate a bullet inside the body of U.S. President James A. Garfield.
Bell's metal detector used a battery, induction coil, and a listening device, but it failed to locate the bullet due to interference from the metal bed springs. However, this attempt laid the groundwork for future developments.
World War II and Technological Advancements
Metal detection technology made significant progress during World War II. During the war, the Allies needed a device to quickly find and disarm landmines. In 1941, Hungarian physicist Gheorghe Popescu invented a portable metal detector known as the "induction balance detector."
Popescu's invention helped countless soldiers safely navigate minefields and became the predecessor of modern metal detectors. This type of metal detector used a simple oscillating circuit and provided audio signals to indicate the presence of metal.
In the 1960s, Angus Dolman from the UK accidentally discovered a 9th-century Anglo-Saxon gold coin while using a metal detector. The coin was believed to be part of a long-lost treasure. Dolman's discovery not only fueled his passion for metal detecting but also attracted many hobbyists to the field.
Modern Developments in Metal Detectors
With advancements in technology, metal detectors have further evolved in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Modern metal detectors use advanced electronic technology, offering higher sensitivity and accuracy. They can distinguish between different types of metals and are widely used in archaeology, security, and recreational activities.
In 2013, Eric Schmidt from the United States discovered a treasure from a shipwreck on a beach in Florida while using a metal detector. The treasure included gold and silver jewelry, coins, and other valuable items, worth over a million dollars. This discovery not only made Schmidt famous overnight but also demonstrated the immense potential of metal detectors in treasure hunting.
Conclusion
The history of metal detectors is filled with innovation and discovery. From Bell's early detector to modern high-tech devices, metal detectors have continuously evolved, becoming powerful tools for exploration and discovery. Whether it's unearthing historical relics or the joy of treasure hunting, metal detectors play a vital role in these adventures.
Sources
- Wikipedia: Metal Detector
- History Channel: The Evolution of Metal Detectors
- National Geographic: Treasure Hunters and Metal Detectors