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How are the 3 whites TDi models different?
- Thread starter tvanwho
- Start date
Tom,
To understand why there are three models of the TDI you have to sort of understand the evolution of this detector.
First, the TDI is the result of an agreement between White's and Eric Foster who designed the GS 5. The TDI is patterned after the GS 5. The initial sales were here in the US and no sales in OZ. Before any TDI's were going to be sold in OZ, Whites wanted to know for sure the detector would work well there.
So, Eric Foster went to OZ and conducted various tests of the TDI on Australia's soil. What he found was in OZ, the Dual Field Coil, which is the standard coil here in the US didn't work as well as a straight mono coil, so a change of coils was made. Eric also found areas where the ground balance (GB) was too touchy and this led to the addition of a vernier GB control and a volume control. Also, some of the key users of the detector wanted a little sharper response, so a small change was made in the circuitry to sharpen the signals on small gold.
So, to provide a detector that worked about as well as it could in OZ, the following changes were made: A mono coil is the normal coil, a small filter change to enhance signals from small gold, and vernier GB control to make it easier to set the GB correctly for the best results and a volume control was added. These changes were implemented in what is now the TDI Pro.
Thus, the TDI pro was built to be the main White's PI detector to be sold in OZ. However, because of the extra features, many people preferred this new model over the standard TD and it has become very popular here in the US also.
Later, a new design develoment led to a special noise reduction feature presently only on the TDI SL and that feature was added to a new detector. White's also wanted a PI that would or could use less expensive batteries and again, this feature was added to the SL. Finally, White's wanted a lighter PI and again, this was one of the objectives of the SL.
So, the orginal TDI evolved with the help of actual on site testing into a different model better suited for use in OZ. Later designs plus the desire to make a lighter PI that could use lower cost batteries finally led to what is now known as the SL. Part of the reason the SL costs less is the use of less expensive batteries. Because the batteries used are a lower voltage, the depth capability isn't quite equal to that of the two other TDI's. As such, the cost is a little less.
Digger Bob has indicated in his videos that one feature he really likes on the SL is the ultra smooth and quiet threshold. Considering this detector is also lighter probably helps also.
So, in a nutshell, that is how the three different models came to be and also what are the differences between the different versions.
Reg
To understand why there are three models of the TDI you have to sort of understand the evolution of this detector.
First, the TDI is the result of an agreement between White's and Eric Foster who designed the GS 5. The TDI is patterned after the GS 5. The initial sales were here in the US and no sales in OZ. Before any TDI's were going to be sold in OZ, Whites wanted to know for sure the detector would work well there.
So, Eric Foster went to OZ and conducted various tests of the TDI on Australia's soil. What he found was in OZ, the Dual Field Coil, which is the standard coil here in the US didn't work as well as a straight mono coil, so a change of coils was made. Eric also found areas where the ground balance (GB) was too touchy and this led to the addition of a vernier GB control and a volume control. Also, some of the key users of the detector wanted a little sharper response, so a small change was made in the circuitry to sharpen the signals on small gold.
So, to provide a detector that worked about as well as it could in OZ, the following changes were made: A mono coil is the normal coil, a small filter change to enhance signals from small gold, and vernier GB control to make it easier to set the GB correctly for the best results and a volume control was added. These changes were implemented in what is now the TDI Pro.
Thus, the TDI pro was built to be the main White's PI detector to be sold in OZ. However, because of the extra features, many people preferred this new model over the standard TD and it has become very popular here in the US also.
Later, a new design develoment led to a special noise reduction feature presently only on the TDI SL and that feature was added to a new detector. White's also wanted a PI that would or could use less expensive batteries and again, this feature was added to the SL. Finally, White's wanted a lighter PI and again, this was one of the objectives of the SL.
So, the orginal TDI evolved with the help of actual on site testing into a different model better suited for use in OZ. Later designs plus the desire to make a lighter PI that could use lower cost batteries finally led to what is now known as the SL. Part of the reason the SL costs less is the use of less expensive batteries. Because the batteries used are a lower voltage, the depth capability isn't quite equal to that of the two other TDI's. As such, the cost is a little less.
Digger Bob has indicated in his videos that one feature he really likes on the SL is the ultra smooth and quiet threshold. Considering this detector is also lighter probably helps also.
So, in a nutshell, that is how the three different models came to be and also what are the differences between the different versions.
Reg
steve herschbach
New member
Hi Reg,
I do believe the TDI Pro in the US comes standard with the 12" Dual Field.
I really like the SL but last fall I got a new one and compared to a standard TDI I also had the target responses were off a bit in a way that is hard to explain. The standard TDI basically gave cleaner, more distinct responses especially on deep coins. Quite a bit of magnetite sand in the ground, and heavy power lines nearby. Not really sure what to make of it except in that particular situation the standard TDI was making me happier. I much prefer the SL in about every way but that one experience put me off a bit and now I am more ambivalent about which TDI I prefer.
But hoping it will not matter if I get my hands on a waterproof version.
Steve Herschbach
I do believe the TDI Pro in the US comes standard with the 12" Dual Field.
I really like the SL but last fall I got a new one and compared to a standard TDI I also had the target responses were off a bit in a way that is hard to explain. The standard TDI basically gave cleaner, more distinct responses especially on deep coins. Quite a bit of magnetite sand in the ground, and heavy power lines nearby. Not really sure what to make of it except in that particular situation the standard TDI was making me happier. I much prefer the SL in about every way but that one experience put me off a bit and now I am more ambivalent about which TDI I prefer.
But hoping it will not matter if I get my hands on a waterproof version.
Steve Herschbach
Hi Steve,
The main difference in overall design of the SL is the noise reduction circuitry and how it is implemented. Because of the design, there are certain things that help when using the SL that deviate some, or stated a different way are different than what a person might use when using the TDI Pro.
So, in simple terms, slightly different techniques really should be used when operating the SL. The key is a little slower sweep action for best results.
Also, I am not a big fan of the use of the different types of batteries available for the SL from Whites so I use a pack made with li Ion types by RNB.
All TDI's can change a little as the batteries diminish so it really is a good idea to switch early especially when trying to use the disc feature when searching for coins. I feel the Li Ion types help maintain a slightly higher and steadier voltage than other rechargeables.
Finally, the frequency control is often overlooked because the SL is so quiet, but this control really should be set for minimum noise even on the SL. Because the SL is so much quieter, it is more difficult to properly set this control, so practice and care should be used.
The frequency control is very important on all TDI versions and should be adjusted when working in an area that may have potential EMI noise present. Failure to properly set this control can and almost always will result in noticeable depth loss.
Reg
The main difference in overall design of the SL is the noise reduction circuitry and how it is implemented. Because of the design, there are certain things that help when using the SL that deviate some, or stated a different way are different than what a person might use when using the TDI Pro.
So, in simple terms, slightly different techniques really should be used when operating the SL. The key is a little slower sweep action for best results.
Also, I am not a big fan of the use of the different types of batteries available for the SL from Whites so I use a pack made with li Ion types by RNB.
All TDI's can change a little as the batteries diminish so it really is a good idea to switch early especially when trying to use the disc feature when searching for coins. I feel the Li Ion types help maintain a slightly higher and steadier voltage than other rechargeables.
Finally, the frequency control is often overlooked because the SL is so quiet, but this control really should be set for minimum noise even on the SL. Because the SL is so much quieter, it is more difficult to properly set this control, so practice and care should be used.
The frequency control is very important on all TDI versions and should be adjusted when working in an area that may have potential EMI noise present. Failure to properly set this control can and almost always will result in noticeable depth loss.
Reg
panama rich
New member
Reg,
Thanks for the explanation. I am not presently using a White's detector, but following evolutions in detectors is part of the hobby for me.
I basically like all detectors, it is nice to know what options we have.
Thanks,
Rich
Thanks for the explanation. I am not presently using a White's detector, but following evolutions in detectors is part of the hobby for me.
I basically like all detectors, it is nice to know what options we have.
Thanks,
Rich
Hey Fred,
Do you meet up with the bunch that makes the various trips to Quartzite for a general outing? Why I am wondering is I am trying to get an actual TDI modified like my GS 5, which basically has been converted to a TDI, is working now. I plan on sending one down to a guy who goes to those outings.
If you go and get to see this detector in action, I think you will be impressed. If I don't get the TDI to that point, I will send the presently modified unit that is butt ugly but works great.
Reg
Do you meet up with the bunch that makes the various trips to Quartzite for a general outing? Why I am wondering is I am trying to get an actual TDI modified like my GS 5, which basically has been converted to a TDI, is working now. I plan on sending one down to a guy who goes to those outings.
If you go and get to see this detector in action, I think you will be impressed. If I don't get the TDI to that point, I will send the presently modified unit that is butt ugly but works great.
Reg
Hi fred,
I appreciate your offer but I am trying to help a friend find some gold on this trip. So, I am sending the detector to him to try out. I need to send him a pair of headphones I modified for him to use also. These headphones are very sensitive to weak signals and have a maximum volume limiting circuitry so you get the advantage of supersensitive headphones on weak signals but overload protection at the same time.
BTW, anyone can build up these headphones and the price is really quite reasonable. The key is the replacement of the speakers with some surplus ones a person can buy very reasonable. I don't know how long these speakers will last though. So, a person should order them before they are all gone. Right now, the speakers can be found at two surplus sites. They are 300 ohm speakers in the standard 40mm size. They fit perfectly in some cheap headphones, so it is just a matter of popping the original ones out and placing the new ones in and gluing them down. Then there is some modification of the wiring plus build up a small pc board with some diodes for limiting. It is a fun project for those who like this kind of stuff and can solder.
If it is ok, I will provide greater details on this forum. So, if Steve gives the ok, I will post more on the headphone mod.
As for your question about names, Patrick Hopkins usually heads down to Quartzite when Bill Southern and others have a get together there. Patrick may be going down alone this time though. I don't know for sure. I need to ask him. Anyway, Patrick will have the detector to use. AT least, that is the plan as of now.
Reg
I appreciate your offer but I am trying to help a friend find some gold on this trip. So, I am sending the detector to him to try out. I need to send him a pair of headphones I modified for him to use also. These headphones are very sensitive to weak signals and have a maximum volume limiting circuitry so you get the advantage of supersensitive headphones on weak signals but overload protection at the same time.
BTW, anyone can build up these headphones and the price is really quite reasonable. The key is the replacement of the speakers with some surplus ones a person can buy very reasonable. I don't know how long these speakers will last though. So, a person should order them before they are all gone. Right now, the speakers can be found at two surplus sites. They are 300 ohm speakers in the standard 40mm size. They fit perfectly in some cheap headphones, so it is just a matter of popping the original ones out and placing the new ones in and gluing them down. Then there is some modification of the wiring plus build up a small pc board with some diodes for limiting. It is a fun project for those who like this kind of stuff and can solder.
If it is ok, I will provide greater details on this forum. So, if Steve gives the ok, I will post more on the headphone mod.
As for your question about names, Patrick Hopkins usually heads down to Quartzite when Bill Southern and others have a get together there. Patrick may be going down alone this time though. I don't know for sure. I need to ask him. Anyway, Patrick will have the detector to use. AT least, that is the plan as of now.
Reg
I sure hope Steve approves of that headphone mod? I can solder a little and what I can't do, I can get an older relative to do for me. Be nice if you could post a schematic or drawing and a website for where to get the headphone speakers?
I used my TDi in some really BAD ground on a 24 Karat gold club claim south of Rich Hill. The ground was bulldozed and oozing with red dirt, red clay, and black sands. My Lobo was chattering like crazy but my TDI was smooth. I only found a couple bits of wire tho and the 4500 foot elevation was bothering me as in hard to breathe.
Southwest Minerals is the biggest landowner up there now. My old buddy Jerry from Indiana and his lady friend Tara run the outfit They told me they had even acquired the old Octave gold mine there.
They have a small forum if anybody is interested,with Steves ok? They have a short YouTube heavy equipment mining video on Rich Hill also, but I can't post the link without it being deleted,unfortunately.
-Tom
I used my TDi in some really BAD ground on a 24 Karat gold club claim south of Rich Hill. The ground was bulldozed and oozing with red dirt, red clay, and black sands. My Lobo was chattering like crazy but my TDI was smooth. I only found a couple bits of wire tho and the 4500 foot elevation was bothering me as in hard to breathe.
Southwest Minerals is the biggest landowner up there now. My old buddy Jerry from Indiana and his lady friend Tara run the outfit They told me they had even acquired the old Octave gold mine there.
They have a small forum if anybody is interested,with Steves ok? They have a short YouTube heavy equipment mining video on Rich Hill also, but I can't post the link without it being deleted,unfortunately.
-Tom
Hi Tom,
I use to belong to the 24K club and I met a couple of people using TDI's at the club a few years ago. Wonder if you are one of them. I spent more time talking to the TDI owners on the claims on the Stanton side. Elly had a push on that side the time I went down to AZ.
Getting back to the headphones, a guy named Sven did the same thing or at least partly the same and posted his info on a site somewhere. I just don't remember where. In fact, that is where I learned about the second place selling the speakers.
Now, for what it is worth, one manufacturer did use these type of speakers in one model they sold. In fact I purchased some and made the limiting mod to them. Unfortunately, some of the same model but newer headphones no longer have the 300 ohm speakers. So, it appears the manufacturer changed to a 32 ohm speaker but their literature still says they are 600 ohm. The 600 ohm comes from wiring the 300 ohm speakers in series.
Reg
PS: I found Sven's post. It was on the modifications forum. He posted one location where you can get the speakers for $1.50 each. I will post the second location on that forum.
I use to belong to the 24K club and I met a couple of people using TDI's at the club a few years ago. Wonder if you are one of them. I spent more time talking to the TDI owners on the claims on the Stanton side. Elly had a push on that side the time I went down to AZ.
Getting back to the headphones, a guy named Sven did the same thing or at least partly the same and posted his info on a site somewhere. I just don't remember where. In fact, that is where I learned about the second place selling the speakers.
Now, for what it is worth, one manufacturer did use these type of speakers in one model they sold. In fact I purchased some and made the limiting mod to them. Unfortunately, some of the same model but newer headphones no longer have the 300 ohm speakers. So, it appears the manufacturer changed to a 32 ohm speaker but their literature still says they are 600 ohm. The 600 ohm comes from wiring the 300 ohm speakers in series.
Reg
PS: I found Sven's post. It was on the modifications forum. He posted one location where you can get the speakers for $1.50 each. I will post the second location on that forum.
I heard the 24 K club had some funny stuff going on and the club folded . I was just out for a week a few years back visiting my folks in Phoenix. Sure am glad my father went with me that time !! His first and last time detecting,unfortunately,as he passed away last month.
I know about zilch on speakers and ohms and such. I know positive and negative on a battery and not much else electrical,sorry...never did learn how to use a volt/ohm meter yet either..
-Tom
I know about zilch on speakers and ohms and such. I know positive and negative on a battery and not much else electrical,sorry...never did learn how to use a volt/ohm meter yet either..
-Tom
steve herschbach
New member
n/t
steve herschbach
New member
When in doubt fly it by the Guvner at http://www.findmall.com/profile.php?20,2
Steve Herschbach
Steve Herschbach