Small-object metal detector experiment
Explore how a hand-wound coil detects nearby metal, then investigate whether it could help find small objects on a workbench.
A source to explore and a proposed direction to develop. This is not a full build assessment.
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Explore how a hand-wound coil detects nearby metal, then investigate whether it could help find small objects on a workbench.
CAIBI’s proposed addition: Review the analogue circuit before assembly. Compare repeatable test objects and false positives; only then design a handle or case.
Start with the original
Tutorial foundation
Tutorial read 10 October 2026. Detection range is a source claim, not a CAIBI result. Coil construction, calibration, input protection and power design need review. Not selected for the first physical trial.
See the original source for its photos and demonstrations. We have not copied imagery without confirmed reuse rights. A source prototype is not a photo of this proposed CAIBI build.
Prompts to move it forward
Copy a prompt into your AI tool with the source material and your actual parts. Work through one small step at a time and check the output before using it. Choose an AI tool or practise the skills first.
Check the source before buying
Review the source material I supply for Small-object metal detector experiment. Make a table of what is provided, missing, contradictory or dependent on a paid service. Identify exact hardware revisions, firmware files, library versions, CAD files and licences. Separate creator claims from your proposed additions. Do not fill gaps with guessed specifications. Finish with one small test that can resolve the biggest uncertainty before I buy parts. Sources: CircuitDigest ESP32 metal detector: https://circuitdigest.com/microcontroller-projects/diy-esp32-metal-detector
Plan the next step
I want to develop this idea: Small-object metal detector experiment. Intended outcome: Explore how a hand-wound coil detects nearby metal, then investigate whether it could help find small objects on a workbench. The source is https://circuitdigest.com/microcontroller-projects/diy-esp32-metal-detector. CAIBI suggests: Review the analogue circuit before assembly. Compare repeatable test objects and false positives; only then design a handle or case. First inspect the source I supply. Separate what it already does from proposed additions. Ask for my actual board, parts, skill level and missing files. Produce a small staged plan with one bench test per stage. Do not invent pin assignments, dimensions or completed test results. Sources: CircuitDigest ESP32 metal detector: https://circuitdigest.com/microcontroller-projects/diy-esp32-metal-detector
Design a measured enclosure
Help me design a practical enclosure for Small-object metal detector experiment. First ask for measured component dimensions, mounting holes, connectors, cable clearance, ventilation and operating conditions. Suggest a printable or off-the-shelf approach. Begin with a fit-test piece before a complete case. Label assumptions and do not invent an enclosure rating. Sources: CircuitDigest ESP32 metal detector: https://circuitdigest.com/microcontroller-projects/diy-esp32-metal-detector
Check and document the result
Create a test log for Small-object metal detector experiment. Intended outcome: Explore how a hand-wound coil detects nearby metal, then investigate whether it could help find small objects on a workbench. Separate expected behaviour from observed results. Include power restart, disconnected inputs, communication failure and the actual physical use. Ask me to provide results, firmware versions, changes, photos and unresolved problems. Never mark a test passed without my evidence. Sources: CircuitDigest ESP32 metal detector: https://circuitdigest.com/microcontroller-projects/diy-esp32-metal-detector
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