Parameter considerations for magnetic sensor instrumentation

The following presentation attempts to summarize the main interrelationships between the application and device aspects of magnetic anomaly detectors and/or locators. The discussion is founded on an eleven-year research, design and development program primarily directed toward underwater, swimmer portable, locator systems. Productive discussions of magnetic sensor techniques are frequently hindered by the lack of uniform and standard terms of reference. No reference is made in this text to system sensitivity or range because these terms are useless and misleading unless they are accompanied by numerous clarifying details. The authors are convinced that a consistent and comprehensive dialogue would greatly enhance progress in the field of magnetic anomaly detection and instrumentation. We hope that this effort encourages other investigators to seek out, publish, and use standard terms of reference.