Magnetometer Selection Guide: Key Considerations for Precise Magnetic Measurements

In scientific exploration, industrial inspection, and environmental monitoring, the magnetometer serves as the core tool for magnetic field measurement. Its selection directly impacts data quality and research outcomes. Facing the diverse magnetometer products on the market, how to make an informed selection becomes the primary challenge for users. Based on Geotech’s technical expertise and the product features of the JPMG series proton magnetometers, this article systematically analyzes six critical dimensions of magnetometer selection to help you accurately match your needs and enhance measurement efficiency.

I. Clarify Measurement Requirements: Building the Selection Framework

Magnetic field measurement scenarios vary significantly, from weak magnetic field detection in geological exploration to strong magnetic field analysis of material magnetism. Before selection, three core questions need to be addressed:

Measurement Range: Does the magnetic field intensity exceed the device’s range? It is recommended to reserve a 20% safety margin.
Accuracy Requirements: Scientific research applications require nanotesla-level accuracy, while industrial inspections may suffice with microtesla-level accuracy.
Environmental Characteristics: Special protection designs are needed for high-temperature, vibration, or electromagnetic interference environments.

The JPMG series, adopting the proton precession principle, covers a range from 0.1nT to 100,000nT, making it particularly suitable for underground mineral exploration and space magnetic field research, and performs well in complex geological environments.

II. Accuracy and Resolution: Balancing Performance and Cost

High accuracy often comes with high costs, requiring a trade-off based on actual needs:

Scientific research-grade equipment: Pursues 0.1nT accuracy with temperature compensation and automatic calibration systems.
Industrial-grade equipment: 1nT accuracy meets most quality inspection needs.
Resolution pitfalls: Beware of excessive pursuit of resolution leading to decreased signal-to-noise ratio.

The JPMG series optimizes sensor structure and digital signal processing algorithms to achieve 0.1nT resolution while maintaining high accuracy (±0.5nT), offering outstanding cost-effectiveness.

III. Stability: Ensuring Long-term Reliability

The stability of the magnetometer directly affects the reliability of measurement results:

Temperature drift: Choose equipment with automatic temperature compensation.
Long-term drift: High-quality equipment should have annual drift <1nT.
Anti-interference ability: Electromagnetic shielding and digital filtering technologies are key.

The JPMG series employs an embedded microcomputer control system with intelligent drift suppression algorithms, maintaining measurement stability in a wide temperature range of -20℃ to 50℃, particularly suitable for extreme environments such as polar expeditions.

IV. Functional Configuration: Matching Application Scenarios

Modern magnetometers have evolved beyond mere measurement functions towards intelligence:

Data storage: Large memory capacity supports long-term monitoring.
Wireless transmission: Bluetooth/WiFi modules enable real-time data sharing.
Alarm function: Automatic early warning for threshold exceedance.
Multi-parameter measurement: Simultaneous acquisition of magnetic flux, magnetic moment, and other parameters.

The JPMG series comes standard with USB/RS232 interfaces, supporting PC-side software analysis, and optionally equipped with GPS modules for geotagging, meeting GIS mapping needs.

V. Operational Experience: Prioritizing Efficiency and Usability

Complex operation interfaces may offset equipment performance advantages:

Touch screen vs. buttons: Touch screens enhance interaction efficiency, while physical buttons enhance reliability.
Software ecosystem: Supporting software should enable data export and custom report generation.
Training costs: Intuitive interfaces reduce personnel training burdens.

The JPMG series features a 3.5-inch color LCD screen with clear menu logic, supporting both Chinese and English interfaces. Technicians can become proficient after brief training.

VI. After-sales Service: Ensuring Long-term Cooperation

Professional magnetometers often come with long-term technical service needs:

Calibration services: Regular calibration ensures measurement accuracy.
Technical response: 48-hour response mechanism for faults.
Upgrade support: Firmware iterations enhance device performance.

Conclusion: Scientific Selection Drives New Breakthroughs in Magnetic Field Research

Magnetometer selection is the cornerstone of magnetic field measurement projects, requiring systematic consideration of technical parameters, functional configurations, and service support. The JPMG series proton magnetometers have been validated in scientific research and industrial projects in over 30 countries worldwide with their high accuracy, wide range, and excellent stability. Through this guide, we believe you can build a clear selection logic, transforming every equipment investment into reliable data output.