By sampling and manipulating the output of the detector the units' microprocessor-based electronics can display the temperature, and related computed values such as maximum, minimum, average, and difference of temperature seen during the measurement. Some objects reflect, as well as emit, infrared energy. Shiny or highly polished surfaces tend to reflect energy, whereas dull ones do not. A factor called emissivity, which can have a value anywhere from 0.1 to 1.0, accounts for the actual energy being emitted. It may be adjusted using the front arrows on the Laser touch-sensitive membrane switch.
Precious metals are the best heat conductors when located in the earth.
The rising heat wave increases in size in proportion to the size of the target. If the target is a gold bar it must be buried over along period of time, fresh targets may not reflect well. The larger the mass of gold bars, the bigger the rising heat wave from the target. Buried metals are also heated from the earth's core, this allows deeper detection beyond the sun's infrared rays. This hand-held detector throws a laser beam that carries a fast traveling infrared heat sensible wave.