High Precision Proton Magnetometer with 0.05nT Resolution and 5000 Nt/m Gradient Tolerance Featuring Dual 32-bit MCUs

The evolution of geophysical instrumentation has progressed from analog measurement to intelligent digital acquisition. The WCZ-3 Proton Magnetometer represents the forefront of this transition, where cutting-edge digital innovation enhances every aspect of fundamental proton precession measurement. This begins with its core computing architecture: the implementation of dual 32-bit microcontroller units (MCUs). This powerful digital system manages a complex real-time workflow, from controlling precise polarization pulses and capturing microvolt-level free induction decay (FID) signals, to applying digital filters, performing Fast Fourier Transforms (FFT) for exact precession frequency determination, and executing environmental compensations and quality checks—all within seconds.

A key innovation enabled by this digital capability is the system's adaptive measurement intelligence. The instrument does not operate on fixed routines but instead dynamically adjusts acquisition parameters based on real-time field conditions. In magnetically quiet areas, it utilizes high-precision mode with extended signal averaging to achieve 0.05 nT resolution. In noisier environments, it optimizes for speed and stability. The proprietary algorithms for gradient tolerance and Estimation Mode demonstrate digital problem-solving, applying signal processing techniques to extract meaningful information from challenging data that less advanced systems would discard.

The digital foundation transforms user experience and data utility. The intuitive graphical interface with real-time plotting of field strength and quality metrics benefits directly from available processing power. Seamless integration of high-precision GPS for navigation, positioning, and timing is managed digitally, ensuring flawless synchronization. The universal USB mass storage device functionality provides digital convenience that significantly improves workflow efficiency by eliminating proprietary cables, drivers, and transfer software. In the WCZ-3, digital innovation represents an embedded engineering philosophy that elevates proven physical measurement principles into a smart, adaptable, and fully connected field instrument for modern geophysical applications.