Interpex Ix1d V350 Portable -
The Interpex IX1D v3.50 Portable is a highly regarded, handheld geophysical instrument used for interpreting and processing data from various geophysical surveys, particularly in the fields of mineral exploration, environmental studies, and geological mapping. This device is part of a series of tools developed to offer efficient, accurate, and user-friendly solutions for professionals in geology, geophysics, and related disciplines.
1. Core Functionality
- 1D Resistivity & IP Inversion – Processes Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) / Schlumberger, Wenner, dipole-dipole, and pole-pole arrays.
- Forward Modeling & Automatic Inversion – Matches field curves to layered earth models (2 to 10+ layers).
- Induced Polarization (IP) Option – Simultaneous inversion of resistivity and chargeability (time-domain).
Key Technical Specifications of the v350 Portable Unit
Understanding the hardware is essential. The "v350" moniker is not arbitrary. Here is what you get inside the weather-sealed carry case: interpex ix1d v350 portable
- Power Output: 350V peak-to-peak, with current up to 2.5A. This allows for impressive sounding depths (often 300-500 meters depending on geology).
- Channels: Typically a 10-channel receiver, allowing for simultaneous potential difference measurements across multiple dipoles.
- Input Impedance: >100 MOhms, ensuring high-quality readings in high-contact-resistance environments (dry sand or gravel).
- Internal Memory: Non-volatile storage for thousands of VES points and time-lapse surveys.
- Battery: Internal rechargeable Li-Ion (12-hour field life) with external 12V vehicle compatibility.
- Weight: Approximately 5.5 kg (12 lbs) – truly portable for a single operator.
- Environmental Rating: IP67 (dust-tight and waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes).
How It Works (Basic Principle)
The IX1D V350 injects a controlled direct current (DC) into the ground through two current electrodes. The resulting voltage drop is measured across two separate potential electrodes. By varying electrode spacing, the instrument builds a vertical electrical sounding (VES) or a 2D pseudo-section. In IP mode, it measures the secondary voltage decay after the current is shut off, indicating the presence of polarizable minerals or clay. The Interpex IX1D v3
Mini-Case Study: Rural Water Supply in Sub-Saharan Africa
A non-profit hydrogeologist used the Interpex IX1D v350 portable to locate a borehole for a village of 5,000 people. Previous attempts using anecdotal siting had resulted in two dry wells. Over three days, the geophysicist performed 15 VES soundings along a 4km transect. The v350’s portability allowed him to walk the transect, avoiding dense thorn scrub. On-site inversion using IX1D identified a buried paleo-channel at 65 meters depth. The recommended drill site produced 25 m³/hour—affirming the system’s ROI in less than one week. 1D Resistivity & IP Inversion – Processes Vertical