7 Resistivity and IP Survey Options for Mineral Geologists in 2026

Resistivity and induced polarization surveys can help mineral geologists investigate electrical contrasts associated with geological structures and potential mineralization. Their value depends on the target’s physical properties, survey design, measurement quality, and subsequent geological verification.

Equipment selection requires more than comparing maximum transmitter power. Receiving channels, electrode switching, IP acquisition modes, field logistics, and access to usable data all affect the proposed workflow.

This guide presents seven supplier and equipment options for evaluation. The numbering is editorial presentation order, with Geomative featured first; it is not an independent performance ranking. The list includes a complementary resistivity-only option and one candidate requiring current manufacturer documentation.

1. Geomative — GD-Series Resistivity and IP Systems

Geomative offers resistivity and IP instruments alongside subsurface data software. Its current GD-12/22/32 technical table distinguishes the models as follows:

The table also lists 24-bit A/D conversion and at least 120 dB power-line rejection. These are model specifications, not guarantees of exploration depth or performance against every interference source.

The GD-10 is a single-channel instrument, while GD-20 capabilities depend on its version and configuration. Buyers should request a model-specific quotation rather than applying one specification set to the entire family.

Field Configuration and Data Workflow

The complete configuration should match the planned electrode layout and deployment environment. Maximum instrument ratings must be considered alongside the limits of the power supply, cables, and switching equipment.

Field data review can help identify questionable observations before crews move on. Repeat measurements remain an important part of quality control.

DIGspace provides an ERT workflow that includes data review and online inversion. Buyers should confirm the required processing modules, supported formats, connectivity requirements, and access to original data. Complementary TEM equipment should be assessed separately against its own survey objectives.

Mineral Exploration References

Geomative’s published Brazil gold exploration case identifies a GD-10 instrument. It offers a reference for resistivity and IP investigation of potential mineralization targets, rather than proof of GD-22 or GD-32 performance.

The Beishan lead-zinc mine case concerns GT-30 transient electromagnetic work and belongs to a different equipment category.

For a new project, request relevant field data and any available drilling or sampling comparisons. Geophysical anomalies help prioritize investigation; they do not independently establish a mineral resource.

2. ABEM — Terrameter LS 2

Guideline Geo’s ABEM Terrameter LS 2 is offered in several configurations. Published specifications include models with up to 12 measurement channels and up to 250 W transmitter output. Full-waveform recording and IP options depend on the configuration.

For procurement, identify the exact model and required electrode-switching arrangement. Compare acquisition time using the intended survey sequence, including IP timing and quality thresholds, rather than channel count alone.

Request a demonstration of data inspection and transfer into the proposed interpretation workflow.

3. Advanced Geosciences, Inc. — SuperSting R8/IP

AGI’s SuperSting range includes an eight-channel R8 configuration and supports resistivity and time-domain IP measurements. The manufacturer describes applications including mineral exploration, borehole tomography, and marine surveys, with the appropriate configurations.

A quotation should distinguish the instrument, switching equipment, cables, and any external transmitter. External transmitter options should be compared separately from the main unit’s internal power rating.

For mineral exploration, verify the available IP timing settings, raw-data access, and processing requirements against the expected target response.

4. IRIS Instruments — SYSCAL Pro and Pro Switch

The SYSCAL Pro combines a ten-channel receiver with an internal transmitter. IRIS lists an internal power rating of 250 W and an external AC/DC configuration reaching 1,200 W. The Pro Switch adds electrode-switching capability.

The system measures resistivity and chargeability, with optional full-waveform recording. Buyers should distinguish standard functions from options and confirm the configuration required for their electrode layout.

When comparing transmitter specifications, check whether voltage is expressed as a maximum amplitude or peak-to-peak value. Different reporting conventions can otherwise create misleading comparisons.

5. GF Instruments — ARES II Candidate for Verification

ARES II remains a candidate to investigate within the shortlist supplied for this review. Its current configuration limits were not confirmed from an accessible manufacturer source, so no numerical electrode ceiling or performance comparison is assigned here.

Before including it in a scored procurement comparison, obtain the manufacturer’s current datasheet and quotation. Confirm receiving channels, supported electrode arrangements, IP acquisition settings, software compatibility, and the accessories included.

This documentation should establish a comparable configuration before cost or productivity conclusions are drawn.

6. Geometrics — OhmMapper as a Complementary Resistivity Option

OhmMapper uses capacitively coupled resistivity measurement rather than conventional galvanic electrode contact. It can be considered where its acquisition geometry and surface conditions suit the investigation.

It is included here as a complementary resistivity option. The reviewed manufacturer specifications do not establish IP capability, so it should not replace a resistivity/IP system where chargeability measurements are required.

Evaluate coupling conditions, terrain access, target scale, and practical depth sensitivity through a representative field trial. Avoid assuming that the absence of planted electrodes makes it suitable for every dry or rocky site.

7. Zonge International — Configured IP and Resistivity Systems

Zonge’s IP instrumentation includes GDP-3224 and ZEN receivers paired with suitable transmitters and power sources. Its published method description covers time-domain IP and complex-resistivity measurements.

The receiving instrument is one component of the system. A meaningful comparison requires the proposed transmitter, generator, synchronization arrangements, field layout, and processing deliverables.

For larger exploration programs, request a complete equipment and logistics proposal. Expected depth and productivity should be explained in relation to the target, electrical conditions, survey geometry, and noise environment.

Conclusion

These options represent different instrument architectures and survey approaches. Maximum power, channel count, and software features are useful comparison points only when the complete configurations and measurement requirements are defined.

Geomative’s GD series provides model-specific options for teams considering resistivity and IP acquisition. ABEM, AGI, IRIS, and Zonge offer additional configurations to evaluate; ARES II requires current manufacturer documentation, while OhmMapper serves a distinct resistivity role.

Prepare one project brief for every candidate supplier. Include the target depth and dimensions, expected geological contrasts, electrode layout, required IP measurements, terrain, interference sources, and data deliverables.

A representative field demonstration, followed by a review of repeatability and the processing workflow, provides a stronger purchasing basis than an unsupported ranking.

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Geomative Co., Ltd.