A device and a method for recognizing an antenna coil with a non-active detuning apparatus are provided. The device has a transmitter, an antenna, an amplitude meter, and a controller. The controlleractuates the transmitter such that the transmitter emits high-frequency signals with different predetermined amplitudes via the antenna. The controller acquires testing amplitudes with the amplitude meter as a function of the emitted signal and determines a testing relationship between the predetermined amplitudes and the acquired testing amplitudes. If the determined testing relationship deviatesfrom a predetermined reference relationship, a signal is output.