The unit has an inbuilt GPS receiver that tracks its location to an accuracy 4 meters. The received signal is processed and passed to the digital processing system that via the LCD shows the signal strength with automatic gain control. A analogue meter is also available to show the received signal strength. The historical signal strength and GPS Lon,Lat position is stored in memory and can be displayed on the screen allowing operators to locate specific signal conditions and their corresponding Lon, Lat coordinates.

The new digital 5916G has a built-in self test feature, that can be used before each deployment. Normally, the Electroding Generator, Tinsley type 5915, is located in the submarine cable terminal nearest to the fault area. The Electroding Detector, Tinsley type 5916G is aboard the ship. When the ship is in the vicinity of the cable area, the 5915 Electroding Generator is powered thus applying the low frequency signal to the cable under test. At these frequencies, the field of the signal extends into the water surrounding the cable for a considerable distance.

The ship would normally steer a course to cross the cable on the landward side of the expected fault position. Before this position is reached, the ship launches the receiving probes which are connected to the input of the 5916G detector. The Detector is set to the frequency being transmitted by the Electroding Generator on shore. As the ship crosses the cable, the field of the signal current on the cable induces a voltage into the probe/s. This signal is then processed by the Electroding Detector and a deflection on the meter is registered and the system stores the reading and the GPS position. This may also be recorded by the built-in digital chart recorder.

For identification purposes, the Electroding Generator may be keyed on and off periodically. Once the cable signal has been identified and confirmed, the ship then follows the cable on a zigzag course until the signal disappears or is much reduced. When this happens, the fault or break has been passed. Use of NAVSAT on a marker buoy would mark the point where the signal was last detected. Further runs may be made for a more precise fix of the fault position.