This equipment, known as a fiber optic locator, uses an electromagnetic signal that is sent through the ground and is then detected by the locator's sensors. The locator will then give you a precise reading of the location of the underground fiber optic cables. Cable and pipe locator tools are nondestructive evaluation (NDE) technologies that detect and identify buried cables and pipes based on the measurement of electromagnetic (EM) signals emitted by them. Buried fiber optic cables enable high-speed data transmission and are widely used in internet, telecommunication, and cable TV networks. Industry standards like TIA-606-B guide professionals to use color codes, print legends, connector types, and. For locating purposes, the technician should first know if the fiber is armored with metallic shielding or unarmored without any type of metal built into the cable. Public utility marks aren't enough.