In a joint research project, an experimental transmission line relaying system using digital techniques was installed in the field for one year at the terminals of a 116 km 500 kV line. During the field investigation, the digital system, which uses directional-comparison trip logic, operated correctly in the blocking mode during external faults and correctly issued trip signals during staged internal faults. The operations of the digital system during the external and internal faults are described and discussed. Also, the experience with the digital hardware in the substation environment is discussed. Copyright © 1979 by The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. Inc.