1. For an error locating decoder, means receiving a given number of data symbols and 2N check symbols, N being a positive integer, means generating 2N error syndrome signals using said received symbols and based upon a predetermined generator polynomial; means including generator polynomial means receiving said data and 2N check symbols for indicating the number of symbols in error, up to N symbols in error; the improvement being an error location apparatus, in combination: means realizing an affine polynomial for receiving said 2N syndrome signals to generate a predetermined number of root symbol signals; means selecting said root symbol signals exhibiting a predetermined Trace function; and means combining said selected root symbol signals with said syndrome signals to indicate error location.