Technology Requirements for Optical Fiber Submarine Systems

The development of optical fiber technology has advanced to the point where optical submarine systems can be contemplated. However, considerable attention must be paid to developing and then proving the acceptability of the several technologies new to submarine systems. Areas of particular significance include fiber reliability and cabling, performance and reliability of electrooptic components, and the establishment of reliable and cost-effective electronic circuitry. The development of first-generation systems is well under way and the possibility of more advanced systems exists, as new techniques become established.