S 280 - A new submarine optical system

After a brief review of the economical advantages of fiberoptic techniques in submarine links, the main characteristics of the first French submarine optical system, the S280, are discussed with special attention given to its supervisory system. Fibers, cables, and repeaters are described, notably concerning the technological choices and the performances. After two experimental links without and with submerged repeaters, the first commercial link will be provided between the mainland and Corsica, before participation in the TATS project, in 1988.