Ocean Cable Engineering Handbook Vol6 Compiled by Ian S. Coote

Ocean
Engineering Notes.
Compiled
by
Ian S. Coote
Part 3
Handbook
for
Ocean Cable Engineering.
Volume 6
Project Management,
Survey,
Cable Routing
and
Documentation.
1st. Edition
This compilation
Copyright 2009 by Ian S. Coote.
Neither Ian S. Coote, or any of his associates

makes any warranty, express or implied,
or assumes any legal liability or responsibility
for the accuracy, completeness or usefulness of
any information, apparatus, product or process
disclosed, or represents that its use would not
infringe privately-owned rights.
Page i
Contents.
Page No.
1. Introduction. 1
2. Project Cycle. 2
3. Project Initiation. 4
3.1 General. 4
3.2 System Specification. 4
3.2.1 Overview. 4
3.2.2 Ocean Cable System Types. 5
3.2.2.1 Power Transmission Systems. 5
3.2.2.2 Communications Systems. 5
3.2.2.3 Surveillance Systems. 5
3.2.2.4 Tracking Ranges and Calibration Systems. 5
3.3 Design Constraints. 6
3.3.1 Overview. 6
3.3.2 Cost. 6
3.3.2.1 Funding. 6
3.3.2.2 Material Selection. 6
3.3.2.3 Instruments and Sensors. 7
3.3.3 Time Schedule. 7
3.3.4 Installation Equipment. 7
3.3.5 Support Limitations. 7
3.3.6 Site Limitations. 7
3.3.6.1 General. 7
3.3.6.2 Fishing Grounds. 8
3.3.6.3 Shipping. 8
3.3.6.4 Recreational. 8
3.4 Site and Cable Route Selection. 8
3.4.1 General. 8
3.4.2 Criteria for Selection. 9
3.4.3 Sire and Cable Route Selection Parameters. 12
3.4.3.1 Seafloor. 12
3.4.3.2 Oceanographic Properties. 12
3.4.3.3 Meteorological Parameters. 12
3.4.3.4 Manmade. 13
3.4.3.5 Environmental Impact Requirements. 14
4. Project Management. 15
4.1 Overview. 15
4.2 Program and Contract Work Breakdown Structure. 15
4.3 Functional Task Scheduling. 17
4.4 Program Organization. 19
4.5 Task Allocations. 20
4.6 Detailed Task Operations. 21
4.7 Design to Cost Considerations. 23
4.8 Jurisdictional Controls. 23
Page ii
Contents ( Continued ).
Page No.
5. Characteristics of the Ocean Floor and Ocean 25

Cable Systems.
5.1 General. 25
5.2 Shore. 25
5.2.1 General. 25
5.2.2 Beaches. 26
5.2.2.1 General. 26
5.2.2.2 Beach Types. 26
5.2.2.2.1 Pocket Beaches. 26
5.2.2.2.2 Bay or Crescent Beaches. 26
5.2.2.2.3 Barrier and Bar Beaches, and Barrier Islands. 26
5.2.2.3 Beach Materials and Slopes. 28
5.2.2.4 Sediment Motion on Beaches. 28
5.2.3 Inshore Reefs. 28
5.2.4 Bays and Inlets. 28
5.2.5 River Mouths. 29
5.2.6 Currents. 29
5.3 Straits and Channels. 29
5.4 Continental Shelves. 30
5.4.1 General. 30
5.4.2 Shelves off Large Rivers. 30
5.4.3 Shelves in Glaciated Areas. 30
5.4.4 Shelves off Young Mountain Coasts. 30
5.4.5 Shelves in Coral Reef Areas. 30
5.4.6 Shelves in Areas of Strong Currents. 31
5.4.7 Shelves off Old Mountain and Eroded Areas. 31
5.4.8 Currents. 31
5.5 Continental Slopes. 31
5.5.1 General. 31
5.5.2 Submarine Canyons. 31
5.5.3 Steep Slopes. 32
5.5.4 Normal Slopes 32
5.5.5 Currents. 32
5.6 Deep Ocean Floor. 32
5.6.1 General. 32
5.6.2 Abyssal Plains 32
5.6.3 Abyssal Hills. 33
5.6.4 Rises and Swells. 33
5.6.5 Seamounts. 33
5.6.6 Mid-Ocean Ridges. 33
5.6.7 Trenches. 33
5.6.8 Currents. 34
5.7 Topography Structure and Distribution. 35
5.8 Failure of Ocean Cables. 40
Page iii
Page No.
6. Cable Route and Site Survey. 45
6.1 Overview. 45
6.1.1 General. 45
6.1.2 Content of Survey. 46
6.1.2.1 Information Categories. 46
6.1.2.2 Feasibility Elements. 46
6.1.2.3 Risk Factors. 47
6.1.2.4 Engineering Data. 48
6.2 Significant Properties for Cable Route and Site Survey. 49
6.2.1 General. 49
6.2.2 Shore Site - Beach. 49
6.2.3 Shore Site - Inshore and Nearshore. 51
6.2.4 Continental Shelf and Slope. 56
6.2.5 Deep Ocean. 58
6.2.6 Array Sites. 60
6.2.7 Cable Burial. 64
6.3 Survey. 65
6.3.1 General. 65
6.3.2 Desk Survey. 66
6.3.3 Determination of the Proposed Cable Route(s) and 67
Site Layouts.
6.3.4 Field Survey. 68
6.3.4.1 Preparation. 68
6.3.4.2 Planning. 70
6.3.4.3 Procedures. 70
6.3.4.3.1 Overview. 70
6.3.4.3.2 Shore Site. 71
6.3.4.3.2.1 General. 71
6.3.4.3.2.2 Observation. 71
6.3.4.3.2.3 Electromagnetic Survey. 72
6.3.4.3.2.4 Land Area. 72
6.3.4.3.2.5 Beach. 73
6.3.4.3.2.6 Inshore and Nearshore. 75
6.3.4.3.2.6.1 Navigation and Position Fixing. 75
6.3.4.3.2.6.2 Biological Hazards. 75
6.3.4.3.2.6.3 Measurement of Significant Properties. 75
6.3.4.3.2.6.4 Charts and Drawings of the Shore Site Cable Route(s) 77
and Ocean Ground.
6.3.4.3.3 Continental Shelf and Slope. 77
6.3.4.3.3.1 General. 77
6.3.4.3.3.2 Navigation. 78
6.3.4.3.3.3 Measurement of Significant Properties. 78
6.3.4.3.4 Deep Ocean Floor. 79
6.3.4.3.4.1 General. 79
6.3.4.3.4.2 Navigation. 79
6.3.4.3.4.3 Measurement of Significant Properties. 79
Page iv
Page No.
6.3.4.3.5 Array Sites. 80

6.3.4.3.5.1 General. 80
6.3.4.3.5.2 Navigation. 81
6.3.4.3.5.3 Measurement of Significant Properties ( Group I ) 81
6.3.4.3.5.4 Measurement of Significant Properties ( Group II ) 82
6.3.4.3.6 Cable Burial Route Survey. 83
6.3.4.3.6.1 General. 83
6.3.4.3.6.2 Cable Burial Systems. 85
6.3.4.3.6.3 Navigation. 86
6.3.4.3.6.4 Reconnaissance Survey. 86
6.3.4.3.6.5 Plow Survey. 86
6.3.4.3.6.6 Survey for Cable Repair ROVs used for Cable Burial. 87
6.4 Final Cable Route and Site Layout. 87
7. Documentation. 91
7.1 Overview. 91
7.2 Cable Route and Site Evaluation Report ( CRSER ). 91
7.2.1 General. 91
7.2.2 Introduction. 92
7.2.3 General Area and Route Data. 92
7.2.4 Hydrographic Survey. 92
7.2.5 Oceanographic Survey. 93
7.2.6 Environmental Impact. 93
7.2.7 Acoustic Survey. 93
7.2.8 Operational Analysis. 93
7.2.9 Conclusions and Recommendations. 93
7.3 Detailed System Design Plan ( DSDP ). 93
7.3.1 General. 93
7.3.3 Work Breakdown Structure ( WBS ). 94
7.3.4 Design Parameters. 94
7.3.5 System Arrangement. 95
7.3.6 Construction Equipment Requirements. 95
7.3.7 Bill of Materials. 95
7.3.8 Suggested Fabrication Schedule. 95
7.4 Construction and Cable Laying Plan ( CLP ). 95
7.4.1 General. 95
7.4.3 Design Specifications. 96
7.4.4 Logistic Requirements. 97
7.4.5 Ship Loading. 97
7.4.6 Array Installation Procedure. 98
7.4.7 Cable Installation Procedure. 98
7.4.8 Special Considerations. 100
7.4.9 Appendices. 100
Page v
Page No.
7.5 Project Execution Plan ( PEP ). 101

7.5.1 General. 101
7.5.2 Project Description. 101
7.5.3 Responsibilities and Interfaces. 103
7.5.4 Work Breakdown Structure. 103
7.5.5 Construction Plan. 105
7.5.6 Schedule and Contingency Planning. 105
7.5.7 Transportation and Scheduling Plan. 105
7.5.8 Project Support Plan. 108
7.5.9 Financial Management Plan. 108
7.5.10 Project Completion Plan. 109
7.6 Project Completion Plan ( PCR ). 110
7.6.1 General. 110
7.6.2 Project Description. 110
7.6.3 Responsibilities and Interfaces. 111
7.6.4 Schedule of Events. 111
7.6.5 System and Components. 111
7.6.6 Surveys. 112
7.6.7 Construction/Installation Equipment. 112
7.6.8 Construction/Installation Procedure. 113
7.6.9 Logistics. 113
7.6.10 Financial Management. 114
7.6.11 Project Assessment. 114
7.7 Operational Log. 115
7.7.1 General. 115
7.7.2 System Up and Down Times. 115
7.7.3 Original System Characteristics. 115
7.7.4 Original Operational Characteristics. 115
7.7.5 Routine Testing. 116
7.7.6 Repair. 116
7.7.7 Changes. 116
7.8 Laying Data Book. 116
7.8.1 General. 116
7.8.2 Original Installation. 117
7.8.3 Repairs. 117
7.8.4 Changes. 117
Appendices.
A. Ocean Ground Resistivity Measurement. A1

Page vi
Figures.
Page No.
2(a) Project Cycle, traditional model. 2
2(b) Project cycle, compressed model. 3
4.2(a) Typical Project Summary Work Breakdown Structure. 16
4.3(a) Flow chart for an ocean cabled system. 18
4.4(a) Project functional organization. 20
4.5(a) Typical WBS breakdown. 22
4.6(a) Typical planning chart. 24
5.2.2.1(a) Typical beach profile. 27
5.6.8(a) Regions of spreading cold bottom water ( light stippling ) 34

superimposed over large current controlled accumulations
of mud ( heavy stippling ).
5.6.8(b) Areas of high abyssal sediment concentration. 35
6.3.4.1(a) Typical survey area for inshore and nearshore survey 69

of shore site.
6.3.4.3.5.4(a) Ocean temperature at SCARF site. 84
6.3.4.3.5.4(b) Sound velocity at SCARF site. 84
6.4(a) Plotting sheet showing cable route with alter course points. 89
6.4(b) Ocean floor profile for cable route shown in figure 6.4(a) 90
( 10:1 distortion of vertical/horizontal scale ).
7.4.7(a) Typical array and anchor site. 99
7.4.7(b) Shore end cable. 100
7.5.2(a) Typical track chart. 102
7.5.3(a) Project organization chart. 104
7.5.5(a) Plan view - Cable landing operation. 106
7.5.5(b) P;an view - Cable stabilization. 107

Page vii
Tables.
Page No.
3.4.2(a) Criteria for Selection. 10
5.7(a) Numerical Scale of Ocean Floor Surface Roughness. 37
5.7(b) Descriptive Notes for Rating Scale of Surface Roughness. 38
5.7(c) Distribution and General Relationships of Underwater 39

Topographic Relief.
5.8(a) Distribution of Ocean Cable Samples Received During the 41

Period September 1953 Through November 1964.
5.8(b) Comparison of North Sea Ocean Cable Faults for Cable with 42
E Type Armor*.
5.8(c) External Causes of Cable Faults in the Atlantic. 42
5.8(d) External Causes of Cable Faults for Optical Fiber Ocean 43

Cables Worldwide.
5.8(e) Depth of Cable Faults for Optical Fiber Cables Worldwide. 43
6.2.2(a) Significant Properties for Beach Area of Shore Site. 50
6.2.2(b) Accuracy of Significant Properties for Beach Area of Shore 51

Site.
6.2.3(a) Significant Properties for Inshore and Nearshore Areas of 54

Shore Site.
6.2.3(b) Accuracy of Significant Properties for Inshore and Nearshore 55

Areas of Shore Site.
6.2.4(a) Significant Properties for Continental Shelf and Slope. 57
6.2.4(b) Accuracy of Significant Properties for Continental Shelf and 58

Slope.
6.2.5(a) Significant Properties for Deep Ocean. 59
6.2.5(b) Accuracy of Significant Properties for Deep Ocean. 60
6.2.6(a) Significant Properties for Array Sites. 62
6.2.6(b) Accuracy of Significant Properties for Array Sites. 63

( Deep and/or Offshore ).
Page viii
Tables ( Continued ).
Page No.
6.2.6(c) Accuracy of Significant Properties for Array Sites. 64

( Shallow Nearshore ).
6.2.7(a) Accuracy of Significant Properties for Cable Burial 65

( Along Burial Route ).
6.3.4.3.2. Calculated Limit Depths for Design Wave Conditions. 76

6.3(a)
6.3.4.3.6.2(a) Ocean Cable Burial Systems. 85

Page ix
Sources of Material Used.
The following are the identifiable sources from which the material used in this volume has
been derived.
Chapters, Sections.
NAVFAC P-906 Submarine Cabled System Design and 3, 4, 5.7, 6.2.6

Installation Planning Manual, Vol. II.
MIL-HDBK-881 Department of Defense Handbook 3

Work Breakdown Structure.
Handbook of Ocean and Underwater Engineering. Myers, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6
Holm and McAlister, 1969.
Worldwide Trends in Submarine Cable System Faults. 5.8

Maurice E. Kordah1 and Seymour Shapiro.
Marine Survey and Cable Routing, Sub Optic 2004 Short 2, 5.8, 6.3.2, 6.3.3
Course. Ron Rapp, Mark Lawrence, Dick Borwick and
Takuo Kuwabara. ( Submarine Cable Improvement Group )
Underwater site surveying for cable installations ( NCEL ), 6.2.2, 6.2.3, 6.2.4,
Ciani, Hiromaka, Hitchcock, Malloy, 1974. 6.2.5, 6.2.6
The Bell System Technical Journal, May-June 1970. 5, 6.2.7, 6.3.4.3, 6.4
IEE - Submarine telecommunication systems, International 5, 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.4

Conference, 1980, publications.
Sea Technology, April 1984, pp 10-14, Kaharl. 5.6.8
Sea Technology, July 1983, pp 27-35,Mulcahy. 6.2.3
Undersea Technology, May 1966, pp 45-49, Munitz. 5.8
SCARF - Sea operations, AC Electronics S68-07, July 1968. 6.2.6
The Art of Laying Undersea Cables, Simplex, Krzystyneak, 6.3.2, 6.3.4

Wakefield.
Calculating the yearly limit depth to the active beach 6.3.4.3.2.6

profile, CERC, Sept 1977, Hallermeier.
Project execution plan for the nearshore survey SOCAL ASW, 6.3.4.1, 6.3.4.3
CHES/NAVFAC-FPO-1-85(8), Cooper.
Page x
Sources of Material Used ( Continued ).
Chapters, Sections.
Directionally Drilled Bores for Remote Cable Landings, 6.2.2, 6.3.4.3.2.4

Nate Sinclair, Hugh Thomson, Stanley Black. Sea Technology,
August 2003
Page 1
1. Introduction.
This part of the handbook presents information on the initiation of an ocean cable project, its
management, characteristics of the ocean floor pertinent to ocean cables, ocean cable failure,
desk and route survey, cable routing, and documentation.
The need for the level of control and planning is that ocean cable systems are relatively
complex, have a long life which implies very high reliability, and are installed in a hostile
environment. Failure during installation can be very costly, both in rectification of the
failure and loss of revenue for a commercial system and delay in bringing the system online.
When operating, failure results in costly downtime and repair.
While the methods described in this part of the handbook relate to ocean cable systems, the
underlying methods can be applied to any ocean engineering project
Page 2
2. Project Cycle.
Ocean engineering projects generally follow a cycle through initiation, survey, design, and
installation through to maintenance of the completed system. Traditionally the cycle is a
sequence from one stage to the other, with only those stages that are interdependent being
done together. While this results in a longer time from start to finish, it allows for problems
that may arise to be handled before the next stage is started and lower risk. This traditional
method is well suited to ranges, surveillance systems and communications systems that
transverse difficult seafloor morphology and geology. Figure 2(a) shows the traditional cycle
for an ocean cable system.
Initiation
Desktop survey
Route survey
Cable engineering
Permits and marine liaison
Customer approval
Cable manufacture
and integration
Vessel load
Installation
Final documentation
Maintenance
Fig. 2(a) Project cycle, traditional model.

Page 3
More recently, with tight schedules, a compressed cycle has been used, with approval being
given based on the desktop study only ( and in some cases, earlier ). This means that many
stages are now being done together, with the route survey data being used directly in the
installation stage. This involves a higher risk than the traditional cycle and the compressed
cycle is only really suitable for communications systems. Figure 2(b) shows the compressed
cycle for an ocean cable system.
Initiation
Desktop survey
Customer approval
Route survey
Cable engineering
Permits and marine liaison
Cable manufacture
and integration
Vessel load
Installation
Final documentation
Maintenance
Fig. 2(b) Project cycle, compressed model.
For any given project, the cycle used may differ from the above depending in the nature of the
project. For example, a system with new technology would probably follow the tradition cycle,
to keep risks as low as possible.
Page 4
3. Project Initiation.
This chapter contains information on the procedures required for the initiation of a project
for an ocean cable system.
3.1 General.
The function of the project initiation is to produce the base from which project management,
system design and construction, maintenance and life cycle costs, and documentation can be
commenced. For ocean cable systems, this base includes development of the set of system
specifications, design constraints and possible sites and cable routes.
The starting point for project initiation is a set of basic requirements from the customers that
the system is required to meet. The base is developed from these requirements, generally in
an iterative manner, until sufficient to allow the following stages of the project to commence.
During this development, it is necessary for a close liaison between the project group and the
customer to exist, so that problems that arise can be resolved early. If it becomes apparent
that the basic requirements cannot be met or must be severely compromised, then the project
should be stopped, and if possible, the basic requirements revised to allow for a viable
system. Beyond the project initiation stage is where the major costs are incurred.
In many respects, the project initiation stage is the most crucial stage of the project, for if it
is done properly, the remainder of the project will move smoothly from stage to stage until
completion. It will also provide the basis for handling the unexpected problems that may
occur, without causing a major disruption to the project. If poorly done, the effects can run
from time and cost overruns to major disruptions needing modification of the specifications or
downgrading of the capabilities to allow completion, or in extreme cases, the failure to
complete the system.
3.2 System Specification.
3.2.1 Overview.
The commencement of a project for an ocean cable system necessitates the establishment of a
set of system specifications. These may be supplied directly by the customer, or may be
developed from a set of basic requirements supplied by the customer. Each ocean cable system
has a unique set of specifications that must be met by the construction group. In order for a
system to be viable, this set of system specifications must be based on a realistic assessment
and understanding of ocean cable technology available, including its limitations. In order to
arrive at such a set of system specifications, it may be necessary to undertake a feasibility
study first, particularly if the system is significantly different from existing systems. Any
changes to the set of system specifications should be finalized during the project initiation
stage to allow effective implementation of the following stages.
It should be noted that for an operational system, the development of major new technology
must not be part of the project. The costs of ocean cable systems are high, and the risks
involved with new technology are too great, both in cost and time to allow incorporation. New
technology should be funded as a separate project and brought to maturity prior to use in an
operational ocean cable system.
A major failing, particularly in military ocean cable systems, is the writing of specifications
Page 5
by persons with little or no experience in the field, requiring performance beyond what is
practical and reliable. This causes substantial cost and time overruns and normally results in
a system of lower performance and/or poor reliability. Further, the cost of maintaining these
systems often brings about their early demise.
3.2.2 Ocean Cable System Types.
3.2.2.1 Power Transmission Systems.
Power transmission is the delivery of substantial amounts of electrical power from a

generating source to an end user. Normally, power transmission by ocean cable is used in
sheltered areas such as rivers, bays, lakes, and short inter-island links, however some more
recent systems transverse straits of significant width and depth. Such cables may carry AC or
DC power, normally at high voltages, and are often duplicated for reliability. Design of the
ocean cables and supporting systems is normally unique for each installation. Cable laying
procedures and rigging are the same as for other ocean cables. The laying vessels are normally
specially set up to handle the large diameter cables and cable ships tend not be used.
3.2.2.2 Communications Systems.
Communication systems are used for voice, data transmission, and video, normally spanning
many miles between islands or continents. Optical fiber ocean cable are now used for these
systems. A shore based terminal station is required at each landing site, providing power to
the cable, if repeatered, and signal transmission and reception. Most systems of any length
use inline repeaters to compensate for the signal loss along the cable, and they draw their
power from the cable.
Communications systems are usually installed from fully equipped oceangoing cable ships and
generally, are not as complex as other installations. Some systems now include one or more
branches which increases the complexity. Normal lifetime for these systems is between 20 and
25 years, requiring the highest level of component reliability and construction methods.
3.2.2.3 Surveillance Systems.
Surveillance systems are typically fixed arrays with a design life of at least 5 years, and up to
25 years. These systems generally require the placement of the arrays at precise locations,
with connection to the shore station by ocean cables. Often these installations must be done
covertly.
Larger systems normally require the use of specially equipped oceangoing cable ships,
capable of handling the large arrays.
3.2.2.4 Tracking Ranges and Calibration Ranges.
Underwater tracking ranges generally consist of an array or field of acoustic sensors,

connected to a shore station by ocean cables. Vehicles tracked on the range normally emit a
periodic pulsed acoustic signal, which is received by the tracking array sensors, and analyzed
to give the locations and dynamic characteristics of these underwater vehicles in three
dimensions. Both acoustic and oceanographic sensors are placed in the field to provide
environmental data during tracking operations.
Calibration ranges are similar in form to a tracking ranges but contain other sensors as well
as acoustic ( e.g. magnetic and/or electric field ) and are used to determine the underwater
signatures of vessels, both surface and underwater. Normally the size of the system is much
smaller than for a tracking ranges though the number of sensors may be similar in number.
Page 6
During calibration, the vessel is normally driven along a fixed track, or tracks, with
navigation by surface or underwater systems, as appropriate.
Range lifetime is typically between 5 and 15 years. Design may be unique to a range, or an
adaptation of an existing, successful range to suit the new site.
3.3 Design Constraints.
3.3.1 Overview.
The single most formidable task facing the ocean engineer is the ability to operate within the
confines of the design constraints. These constraints may limit or restrict the flexibility of
design, the ease of installation, or the operation of the system. The nature of these constraints
may be such as to require modification of the set of system specifications, though
consideration of design constraints should be part of the process of formulating these
specifications.
3.3.2 Cost.
3.3.2.l Funding.
Commercial power and communications ocean cable systems are normally effectively funded,
as the need for a reliable system is essential if the users of the system are to be retained. That
is, the funding is sufficient to ensure that all components of the system are of the necessary
quality and that the facilities and skilled manpower for construction and installation of the
system will be available. The function of cost control here is to ensure that funds are not
wasted.
Military systems tend to fall into two categories, those which form part of the country's
defense system, such as surveillance systems, and those which are supporting systems such as
tracking ranges. The first category is normally funded in a manner similar to commercial
systems, though the use of service personnel and equipment may be specified for some
sections of the work to hold costs down.
Supporting systems are often marginally funded, particularly for the installation of the
system. This probably has a more significant bearing on design than any other factor, as
normally a significant portion of the cost lies in the installation operation. This often
requires the use of service personnel, equipment and ships, wherever possible, over-tight
funding in this area and lack of effective equipment, ships, and skilled personnel has caused
the failure of systems to be properly installed, or in extreme cases, prevented installation.
3.3.2.2 Material Selection.
Consideration should be given, particularly in smaller systems, to tradeoffs in selecting

materials for arrays, ocean cables, etc. Outstanding performance does not necessarily mean
unique materials. In the case of ocean cables, unless the amount of cable ( length/cost ) is
significant, a special manufacturing run may be prohibitively expensive. Stocks available at
cable factories, telecommunication companies, etc., may provide a suitable cable at reasonable
cost, with special type cable such as shore ends, being made by having a cable manufacturer
over-armor a deep sea cable. Further, much surplus material, in addition to ocean cables, is
available from various sources. This material can usually be obtained at a fraction of the
original cost.
Page 7
3.3.2.3 Instrumentation and Sensors.
The specification for instrumentation and sensors should be reviewed, to ensure that
capabilities required are not in excess of those actually needed, and to look at the suitability
of using standard "production" units. This problem often occurs for auxiliary instrumentation
which tends to be over specified. Excess capabilities or special units leads to costs higher
than necessary. If the system has a long life, then consideration of the purchase of spares
must be examined, as many items have a limited production time before being replaced with
newer units, often incompatible with those selected. Adequate spares will help reduce the
life-cycle costs.
3.3.3 Time Schedule.
An unrealistic time schedule is wasteful of manpower and resources. The schedule should take
lead times into considerations and should provide fallback positions for the unanticipated
delays that may occur. The use of scheduling to take advantage of expected periods of good
weather, availability of ships and equipment, manufacturing resources and manpower, can
form an effective method of containing costs as well as ensuring the smooth progress of the
project.
3.3.4 Installation Equipment.
The installation equipment must be sized for the installation of the system. Unfortunately, the
optimum equipment is not always available, for example, a cable ship with insufficient
capacity may require the ocean cable to be spliced more often than desired. Also, care must be
taken to ensure that equipment is adequate, otherwise parts of the system may be damaged
during installation and/or safety compromised. In the case of long haul communications
systems, they are, invariably, installed by fully equipped ocean going cable ships due to the
high cost of failure.
On small systems there is a tendency to use ships unsuited for the work and to "lash-up"
equipment to reduce costs to a minimum. While, with skill and patience, systems can be
installed with such arrangements, results are generally not as good as required, there is little
or no flexibility to allow for correction of problems that will occur during the installation,
and safety is always to some degree compromised. One must expect that a failure to install the
system is very likely and this will more than offset to "cost savings" anticipated. However,
there are now portable cable engines and cable tanks, which allow the use of suitable ships of
opportunity, normally well equipped offshore work vessels, to install smaller systems and
provide the necessary capability, at reasonable cost, without the need to resort to lash-ups.
For some very specialized systems, it will be necessary to develop installation equipment able
to handle the components and cables. In this case the expense and time needed to develop and
test such equipment must be accepted as necessary.
3.3.5 Support Limitations.
This type of constraint is usually not too severe, since a typical construction team is usually
well supplied. Local labor and materials can often used for supporting services, such as
building construction, and machine shop services.
3.3.6 Site Restrictions.
3.3.6.1 General.
The ocean cable system must often share its site(s) with other activities, such as defense faci-
Page 8
lities, oil drilling ventures, fishing, shipping and even recreational facilities. Also several
cables may come ashore at the one shore station. The design and schedule must take these
factors into account.
3.3.6.2 Fishing Grounds.
When ocean cables are laid in fishing grounds, extra precautions are usually required to
prevent the cable being snagged by fishing gear components, such as otter boards or beam
trawls. This will necessitate cable burial, trenching or other protection, adding to the project
cost. This is an increasing problem as trawlers get large and more powerful, fishing gear gets
heavier and fishing is done to greater depths and in more areas.
3.3.6.3 Shipping.
The major problem from shipping is damage from anchors. Care must be taken to ensure the
cable routes avoid normal anchoring areas, such as those off ports, or if this is not possible,
the anchoring areas may be able to be moved to avoid the cable route. If possible, the cable
routes should be included on charts and warnings to mariners.
3.3.6.4 Recreational.
For military ocean cable systems, recreational activities normally have little impact, as they
can often be sited away form cities, etc. Commercial systems may land near cities on beaches
used for recreation, requiring careful design to prevent interference. Major seaside resort
areas near an installation could cause "traffic" problems during the installation.
3.4 Site and Cable Route Selection.
3.4.1 General.
The project engineer requires data that will permit him, or her, to evaluate conditions at
possible sites and cable routes for the system. Often, the shore sites and the array sites are
specified and the project engineer must determine the best arrangement of equipment at these
sites and find a suitable cable route(s). Communications systems often use the same shore
sites for several ocean cables, to keep down costs and because the cabling from the shore sites
to the main communications grids can be placed in existing rights of way. Sometimes the use of
existing shore sites does not allow a good cable route and in these cases the cost of a new shore
site with access to a suitable cable route must be weighed against the cost of protecting and
maintaining ( repairing ) the ocean cable(s) at the existing site. As the cost of cable repair or
replacement is high, the argument for a suitable shore site over an existing one can be
compelling.
If a system has a long cable route, selection must be made not only on the shortest distances
but must include consideration of fishing ground locations, bottom topography, weather along
the route both for installation and repair, the need and ability to bury the cable in shallower
water, etc.
Depending on the locations much of the data needed may be obtained through existing
documents or through written and verbal inquiries ( desk survey ). Where the required
information is insufficient or unobtainable from existing publications, the engineer must
include in the field survey, work to verify or fill in the missing information.
The environmental impact must be assessed and information gathered for the preparation of
the required documentation.
Page 9
3.4.2 Criteria for Selection.
Communications systems are installed in shallow and deep water. Some systems may be
between islands or across channels or straits, while others may span the oceans between
continents. Consideration should be given by the survey team to numerous factors in selecting
shore sites and the connecting cable route(s); among these are the location of the shore sites
near to major communication centers to reduce the problems of shore extension cables and
rights of way, the water depth, bottom topography, currents, surface weather conditions,
interference from bottom activities such as fishing, marine biology, and costs. The very long
life of communications systems ( 20 to 25 years ) requires care in considering not only the
existing factors, but proposed or possible factors that may affect the system. Because of the
need for continuous operation, the scope for tradeoffs is very limited.
Acoustic ranges are usually installed in deep water near the shore where some supporting
activity is or will be based. Consideration should be given to numerous factors in selecting the
definitive site: among these are water depth, bottom topography, currents, surface weather
conditions, shore and sea access, competing uses of the area, marine biology, the acoustic
environment, parameters affecting sound velocity, and financial considerations. Usually, a
site survey/selection team representing the necessary disciplines is assembled and charged
with the responsibility of locating one or more potential sites. Some gross parameters usually
will have been established, for example, the general vicinity of the site and percent of time
usable during a year. Some tradeoffs are usually required. For example, the weather history
can be used to determine the times of the year for useful operations, for the most attractive
acoustic area may not have the most attractive weather. For most types of acoustic ranges, low
ambient noise levels at the site are highly desirable and this factor has a high priority in the
site selection analysis.
Shallow water ranges generally require the same criteria for selection as deep water ranges,
though if non-acoustic, the selection parameters relating to the sensors will be different.
Surveillance systems generally combine the criteria of both communications systems and
acoustic ranges, with the added requirement of good acoustic transmission from the areas of
interest to the array sites.
The survey team will review existing data ( maps and charts ) for areas and routes that meet
the gross criteria, and select one or more areas and/or routes for detailed survey. Table
3.4.2(a) gives the various factors that are considered and the part they play in the selection
process. It should be noted that this list may not be complete for all systems and additional
criteria may be needed.
The first step in the detailed survey should be to gather and review all existing data of
possible interest. This might include weather, geographic, geological and political atlases and
reference data. The second step might be an onsite evaluation, possibly an aerial survey or
tour of the areas to corroborate the existing data. Detailed surveys should include precision
depth, current, and for acoustic systems, sound velocity surveys of the marine area, and civil
engineering surveys of the land area. The data gathered during the detailed surveys should
enable the survey team to choose a site for a range, or the cable route and shore station sites
for communications systems, and will also serve as inputs to the engineering design of the
system.
Page 10
Table 3.4.2(a)
Criteria for Selection
Site selection Background Reconn. Detailed

parameters study study study
___________________________________________________________________
Seafloor:
a) Topography Charts, Atlases, x x

Journals
b) Composition
Lithology Journals, Atlases, x x
Data banks
Structure Journals, Atlases x x
Data banks
c) Sediment transport
Mass movement Journals, Charts x x
Turbidity currents Journals Charts x
Scour and fill Journals, Charts x
d) Seismicity Seismicity maps
e) Volcanism Seismicity maps,

Journals
Seawater:
a) Physical
Sea and swell Atlases, Data banks, x

Journals
Currents Atlases, Data banks, x
Journals
Tides Tide tables x
Temperature Atlases, Data banks, x x

Journals
Sea ice Atlases, Data banks x
Visibility Data banks, Journals x x
Sound velocity Data banks, Journals x x

___________________________________________________________________
Page 11
Table 3.4.2(a) ( Continued )
Criteria for Selection.

___________________________________________________________________
Seawater cont.
b) Chemical
Salinity Atlases, Data banks, x x
Journals
Oxygen Atlases, Data banks, x x

Journals
pH Atlases, Data banks, x x

Journals
Hydrogen sulfide Data banks, Journals x x
c) Biological
Fouling Journals x
Plankton Data banks, Journals x x
Bacteria Data banks, Journals x x
Meteorology:
a) Wind Weather bureau

publications
b) Fog Weather bureau

publications
c) Temperature Weather bureau

publications
d) Storms Weather bureau

publications
Manmade:
a) Strategical Defense Dept., Navy
b) Ports and Supply lines Charts, Local inquiry
a) Navigation aids Charts, Local inquiry

___________________________________________________________________
Page 12
Table 3.4.2(a) ( Continued )
Criteria for Selection.

___________________________________________________________________
Manmade cont.
d) Political and legal Charts, Local inquiry
e) Traffic Charts, Local inquiry
f) Hazards Charts, Local inquiry
g) Vandalism Local inquiry

___________________________________________________________________
3.4.3 Site and Cable Route Selection Parameters.
3.4.3.1 Seafloor.
The seafloor parameters required to be defined for a cable route or array site include bottom
composition to evaluate shear strength, consolidation characteristics, index properties, and
sediment enrichers. The geomorphology of the bottom must also be evaluated for topography,
sediment type, sediment transport, turbidity currents, seismicity, volcanism and
temperature.
3.4.3.2 Oceanographic Properties.
Oceanographic properties are categorized as physicals chemical and biological properties.

These properties, individually or collectively, affect the installation and performance of the
system, and must be known in detail both for the final site and cable route selection and
construction planning.
3.4.3.3 Meteorological Parameters.
Once the system has been installed, atmospheric conditions usually have little effect on the
underwater components, except perhaps for severe hurricanes or tsunamis. Shore site
buildings and the section of ocean cable over the landing beach, however, can be severely
affected and consideration of meteorological parameters must be given in their design, and
requirements for protection. For ranges the effect of weather is important for the amount of
time in the year that the range will be expected to be available.
During the installation of the system, it is often necessary to predict what is termed a
"weather window", that period of time during which there exists a high probability that
weather conditions will be acceptable for installation to take place. This period may be as
short as one month, or as long as ten months, and for a system extending over a long distance,
may vary along the route. Thus, the weather window has significant influences on the
structure and scheduling of the project. Meteorological data which must be evaluated includes
wind, fog, air temperature, humidity and storm frequency.
Page 13
3.4.3.4 Manmade.
Manmade site and route characteristics must also be considered. These run the gamut from
facility and service availability, to regulatory and political considerations.
a) Facilities and Services: The services actually available onsite may be essential to the timely
completion of the project. These may include communications, transportation, navigation,
industrial capacity, labor, military activities, and hotel accommodation.
i) Communication: Long distance communications are required primarily for the scheduling of
men and materials and for maintaining contact with the customer. During installation local
communications would be provided within the installation group.
ii) Transportation: The assessment of transportation investigates the availability of roads,

docks, and airports, and the feasibility and cost effectiveness of renting local trucks,
airplanes, boats, and cars.
iii) Navigation: The project engineer must assess existing navigation systems and the location
of trig points.
iv) Industrial Capacity: It may be both politically and economically advantageous to use local
industry. This should be evaluated with regard to fabrication capability, with respect to both
capacity and turnaround time.
v) Labor: The use of local labor is always politically advantageous. The availability and skills
of construction machinery operators, welders, riggers, and other trades should be evaluated.
vi) Accommodation: If possible, shore accommodations should be provided for project

personnel when working at shore sites or array sites near the shore. This includes room,
board, and medical support. For long cable lays and remote array sites, it will be necessary to
accommodate the necessary personnel onboard the ship or ships being used. As operations
may be conducted around the clock and are generally complex and demanding in nature, the
accommodation provided must be of a high standard. There is little point in making cost
savings on accommodation if it reduces the capabilities of the personnel, particularly if the
project runs over a long period.
b) Regulatory and Political Considerations: Since many surveys are conducted beyond the
territorial limits of the country ( or countries ) involved in the system, and survey results
may be jointly used between agencies of these countries. Conditions imposed by interagency
and international agreements must be investigated before the survey, and complied with
throughout the survey.
i) Diplomatic Clearance: Before a survey is begun in a foreign areas diplomatic clearance must
be obtained through the relevant channels to include the following:
1) Free landing of all equipment and supplies necessary to the survey.
2) Authority to operate a helicopter.
3) Authority to obtain ground and air photography.
4) Authority to erect temporary shore beacons and signals.
5) Authority to establish temporary shore radio and electronics installation(s).

Page 14
6) Authority to obtain soundings and to make oceanographic observations inside territ-

orial waters.
ii) International Agreements: There are a substantial number of civil and military agreements
between countries, which may or may not be involved in the installation of an ocean cable
system. Relevant authorities should be consulted to determine what treaty provisions or
agreements will impact on a particular installation.
3.4.3.5 Environmental Impact Requirements.
For shore sites, cable routes, array sites, the installation and shore site construction effects
on the environment will require environmental impact statement(s) to show that the work and
system do not infringe upon the various requirements of local, state and federal governments.
In some cases where these requirements make the installation or operation of the system
impractical, then there will be the need to be consultation with the various authorities to get a
workable solution. If this cannot be done, then it will be necessary to move the system to an
area where its environmental impact is acceptable.
Page 15
4. Project Management.
This chapter contains information on the basic management methods suitable for use in
constructing ocean cable systems.
4.1 Overview.
The basic management concept suitable for the construction of ocean cable systems, and other
ocean engineering projects, is a project management structure, wherein a single individual is
given the authority and responsibility for delivering a ready-to-use system. Project managers
have as their prime responsibilities:
a) On-time delivery.
b) Performance within the cost estimate.
c) Meeting the customers performance requirements.
Where the activities of more than one individual must be projected and coordinated toward a
common objective, some type of management must be applied. This chapter outlines the concept
of project management and provides basic guidance and reference data to permit the project
manager to successfully perform his, or her, job. In order to be applicable to a diversity of
projects, this description is necessarily broad in scope. Many items are included only to a
limited extent. Some items may not apply to all projects, while others are mandatory on all
projects. The following sections describe the latter items in greater depth and also refer to
those which are optional. For optional items, the individual project manager must decide the
extent to which the contents apply.
4.2 Program and Contract Work Breakdown Structure.
The program work breakdown structure ( PWBS ) provides a framework for specifying the
objectives of the program. It defines the program in terms of hierarchically related, product-
orientated elements, that is, logical subdivision of a project into identifiable functional
elements and tasks. The purpose of the PWBS is to facilitate:
a) Assignment of responsibility.
b) Resource and funding allocation.
c) Cost collection, cost allocation, and cost accounting.
d) Progress reporting.
The first important task of the project manager is to establish the primary objectives of the
project. He or she, must then establish the necessary supporting objectives. These are
reflected in successive levels of the Project Summary WBS as shown in figure 4.2(a), which
represents the WBS for a typical project. The primary and supporting objectives must be
clearly documented to provide the basis for planning, scheduling, and other management
functions. The following guidelines may be used in organizing the program for a project:
Page 16
Ocean
cabled
system
Ocean System Integrated

cabled system Installation Project
engineering logistics Data
(hardware) system management
& integration support
01 02 03 04 04 05
Sensors Life support System Maintenance Management

& projectors sub-systems engineering planning data Planning
01.10 02.10 03.10 04.10 05.10 06.10
Diver Systems Supply Engineering

Cables sub-systems integration support data Accounting
01.20 02.20 03.20 04.20 05.20 06.20
Array Shore & surface Human Personnel & Technical

structures sub-systems factors training manuals Reporting
01.30 02.30 03.30 04.30 05.30 06.30
Junction Cable Environmental Transportation Data Environmental

boxes ships engineering & handling depository impact
01.40 02.40 03.40 04.40 05.40 06.40
Auxiliary Reliability Project admin.

Buoys vessels maintainability & support
01.50 02.50 03.35 06.50
Instrumentation
02.60
Fig. 4.2(a) Typical Project Summary Work Breakdown Structure.

Page 17
a) Prime and supporting objectives must be determined and defined in sufficient number
to provide the basis for outlining the step-by-step process by which the qualitative
and quantitative objectives of the program may be attained.
b) The projected divisions of labor must be detailed among responsible organizations in a

manner consistent with the objectives of higher authority.
c) Relationships between supporting objectives and prime objectives must be indicated in

order to obtain perspective on the attainment of integration in prime objectives.
d) Major limitations and constraints must be identified to assess their impact on the
achievement of the objectives.
The objectives will be related to the primary mission and supporting equipment, services,
facilities, and data. In order to ensure proper integration, the objectives must be based first
on the total program, and then extended downward to levels of greater detail. This topdown
approach provides the following assurances.
a) It assures that the program objectives are fully supported by lower level objectives.
b) It assures that the program structure is totally integrated and that each part of the
program is consistent with and related to the program as a whole.
c) It helps assure that useful summaries of program information can be made.
In this topdown approach, the major items are identified, and then divided into their
component parts. These components are further divided and subdivided to the work package
level. A work package contributes to the achievement of one item on the WBS and falls within
the primary responsibility of one operating organization. The work package is the basis for all
costing procedures in the program. The three top levels of the WBS are referred to as the
Project Summary WBS. The lowest level items are the work packages. Although the WBS has no
time scale, some type of schedule is usually drawn up for each work packages. Major
milestones in the overall project are reflected in the top level network. It is also important to
note that the WBS is not an organization chart. However, responsibility for each work package
is assigned to one individual.
The contract work breakdown structure ( CWBS ) is a breakdown structure for reporting
purposes and its discretionary extension to lower levels by the contractor, in accordance with
project management direction and the contract work statement. It includes all the elements for
the product ( hardware, software, data, or services ) which are the responsibility of the
contractor. The levels of the Contract WBS fit under the top three levels of the Project
Summary WBS with each contract under an work package element of the Project Summary WBS.
The work breakdown structure serves as a coordinating medium. Through the Program WBS and
the Contract WBS, work is documented as resources are allocated and expended. The WBS
routinely generates reports for the successive levels of management, and provide appropriate
information on the projected, actual and current status of elements for which they are
responsible. This results in the status of the WBS being constantly visible so that the program
manager, in cooperation with the contractor(s), can identify and implement changes necessary
to assure the desired results.
4.3 Functional Task Scheduling.
As indicated above, one of the primary functions of the project manager is to deliver his
system on time. In order to do this, it is necessary to apply some type of scheduling tech-
Page 18
Design phase Construction/installation phase
Survey
services & Procure-
facilities ment Monitor
at site
Prelim. Prelim. Prelim. Final In-house effort Designate Const./ Array Cable Cable Interface
cost est. cost Final Turnover
design plans & proj. eng. install. Fabricate implant- develop- terminat- with shore Test
criteria estimate design
effort specs. (OICC) plan ment ment ions complex
Envir. Schedule Material

Design Contract Site support
impact I.F.B. equipment Demobilize
criteria award survey equipment
statement on site
Long
Prelim. range
Proposal
site weather
review
survey forecast
Fig. 4.3(a) Flow chart for an ocean cabled system.

Page 19
nique. On small projects, simple bar charts or Gantt charts will suffice. For larger or more
sophisticated projects, a more detailed scheduling technique is recommended. Bar charts fail
to record the interdependencies of the various activities that control the progress of the
project. A network type of plan overcomes this deficiency of bar charts. Typical of such
methods are the Program Evaluation and Review Technique/Cost Performance Measurement (
PERT/CPM ), and Precedence Diagram Method ( PDM ) which allow the use of computers for the
calculation of floats, critical paths, reporting, etc., to provide the necessary input to project
management. The basic technique of networking is relatively simple as is shown in figure
4.3(a). The project manager should lay out a time-phased network, running from the present
date to the beneficial occupancy date ( BOD ). The project manager may then begin to plot all
the major milestones that must be achieved to deliver the operable system by the BOD.
To give the project manager the degree of control that is required, many minor or intermediate
milestones may be plotted. Figure 4.3(a) is a generalized top level dependency network and is
intended to portray significant milestones that must be achieved in designing and
constructing an ocean cable system. For small projects, many of these milestones may be left
out. On large projects, the project manager may decide to include many other secondary
milestones. Separate dependency networks may be developed for significant work items. For
example, the fabrication of junction boxes by a subcontractor may be the subject of a
supporting network.
4.4 Program Organization.
Flexibility is the basic requirement for project management. The scope and complexity of
ocean cable systems may vary from implanting a single hydrophone to establishing a complete
network covering many miles, or a communications system between continents. The project
management philosophy is to impose certain fundamental concepts assuring a sound
management approach, but yet not be so definitive as to impose undesirable restrictions on the
project. The specific management concept regarding level of reporting, size and makeup of
staff, and manner of delegating authority and exercising control are selected in the
preliminary planning stage of each project. Figure 4.4(a) shows a general functional
organization, headed by a project manager. On very large programs, it is conceivable that an
officer in charge of construction ( OICC ) may be appointed. Reporting to the project manager,
three secondary managers are shown; one for management, one for engineering and test, and
one for construction. The functions coming under each of these secondary managers are shown.
When additional functions are required, they will fit under one of these three broad
categories. On very large programs, certain items such as integrated logistics support ( ILS)
may be established at the secondary manager level.
Figure 4.4(a) is also intended to show the relationship of upper levels of management. The
project manager ( or OICC ) will normally be appointed by the company undertaking the
project, or if in-house, by the department or section, and will report to them. The project
manager will also have a direct line of communication with the customer of the project.
Page 20
Primary
Customer contractor
Project
manager
(OICC)
Engineering Construction
Management
& test /installation
Construction
Architecture
Administration Planning /installation
& engineer
workers
System Ship
Procurement
engineering personnel
Control Engineering
Craftsmen
system support
CM/DM Test Divers
ILS Technicians
Industrial support
Fig. 4.4(a) Project functional organization.
4.5 Task Allocations.
Having established the basic WBS and program milestone chart, it is imperative that the
project manager or OICC delegate specific responsibilities for each group designated in figure
4.4(a). This can best be accomplished by a further breakdown of the WBS. The levels of the
WBS are identified by a series of numerical digits as follows:
SYSTEM
SUBSYSTEM
WORK UNIT
xx. yy. zz
The first two digits ( xx.yy.zz ) represent the major end item oriented system. The second two
digits ( xx.yy.zz ) represent the major end-item subsystem, The third two digits ( xx.yy.zz )
Page 21
are the lowest level in the WBS and represent a work unit. These elements have the following
characteristics:
a) Capable of being identified and scheduled.
b) Able to serve as a job order.
c) Able to serve as an identification system for material, equipment, etc.
A more detailed WBS shoving the breakdown of an onshore work system is shown in figure
4.5(a). Purchase orders, contracts or directives can be issued to supply or perform the
functions of each item listed in figure 4.5(a). For example, the cable trenching equipment
01.04.00 may be supplied by commercial vendors, while the actual work may be done by the
primary contracting company or section.
4.6 Detailed Task Operations.
The functions stated in the four previous sections lead to requirements for various charts and
reports.
a) Milestone chart: A simplified milestone chart is presented in figure 4.6(a). The

beginning and termination of each event is marked by an ( ). Note that each of the
tasks must be supported by a WBS number.
b) Project status reports: These reports should indicate information pertinent to the
performance of a specific event. Although there is no specific format for these reports,
they should show the following information.
i) Event title.
ii) WBS number.
iii) Performing agency.
iv) Date.
v) Scheduled commencement date.
vi) Actual commencement date.
vii) Scheduled completion date.
viii) Actual completion date.
ix) Percent of event completed.
x) Discussion of problems encountered and solution.
xi) Action items.
xii) Budget.
xiii) Expenditure to date.

ONSHORE WORK SYSTEM
01. 00. 00
Page 22
CABLE TERMINATION CABLE CORE TERMINAL VAULT

CABLE TRENCH SHEAVE ASSEMBLY BEACH ANCHOR RANGE BEACONS HAULING EQUIPMENT
VAULT SUPPORT ACCESSORIES
01. 01. 00 01. 02. 00 01. 03. 00 01. 04. 00 01. 05. 00 01. 06. 00 01. 07. 00 01. 08. 00
CONCRETE ANGLE IRON LADDER BACK HOE SHEAVE S FORMING MATERIAL 2nd PIPE BULL DOZERS
01. 01. 01 01. 02. 01 01. 03. 01 01. 04. 01 01. 05. 01 01. 06. 01 01. 07. 01 01. 08. 01
REINFORCING ROD STEEL PLATES HANDRAIL HAND TOOLS WIRE ROPE CONCRETE STEEL ANGLE CHAIN STOPPERS
01. 01. 02 01. 02. 02 01. 03. 02 01. 04. 02 01. 05. 02 01. 06. 02 01. 07. 02 01. 08. 02
BEAMS NUTS & BOLTS DOOR PLYWOOD ROPE CLIPS REINFORCING ROD NUTS & BOLTS ROLLER PIPE
01. 01. 03 01. 02. 03 01. 03. 03 01. 04. 03 01. 05. 03 01. 06. 03 01. 07. 03 01. 08. 03
GIRTS CONDUIT FITTINGS FORMING MATERIAL CONCRETE THIMBLES B.T.L. STOPPERS STEEL STRAPS ROLLER GUIDE
01. 01. 04 01. 02. 04 01. 03. 04 01. 04. 04 01. 05. 04 01. 06. 04 01. 07. 04 01. 08. 04
FUEL LINE
SIDING PHENOLIC BLOCKS WELDER SHACKLES STEEL EYES
ENCASEMENT
01. 01. 05 01. 02. 05 01. 03. 05 01. 04. 05 01. 05. 05 01. 06. 05
RIGID FRAMES PVC PIPE WELDCRETE DEADMAN
01. 01. 06 01. 03. 06 01. 04. 06 01. 05. 06
FURRING CONCRETE MIXER FLAGGING TIE WIRE
01. 01. 07 01. 03. 07 01. 04. 07 01. 05. 07
ROOF TAR POT CABLE LOCATOR
01. 01. 08 01. 03. 08 01. 04. 08
VALVE GRATE
01. 03. 09
CRUSHED FILL
01. 03. 10
ARMOR TERMINAL
01. 03. 11
Fig. 4.5(a) Typical WBS breakdown.
Page 23
c) Other reports: If a detailed PERT, PERT/CPM or PDM type network is prepared for the
project, the following reports may also be desirable.
i) Management summary - shows the present and projected schedule and cost status for
the total project, program, and each major component or item within the program.
ii) Cost organization - shows the various managers detailed information of all
cost/operating data.
iii) Manpower loading - shows actual manpower utilized for each functional level
within the program.
iv) Financial status - provides comparisons at any given level between actual costs,
or latest revised estimates and planned costs.
v) Problem analysis, supplements the management summary report by indicating

nature of the problems reason for cost or schedule variances impact on program, and
recommended corrective action.
4.7 Design to Cost Consideration.
Design to cost means the management and control of future acquisitions operation, and support
costs during the design and development process under established and approved cost
objectives. A design to cost goal is a specific cost number ( in constant dollars ) established
early in the programs and no later than the time of commencement of material acquisition.
Many companies and government departments have established procedures for evaluating cost
versus technical risk, cost versus performance, and cost versus life. A detailed discussion is
beyond the scope of this handbook and the user is recommended to consult material available
in his company or department, or search technical information lists.
4.8 Jurisdictional Controls.
It is incumbent on the project manager to ensure that the local political and jurisdictional
laws be observed by the project personnel. For either foreign or domestic installations, real
estate acquisition and right-of-way agreements may be required. The problem of
jurisdictional control includes both onshore and offshore requirements. Control over the sea
floor now extends up to 200 n. miles offshore with many countries claiming control over the
sea greater than the standard 12 n. miles. Within any country, jurisdictional controls may
also affect the installation. All local laws must be adhered to in all aspects of conducting
surveys or during installation and operation of a facility. Normally environmental impact
statements are required, along with assurances that a facility will not adversely affect
commercial or recreational aspects of the site locale.
-6 -5 -4 -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
Page 24
NAVY PROCURE LAND AT THE RANGE CONTROL BUILDING

Real estate
SITE AND FOR NEW BENCHMARK STATIONS
Range control NAVY INITIATE ACTION FOR NAVY PREPARE SPECS. BIDS AND AWARD CONTRACTOR INSTALL RANGE CONTROL BUILDING
RANGE CONTROL BUILDING CONTRACT FOR RANGE CONTROL BUILDING AND MAKE IMPROVEMENTS A THE SITE
building AND SITE IMPROVEMENTS AND SITE IMPROVEMENTS
APL PREPARE SPECS.,
Array ocean cable BIDS AND AWARD CONTRACT CONTRACTOR INSTALL CABLE LANDFALL
landfall FOR NEW CABLE LANDFALL
APL/NAVOCEANO NAVOCEANO
Oceanographic
FIRM UP PLANS CONDUCT PREPARE
survey FOR SURVEY SURVEY SURVEY REPORT
Array ocean cable APL COMPLETE DESIGN, FABRICATION AND TEST APL MANUFACTURE, AGE AND TEST REQUIRED NUMBER OF REPEATERS SHIP TO
repeaters OF PROTOTYPE REPEATER SITE
APL MANUFACTURE AND TEST SHIP TO SITE

Array receivers
RANGE RECEIVERS INSTALL AND TEST
APL MANUFACTURE REQUIRED NUMBER OF ARRAY PREAMPLIFIERS SHIP TO

Array
pre-amplifiers AGE AND TEST SITE
APL PREPARE PLAN
Computer FOR SYSTEM MODIFICATION

NAVY APPROVAL TO PROCURE APL PRODUCE NEW DATA PROCESSING EQUIPMENT SHIP TO SITE
modification REQUIRED EQUIPMENT AND INSTALL
APL MANUFACTURE INTERFACE EQUIPMENT SHIP TO SITE
and expansion
FOR NEW ARRAYS iNSTALL AND TEST
APL PREPARE SPECS,ADVERTISE AND RECEIVE APL REVIEW BIDS
Underwater
BIDS FOR FABRICATION AND INSTALLATION AND AWARD CONTRACT
hardware contact OF ADDITIONAL ARRAYS
U/W CONTRACTOR CABLE COMPANY MANUFACTURE REQUIRED SHIP TO
Array ocean
AWARD CONTRACT FOR LENGTHS OF OCEAN CABLE AND SHIP TO POE SITE
cable REQUIRED OCEAN CABLE
U/W CONTRACTOR MANUFACTURE AND SHIP ARRAYS TO POE U/W CONTRACTOR ERECT
Arrays and under- AWARD CONTRACT FOR AND IN-WATER LEVEL
water hardware FABRICATION OF ARRAYS ARRAYS AT SITE
Underwater hard- U/W CONTRACTOR & APL

INSTALL ARRAYS AT SITE
ware installation
APL/USER SURVEY
Range expansion
AND RANGE
survey & checkout CHECK OUT
Fig. 4.6(a) Typical planning chart.

Page 25
5. Characteristics of the Ocean Floor and Ocean Cable

Systems.
This chapter contains basic information on the characteristics of the ocean floor and their
effect on ocean cable systems.
5.1 General.
As the underwater components of an ocean cable system lie on the ocean floor, or are anchored
to it. the characteristics of the ocean floor must be considered in the development of the cable
route(s), site layouts, system design and installation procedures.
The ocean floor may be broken down into various zones based on major topographical features.
Each zone has its own characteristics, including geology and current structure. For ocean
cable systems, the following breakdown of zones can be used.
a) The shore.
b) Straits and channels.
c) The continental shelves.
d) The continental slopes.
e) The deep ocean floor.
Each of these zones is divided further, primarily using intermediate topographical features.
Information is provided, as a guide, on failures in ocean cables and the finer structure of the
topography. Failures in ocean cable systems both in cables and cable fittings are influenced
by the characteristics of the ocean floor, with some zones having a much higher risk than
others. The finer structure of the topography affects cable routes and site layouts at the more
detailed level compared to the major topographical features defining the zones, as well as
having a significant effect on failure mechanisms.
It should be noted that information on the characteristics of much of the ocean floor,
particularly those of the deeper. zones, is very limited. and it is the function of the survey to
more accurately determine those characteristics relevant to the ocean cable system to be
installed.
5.2 Shore.
5.2.1 General.
Except for a few specialized ocean cable systems, which are brought up on offshore platforms,
the majority of the routes for ocean cable systems cross the shore of a continent, island, etc.
While the cable is probably the most accessible at this point, it is also open to a wider range
of environmental conditions, requiring careful consideration and design, if a successful, long
term crossing of the shore line is to be made.
Page 26
The shore can be broken down into several major categories. Those of interest to ocean cable
systems are beaches, inshore reefs, bays and inlets, and river mouths. Areas such as cliffs,
rock wave platforms, etc., which do not provide an acceptable environment for ocean cables are
not described.
5.2.2 Beaches.
5.2.2.1 General.
Beaches provide the most suitable landing sites for ocean cables if the system is to be reliable
and not have unnecessary repairs near the shore, or require major construction work at the
shore line. ( The alternative is directional drilling from land behind the shoreline to a point
off the shore. ) The suitability of a beach for a landing site is dependent on many factors,
including location, type, beach material and slope. Ideally the most suitable beaches have a
sandy bottom extending out to depths below wave action from bad storms, have no rock
outcroppings or shelves. Also the sand extends up the beach above the worst combination of
tide and storm waves. A headland would provide additional protection from the direction of
the worst storms. An example of a beach which substantially has these characteristics is
Bondi Beach in Australia which is used for landing ocean communications cables.
Standard practice is to run the cable directly out from the beach to deeper water, though rock
outcroppings and shelves may require some deviations.
Figure 5.2.2.1(a) shows the profile of a typical beach, in this illustration with a cliff behind
it. Alternatively, there may be one or more series of sand dunes, a bank of rocky soils swamps,
etc., instead of the cliff on the inland side. If there are sand dunes adjacent to the beach, these
are known as frontal dunes, and form part of the sediment transportation mechanisms and as
such, must be taken into account in determining the cable route across the beach to the
terminal building. For long life systems, the change in the beach with time must also be
considered.
5.2.2.2 Beach Types.
5.2.2.2.1 Pocket Beaches.
Pocket beaches are small sandy beaches on roughs rockbound shores where headlands
generally prevent the migration of sand in shallow water. Such pockets of sand are important
because of the access to the sea and protection which they may provide on otherwise rugged
coasts where cable ends must come ashore, or engineering materials are to be loaded for sea.
Pocket beaches may also provide landing sites for bow ramp types of landing craft.
5.2.2.2.2 Bay or Crescent Beaches.
Bay or crescent beaches are longer and wider than pocket beaches and are often replenished
with sand by streams flowing into the bays they form. They may be miles long and provide
excellent anchorage and landing sites. Where the land behind the bay beaches is low and
accessible, they may provide easy access to staging areas.
5.2.2.2.3 Barrier and Bar Beaches, and Barrier Islands.
Barrier and bar beaches and barrier islands are long offshore islands made up of sand, miles
in length, with lagoons between the beach and the main land mass. Such features are common
in areas such as the Texas and Florida coasts. They may introduce staging problems, since
there is no egress directly to the open sea from the mainland, and cables must cross both the
beach and the lagoon to reach the terminal building. In some cases where the terminal
Foreshore
or
beachface
Offshore Shoreface or inshore Shore or beach Coast
Backshore Coastline
Low tide shoreline or
backbeach
High tide shoreline Storm or
winter
Ordinary or berm
Scarp
summer berm
Mean high water
Mean low water Step

Cliff
Longshore bar
Fig. 5.2.2.1(a) Typical beach profile.

Page 27
Page 28
building does not need direct connections to the mainland, such as ranges, and the barrier
island is of sufficient size to protect the buildings from sea and weather, they may be placed
on the barrier island.
5.2.2.3 Beach Materials and Slopes.
In general beaches tend to be of sand sized particles ( about 0.16 inch - 4 mm diameter ) or
pebbles ( about 0.5 to 1 inch - 12.5 to 25 mm diameter ). In some cases where the surf energy
is high and rock falls occur, there may be boulders up to 2 feet - 0.6 meters in diameter
formed. In addition to sand and pebbles, there may be rock outcroppings along the beach and
rock shelves off the beach.
Beach slopes vary from gentle to a steepness of sufficient magnitude that they must be
climbed. There are direct relationships between surf energy, beach particle size, and the
steepness. Sandy beaches, however, may be steep.
For an ocean cable landing, sandy beaches are preferable with pebble beaches somewhat less
so. Steep rocky beaches should be avoided due to the danger of damage to the cable near the
shore line.
5.2.2.4 Sediment Motion on Beaches.
Sediment on beaches is constantly in motion onshore, offshore, and along shore. Every wave
carries material up to a certain grain size up the beach. If it is a large waves relatively little
sediment sinks into the beach, and the sediment is carried back out with the backwash. A
small wave sinks into the beach and tends to deposit its load of sand and silt. If the wave
approaches the beach at an angle, there will be a long shore component ( long shore current )
as well as the up-and-down motion. This component is responsible for much of the long shore
migration of sand, and this long shore motion is responsible for beach replenishment building
of spits, and some sand bars, closing of inlets, etc.
Another common sediment motion on beaches is the slow down slope migration of material
under the influence of gravity. Wave-agitated sand will, in the long run, slowly migrate down
slope and eventually be lost offshore, either to sediment trapping areas on the shelf or to the
deep ocean via the continental slope or down submarine canyons. This down slope migration
will pull ocean cables down the beach unless they securely anchored above the zone affected
by wave action.
5.2.3 Inshore Reefs.
Shallow or surface breaking reefs that lie offshore from a beach present a major obstacle to a
cable route, The reefs may be of rock or, if in tropical waters, live coral. They typically rise
steeply from the bottom on the offshore side with a shallow region between the reef and the
beach. Generally most of the wave energy is expended on the outer portion of the reef.
If possible, the crossing of such reefs should be avoided for cable routes, due to both the
adverse conditions for the cable where it crosses the reef, and the difficulty of installation. If
it is not possible to find a more suitable area for the shore site, and no large openings exist in
the reef through which a cable can pass without being subject to possible damage ( e.g., tidal
scour, shipping ), then it will be necessary to carry out the construction required to provide a
protective trench through the reef. However, many coral reefs are now protected and a route
must be found where minimal disturbance is caused.
Page 29
5.2.4 Bays and Inlets.
Large bays and inlets are sometimes used for ocean cable systems, such as calibration ranges.
Bays tend to be relatively shallow and smooth bottomed unless a river enters the bay and cuts
a channel or deposits sediment into banks. The siting of ocean cable systems presents no major
problems in most cases, but care is needed to ensure that the effects of storm swells entering
the bay do not affect the underwater components of the system, and shipping and trawling is
kept away. Generally the bottom is soft sediment with seaweed growth covering. Rock outcrops
may occurs particularly if the entrance to the bay has a sills which may be swept clean of
sediment by tidal currents.
Inlets tend to be more irregular and can be very deep, such as fjords. The bottom may have one
or more channels and rock outcroppings. The siting of an ocean cable system in inlets
generally requires care as it may not be possible to avoid shipping lanes and other manmade
and natural hazards.
For offshore ocean cable systems, it is not considered good practice to bring the ocean cables
into a bay or inlet to a landing site, unless absolutely necessary. The strong currents, sills at
the entrance, sediment movement, shipping, etc., generally increases the chance of damage to
an unacceptable level, particularly for systems in continuous operation.
5.2.5 River Mouths.
The flow of water and sediment out of river mouths, particularly during floods, makes them an
unsuitable site for landing ocean cables. In additions care must be taken when routing ocean
cables past river mouths to ensure that sufficient distance is left to allow the effect of floods
to dissipate before reaching the cable route.
5.2.6 Currents.
Currents along the shore are generally a function of the interaction of the shore line with
ocean surface currents. Features such as headlands and bays may cause the formation of
counter currents, while large rivers will divert currents away from the coast. Shore currents
can reach several knots and often transport substantial amounts of sediment along the shore.
Because of the relative ease of measuring currents near the shore, and the need for such data
in fields such as coastal engineering, data on shore currents is generally more readily
available from references.
5.3 Straits and Channels.
In many parts of the world there are straits and channels between land masses that an ocean
cable route must pass through or bridge. These straits and channels can have massive
movements of water through them under tidal effects with the ability to cause damage to ocean
cables. For cables that must bridge a strait or channel, it is often possible to route the cable
out into deep water and hence avoid the strait or channel and its problems.
For ocean cable routes that must pass through a strait or channel, significant problems can
exist particularly if the strait or channel is relatively shallow and has strong currents. An
example of this is the Messina Strait between Sicily and mainland Italy. With care in selecting
the cable route to avoid suspensions and possible areas of turbidity currents, and the use of
special armor on the cable, reliability can be obtained.
Current velocities in shallow straits can reach 5 knots ( Messina Strait ), In deeper straits or
channels, the velocity can reach 1-2 knots in neap to mid-range tides ( Bashi Channel ).
Page 30
5.4 Continental Shelves.
5.4.1 General.
The continental shelves extend out from the coastlines sloping gently down to typically 660
feet - 200 meters depth where a relatively sharp change in slope occurs. This change in slope
marks the seaward edge of the continental shelf, and is called the shelf break. Continental
shelves make up about 52 percent of the earth's surface. The topography,of the shelves can be
broken down into several major categories relating to the areas in which they occur. The other
feature that affects the continental shelf is the submarine canyon, described under
continental slopes.
5.4.2 Shelves off Large Rivers.
In generals continental shelves off large rivers are quite narrow where the rivers have built
out a large delta over the shelf. In conjunction with such shelves, however, the width of the
shelf on each side can be large where present day sedimentation has ceased. Typical examples
include the Mississippi River, the Yukon River and the larger Siberian rivers. The continental
shelf off large rivers tends to be shallower at the shelf break. For ocean cable systems, the
shelf area off such large rivers should be avoided due to sediment movement, currents due to
water outflow, and chemical properties of the mixed waters. Flood conditions make the
problems substantially worse. If it is not possible to completely avoid these areas, care must
be taken in determining cable routes.
5.4.3 Shelves in Glaciated Areas.
In contrast to the shallower shelves, the glaciated shelf is often deeper than 0.1 n. miles - 200
meters at the edge. Such shelves may be quite wide, as in the Barents Sea, quite deep as around
Antarctica, and typically rough and hummocky, with gouged basins and glacially deposited
moraine banks. Both the Grand Banks off Newfoundland and the George's Bank off New England
are moraine deposits. Large icebergs may ground and abrade the sea floor to depths of up to
1000 feet - 300 meters, producing deeps ice abraded shelves.
For ocean cable systems where the route must cross such a shelf, banks that come near the
surface should be avoided, if possible. If in a region with icebergs, damage due to iceberg
grounding must be accepted as it would be impossible to bury a cable deep enough to reliably
prevent damage, or make an armor strong enough to withstand the grounding forces.
5.4.4 Shelves of Young Mountain Coasts.
These shelves are typically narrow and steep, dropping off quickly, often into a deep trench,
Such shelves are found off the West Coast of the Americas, and south-eastern Cuba. For ocean
cables that cross them, they provide a severe environment with much bare rock being typical,
resulting in heavy cable armor wear from current effects. If burial by rock trenching is not
available, the heaviest cable armor available ( A-A ) is the best to use .
For deep water acoustic systems they do, however, provide a short cable run to deep water.
5.4.5 Shelves in Coral Reef Areas.
Shallow, irregular shelves are typical of areas of vigorous coral reef growth in tropical or
subtropical waters. The shelf break often occurs just offshore of the coral masses at a depth of
75 to 100 feet - 23 to 30 meters. The shelf break may be quite sharp and the upper slope quite
precipitous. The width of such shelves varies dramatically and is related to other factors,
since in many cases the reefs are secondary features. An example of such a reef is the Aust-
Page 31
ralian Great Barrier Reef.
For ocean cable systems that must cross such reefs, it is normally possible to find an opening
through the reef of sufficient depth not to cause adverse effects to the cable from tidal
currents, and then to run the cable along the moderately deep waters inside the reef to the
shore site.
5.4.6 Shelves in Areas of Strong Currents.
In certain areas, such as those off the east coasts of Florida and Yucatan, the continental
shelves are relatively narrow with slopes to another levels too deep for a regular shelf, and too
shallow for the deep ocean floor. Off these coasts flows a strong current which may cause
sediment to bypass areas where it would have otherwise deposited, and made a conventional
wide shelf. For ocean cable systems in these areas, the main problem is the forces from the
current on cables and other components.
5.4.7 Shelves off Old Mountains and Eroded Areas.
In areas where the land has suffered much erosion, the shelf tends to be relatively wide and
gently sloping without major significant features, though the outer edge may be heavily
canyoned. Ocean cable systems that are installed on, or cross over, such shelves generally
present few problems, though the cable run to deep water may be relatively long.
5.4.8 Currents.
The current structure on continental shelves tends to follow the ocean surface currents,
though this may be affected locally by large headlands, islands, major rivers and submarine
canyons. The velocity of currents due to ocean surface currents can be up to several knots on
the bottom, particularly in shallower water, and may cause sediment transfer along the
shelves. There is, however, a general sediment movement due to gravity down the slope of the
shelves, either out over the shelf break into the deep ocean or into sediment trapping areas on
the shelves.
For ocean cable systems this bottom currents and sediment transportation often sets a cable
weight requirement in order to prevent the cable being moved sideways along the bottoms
particularly on rough bottoms. Because of the relative ease of measuring currents on the
shelves, and the need for such data in fields such as coastal engineering data on shelf currents
is generally more readily available from references.
5.5 Continental Slopes.
5.5.1 General.
The relatively steep areas of the ocean floor between the continental shelves and the deep
ocean floor are the continental slopes, with the lover portions sometimes called the
continental rise. The relative steepness of these areas averaging 40% with local slopes up to
45% make it a difficult area for ocean cable system installation. The continental slopes cover
between 10 and 20 percent of the world's surface and for depths of between 660 and 12000 ft.
miles - 200 to 3700 meters, it is generally on the continental slopes where work must be
carried out. The topography of interest to ocean cable systems includes submarine canyons,
steep slopes, and normal slopes.
5.5.2 Submarine Canyons.
In many areas of the world the continental slopes have deep canyons which cut back into the
Page 32
continental shelves. Their importance is that they carry sediment from shallow water to the
deep ocean floor more than any other area of the continental slopes. They must be avoided for
ocean cable systems, as installations placed in submarine canyons or cables laid across or
down them are subject to disastrous effects of mass sediment movement and turbidity
currents.
5.5.3 Steep Slopes.
These are typically slopes of more than 10 to 15 degrees and up to 45 degrees in local areas.
The major problem for ocean cable systems on these slopes is that sediment tends to be
unstable and may slide down the slope carrying away system components. Where the slope is
bare, that is, no sediment remains or can collect, it may be necessary to pin components to the
rock to ensure that they will not slide down the slope, either under the force of gravity or by
the action of currents. If possible, steep slopes should be avoided for normal ocean cable
systems.
5.5.4 Normal Slopes.
Normal slopes are up to 10 to 15 degrees and generally present no problems to ocean cable
systems, apart from small scale local features. Towards the steeper slopes, it may be
necessary to anchor components to the ocean floor to prevent sliding, particularly if currents
in the area are predominately down slope.
5.5.5 Currents.
Currents on the continental slopes have mainly been measured in submarine canyons and sea
valleys, with little information on the other parts of the continental slopes.
In submarine canyons, and sea valleys, the current is almost continuously up and down canyon
with a net flow in the downwards direction. In canyons with wide floors, some cross canyon
flow exists. The up and down canyon flows reach speeds up to 1 knot. The faster down canyon
flows occur at irregular periods and are generally called turbidity currents. There is evidence
that the velocity in these flows is up to 5 knots, with the high velocity flows ( 10+ knots )
occurring during seismic activity only. However the very large transport of sediment does
occur down the canyon, or sea valley, making them unsuitable for ocean cable systems.
The information on currents elsewhere on the continental slopes is very limited and appears
to indicate that currents are in the order of tenths of a knot. Stability of the sediment on the
slope may be affected by the current in the down slope direction, particularly if the slope is
steep. There is a general sediment movement down the continental slope due to gravity, with
new sediment entering at the shelf break at the top, and finally being deposited on the edge of
the deep ocean floor at the bottom,
5.6 Deep Ocean Floor.
5.6.1 General.
A substantial portion of the sea floor lies below 12000 ft. - 3700 meters depth, and is
classified as deep ocean floor. The topography includes abyssal plains, abyssal hills, rises,
sea mounts, ocean ridges ( mountain chains ) and trenches.
5.6.2 Abyssal Plains.
Abyssal plains are the broad, flat areas of fine sediment situated between other features ( ie.
ridges, seamounts, slopes and swells ). From a cable laying requirement there are no major
Page 33
problems but as deep ocean cables tend to float on the sediments and repeaters, etc. tend to
sink in, problems in milking of the dielectric and return conductors can occur unless care is
taken in the coupling design at the housings. Platforms must be designed with low footprint
pressure to prevent them sinking in.
5.6.3 Abyssal Hills.
Abyssal hills are the most widespread topographical feature of the deep ocean floors
particularly in the Pacific Ocean. They vary from 160 to 3300 ft. - 50 to 1000 meters in
height and may have relatively steep slopes and some local irregular/small scale volcanic
topography. Routing of ocean cables through these areas must take into account the features
and normal practice is to run ocean cables around the tops of the hills.
5.6.4 Rises and Swells.
Rises and swells are broad low elevations of the deep ocean floor and are frequently of
considerable horizontal extents such as the Hawaiian Swell. They may extend over hundreds of
miles, and frequently have mountains or islands on them. A moat or depression often
surrounds such rises.
Cable routes over such features require the same considerations as for continental slopes, and
if the cable comes ashore on an island, it should be treated in the same manner as for any
other landings except that there will be no significant equivalent of the continental shelf.
5.6.5 Seamounts.
Seamounts are of two forms, pointed volcanic cones and truncated cones ( known as guyots or
table mounts ). Normally they are thinly covered with sediment but may have coral on top, or
at sea level if the top is above water. The tops of guyots may have significant depressions in
the center.
Unless cable is brought ashore, seamounts are avoided for cable routes.
5.6.6 Mid-Ocean Ridges.
Mid-ocean ridges are underwater mountain ranges which may reach the surface in places.
Slopes are typically steep and the rock forming them is basalt or other igneous types. Many
sections of these ridges will have volcanic activity such as the extrusion of lava taking place,
as part of tectonic plate formation.
Cable routing normally cannot avoid such ridges if the end points are on either side of the
ridge, and careful survey of the ridge is required to find the route which will provide the best
chance of cable survival and avoid volcanic "hot spots".
5.6.7 Trenches.
Trenches are narrow, steep walled valleys in the ocean floors. They are generally located in
seismically active areas, and rock slides and turbidity currents triggered by seismic shocks
may be expected.
As they are high hazard areas for ocean cables, they should, if possible, be avoided when
planning cable routes.
Page 34
5.6.8 Currents.
Currents in the deep ocean may be categorized into circulation currents, turbidity currents,
and benthic storms. For cable routes only the last two are important.
Turbidity currents may occur at points where submarine canyons on the continental slopes
reach the abyssal plains and the gravity driven turbidity currents may spread for some
distance across the plain. Since such features as canyons must be avoided for cable routes, the
problem is to ensure that the cable route does not cross the disturbed area on the abyssal
plain caused by the turbidity current.
Benthic storms are major disturbances in the deep ocean which lift bottom sediment and
transport it over substantial distances ( as far as 500 n. miles or more ). These storms may
last a few days to a few weeks and affect areas tens of miles wide. The currents in these storms
appear to track along certain well marked paths, but they are not ubiquitous. It is not possible
to effectively predict when they will appear, they show no strong seasonal patterns, and occur
about every two to three months. Currents in benthic storms range from about 1 to 5 knots ( an
order of magnitude less than turbidity currents ),
Figures 5.6.8(a) and 5.6.8(b) show features which may indicate areas in which benthic storms
occur, as it is considered that large sediment drifts are caused by down stream deposition of
suspended sediment lifted from the bottom by the storms.
As it is not possible to effectively route ocean cable systems in the deep ocean to avoid these
storms, allowance must be made in laying parameters. Experience indicates that ocean cables
laid with normal deep water excess slack to allow for lifting a bight to the surface for repair (
about 6% ) survive, while systems intended for cut and lift each end for repair and with
reduced slack ( about 2% excess slack ) have had breaks in deep water in areas where benthic
storms are known to occur.
Fig. 5.6.8(a) Regions of spreading cold bottom water ( light stippling ) super-
imposed over large current controlled accumulations of mud
( heavy stippling ).
Page 35
High eddy K.E. Highest eddy K.E. Highest abyssal suspended load.
Fig. 5.6.8(b) Areas of highest abyssal sediment concentration.
5.7 Topography Structure and Distribution.
The topographic features of the ocean floor can be divided into three broad categories,
(1) macro topography,
(2) micro topography,
and
(3) surface roughness.
Vertical relief features greater than 60 feet - 20 meters are classified as macrotopographic.
less than 60 feet - 20 meters as micro topographic with surface roughness for relief less than
5 feet - 1.5 meters.
The major topographic features of macro topography form the basis for the zones described,
with the intermediate topographic features primarily being used to divide these zones further.
Superimposed upon the major and intermediate topographic features of the oceans are small
features, the micro topography and the surface roughness. These small features ranging in size
from less than 1 inch - 2.54 cm to 60 feet - 20 meters in vertical relief, cover virtually 100
percent of the ocean floor.
On continental shelves these small features include ripple marks, sand waves, rock outcrops,
the trails and mounds of small ocean floor animals, and small scale, shallow, discontinuous
depressions. Ripple marks and sand waves are found in areas of sandy bottoms. Ripple marks
are small ( surface roughness ), whereas sand waves may be up to 60 feet - 20 meters high
Page 36
with a crest separation of about 3000 ft. mile - 920 meters ( micro topography ). Rock outcrops
are found on continental shelves throughout the world.
The continental slopes are generally smooth and gentle because of the blanket of sediment
except on steeper slopes. However, where canyons cut the slopes, very steep or even
overhanging rock walls may occur. In addition, many small tributary canyons can sometimes
be found in the vicinity of deep main canyons. These small canyons are usually a n. mile or
less in width, a few miles long and 10 to 40 feet - 3 to 12 meters deep.
The micro topography of the continental rise and abyssal plain appear quite similar with both
having hills of 10 to 40 feet - 3 to 12 meters high and the order of 0.1 n. miles - 185 meters
apart. The mid ocean ridges and seamounts display many similar microtopographic features,
but also show exposed bedrock, steep boulder covered slopes and pockets of sediment. The
central rift valley of the mid-ocean ridges and various seamounts contain deposits of pillow
lava which produce surface roughness up to a few feet in relief.
The world's trenches show generally steep flanks which may be without minor relief and are
highly variable in inclination. The bottom of a trench may be filled or partially filled with
sediment resulting in a micro topography and surface roughness that ranges from flat
sedimental bottoms with biogenic mounds and trails to sediment free, rough rock strewn
bottoms.
In general it is the micro topography that most influences the final selection of cable route(s)
and site layouts in an ocean cable system, with the need to avoid severe micro topography in
order to ensure a lowest possible risk, feasible system.
Surface roughness generally is directly related to the intermediate and major topographic
features I upon which it is superimposed. For examples where the topography is rough, the
ocean floor surface is generally rough. It has also been noted that with some exceptions,
surface roughness decreases with increasing depth. Table 5.7(a) indicates the relative surface
roughness that exists on various types of topographic features. Table 5.7(b) gives the rating
scale used for surface roughness and indicates the magnitude of churning and relief for each
scale. Table 5.7(c) shows the causes of surface roughness and indicates that the most prevalent
is the presence of marine animals. For ocean cable systems, increasing surface roughness
increases the risk and affects design, installation and repair.
Because the ocean floor is never perfectly flat, the rating zero is not used. The rating 1
denotes minimum but recognizable roughness, the rating 5 denotes maximum roughness.
Page 37
Table 5.7(a).
Numerical Scale of Ocean Floor

Surface Roughness.
Feature Numerical rating

of the relief
____________________________________________
Canyon - inner 5
Bank 4
Irregular topography 4
Small -local ridge 4,3
Island slope 4,2
Local ridge 3,4
Side slopes of trough 3
Low hills 3
Topographic high 3
Island shelf 3,2
Seamount surface 3,2
Irregular topography 3,2
Island slope 2,4
Seamount surface 2,3
Island shelf 2,3
Irregular topography 2,3
Basin 2
Canyon - outer 2
Continental slope 2
Sill 2
Valley 2
Rift valley 2
Gentle relief ( 1000 feet - 300 meters 2
high hills )
Irregular hills ( 600 feet - 200 meters 2
high relief )
Intermountain valley 2
Abyssal hills 2
Gentle topography 2,1
Gentle topography 1,2
Saddle 1
Slope 1
Sea valley 1
Smooth topography 1
Flat topography 1
____________________________________________
Page 38
Table 5.7(b).
Descriptive Notes for Rating Scale of Surface Roughness.
Rating scale 1: Almost smooth surfaces formed on clays, oozes, and silty clays in abyssal
plain areas between, and on, major and intermediate topographical features. Visible evidence
of churning is lacking, with minimum of epifauna and infauna present. Rock fragments and
manganese nodules occur in scattered patches, varied according to chemical composition of the
water.
Height of churning : 1 inch - 2.5 cm.
Normal range of surface roughness : 0 to 4 inches - 0 to 10.3 cm.
Rating scale 2: Low-order bottom relief formed by fauna churning on clays, ooze and and
silty clays in areas of gentle relief. Such low-order relief also occurs on marine slopes,
valleys, basins, and other gentle topographic features. More epifauna visibly present but not
in great numbers in deeper areas. Occasional occurrences of small manganese nodules and
rock fragments in tightly packed or scattered patterns of distribution, again dependent on
water conditions. Occasional occurrences of loosely scattered and larger manganese nodules
with visible churning between targets. Oozes are normally in shallower areas and are coarser
grained.
Height of churning : 1 to 2.5 inches - 2.5 to 6.4 cm
Normal range of surface roughness : 1 to 8 inches - 2.5 to 20.3 cm.
Rating scale 3: Maximum churning of clay and silty sediments. Ripple marks occur where
fine sands and sandy silts are present. Greater occurrence of larger manganese nodules,
pumice slabs, and rock fragments. Chemical crusting of sediments sometimes present. Major
and intermediate features predominantly island slopes, hills, ridges, highs, and irregular
topography.
Height of churning : 2.5 to 6 inches - 6.4 to 15.2 cm.
Normal range of surface roughness : 2.5 to 12 inches - 6.4 to 30.5 cm.
Rating scale 4: Rock fragments, outcrops, boulders, and coarser sediments predominate in
this shallower environment. Fauna churning maximum where silty sediments exist. Ripple
marks often present in sandy sediments, Greater abundance of epifauna on rocky surfaces.
Height of churning : 6 inches - 15.2 cm.
Normal range of surface roughness : 2.5 to 39 inches - 6.4 to 100 cm.
Rating scale 5: Jagged rocks, phosphorite nodules, large boulders, and coarse sediments on
upper surfaces and slopes of underwater features such as ridges, mountains, banks, cliffs,
walls of canyons, and other topographic highs. Fauna churning on coarse sediments variable
and dependent on presence of organic matter. Predominance of attached and unattached
epifauna on rock exposures.
Page 39
Height of churning : Highly variable, up to 6 inches - 15.2 cm.
Normal range of surface roughness : 1 inch to 10 feet - 2.5 to 300 cm.
Table 5.7(c)
Distribution and General Relationships of Underwater

Topographic Relief.
( Note: Shaded areas indicate principal forms of surface roughness on major topographical features.
Surface roughness
Major relief Intermediate relief Chemical Benthonic Biological Physical
Outcrops
disturbance animals disturbance disturbance
Bank
Basin
Canyon
Island shelf
Continental slope
Continental
terrace Sill
Saddle
Trough
Valley
Rift valley
Basin
Gentle relief
Ridge
Island shelf
Seamount surface
Basin
Canyon
Gulf of California
Island shelf
Small local ridge
Basin
Irregular hills
Fracture zone
Gentle topography
Irregular topography
Abyssal plain Gentle topography
Island slope
East Pacific rise
Low hills
Central Indian rise Island slope
Low hills
Deep sea basin
Gentle topography
Gentle topography
Trench Local ridge
Flat topography
Topographic high
Rift mountains
Intermountain valley
Abyssal hills
Seamount Seamount surface
province
Irregular topography
Slope
Beaufort Sea Sea valley
Smooth topography
Page 40
5.8 Failure of Ocean Cables.
Failures in ocean cables, and associated components. occurs for many reasons. However,
records of these failures indicate that they primarily occur in certain areas of the ocean floor.
When deciding cable routes, array sites, etc., for an ocean cable system, consideration of the
characteristics of the ocean floor are important in determining possible failures that may be
expected, and protection methods.
Between 1953 and 1964 a comprehensive study of failure in ocean communications cables was
done by the Bell Laboratories, 299 samples were received and the tabulation of causes of
failure is given in table 5.8(a).
The depth distribution of all samples showed that 7O percent of all failures occurred in
depths of less than 0.2 n. miles - 370 meters. This information supported by chart locations
indicated that these failures occur in close proximity to continental shelf breaks or at
marginal escarpments. The maximum depth of failure of these samples was 16700 ft. - 5090
meters. The age distribution of samples was a skewed normal distribution but with a peak in
the 0 to 12 year area.
Maritime damage is primarily the result of trawler activity, and takes place when bottom
trawling gear snags or is dragged along a cable. The majority of the damage takes place on the
continental shelves, and in this period the maximum depth was 1800 ft. - 550 meters.
Biological and chemical damage was mostly on gutta-percha insulated cables, which are no
longer manufactured. The jute bedding was also affected, mainly by fungal and bacteriological
attack. Tensile testing showed this effect to be of limited extent. No polyethylene insulation
shoved signs of deterioration. Fouling of cables was found on 39 samples ranging down to
depths of 12500 ft. - 3500 meters. Only those from depths of less than 60 feet - 20 meters had
sufficient fouling to impair or interfere with cable working. Below this depth, fouling
decreased sharply.
Chafe and corrosion damage are not readily distinguishable and were combined, 63 percent of
failures of this type.
Conclusions from this study were that the major cause of failure in ocean communications
cables was from commercial fishing operations ( bottom trawling ). This could occur along
continental shelves and slopes down to 1800 ft. - 550 meters depth. Chafe/corrosion damage
was the next biggest cause of failure and predominates in depths of less than 330 ft. - 100
meters . Of the failure of ocean cables other than from maritime causes, 188 samples, 74
percent were more than 20 years of age, indicating the good performance of standard ocean
cable materials.
Since this study damage from bottom trawling has increased substantially. From the 1960's in
the South North Sea, the fault rate has doubled every four years and occurrence of multiple
faults has become frequent. One Anglo Dutch route, Covehithe - Katvyl No 1 had 29 faults in
one year. Trawlers have increased from vessels of about 200 hp to vessels of 2000 hp, and
beam trawls have come into use for bottom trawling, making damage to ocean cables more
likely. Trawler damage has been found as deep as 3300 ft. - 1000 meters. Table 5.8(b) gives
the causes of ocean cable failure in the North Sea.
Page 41
Table 5.8(a)
Distribution of Ocean Cable Samples Received During the Period from

September 1953 Through November 1964.
Type of damage associated Number of % of

with failures failures total
___________________________________________________________
1. Maritime damage 111 44.0

( from trawlers and ship's anchors)
2. Biological/chemical damage 10 4.0
3. Corrosion/chafe damage 68 26.9

Groove corrosion
Cavity corrosion
Striation corrosion
4. Earthquake-related damage 4 1.6

( mud slides, turbidity currents )
5. Iceberg damage 4 1.6

( crush )
6. Undamaged cable 21 8.3

(from rerouting and preventative
maintenance operations, includes
recovered abandoned cable rem-
nants )
7. Miscellaneous failures 34 13.5

Tension of unknown origin (4) (1.6)
Repeater damage (8) (3.2)
Twist (6) (2.4)
Kink (6) (2.4)
Armor pinch (2) (0.8)
Electrical faults ( burnout, earth and (5) (2.0)
sea grounds)
Crush (1) (0.4)
Core puncture (2) (0.8)
_________________
Totals 252 100%
___________________________________________________________
Note: In the case of 47 of the 299 samples received, the cause of failure was not clear and these
are omitted occurred in depths of less than 3300 ft. - 1000 meters. with the greatest depth
being 16700 ft. - 5090 meters. The chafe/corrosion of the form of longitudinal Vee shaped
grooves along the armor wires between adjacent wires, occurred more on loose rock bottoms
and/or with a bottom current in excess of one knot. This form of failure also occurred earlier
than the other forms of chafe/corrosion failure. The two other types, cavity and striation
corrosion were found in cables of more than 30 years old for cavity corrosion and more than
78 years old for striation corrosion.
Page 42
Table 5.8(b)
Comparison of North Sea Ocean Cable Faults for Cable with

'E' Type Armor*.
Cable type 0.620 inch 0.935 inch 1.47 inch

________________________________________________________
Core diameter ( inch ) 0.620 0.935 1.470
Armor diameter ( inch ) 1.38 1.65 2.40
Maximum strength ( lbf ) 49000 62700 91900

________________________________________________________
Fault categories % % %
________________________________________________________
Trawler break 55.3 43.8 0

Trawler cut ** 3.7 6.9 23.1
Trawler maul *** 11.1 40.0 28.2
Pulled joint 0.8 2.3 2.6
Cause unknown 21.7 3.8 20.5
Anchor break 7.4 3.2 25.6
________________________________________________________
Notes:
* 'E' type armor use BWG 2 galvanized mild steel wires 0.276 inch diameter.
** Trawler cuts are faults where the cable has been cut with a hacksaw, ax or flame
torch.
*** Trawler mauls are shunt faults where the inner conductor is exposed to the sea but is
otherwise continuous.
Later data for external causes of cable faults in the Atlantic from the Submarine Cable
Improvement Group is shown in table 5.7(c).
Table 5.8(c)
External Causes of Cable Faults in the Atlantic.
Cause Percentage
_________________________________________
Fishing activity 52
Anchors 18
Dredging/drilling/pipe installations 1
Earthquakes or sediment movement 3
Suspensions 5
Cableship activity 1
Fish bite 2
Other 18
_________________________________________
Page 43
Data for external causes of cable faults in optical fiber ocean cables worldwide for three
periods, 1986-1995, 1997-2000, and 2001-2003 is shown in table 5.8(d) and the depth
distribution of external causes in table 5.8(e).
Table 5.8(d)
External Causes of Cable Faults for Optical Fiber Ocean Cables Worldwide.
Cause Percentage ( Approximately )

1986-1995 1997-2000 2001-2003
______________________________________________________
Fishing 49 43 54
Anchors 22 20 17
Abrasion 9 3 5
Dredge 3 1 5
Geological 3 3 7
Crushing 3 2 0
Other 11 30 12
______________________________________________________
Table 5.8(e)
Depth of Cable Faults for Optical Fiber Ocean Cables Worldwide.
Depth Percentage ( Approximately)

Meters 1986-1995 1997-2000 2001-2003
_______________________________________________
0 to 100 52 58 59
100 to 200 16 16 9
200 to 300 5 6 2
300 to 400 1 5 3
400 to 500 1 2 5
500 to 600 1 2 2
600 to 700 0 2 4
700 to 800 0 2 1
800 to 900 1 2 3
900 to 1000
1000 to 1100 5 0 1
1100 to 1200 1 0 1
1200+ 16 8 13
_______________________________________________
The above tables give a historical pattern to failures in ocean cables from which a basis for
expected failure of a system can be drawn, given that the route of the system has a significant
effect of the type of failure that can be expected.
Page 44
The burying of ocean cables and repeaters has substantially reduced trawler damage with the
cables being buried to at least 2 feet - 0.6 meters depth, including repeaters. A major factor
in burial in sediment is the stability of the sediment, as movement can exert substantial
forces on the cable, enough to break it. Initially ocean cables of armorless construction ( deep
sea ) were buried, but failures have resulted in the use of armored ocean cables ( e.g., A armor
) for all later systems. Maximum water depth for burial has increased with bottom trawling
capability.
Shallow water failures have occurred in Puget Sound, just north of Seattle, in the restricted
waters between Port Jefferson and Foul Weather Bluff. Between 1909 and 1928 in water depths
of 300 feet - 90 meters or less, 8 failures occurred, five of which were due to chafing on the
rocky bottom and the contributing cause in three of these was the strong current. In one other
case the failure was due to hooking by an anchors. Other contributing causes were submarine
landslide and corrosion.
On the insular shelves around the islands of Reunion, Mauritius and Rodriguez, 13 failures
have occurred in depths of less than 120 feet - 37 meters. Corrosion was the partial cause of
seven of these, failures, and chafing in at least three. In three failures, strain on the cables,
probably from anchors hooking them, was a contributing cause.
Near the mouth of the Stekine River in Alaska, 13 failures have occurred in water depths of
300 feet - 90 meters or less. In five cases, submarine landslides was the cause. Aa this area is
prone to seismic disturbances, these slides were probably due to earthquakes. One failure was
attributed directly to an earthquake. Two failures were caused by storms through direct
effects on cables at low tide, or indirectly by precipitating slides or debris accumulation on
the cable.
Breaks in the deep ocean have been very rare until recent times. Failure at depths of 15100 ft.
- 4600 meters have occurred in the never high capacity systems which are laid with a reduced
slack of 3 percent or less. Previously, in deep water 6 percent slack has been used, so that a
cable bight can be lifted to the surface for repair. As the failures have occurred in areas
where benthic storms are known to occur, or believed to occur, it appears that the reduced
slack is insufficient to allow cable movement to compensate for the sediment transportation
during a benthic storm.
Failures in ocean cables due to damage caused by larger marine animals are rare. A whale bit
an ocean cable near Sitka, Alaska in 1905, both shorting the cable and becoming entrapped
and subsequently drowning. Cable repair required removal of the carcass from the cable. The
first deep ocean use of optical fiber ocean cable in 1987 suffered attack by sharks in deep
water resulting in high impedance shunt faults. Cause of the attack is not known at this stage
as no evidence exists for similar attacks on coaxial ocean cables. This optical fiber ocean
cable differs from coaxial ocean cables in not having AC signal transmission and no return
tape near the outside surface of the ocean cable.
Page 45
6. Cable Route and Site Survey.
This chapter describes the information required from the route and site survey, the carrying
out of these surveys, and the equipment used. Cable route surveys are also known as cable
route engineering and corridor surveys.
6.1 Overview.
6.1.1 General.
In the initiation stage of a project for an ocean cable system ( Chapter 3 ), a substantial
amount of preliminary survey work must be done so that the system specification can be
written and allow a high degree of confidence that a system can be designed, manufactured and
installed, to meet its requirements.
The survey proper forms the bridge between the initiation stage and the design, manufacture,
and installation by providing the in-depth information needed for these following stages to be
effectively carried out.
The extent of the work to be done during the survey depends on the system to be installed. For
a new system, it must be extensive and thorough. For a modification to an existing system,
such as replacing a shore end section with a buried section, replacement or addition to an
acoustic range, much of the information already exists, and only a partial survey is required
to fill in any gaps and to verify the existing information.
In planning the survey, the depth of information needed must be carefully considered. in
communication with the system designers and installation teams. Too much information can
result in excessive time needed for the survey and to extract the design and installation
parameters needed, while too little may severely jeopardize the performance and reliability of
the system. A good compromise is to collect sufficient information to provide the necessary
parameters, but have enough flexibility so that if during the survey an area is found that may
cause unexpected problems, additional information can be collected while in the area. This is
aided by carrying cable engineers onboard the survey ship to provide assessment of the
information as it is gathered.
In more complex systems, such as acoustic ranges, the survey may be broken down into several
sub-surveys, so that site selection, modifications and refinements can be incorporated at the
appropriate times while controlling costs. In some cases this will require additional survey
work to complete a sub-survey.
At the completion of the survey, the cable route ( or routes ), arrangement of shore sites, array
sites, etc., must have been finalized and the data required for the design, manufacture and
installation of the system be complete. Software now exists for combining survey data with the
cable route(s) to present an integrated form, which also has the advantage of making cross
checking of data easier as it gathered.
Page 46
6.1.2 Content of the Survey.
6.1.2.1 Information Categories.
The information to be considered in the survey falls into three categories:
a) Feasibility elements, where the only concern is the physical and legal possibility of
installing the system along the proposed cable route and at the proposed sites.
b) Risk factors, liable to endanger the system, with the expected failure rate, and for acoustic
ranges, etc., the expected performance.
c) Engineering data, for design,, manufacture, installation and costing.
6.1.2.2 Feasibility Elements.
a) Terminal station.
i) Suitable accessible construction land.
ii) Possibility of continuation on the national network ( communications systems ). or

data transmission to a central site ( military systems ), if required. Local conditions
may prevent the use of buried cables ( ground structure ) or microwave links (
environmental problems ).
iii) Primary power.
iv) Local earth resistance.
v) Accommodation and services for personnel manning the station.
vi) Security.
b) Land section.
i) Possibility of laying the cable ( ducted or buried and land based repeaters, if
required ).
c) Landing site.
i) Accessibility both from land and sea.
ii) Possibility of landing the shore end, anchoring of the cable ship, local sea
conditions ( tides, waves, etc. ).
iii) Adequate bottom profile.
iv) Construction required to protect the cable and anchor it to shore.
d) Submerged route.
i) Legality of laying the proposed route; territorial waters, economic zones, military
zones, etc.
ii) Existing cables.

Page 47
iii) Drilling operations, pipe lines.
iv) Nuclear and chemical wastes, explosive disposal areas,
v) Topography of bottom ( e.g., excessive slope ).
vi) Nature of bottom ( especially for burial purposes and stability ).
e) Array sites.
i) Acoustic propagation and noise levels ( acoustic systems ).
ii) Topography of site blind areas
iii) Nature of bottom strength, stability
f) Navigation.
i) Ability to install or use existing navigation aids for system installation.
ii) Use of existing navigation systems or need to install new navigation system for
navigation on ranges ( military systems ).
6.1.2.3 Risk Factors.
i) Risk usually limited to natural unpredictable causes: flooding, earthquakes, fire,

etc.
ii) Radio interference.
iii) Security.
b) Land section.
i) Power cables parallel to ocean cable.
ii) Intensive construction and roadwork activities.
iii) Radio interference.
iv) Security.
c) Landing site.
i) Sediment movement on beach ( tides, storms).
ii) Eventual use of beach ( fishing, sand removal, recreation ).
iii) Security.
d) Submerged route.
i) Any kind of maritime activity ( oil, research, naval, fishing, harbors, etc. ).
Page 48
ii) Slope, turbidity currents, rock falls, earthquakes.
iii) Records of faults for other cables in same zone.
iv) Interference from opposition groups ( conservationists, foreign countries ).
e) Array sites.
i) Ability to operate for sufficient time during year to be effective ( weather, sea
states, noise levels ).
ii) Interference from opposition groups ( conservationists, foreign countries ).
6.1.2.4 Engineering Data.
i) Detailed map of land and geological characteristics.
ii) Temperature and hygrometry records.
iii) Storm, rainfall and watercourse data.
iv) Earth resistance.
v) Radio interference.
b) Land section,
i) Detailed map showing possible jointing and repeater chambers, and geological
characteristics.
ii) Temperature.
iii) Power cables.
c) Landing site,
i) Detailed map showing possible beach chamber, beach anchors, geological

characteristics.
ii) Tide and storm and shore current data.
iii) Sediment movement on beach.
d) Submerged route.
i) Detailed chart with longitudinal and transverse profiles, bathymetric charts, sub-
bottom profiles.
ii) Temperature of water on bottom, and if required temperature of bottom sediments.
iii) Report on maritime aspects: navigation problems, available positioning systems,

currents, weathers
Page 49
iv) Nature of bottom.
e) Array sites.
i) Detailed chart with longitudinal and, transverse profiles, bathymetric charts, sub-
bottom profiles.
ii) Acoustic propagation.
iii) Temperature of water on and near bottom,
iv) Report on maritime aspects: navigation problems, available positioning systems,

need for navigation system for range only, currents, weather.
v) Nature of bottom.
6.2 Significant Properties for Cable Route and Site Survey.
6.2.1 General.
In order to determine the feasibility, risk factors and to provide engineering data, a range of
significant properties must be measured during the survey. Further, these significant
properties will differ depending on the zones of the ocean floor that the system will pass
through, and for array sites. For survey purposes, these zones are defined as:
a) Shore site - beach.
b) Shore site - inshore and near shore.
c) Continental shelf and slope.
d) Deep ocean.
e) Array sites.
f) Cable burial.
The land section of the shore site where the terminal building, etc. is to be constructed is
surveyed to normal civil engineering requirements and, with the exception of the trench for
the ocean cable and the sea earth, is outside the scope of the handbook.
It should be noted that the significant properties and their accuracy's for these zones are
based on normal practice, and that not all zones may be present for a given system. In some
cases fewer, or additional properties may be required and/or the accuracy's may be different.
Also the available equipment for the survey may not be able to meet the accuracy's given.
Hence prior to the carrying out of the survey, agreement must be reached on the significant
properties and accuracy's required for the system so that the survey team can effectively
carry out its work.
6.2.2 Shore Site - Beach.
The significant properties for the beach area of the shore site are given in table 6.2.2(a) with
their accuracy's in table 6.2.2(b).
The surface topography, surface obstacles, beach material type, its properties and stability
Page 50
are related to the ability to operate heavy equipment on the beach during installation for
cutting the trench for the ocean cable and pulling the ocean cable ashore.
The subsurface topography, obstacles and buried metal ( pipelines, ocean cables ) determine
the route for the cable trench, if it is being considered to be used to bring the cable ashore,
and whether the ocean cable can be anchored to bed rock or will require a beach anchor to
prevent it from being pulled down the beach by wave action and sediment transport.
If a pipe installed by using directional drilling is being considered to be used to bring the
cable ashore, then the subsurface rock strata will need to be determined.
Material transportation by the wind and wave action, storm frequency, intensity and tidal
reach are related to changes in the surface topography of the beach and hence the depth
needed for the cable trench and possible requirement for additional protection for the ocean
cable, such as split pipes, if the rock base of the beach can be exposed.
Beach usage for both recreational and/or commercial functions will affect the cable route
across the beach, depth of the cable trench, need for additional protection against
interference, and installation.
Topography and obstacle accuracy's ( vertical and horizontal ) are set by the form of
construction work to be done ( e.g. trenching ) and are well within the capabilities of normal
surveying equipment. Bearing strength is normally identified to nearest lbf/square foot for
tracked or wheeled vehicles.
Table 6.2.2(a)
Significant Properties for Beach Area of Shore Site.
_______________________________________________
Surface
Relief Topography
Obstacle height and location
Normal tidal range
Changes Material stability

Material transportation
Storm frequency and intensity
Storm tidal reach
Beach mass
Deposit Material type and properties
Subsurface Subsurface topography

Buried obstacle depth and location
Buried metal depth and location
Usage Recreational
Commercial
_______________________________________________
Page 51
Table 6.2.2(b)
Accuracy of Significant Properties for Beach Area of Shore Site.
Property Accuracy
__________________________________________________
Tide level 1 foot - 0.3 meter
Surface topography - vertical 1 foot - 0.3 meter
Surface topography - horizontal 1 foot - 0.3 meter
Surface obstacle height 1 foot - 0.3 meter
Surface obstacle location 1 foot - 0.3 meter
Subsurface topography - vertical 1 foot - 0.3 meter
Subsurface topography - horizontal 1 foot - 0.3 meter
Buried object depth 1 foot - 0.3 meter
Buried object location 1 foot - 0.3 meter
Material bearing strength 1 lbf/sq. foot -

0.05 kP
__________________________________________________
6.2.3 Shore Site - Inshore and Nearshore.
The significant properties for the inshore and near shore areas of the shore site are given in
table 6.2.3(a) and their accuracy's in table 6.2.3(b).
The seafloor topography and characteristics are related to the likelihood of ocean cable failure
by abrasion due to current and wave action. Three types of seafloor conditions are considered
for the inshore and near shore areas, namely (1) rock, (2) sediment and (3) obstructions.
In case (1) either bedrock or permanent boulders dominate the seafloor and have the highest
potential for cable abrasion. Because of this, the relief of the seafloor topography must be
known. The cable route must be selected so that the amount of permanent relief that must be
removed is minimal. In some areas underwater blasting is not allowed, further complicating
the selection.
For case (2) the sediment bottom covers the rock on the seafloor. Topography is significant but
because it can change due to currents and wave action, the relief does not have to be known to
the level needed for case (1). The cable route must be selected to avoid as much as possible the
highs and lows that would have to be excavated or bridged. Additionally the sub-bottom
topography must be known as the possibility of the sediment being eroded away exists and
hence exposing the rock bottom and producing a case (1) situation. The potential for this must
be estimated from the elevation difference between the seafloor profile at greatest accretion
Page 52
and greatest erosion, the lowest predictable profile being the more important. This elevation
difference is called the thickness of the sweep zone. If this thickness is less than the
thickness of the sediment layer, the rock will never be exposed to abrade the ocean cable. If
greater, then the situation must be re-examined giving consideration to the date at which
seafloor topography was done. Unfortunately the estimation of the thickness of the sweep zone
is difficult due to the unpredictability of bottom sediment movement, making judgment and
experience necessary. Alternatively, if the sediment depth is very great, then consideration
must be given to the effect on the ocean cable due to the possibility of it sinking deep into the
bottom.
Case (3) involves natural or man-made obstacles which are on the surface of the seafloor or are
buried in it. The obstacle height/depth and location must be known so that plans can be made
to circumvent, span or remove them. The buried obstacles include metallic objects such as
pipelines and other ocean cables, which must be avoided, if possible, in the sweep zones.
Water motion which may contribute to cable abrasion by moving the ocean cable are currents,
waves and tides, Current speed can have several effects, if high enough it can move the cable
and, if used, its protection ( split pipes ) if unrestrained; it can cause sediment
transportation either burying the cable, undercutting it leaving suspensions or expose the
rock bottom; if currents are less than 11 knots marine organisms can attach themselves to the
ocean cable and its protection; high velocities can cause changes in corrosion mechanisms;
currents of over 1 knot prevent divers from working. Current direction affects the magnitude
of the forces on the cable. Tides cause substantial currents. Also the tidal height must be
known for bathymetry correction.
Wave height and direction are related to surge forces on the ocean cable and its protection.
Storms produce the critical condition of waves so their frequency and intensity are required.
Trawling and shipping traffic in the area can cause cable failure from anchoring and bottom
trawls. Earthquake and icebergs represent hazards in areas of occurrence.
Corrosion of ocean cables may cause failure. Properties affecting corrosion are dissolved
oxygen content, pH, current velocity, temperature, depth and biofouling.
Accuracy of the bathymetry for topography is determined by the sound speed, which in turn
is a function of temperature, depth and salinity.
The ability to use divers at the shore site is determined by underwater visibility, current
speed, temperature and water depth. In addition, dangers from biological hazards must be
known so measures can be taken to reduce the risk from them to a minimum.
The type and characteristics of the seafloor materials is required to determine methods of
removal of relief ( e.g. blasting, suction dredging ); ability of divers to walk on the seafloor
without slipping; probability of sediment movement by waves and currents; the ability of
tracked vehicles to be supported on the seafloor; the ease of excavating a trench and the
ability of the trench to remain open.
The seafloor topography accuracy is determined by the seafloor type. For a case (1). rock
bottom, the accuracy in based on using split pipe protection which is 3 feet - 0.9 meters long
between joints and can swivel up to 15 degrees ( U.S. pattern split pipe ). Two conditions are
considered for determining the accuracy. The first is bridging a sharp edge crevice. If the
crevice is wider than a single pipe section, the joints will be flexed and point loads imposed
on the split pipes at the edges of the crevice. consequently, a crevice of 3 feet - 0.9 meters or
less can go undetected and not adversely affect the installed cable,and its protection. The
second condition is a sharp ledge. If the height of the ledge is too large the joints of the split
Page 53
pipe will be fully flexed and impose point loads. For the pipe this offset is of order 0.8 feet -
0.25 meters, hence a 1 foot - 0.3 meters is required for vertical accuracy.
The case (2), sediment covered bottom, does not need as high a level of accuracy as the ocean
cable can be buried in the bottom to avoid suspensions and also the shape of the bottom will
change under current and storm action.
The case (3), bottom with obstacles, has the same requirement as for the case (1) bottom, hence
the same accuracy.
In order to ensure the topography can be measured to the above accuracy's, the tidal
corrections that must be applied must also be of the same accuracy.
Temperature in the inshore and near shore areas can be measured to 2o F ( 1o C ) with simple
equipment and is adequate for bathymetry sound speed corrections ( max. error of 0.2 feet -
0.06 meters in 100 feet - 30 meters depth with 15o C and 35o /oo salinity conditions ),
estimation of corrosion potential and diver time in water.
Salinity accuracy is also based on bathymetry sound speed corrections, though actual salinity
range in sea is such that measurements are only required if substantial fresh water enters the
sea near the shore site.
The accuracy of properties related to corrosion, pH and dissolved oxygen content are based on
metallurgical practice.
Current velocity accuracy of 0.5 knots is based on the minimum increment that causes
noticeable effects with the range of 0 to 2 knots being of most importance. Direction angle
accuracy is based on determining the normal component of current to a cable to 0.5 knots in a
2 knot current.
Wave period is normally identified to nearest second, similarly wave height to nearest foot.
The direction from which waves come is observable by eye using a hand compass to nearest 5
degrees, sufficient to determine direction of surge forces on cable given accuracy for current
direction being substantially less.
Underwater visibility accuracy is based on divers perception.

Page 54
Table 6.2.3(a)
Significant Properties for Inshore and Nearshore Areas of Shore Site.
_______________________________________________
Water
Surface Tide level

Wave period, height and direction
Storm frequency and intensity
Traffic
Icebergs
Column Current direction and speed
Dissolved oxygen content
pH
Water temperature
Salinity
Underwater visibility
Biological hazards
Bottom
Relief Seafloor topography
Seafloor obstacle height and location
Changes Thickness and extent of sweep zone
Earthquake potential
Seafloor
Deposits Rock
Sediment type and properties
Sediment temperature
Sub-bottom
Sub-bottom topography
Buried obstacle location and depth
Buried metal location and depth
_______________________________________________
Page 55
Table 6.2.3(b)
Accuracy of Significant Properties for Inshore and Nearshore Areas of

Shore Site.
Property Accuracy
____________________________________________________
Tide level 1 foot - 0.3 meters
Seafloor topography - vertical

Case (1) and case (3) bottom 1 foot - 0.3 meters
Case (2) bottom 5 feet - 1.5 meters
Seafloor topography - horizontal

Case (1) and case (3) bottom 3 feet - 0.9 meters
Case (2) bottom 25 feet - 7.6 meters
Seafloor obstacle height 1 foot - 0.3 meters
Seafloor obstacle location 3 feet - 0.9 meters
Sub-bottom topography - vertical 1 foot - 0.3 meters
Sub-bottom topography - horizontal 3 feet - 0.9 meters
Buried object depth 1 foot - 0.3 meters
Buried object location 3 feet - 0.9 meters
Wave period 1 second
Wave height 1 foot - 0.3 meters
Wave direction 5 degrees
Current speed 0.5 knots
Current direction 15 degrees
Dissolved oxygen content 1.0 ml/1
pH 0.5
Water temperature 2o F ( lo C )
Salinity 10o/00
Underwater visibility 1 foot - 0.3 meters

____________________________________________________
Page 56
6.2.4 Continental Shelf and Slope.
The significant properties for the continental shelf and slope are given in table 6.2.4(a) and
their accuracy's in table 6.2.4(b).
Topography on the continental shelf and slope is required for determining a suitable cable
route from the shore site out to the deep ocean, along the coast or out to an array site, avoiding
hazardous features such as submarine canyons and valleys, obstacles both natural and man-
made, and areas where cable suspension may occur such as cliffs and very rough bottoms. Also
the topography is required for determining actual bottom distances along the cable route and
angles on sloping sections of the bottom so that slack required during laying and actual ocean
cable lengths can be calculated. Sound velocity measurement ( or temperature profile ) is used
to provide corrections to bathymetry.
Currents, including tidal currents and turbidity currents, and sediment movement both from
currents and gravity, can have several effects on the ocean cable. If the current speed is high
enough it can abrade the ocean cable on the bottom, or move the sediment either burying the
cable or undercutting its leaving suspensions or exposing the rock bottom. Downslope
sediment movement, caused by currents or gravity, can cause the ocean cable to be stretched
resulting in suspensions or breaking. Earthquake potential in areas of occurrence can also
cause major down slope sediment movement.
Trawling can cause cable failure from bottom trawls. Icebergs represent a hazard in areas of
occurrence.
Obstacles, including metallic ones such as pipelines or other ocean cables, either on the
seafloor or buried constitute a hazard that must be avoided, if possible.
The type of seafloor deposits determines if the ocean cable and the electronic housings will sit
on the surface of the seafloor or sink into it, whether on sloping areas of the seafloor the ocean
cable and electronics housings will have a tendency to slide down the slope, and the effect of
currents such as sediment movement or abrasion on rock.
The water temperature at the seafloor is required for ocean cable attenuation calculations and
electronics ( repeaters, etc. ) performance calculations. In addition sub-bottom temperatures
are required if the ocean cable and housings may sink significantly into the sediments or will
be buried.
Sub-bottom topography shows the depth of sediments, possible features that may be of a
hazardous nature to the ocean cable, and if burial is to be carried out, the type of burial
equipment required, or areas in which available burial equipment can be used.
Horizontal position accuracy's for topography are governed by the nature of the bottom with
higher accuracy's in areas of severe topography and obstacles to ensure that they will be
avoided during laying. Vertical accuracy's ( bathymetry ) are set by the need to show bottom
roughness and other small scale features, to accurately measure severe topography and for
pressure effects on the ocean cable.
Temperature accuracy is nominal, suitable for ocean cable attenuation and electronics
performance calculations. Due to fluctuations that occur on most continental shelves, a higher
accuracy would in most cases not be relevant.
Current velocity accuracy is based on the minimum increment that causes noticeable effects
with the range of 0 to 2 knots being of most importance. Direction accuracy is based on
determining component in the direction of the cable track to 0.5 knots at 2 knots current
Page 57
speed.
Table 6.2.4(a)
Significant Properties for Continental Shelf and Slope.
__________________________________________________
Water
Surface Trawling
Icebergs
Column Current speed and direction

Bottom temperature
Sound velocity
Bottom
Seafloor obstacles
Changes Sediment movement

Turbidity currents
Earthquake potential
Seafloor
Deposits Rock
Sub-bottom
Buried obstacles location and depth
Buried metal location and depth
Sediment temperature
__________________________________________________
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Table 6.2.4(b)
Accuracy of Significant Properties for Continental Shelf and Slope.
Property Accuracy
__________________________________________________
Depth ( bathymetry ) 0.001 n. miles
6 feet
2 meters
Position - normal 0.5 n. miles
Position - submarine canyons, valleys, 0.1 n. Miles

severe topography
Seafloor obstacles height 6 feet - 2 meters

( relative to seafloor )
Seafloor obstacle location 0.1 n. miles
Sub-bottom topography - vertical 6 feet - 2 meters

Sub-bottom topography - horizontal 0.1 n. miles
Buried object depth 6 feet - 2 meters

Buried object location 0.1 n. miles
Temperature 1o F ( 0.5o C )

__________________________________________________
6.2.5 Deep Ocean.
The significant properties for the deep ocean are given in table 6.2.5(a) and their accuracy's
in table 6.2.5 (b).
Topography in the deep ocean is required to determine a suitable cable route between the
continental slopes at each end of the system, or between the array site and the continental
slope off the shore site, avoiding possible hazards to the ocean cable such as steep slopes,
cliffs and other small scale features including rough bottoms. In areas of the deep ocean where
the cable route must cross mid ocean ridges or trenches, the topography is used to determine
the safest route. In addition, the topography is required for determining the actual bottom
distances along the cable route and angles on sloping sections of the bottom so that slack
required during laying and actual ocean cable lengths can be calculated. Sound velocity
measurement ( or temperature profile ) is used to provide corrections to the bathymetry.
Page 59
Earthquake potential and slope stability are used to assess possible routes through high risk
areas such as trenches and mid-ocean ridges.
The type of ocean floor deposits determine if the ocean cable and electronics housings will sit
on the surface of the ocean floor or sink into it, and on sloping areas, the tendency of the ocean
cable and electronics housings to slide down the slope.
Water temperature at the ocean floor is required for ocean cable attenuation calculations and
electronics ( repeater, equalizer, etc. ) performance calculations. Sub bottom temperatures are
required if the housings may sink significantly into the bottom sediment. In addition, water
temperature can indicate the presence of volcanic activity, such as on mid-ocean ridges.
The existence of Benthic storms along a section of the cable route in the deep ocean is used to
determine the risk of cable failure and the possible need for additional slack, particularly in
low slack systems.
Horizontal position accuracies for topography are governed by navigation system accuracies,
normally satellite navigation systems for primary position fixes. Vertical accuracy (
bathymetry ) is set by the need to show bottom roughness and other small scale features, and
for pressure effects on the ocean cable.
Temperature accuracy is nominal, suitable for electronics performance calculations and

attenuation calculations for ocean cables in most systems, On very long systems, temperature
accuracy should be set to allow cable loss deviations due to random variations to be of order
0.03 dB per 100 n. miles ( includes manufacturing variations, errors in sea bottom
temperature and pressure, and measuring error ).
Table 6.2.5(a)
Significant Properties for Deep Ocean.
_________________________________________
Water
Column Bottom temperature

Sound velocity
Bottom
Relief Ocean floor topography
Ocean floor roughness
Changes Earthquake potential

Slope stability
Benthic storms
Ocean floor
Deposits Rock
Sub-bottom Sediment temperature

_________________________________________
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Table 6.2.5(b)
Accuracy of Significant Properties for Deep Ocean.
Property Accuracy
_________________________________________________
Depth ( Bathymetry ) 0.001 n. miles

6 feet
2 meters
Position - normal 0.5 n. miles
Position - trenches and mid-ocean ridges 0.1 n. miles
Current speed ( Benthic storms ) 0.5 knots

_________________________________________________
6.2.6 Array Sites.
The significant properties for ( acoustic ) array sites are given in table 6.2.6(a) and their
accuracy's in table 6.2.6(b) for deep or offshore sites and table 6.2.6(c) for shallow inshore
sites.
Seafloor topography for array sites is used for determining the positions of the sensors to
provide the required performance, cable routes between sensors and between sensors and the
route to the shore site, and actual distances along these cable routes for cable length
calculations. Sensor positions and cable route selection also requires knowing the position of
obstacles so that they may be avoided. Sound velocity measurements ( or temperature profile )
is used to provide correction to bathymetry.
Currents and sediment movement constitute hazards for the sensors and ocean cables that
must be assessed and either avoided or allowed for.
Currents, seafloor type and properties, and sub-bottom topography are used to determine the
design parameters for ocean cables, electronic housings, sensor platforms and vertical arrays.
The water temperature both at the seafloor and in the water column ( if vertical arrays are
used ) is required for ocean and electromechanical cable attenuation calculation and
electronics ( repeaters, multiplexers, etc. ) performance calculations.
Sound velocity ( and temperature ) profiles are required for acoustic calculations to determine
array site characteristics. Sound propagation measurements for a check for acoustic
calculations and for possible anomalies that may exist on the site.
Storm frequency and intensity are related to operational use of the array site, and installation
planning. Similarly, traffic in the site area will also affect the operational use. Both will also
affect the levels of background noise.
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The background ( ambient ) noise levels determine the effectiveness of sensors and sound level
requirements for beacons, pingers, etc. for operational use to ensure effective tracking and/or
measurements. For calibration ranges, background noise levels are critical in determining the
ability of the site to be effective.
Horizontal accuracies for topography and obstacles is based on the need to show small scale
features that may cause problems for sensors platforms and ocean cables, and for
repeatability during installation. The accuracy is for the site only - not necessarily in
relation to the global position as the site may be surveyed using an underwater transponder
navigation system, particularly if in deep water and not near the shore. Vertical accuracy's (
bathymetry ) are set by the need to show bottom roughness and other small scale features,
particularly in the areas where sensor platforms may be installed, and for pressure effects on
ocean and electromechanical cables and sensors.
Temperature accuracy is primarily set by its effect on sound velocity for bathymetry and
acoustic calculations, and to a lesser extent by performance calculations for ocean and
electromechanical cables and electronics.
Current velocity accuracy is based on the minimum increment that causes noticeable effects
with the range of 0 to 2 knots being of most importance. Direction accuracy is based on
determining component in the direction of a cable track or sensor axis to 0.5 knots at 2 knots
current speed.
Sound speed accuracy is set by accuracy for bathymetry in a typical depth for a deep array
site ( 3300 ft. - 1000 meters ).
For shallow inshore sites, particularly calibration ranges, the accuracy's are based on those
for the inshore and near shore areas of the shore site, which are essentially similar in nature.
Page 62
Table 6.2.6(a)
Significant Properties for Array Sites.
_________________________________________________
Water
Surface Storm frequency and intensity

Traffic
Column Current speed and direction

Bottom temperature
Temperature profile
Sound velocity profile
Background ( ambient ) noise levels
Sound propagation
Bottom
Seafloor obstacles
Changes Sediment movement
Seafloor
Deposits Rock
Sub-bottom
Buried obstacle location and depth*
Buried metal location and depth*
______________________________________________
* Shallow water sites.

Page 63
Table 6.2.6(b)
Accuracy of Significant Properties for Array Sites ( Deep and/or Offshore ).
Property Accuracy
___________________________________________________
Seafloor topography - vertical 0.001 n. miles
6 feet
2 meters )
Seafloor topography - horizontal 0.002 n. miles
Obstacle location 0.002 n. miles
Sub-bottom topography - vertical 6 feet - 2 meters

Sound speed 10 fps ( 3 m/s )
Background ( ambient ) noise level 1 dB
Sound propagation 1 dB
___________________________________________________
Page 64
Table 6.2.6(c)
Accuracy of Significant Properties for Array Sites ( Shallow Nearshore ).
Property Accuracy
___________________________________________________
Seafloor topography - vertical 1 foot - 0.3 meters
Seafloor topography - horizontal 3 feet - 0.9 meters
Seafloor obstacle height* 1 foot - 0.3 meters
Seafloor obstacle location 3 feet - 0.9 meters
Sub-bottom topography - vertical 1 foot - 0.3 meters

( relative to sea floor )
Sub-bottom topography - horizontal 3 feet - 0.9 meters
Buried object depth 1 foot - 0.3 meters

( relative to sea floor )
Buried object location 3 feet - 0.9 meters
Tide level 1 foot - 0.3 meters
Temperature 2o F ( lo C )
Sound speed 10 fps ( 3 m/s )
Background ( ambient ) noise level 1 dB
Sound propagation 1 dB
___________________________________________________
6.2.7 Cable Burial.
The significant properties for cable burial are the same as for the continental shelf and slope,
given in table 6.2.4(a). The accuracy's however, for some of the properties along the burial
route are substantially higher and these are given in table 6.2.7(a).
The use of the significant properties varies depending on the type of burial system to be used.
Topography has the additional requirement, along with seafloor deposit bearing strength, of
determining areas where the seafloor unit of the burial system can operates and hence
possible cable routes.
The seafloor deposits and their properties and their depth also determine the capability of the
Page 65
burial system to operate effectively.
The higher positional accuracy's result from the need to be able to accurately define the
burial route and hazards and to allow repeatability during installation.
Table 6.2.7 (a)
Accuracy of Significant Properties for Cable Burial ( Along Burial Route ).
Property Accuracy
_____________________________________________________
Depth ( bathymetry ) 0.001 n. miles
6 feet
2 meters )
Position 0.002 n. miles
Seafloor obstacle height 1.5 feet - 0.5 meters

Seafloor obstacle location 0.002 n. miles
Sub-bottom topography - vertical 1.5 feet - 0.5 meters

Buried object depth 1.5 feet - 0.5 meters

Buried object location 0.002 n. miles

_____________________________________________________
6.3 Survey.
6.3.1 General.
The survey gathers, collates, and analyzes the information on the significant properties in the
zones covering the proposed cable route(s) and sites for the system. This information is used
for feasibility and risk assessment, determination of the final cable route(s) and site layouts,
and to provide the engineering data required for the system design and installation.
The survey is done in two parts, the desk,survey and the field survey. From the desk survey
the original possible cable route(s) and site layouts formed in the project initiation and
development of the system specification are refined, as much as possible, to form the proposed
Page 66
cable route(s) and site layouts on which the field survey is based.
6.3.2 Desk Survey.
The function of the desk survey, is to obtain all the available information relating to the
possible cable route(s) and sites. The information obtained during the project initiation and
development of the system specification provide the base. To this is added, if available, more
detailed information centered on the possible cable route(s) and sites. This more detailed
information can come from the same sources as used in the project initiation and development
of the system specification, but should include hydrographic offices, oceanographic research
bodies, cable companies, weather bureaux, and maritime agencies ( for traffic and trawling
activities ).
As this information is collected, it is cross checked to determine its accuracy and assembled
into a form giving the significant properties and their accuracy's in each of the zones for the
possible cable route(s) and sites.
The second stage is to determine what other ocean cable systems, if any, are in the area
covered by the system. For systems in use or laid by companies still operating, plotting sheets
of the cable routes are normally available. For systems in use, access to the laying and repair
data records is essential as charts may differ from the actual situation. For older systems,
historical records can be consulted, though their accuracy must be considered suspect.
During the desk survey, investigation of the following should be done:
a) Coordinates and description of any triangulation stations.
b) Available electronic navigation systems ( e.g. Differential GPS ).
c) Location of primary and secondary geographical control sites.
d) Visits to local authorities at landing site(s), representatives of industries, such as fishing,

shipping, petrochemical.
e) The availability of possible rights of way between shore sites and other centers.
f) Identification of permits, licenses, and other regulatory items.
g) Investigation of environmental and cultural aspects.
h) The requirements for environmental impact statements.
i) Identification of all sources of risk to system and location of potential hazardous areas,
such as seismic activity and submarine volcanism.
j) Seafloor morphology and geology.
k) Oceanography and meteorology.
l) Human activities, such as mineral extraction, oil and gas fields and their pipelines, fishing
areas and type of trawls used.
m) Location of other cables, ranges, etc., even if not in operation.

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6.3.3 Determination of the Proposed Cable Route(s) and Site Layouts.
At the completion of the desk survey, the information should be sufficient to allow
determination of the proposed cable route(s) and site layouts, on which the field survey will
be based. If this information is not sufficient, some limited field survey work will have to
done first.
The determination of the proposed cable route(s) and site layouts is done using the following:
a) The system specification.
b) The possible cable route(s) and site layouts from the project initiation.
c) The significant properties determined in the desk survey.
d) The presence of other ocean cable systems in the area of the cable route(s) and sites, with
consideration being given for repair operations. Normal separation between ocean cables on
the deep ocean floor is 15 to 20 n. miles with proportionately less in shallower water, but not
less than 4 times the water depth.
e) The separation between ocean cables in the system if there are more than one ocean cable.
The normal separation may not be practical for a system such as a deep water range, requiring
consideration to be given to possible repair procedures.
f) Where it is necessary to have cable crossings the following should be observed:
i) Repeaters should be at least three time the water depth from the crossing, which will
ensure that the repeater can be recovered without endangering the other cable(s) at the
crossover point.
ii) If the crossing occurs close to a branching unit, then the branching unit should be
at least four times the water depth away from the crossing.
iii) The branching leg should have a separation of at least four times the depth of water
from the crossing. This allows for a cutting drive, a holding drive and buoying of the
cable.
iv) If possible multiple cables should cross at one point, both to reduce the number of
cable crossings, and to reduce the length of sterilized or unrecoverable cable in deep
water if a fault occurs.
g) Consideration must be giver to alter course points in the cable path. Typically in shallow
water, less than 100 meters, the alter course points should not be closer than 0.13 n. miles
apart. In deeper water depths, alter course points should not be closer than two times the
water depth apart. The positioning of alter course points near a narrow corridor for the cable
to pass between two seabed features should be avoided if possible, but, if necessary, care
should be taken to ensure that a sharp alter course is not done as there is the potential for
cutting corners and placing the cable into the hazard. Also in an alter course, the cable will
not follow the ships course, but will tend to fall inside the turn.
h) Alter course points should be kept to a minimum, particularly in shore ends. For burying
cable the maximum alter course is limited to 15o, and for normal laying 20o.
i) Seafloor should be sandy or muddy, with avoidance of a rocky bottom if possible.

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j) Steep slopes, greater than 20o, should be avoided, as should crossing steep slopes.
k) The length of plowing, trenching, or external protection should be kept to a minimum due to
high cost and time. Plowing on steep slopes should be avoided.
l) The cable armor type along the cable must have adequate strength for repair operations.
f) The site and cable route selection criteria ( Section 3.4 ).
g) The effect of the ocean floor characteristics ( Sections 5.1 to 5.6 )
h) The failure history of ocean cables in areas that the cable route(s) will pass through (
Section 5.8 ).
Once the proposed cable route(s) and site layouts are decided, charts covering the cable
route(s) and sites are prepared. Normal practice is to lay the proposed cable route(s) out in
long straight courses, as it is the function of the field survey to determine the need for a finer
structure. To aid navigation, the end points of these courses should be tabulated for Mercator
sailing calculations for use with plotting sheets. Where cable burial is considered necessary,
the section(s) of the route(s) where it is to be carried out must be shown.
If a selection between ocean cable routes and sites is to made from the survey results, charts
must be prepared for each of the alternatives.
Charts may be electronic or paper, whichever is the more suitable.
6.3.4 Field Survey.
6.3.4.1 Preparation.
The preparation for the field survey consists of two phases, The first phase is the arranging
for the ships and equipment to carry out the field survey. The second phase is the detailing of
the work to be done and the setting up of the required facilities.
Arrangements for ships to carry out the survey work should start as soon after the project
initiation as possible and be finalized during the scheduling of the project. This early start is
required because most suitable ships are committed to long term programs. Suitable ships for
oceangoing survey work are hydrographic ships, oceanographic ships and cable ships. Many
cable ships are now fitted with excellent integrated navigation systems and equipment to
measure the significant properties, as well as having a crew experienced in field survey work,
making them a first choice.
For near shore and shallow water survey work, boats or landing craft of about 60 to 100 feet -
18 to 30 meters overall length are most suitable.
Once the ships have been selected, an assessment of their capabilities to measure the
significant properties along the cable route(s) and at the sites must be made. If necessary, the
additional survey equipment needed to allow the ships to effectively carry out their part of
the field survey must be either bought or arrangements made to hire it in the survey period.
Plans to fit this equipment and approval should be completed as soon as the equipment fit is
known. Similarly, any other equipment needed for use on the shore should be arranged for.
Page 69
The second phase of the preparation for the field survey begins once the proposed cable
route(s) and site layouts are determined. The amount of information on the significant
properties, and its accuracy, along the cable route(s) and at the sites is assessed to determine
what field survey work is to be done to bring this information to the level needed for
assessment of risk factors and feasibility and to provide the engineering data for system
design and installation, and if applicable, to allow selection between alternative cable routes
and sites.
From this assessment, a requirement for the field survey is produced. This details the areas to
be surveyed and the positions along the cable route(s) and at sites where certain properties
are to be measured, It must also define the accuracy of measurement for all the significant
properties-in the various areas. The requirement must be flexible enough to allow
modification during the field survey to allow for unexpected features, etc.
Generally for shore sites, the underwater area to be surveyed is defined as a broad corridor
extending from the beach out to a depth at which the effect of wave action on the bottom is
minimal, typically 100 feet - 30 meters depth. A typical survey area is shown in figure
6.3.4.1(a)
Harbor
Rocky
West
Cove
33o N
Survey
area
10 3
15
30
118o 35 W
Fig. 6.3.4.1(a) Typical survey area for inshore and near shore
survey of shore site.
Page 70
The area to be surveyed for array sites, such as ranges, should not only cover the operating
area but extend sufficiently beyond to cover any adjacent major features that may affect the
operation of the site.
Along a cable route the area to be surveyed may be restricted to a narrow band along the
proposed cable route when information is good, or extend a substantial distance out on either
side when information is poor or suspected to be inaccurate. Typical of these latter areas are
the edge of the continental shelves that are canyoned, and mid-ocean ridges and trenches.
Once the areas to be surveyed are defined, the navigation system to be used in each area must
be determined. If a general purpose system, such as satellite ( GPS ) or radio ( eLORAN ) is
suitable, then any special information that may be required can be obtained from the relevant
bodies. If a system must be set up specially, such as Differential GPS, then site(s) must be
found on the shore to ensure effective cover of each area where it is to be used. For underwater
navigation, the setting up and calibration of the acoustic transponders is done by the survey
ship when working on the site.
6.3.4.2 Planning.
The planning for the field survey is relatively straightforward. It consists primarily of
scheduling the ships and survey teams to carry out the survey work in the areas covering the
system and ensuring that specialized equipment and navigation systems are available when
required. The major factor on the scheduling is weather, and allowance must be made for
delays or possibly changing the sequence of the work to accommodate adverse weather.
Normal practice is to begin the field survey in those areas which have the greatest effect on
the system, such as shore sites and array sites, and those areas where information on the
significant properties is poor. Any necessary modifications to the proposed cable route(s) and
site layouts can then be made before completing the rest of the field survey.
If a selection between alternative cable routes and/or sites must be made from the survey
results, two approaches to planning the field survey can be taken. The first is to fully survey
all the alternatives and make the selection at the completion of the field survey. The second
approach is to split the field survey into two or more stages, firstly carrying out the field
survey of the alternatives, analyzing the results and making the selections, and then
completing the rest of the field survey work, This is the more effective approach if the
alternatives are restricted to some areas of the system only.
6.3.4.3 Procedures.
6.3.4.3.1 Overview.
The procedures for the field survey are given for the different zones along the cable route(s)
and for array sites. A given system may have some or all of these zones, depending on its
configuration. Even though these zones are presented separately because of their different
significant properties, accuracies and procedures to measure them, the field survey is
essentially continuous with the results from each zone being married to those of the adjoining
zones along their boundaries.
For each zone the procedures are broken down into groups of significant properties measured
in conjunction with one another, or requiring similar operations. Navigation is presented
separately as it is common to most measurements.
Page 71
6.3.4.3.2 Shore Site.
6.3.4.3.2.1 General.
The function of the field survey of a shore site is to find a suitable location for the terminal
building, and any other buildings, and a route for the ocean cable(s) from the terminal
building out to water depths below wave action that has the least risk of damage to the ocean
cable(s) and that requires the minimum additional construction and/or cable protection. In
addition, a suitable location for the ocean ground, either on the shore or in the water, must be
found and the method for landing the cable end(s) determined, either directly from the cable
ship or if the water is too shallow to allow the cable ship to get close to the shore, by barge or
lighter.
The field survey of a shore site begins with making observations over a period of time to
determine the effects of weather, wave action, and usage on the area. This is normally followed
by an electromagnetic survey to determine possible interference effects on the system. Finally
the site is surveyed in detail. A shore site normally covers a relatively small area and for the
surveying purposes it can be considered as three regions; the land area where the terminal
building, and any other buildings, are to be built, and the strip of land along which the ocean
cable(s) will run between the terminal building and the beach; the beach, that is the area
above high tide extending up to the land mass; and the underwater region, the inshore and
near shore, extending out from the beach to depths where the effect of wave action on the
bottom ceases to be significant, typically 100 feet - 30 meters depth.
6.3.4.3.2.2 Observation.
Observation of a shore site can provide a substantial amount of general information that can be
integrated into the more detailed survey analysis. To be most effective, observation of a
possible shore site should begin as soon as possible after it is selected in the project
initiation.
Observation should cover the following:
a) Use of the beaches inshore and near shore areas, including recreation and commercial use.
b) Water runoff from surrounding land, over the beach, and the erosion effects caused.
c) Change in the shape of the beach due to-storms and wind erosion.
d) Direction, period and height of waves during normal and storm conditions.
e) Changes in the inshore area, such as formation of sand banks and rip currents.
f ) In higher latitudes, the formation of sea ice along the beach and occurrence of icebergs.
g) Marine life activity ( e.g. seals )
The observation must be done on a regular basis, giving consideration to including periods
with heavy storms and precipitation, to cover the environmental effects on the site fully. In
remote areas the observation can form the only base of general information about a possible
shore site, while near civilization, it provides a check on information gained by inquiry.
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6.3.4.3.2.3 Electromagnetic Survey.
In shallow water and where it crosses the land to reach the terminal building, the ocean cable
is exposed to electromagnetic radiation, and some degree of pickup by the conductors in the
ocean cable must be expected even in balanced conductors such as twisted pairs and quads, as
they are not perfect in form. Determination of the frequency and levels of the electromagnetic
radiation must be carried out to determine if shielding must be incorporated into the ocean
cable, or other measures taken to allow the system to perform effectively.
The first stage in the survey is to determine possible sources of electromagnetic radiation in
the vicinity of the shore site, and their characteristics. Sources include power grids, radio
stations, television stations, NAVAIDs, etc. Future developments must also be determined, as
a quiet area may become noisy. From these, a table of expected frequencies and levels can be
developed.
The second stage is to carry out field measurements at the shore site. Measurements are made
across the frequency bands of interest to determine firstly the frequencies and their levels,
and, if possible, the direction of the source of these frequencies, given that the source may be
a point source ( e.g. radio station ) or a line source ( e.g. power lines ). For frequencies in the
normal radio spectrum, a radio receiver with a calibrated strength meter can be used, with an
omnidirectional broad band antenna for frequency and strength measurements, and a normal
D/F set for direction. The receiver is swept through the required bands and the frequency and
strength of any sources recorded either manually or if available, automatically. The direction
of each source is then determined using the D/F set. For frequencies below the normal radio
bands, an antenna such as a coil with a wide band amplifier ( e.g. DC to 100 kHz ) and a
spectrum analyzer of suitable bandwidth can be used if no suitable equipment is available,
however calibration of this system may be difficult. At these low frequencies, D/F is not
generally practical and direction of sources may have to be found by inspection of the
surrounding area or by inquiry. As for the first stage a table of electromagnetic radiation is
compiled.
In order to ensure that all possible sources are found, the minimum period over which
measurements are taken should be 24 hours. If intermittent sources exist ( e.g. NAVAIDs )
then arrangements must be made to measure them when they are operating.
Hence from these two stages, information on existing and possible or future sources of electro
-magnetic radiation that could affect the operation of the system is assembled for use in
system design and assessment of risks.
6.3.4.3.2.4 Land Area.
The survey work for the terminal building, and any other buildings, follows normal civil
engineering practice, and as such is outside the scope of the handbook.
The two parts of the land area survey that are outside the above are the cable route from the
terminal building to the beach, and the ocean ground, if situated on the shore. Normal practice
is to bury the ocean cable(s) in a trench between the cable vault in the terminal building and
the beach. Similar protection is provided for the ocean ground cable and electrodes.
Alternatively a pipe installed by directional drilling can be used to bring the cable shore.
The initial survey work for the cable route and the ocean ground can be done at the same time
as for the buildings, as it requires the same equipment and methods. This provides contour
maps and distribution of soils and/or rocks on or near the surface.
From the initial survey and onsite examination. a suitable route must be found for the ocean
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cable trench, if used, giving consideration to the following factors:
a) The material that must be removed to form the trench ( e.g. soil, rock, sand, boulders ) and
the difficulty of doing so.
b) The stability of these materials, particularly in in sloping areas and areas of water runoff.
c) The need for anchoring the ocean cable(s) on any steep sloping sections of the route.
d) The chemical nature of the materials in the trench area and possible water borne
substances ( ie. from runoff, water table ) that may have long term detritus effects on the
ocean cable(s).
e) The need for tunneling or boring under major obstacles such as roads.
f ) The location of power cables, both overhead and buried, to ensure that the trench does not
run parallel to them.
g) The need for special construction to handle obstacles such as cliffs.
h) The need for additional protection for the ocean cable(s) in areas such as under unmade
roads ( e.g., split pipe ).
In addition the trench route must also conform to normal ocean cable limitations including:
i) Minimum bending radius.
j) Avoidance of point suspensions.
If the ocean ground is to be situated on the shore, then a suitable area must be found that
meets the requirements for ocean grounds ( Appendix A ), some distance away from the ocean
cable route. This requires ground resistivity to be measured at one or more possible locations
to determine if an effective ocean ground can be installed. If this is not possible then the
alternative method is to place the ocean ground in the sea connected to the terminal building
by a suitable ocean cable running in the same trench as the other ocean cables.
The last stage once the route for the cable trench is finalized ( and for the ocean ground if
onshore ) is to determine the type of equipment required to form the trench in order to
provide the input for the final planning of the installation.
If a pipe installed by using directional drilling is to be used to bring the cable ashore, then
consideration needs to given to the following factors:
a) The structure of the rock strata between the terminal building and the point offshore where
the cable will emerge needs to be determined, to assess whether if it is possible to drill the
borehole to take the pipe and that the borehole will be stable, i.e. does not go through a fault
line or unstable formations, and the need to case the borehole.
b) That is possible to get the drilling rig to the site.
c) The effect of the drilling if the terminal building is in a built up area.
d) The ability of divers to work in the offshore area during the drilling and cable installation.
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6.3.4.3.2.5 Beach.
The field survey of the beach covers two requirements, the determination of the cable route
across the beach from the land to the sea, and the access to the beach for equipment required
during installation. If a drilled in pipe is used for the cable, then this survey may not be
required.
In evaluating possible cable routes across the beach, consideration must be given to the
following factors:
a) Suitable cable routes in the land and underwater areas of the shore site.
b) The material that must be removed ( e.g. sand, pebbles, boulders, rock ) and the difficulty
of doing so.
c) Provision of effective anchoring of the ocean cable by rock bolts into bed rock or by a beach
anchor.
d) Ensuring that the ocean cable(s) will remain buried even when the beach is at its most
severely eroded state.
e) The need for additional protection ( e.g., split pipes ) for the ocean cable(s), both from
erosion and man.
In addition, the cable route must conform to the normal ocean cable limitations including:
f) Minimum bending radius.
g) Avoidance of point suspensions.
To determine the depth to which the ocean cable(s) must be buried to prevent exposure from
erosion due to storm action, the state of the existing beach compared to that at the most severe
erosion must be estimated ( this is similar to the sweep zone thickness in the inshore and near
shore area ). This is done from the desk survey results, local inquiry and the observation of
the beach. Because the beach profile may change before installation is done, a reference datum
from which burial depth along the route is determined must be established during the survey,
normally situated on the land.
The first stage of surveying the beach in to determine the existing surface topography and the
size and location of surface obstacles, pipelines, etc., in the area where the ocean cable(s) will
cross the beach. Next the type of material forming the surface of the beach ( e.g. sand, gravel,
pebbles, rock ) and its properties are determined. The bearing strength can be measured by
standard civil engineering equipment while stability can be assessed by inspection and by
ability of holes dug in the beach to retain their shape.
The subsurface topography and size and location of buried obstacles are difficult to determine
other than by point measurement. The depth of the beach surface material can be determined
by probing, using hand corers or if necessary, by powered augers. Alternatively, holes can be
dug by hand. These methods will also give an indication of the presence of buried obstacles.
Because of the work involved, this is normally limited to points along the expected route.
If the beach is composed of rock, or has large rock areas, then samples should be taken to
allow determination of the properties to determine suitable trenching methods. The detection
of buried metal, such as pipelines and other ocean cables, can normally be done using hand
held metal detectors.
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After a suitable route across the beach has been found, the method of anchoring the ocean
cable(s) to prevent them from being dragged down the beach must be determined. If bedrock
exists near the land, rock bolts can be used, otherwise a beach anchor will be required. This
requires digging down into the beach next to the land, to a depth of at least 4 to 5 feet - 1.2 to
1.5 meters, to determine if bed rock exists and is strong enough to be used.
The last stage is to determine the type of equipment required to form the trench across the
beach and for landing the cable end, in conjunction with the access to the beach for this
equipment. This also provides the input for final planning of the installation.
The equipment for forming the trench for the ocean cable(s) is determined by the beach
material properties, the amount of material to be removed and the ability of the beach to
support trenching equipment, The equipment for landing cable ends is determined by the
method to be used ( Volume 5, Chapter 20 of the Handbook ).
If access from the land to the beach is available ( the preferred option ), then a suitable route
must be found and the level of construction required to make it usable determined. If access is
from the sea, then a suitable area for the landing vessel to beach must be found using
information determined during the observation of the beach and from the inshore and near
shore field survey.
6.3.4.3.2.6 Inshore and Nearshore.
6.3.4.3.2.6.1 Navigation and Position Fixing.
Navigation in the inshore and near shore area for boats is normally by Differential GPS, giving
an accuracy of better than 0.001 n. miles. Plotting can be by hand on a chart, or preferably by
processing the navigation fixes and outputting them on a plotter.
The position fixing of divers on the bottom can be done using Differential GPS. The divers use
a single float with enough line to reach the surface at the deepest depth being worked. At the
positions to be fixed, the diver stops, plum the float and give a previously established signal (
e.g., four pulls on the float ). A small boat, such as a Zodiac, then runs up to the float and
takes a fix on its Differential GPS. When done the boat crew signals the diver by tugging on the
float.
6.3.4.3.2.6.2 Biological Hazards.
Biological hazards to divers may be present during the field survey and cable installation.
Information on these hazards both from marine animals and plants should be found during the
desk survey. Sources include local inquiry to professional divers and diving clubs, as well as
marine biologists. If the information is not otherwise available, a reconnaissance survey must
be done prior to the main underwater field survey work at the shore site.
Marine animals that can be a hazard are of two general types: those which produce wounds and
those that inflict stings. Marine animals that produce wounds include sharks, barracuda,
grouper, moray eels, killer whales, seals, sea lions, barnacles, mussels and clams. Marine
animals that inflict stings include jelly fish, corals, octopuses, cone shells, sea urchins,
stingrays, venomous fishes and sea snakes. Identification of the presence of these dangerous
marine animals will reduce the hazards to divers working at the shore site.
Among the marine plants that could be a hazard, the giant Kelp predominates. These plants
often attain a length of 100 feet - 30 meters or more, rising from the seafloor with floating
blades and air bladders. The main danger to divers is entanglement. Some seaweeds also
produce dermatitis. During the field survey the presence, distribution and density of Kelp
beds should be determined.
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6.3.4.3.2.6.3 Measurement of Significant Properties.
The measurement of the seafloor topography is primarily done using a boat fitted with a
suitable echo sounder ( mounted on the bottom of the boat or towed ) and a towed side scan
sonar. To provide correction to the bathymetry for tidal variation, a tide gauge must be
installed in the beach area.
Because of the width of the side scan sonar coverage in relation to the size of the inshore and
near shore area, complete coverage can normally be gained with a few runs, up and down or
across the area. A limitation on side scan sonars used for shallow water is that they must be
towed at a constant depth, thus limiting the boat to remain beyond the surf zone, However, if
the boat makes a run parallel to the shore at a distance about equal to the one side lateral
range of the side scan sonar, typically 0.1 to 0.2 n. miles, a reasonable amount of information
on the seafloor topography in the surf zone can be obtained.
The spacing of runs to determine the bathymetry depends on the nature of the seafloor. If
relatively smooth then the spacing can be relatively large, though close enough to provide the
required accuracy. As the seafloor becomes more severe, the spacing must be reduced. As for
the side scan sonar, the bathymetry is limited to outside the surf zone.
The sub-bottom topography outside the surf zone can be determined using a towed sub-bottom
profiler. The spacing between the runs is determined by the same factors as for the
bathymetry, however it may be necessary to carry out some initial runs to provide a guide to
the nature of the sub-bottom topography. Measurement in the surf zone is at best difficult.
One method is to mount the sub-bottom profiling transducer on a sled and pull it through the
surf zone from the beach out to sea and back, along tracks covering the area of interest. This
requires a suitable smooth bottom and light surf. Position of the sled is determined from the
amount of tow wire out and its bearing or from a staff mounted on the sled. High accuracy in
determining the sub-bottom profile in the surf zone should not be anticipated.
In addition to topography, the side scan sonar, the echo sounder and sub-bottom profiler
provide information on obstacles, pipelines and cables on or buried in the bottom. If sub-
bottom obstacles, pipelines or ocean cables are known to exist, or are expected, the spacing of
runs and their direction may have to be selected so as to ensure that the position of the
obstacles, pipelines or ocean cables can be adequately defined. Further examination of the
seafloor, obstacles, pipelines and ocean cables can be done by divers using underwater
photography, jet probes and metal detectors.
Determination of the thickness of the sweep zone is extremely difficult. The thickness of the
sediments at the time of the field survey can be determined from sub-bottom profiles and by
divers using a jet probe. Using the information obtained on waves during the observation of the
beach and from local inquiry, the extent of the sweep zone can be estimated from the limit
depths given in table 6.3.4.3.2.6.3(a). From this information a judgment must be made on the
present situation of the sediment thickness and then an estimate made of the thickness of the
sweep zone. Determination can be improved if it is possible to conduct several measurements
over a period of time covering changing bottom conditions.
Measurement of the characteristics of bottom deposits can be done using corers deployed from
the boat to take samples, and by using divers to measure bearing strength and shear strength
of sediment in situ. For rock bottoms power driven corers can be used with positioning on the
bottom being done by divers.
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Table 6.3.4.3.2.6.3(a)
Calculated Limit Depths for Design Wave Conditions.
Wave Significant wave Wave Depth

condition height ft.-meters period sec. ft. - meters
___________________________________________________________
1 6 - 1.8 6 11.6 - 3.5
2 8 - 2.4 6 14.7 - 4.5
3 8 - 2.4 8 16.0 - 4.9
4 10 - 3.0 8 19.4 - 5.9
5 10 - 3.0 10 20.5 - 6.3
6 12 - 3.7 10 24.1 - 7.3
7 16 - 4.9 10 31.0 - 9.5
8 12 - 3.7 12 25.1 - 7.7
9 16 - 4.9 12 32.3 - 9.8
10 20 - 6.1 12 39.6 - 12.1
___________________________________________________________
Data is for sand type bottoms and limit depth is for seasonal onshore-offshore transport cycle.
Water temperature at the bottom can be taken by divers, and sea water properties can be
determined from samples taken from the boat or by divers. As requirements for ocean cable
route surveys are not as stringent as for oceanography, simple measurements can be made on
water samples. Salinity can be estimated with a hydrometer, pH with a small meter and
dissolved oxygen content from temperature, as in the near shore and inshore water dissolved
oxygen can be considered to be at saturation level.
Currents can be measured using a recording current meter installed and recovered by divers.
The unit should be situated at a depth below significant wave action to prevent possible loss.
Visibility can be measured by transmissiometers of by observation by the divers using
targets.
6.3.4.3.2.7 Charts and Drawings of the Shore Site Cable Route(s) and Ocean
Ground.
On completion of the field survey work, charts and drawings of the recommended cable
route(s) and ocean ground arrangement are prepared. General charts of the inshore and near
shore areas normally have an eastings and northings grid for reference and show seafloor
topography with depth contours at 5 or 10 foot - 1.5 to 3 meter intervals, and small scale
features obstacles, pipelines, other ocean cables and bottom deposit types that may present a
risk to the system. The scale varies depending on factors such as the size of the inshore and
near shore area and level of detail, but, common scales used are 1:1000, 1:5000, and 1:10000.
The charts showing the recommended cable route(s) and the ocean ground ( if in the sea ),
normally show only depth contours, reference grid, and areas along the route where additional
protection is required ( split pipes ) or where burial can be done. The section of the cable
route(s) over the beach and land is normally included for reference. These charts may also be
in electronic form.
Drawings of the land and beach sections of the cable route(s) and ocean, ground ( if onshore )
are done to standard civil engineering practices. Those showing the cable route(s) and ocean
ground are of similar form to the charts but also include anchoring arrangements.
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The geological/sub-bottom profile along the recommended cable route(s) and ocean ground
extend from the cable vault in the termination building out to the seaward edge of the near
shore area or the ocean ground electrode(s). The depth of the profile below the surface/
seafloor must be sufficient to show any feature that may affect the ocean cable(s), construction
of the trench or cable burial. Normal scale is 1:300 ( 1 inch = 25 feet ), or 1:250.
6.3.4.3.3 Continental Shelf and Slope.
6.3.4.3.3.1 General.
The function of the field survey of the continental shelf and slope is to complete the
information on significant properties that will allow the determination of a suitable cable
route ( or routes ) between the shore site and the deep ocean, or if the system does no go into
the deep ocean, along the continental shelf and slope. If the ocean cable is to be buried, the
survey forms the basis for the following cable burial route survey.
Because of the higher rate of failures of ocean cables in this zone, particular attention must be
given to possible hazards to the ocean cable both from natural features and activities due to
man.
6.3.4.3.3.2 Navigation.
The primary navigation system for the continental shelf and slope is GPS or eLORAN, with
Differential GPS or Wide Area such as WAAS, being the preferred option.
6.3.4.3.3.3 Measurement of the Significant Properties.
The measurement of the seafloor topography is normally done first due to its importance on
the cable route. Sub-bottom topography is normally done at the same time, in order to save
time and allow easier correlation of data with seafloor topography. The normal method is to
use a narrow beam stabilized echo sounder for the bathymetry, though in water depths under
330 ft. - 100 meters a normal echo sounder can be used and will give reasonable results in
most cases. A side scan sonar is used to provide information on the seafloor on either side of
the track. A sub-bottom profiler is used to determine sub-bottom topography, often mounted
in the same tow body as the side scan sonar. Corrections to bathymetry due to sound velocity
variation can be obtained from temperature profiles using XBT's. In some cases salinity may
have to be measured by taking samples of the surface waters to provide further corrections (
e.g., near the mouth of a large river ). In shallower water depths, tidal corrections may also be
necessary.
The width of the area to be surveyed on either side of the proposed cable route(s) on the
continental shelf and slope can vary from a relatively narrow strip in areas of good
information on topography, to a wide strip in areas of poor information or severe topography,
such as submarine canyons or rock outcroppings. In some cases it may be necessary to expand
parts of the area to be surveyed in order to find the most suitable route or routes.
The distance between tracks needed to cover the survey area is determined by the width of the
side scan sonar coverage in most cases. However, in areas of severe seafloor or sub-bottom
topography, the distance between tracks is set by the need to adequately determine the
features using the echo sounder and sub-bottom profiler.
On completion of the runs to determine the topography, charts are prepared shoving the
seafloor topography with depth contours at 60 feet - 20 meter intervals, small scale features,
obstacles, pipelines, other ocean cables, etc., that may present a risk to the system. Normal
scale for the charts of the continental shelf and slope is 1:50000.
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The proposed cable route(s) on the continental shelf and slope are then examined to determine
if any major revisions are required due to the seafloor and sub-bottom topography, obstacles,
pipelines, other ocean cables etc., before commencing runs to measure the other significant
properties. Also evidence of bottom trawling, such as otter board scours, in the survey area
should be considered in determining possible revisions to the cable route(s) or the need for
burial.
The significant properties measured at points along the cable route(a) are bottom water and
sediment temperature, nature of the seafloor and bottom currents. The points at which
measurements are taken along the proposed or revised route(s) are located sufficiently close
together to provide information on possible changes. In areas of expected rapid change, some
properties could be measured at points as close as 1 n. mile apart, while on sections with
little change, the distance could be 10 to 20 n. miles.
Temperature is measured with equipment deployed using an oceanographic winch. The nature
of the bottom is determined using corers and grabs for samples into the surface layers and
dredges for samples of the surface material, and bottom photography for fine scale observation
both to assist analysis of side scan sonar output and where sampling may not be practical or
provide sufficient information by itself, ROV's can also be used for observation and light
sampling, and are particularly useful for looking for evidence of bottom trawling.
The measurement of bottom currents on the continental shelf and slope is normally done using
a rig consisting of floatation, recording current meter, acoustic release and anchor weight. The
rig is laid at the required point, left for a period of time, typically 24 hours and then
recovered. Current measurements are made at points where currents are expected, such as on
rocky bottoms swept clear of sediment and where sediment shows the action of currents ( e.g.
ripples ), and also at sufficient points to allow an effective picture of possible currents to be
built up.
On the continental shelf it will be necessary to take bottom water and sediment temperature in
summer and winter to determine seasonal variation. Also if the current structure changes
during the year, additional temperature and current measurements may be required to cover
the effect of the changes.
6.3.4.3.4 Deep Ocean Floor.
6.3.4.3.4.1 General.
The function of the field survey of the deep ocean floor is to complete the information on the
significant properties that will allow determination of a suitable cable route ( or routes )
across the deep ocean or out to a deep array site.
The primary navigation system for the field survey of the deep ocean floor is GPS or eLORAN.
In some areas a Wide Area system, such as WAAS, can be used. The GPS and eLORAN has an
accuracy of order 0.005 n. miles and can provide continuous position fixing.
When working near the continental shelf and slope, position matching with the navigation
system used for that zone must be done to ensure continuity of information.
6.3.4.3.4.3 Measurement of the Significant Properties.
The measurement of the deep ocean floor topography is normally done first due to its
importance on the cable route(s). The normal method is to use a narrow beam stabilized echo
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sounder or a stabilized multibeam echo sounder for the bathymetry, and a deep towed side
scan sonar to provide information on either side of the track. Correction for the bathymetry
due to sound speed variation can be obtained from temperature profiles of the upper layers of
the ocean using XBT's, as the upper layers are the cause of most variations. ( If the survey ship
is fitted with a water column profiling unit, a full surface to ocean floor velocity profile can
be obtained at one or more points later on in the field survey of the deep ocean floor, for
additional corrections. )
The width of the area to be surveyed on either side of the proposed cable route(s) on the deep
ocean floor is normally relatively narrow and may require only one run along the proposed
cable route. However, in areas such as trenches and mid-ocean ridges, it may be necessary to
expand the area to ensure that the most suitable route is found. In deep trenches, the side
scan sonar may not be able to be used and bathymetry runs must be done close enough to
provide the necessary fine detail ( for narrow beam echo sounder ). Also if unexpected bottom
features that may pose a risk to the system are found during a run, then the area being
surveyed should be expanded to allow possible selection of a revised route to avoid the risk
area.
If more than one run is required to cover the area of the ocean floor to be surveyed, the
distance between the runs is set by the width of the side scan sonar or multibeam echo
sounder coverage, except as noted above. Normally the first run is down the proposed cable
route with other runs down each side until the full area is covered.
On completion of the runs to determine the topography, charts are prepared showing the ocean
floor topography with depth contours at 300 feet - 100 meter intervals, and small scale
features such as cliffs, that may present a risk to the system. Normal scale for charts of the
deep ocean floor is 1:250000 with 1:125000 for areas with more severe features such as
trenches and mid-ocean ridges.
The proposed cable route(s) on the deep ocean floor are then examined to determine if any
major revisions are required due to the topography before commencing runs to measure the
other significant properties. If necessary, the points at which measurements are to be made
are also revised to allow for any changes in the cable route(s).
The significant properties measured at points along the proposed or revised cable route are
bottom water and sediment temperature, and the nature of the ocean floor.
The points at which measurements are taken along the proposed, or revised, cable route(s) are
located sufficiently close together to provide information on possible changes. In areas of
expected rapid change, the points could be as close as 10 n. miles apart, while on an abyssal
plain they could be 100 n. miles apart.
Temperature is measured with equipment deployed using an oceanographic winch. The nature
of the bottom is determined using corers and grabs for sampling and bottom photography for
fine scale observation, both to assist analysis of side scan sonar output and where sampling
may not be practical or provide sufficient information by itself ( Rock bottom is not normally
sampled in the deep ocean floor zone ).
The measurements of currents on the deep ocean floor is not normally done unless there is
evidence from the side scan sonar output or bottom photography indicating possible
significant bottom currents. The normal rig for current meter for the deep ocean floor consists
of floatation, recording current meter, acoustic release and anchor weight. The rig is laid at
the required point, left for a period of time, typically 24 hours and then recovered. Areas in
which currents might be expected are on rises between islands. The measurement of currents
in Benthic storms will entail the placing of the equipment on the ocean floor in an area
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expected to be subject to Benthic storms and leaving it for sufficient time to record such a
storm, given their unpredictable nature. This equipment is not readily available and estimates
of currents must be made from the oceanographic research done on Benthic storms.
6.3.4.3.5 Array Sites.
6.3.4.3.5.1 General.
The function of the field survey of array sites ( for calibration ranges or tactical ranges ) is to
complete the information on the significant properties that will allow determination of the
arrangement of the sensors and connecting ocean cables, and acoustic characteristics of the
site, For non-acoustic arrays sites other specified measurements must be taken instead of, or
in addition to, the acoustic ones, to provide the required information.
The field survey of array sites differs from normal ocean cable field surveys in that firstly a
relatively large area of the bottom covering the array site and any adjacent features that may
affect its usability must be surveyed, not just for the ocean cable routes, but for suitable
sensor sites and acoustic modeling; and secondly, the water column above this area of the
bottom is also surveyed over an extended period to ascertain its acoustic properties and their
variation.
For shallow water sites, it will also be necessary to carry out an electromagnetic survey, as
described in section 6.3.4,3.2.3, to ascertain any possible interference effects on the system.
If the shore site and the array site are reasonably close, a single electromagnetic survey
should suffice for both.
The majority of array sites are situated near land and for surface navigation GPS or eLORAN
are used, with Differential GPS or Wide Area, such as WAAS, being the preferred option.
On deep water sites where the position of underwater survey systems is required, an acoustic
underwater navigation system can be used. This system is positioned using the primary
surface navigation system as the reference.
6.3.4.3.5.3 Measurement of Significant Properties ( Group I ).
The first group of significant properties covers those which are essentially constant with
time, including the sea floor topography and obstacles, seafloor deposits and their properties,
the movement of seafloor sediments, sub-bottom topography, and in shallow water sites,
buried objects and buried metal.
For shallow water sites of less than 100 feet - 30 meters depth, the survey methods are the
same as for the inshore and near shore areas of the shore site, as described in section
6.3.4.3.2.6.
For sites in deeper water, the measurement of the seafloor topography is normally done using
an echo sounder for the bathymetry and a side scan sonar to provide information on the
seafloor on either side of the track. A sub-bottom profiler is used to determine the sub-
bottom topography, often mounted in the same tow body as the side scan sonar. The sub-bottom
profiler also provides information on buried obstacles and buried metal.
In water depths over 100 meters a narrow beam stabilized echo sounder or stabilized
multibeam echo sounder is required to provide the necessary accuracy for the bathymetry.
Correction to bathymetry due to sound speed variation is particularly important and in
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shallower water, tidal corrections may also be necessary. To provide sound speed corrections
in deeper water, at least one full sound speed profile from the surface to the seafloor should
be taken between bathymetry runs, while a temperature profile in shallower water may be
sufficient ( typically depths down to 660 ft. - 200 meters ).
General practice is to lay out the proposed survey tracks in a grid network in order to
adequately cover the site area and the surrounding area. The distance between tracks is
normally determined by the width of the side scan sonar or miltibeam echo sounder coverage,
however in areas of severe seafloor topography, or sub-bottom topography, the distance
between tracks-is determined by the need to adequately define the features using the echo
sounder and/or sub-bottom profiler.
On completion of the runs to determine the topography, charts are prepared showing the
seafloor topography with suitable depth contours, typically for shallow water sites of 10 feet -
3 meter intervals, and for deeper water sites 60 feet - 20 meter intervals, along with small
scale features and obstacles. Chart scale can vary from 1:250 for shallow water calibration
ranges to 1:50000 for large deep water tactical ranges.
Significant properties measured at points where sensors are proposed are the nature of the
deposits forming the seafloor and their characteristics. The nature of the deposits is
determined using corers and grabs for sampling and bottom photography for fine scale
observation, both to assist analysis of the side scan sonar output particularly for areas of
possible sediment movement, and when sampling may not be practical or provide sufficient
information by itself. Bearing strength of the sediments can be determined using
penetrometers or shear vane equipment. ROV's can also be used for observation and for taking
samples and bearing strength measurements.
6.3.4.3.5.4 Measurement of Significant Properties ( Group II ).
The second group of significant properties covers those which vary with time, that is in most
cases the properties of the water column covering the site. To provide the necessary
information to predict short and long term variability of the significant properties, a series of
measurements spread over a minimum period of a year is essential. This second group of
measurements may be carried out before, after or in conjunction with the first group, as is
most suitable. ( Section 3.20 of Volume 2 of the General Notes provides more detailed
information. )
For sites in deeper water, each series of measurements includes temperature, sound velocity
and salinity profiles, currents and ambient noise. If considered necessary, one series may
also include sound propagation measurements to check the acoustic modeling calculations. On
sites covering a large areas measurements should be taken at several points to ensure that any
variation over the site is determined.
The temperature, sound velocity and salinity profiles are done using a water column profiling
unit deployed from an oceanographic winch. The profiles must extend from the surface to the
seafloor to ensure that seafloor water temperatures are measured for use in the system design.
Salinity is included to allow determination of the source of water in the current structure to
aid analysis of causes of variations.
Short term variation of the surface layers ( i.e., the mixed layer ) can be measured using XBT's
dropped over periods of one or more days at set points during each series. It should be noted
that the variability in the depth of the mixed layer, its temperature profile and internal waves
and other fluctuations is not readily defined and measurements provide a guide only to their
range.
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Current measurements fall into two categories; surface and near surface, and mid-water and
bottom. Surface and near surface are normally measured with window blind current drogues,
monitored by the survey ship. Mid-water and bottom currents are normally measured using a
rig consisting of flotation, recording current meters mounted at the required depths, an
acoustic release and anchor weight. The rig is laid at the required points, left for a period of
time, typically 24 hours, and recovered.
Ambient noise can be measured near the surface using a drifting buoy containing either a tape
recorder or telemetry transmitter, an amplifier and batteries with the hydrophone suspended
below the surface at the desired depth using a soft suspension to remove effects of the buoy
motion. The measurement period should extend over 24 hours though it may be necessary to
recover and redeploy the buoy if it drifts outside the site area.
The measurement of ambient noise in mid-water and near the bottom can be done using a
subsurface taut moored buoy system. The rig includes an electronics housing, normally
mounted under the buoy, containing a tape recorder, electronics and batteries, an
electromechanical cable forming the moorings an acoustic release/beacon at the bottom for
recovery and an anchor weights. The hydrophone units are mounted at the required positions
along the electromechanical cable, feeding their signals up the cable to the recording system.
If horizontal directivity is required, two hydrophones mounted at the ends of a horizontal rod
and a compass unit can be used instead of a single hydrophone. For vertical directivity, two
hydrophones can be mounted on the electromechanical cable separated by a short distance.
The acoustic release/beacon unit is used to position the mooring during laying in conjunction
with an acoustic underwater navigation system. This system requires care in its deployment
and recovery, and the need for special equipment to handle the taut moor.
If measurements on the bottom are required then a bottom mounted array can be laid by a
cable ship with real time analysis done on the cable ship.
If acoustic propagation measurements are required, then the measuring system can be
essentially the same as for the mid-water, near bottom and bottom ambient noise
measurements. For the moored system, after the mooring is laid, the survey ship tows an
acoustic source of appropriate frequency ( e.g. the beacon frequency to be used on the range )
along radial tracks out from the mooring. On completion of the runs, the mooring is recovered
and the data analyzed to give propagation loss with range and bearing. The mooring is
normally positioned at one ( or more ) of the proposed sites for the sensors. For the bottom
mounted array, a second ship is required to tow the sound sources while measurements are
made on the cable ship.
For shallow water sites, the measurement of the significant properties is less demanding and
they are normally limited to the temperature profile, currents and ambient noise.
The temperature profile can be done using XBT's or in very shallow water, it can be done using
divers. If salinity is expected to vary, then surface samples will normally be sufficient.
Surface and near surface currents can be measured using window blind current drogues,
Currents near the bottom can be measured using recording current meters either installed and
recovered by divers, or using flotation and an acoustic release for recovery.
Ambient noise can be measured using a drifting buoy or a hydrophone laid on the bottom and a
cable run to the shore or to a boat moored fore and aft nearby. Care must be taken if a boat is
used to ensure that it does not add to the ambient noise. The direction of most man-made noise
sources can usually be determined by observation.
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At the end of the series of measurements of the significant properties, the data collected is
analyzed and the results given in two forms, those required for the system design and
installation and associated risk assessment; and those pertaining to the operational
characteristics of the site including its suitability and risk assessment. The latter includes
descriptions of the seasonal and long term variations in significant properties as shown in
figures 6.3.4.3.5.4(a) and 6.3.4.3.5.4(b) for temperature and sound velocity respectively for
the SCARF site.
Winter Summer
200
Average
400
600
Long term
Depth variability
800
(m)
Basin water
1000
1200
1400
4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22
Temperature ( o C )
Fig. 6.3.4.3.5.4(a) Ocean temperature at SCARF site.
Winter Summer
200
400
Average
600
Long term
Depth variability
800
(m)
1000
Basin water
1200
1480 1490 1500 1510 1520 1530
Sound velocity ( m/sec)
Fig. 6.3.4.3.5.4(b) Sound velocity at SCARF site.

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6.3.4.3.6 Cable Burial Route Survey.
6.3.4.3.6.1 General.
The function of the cable burial route survey is to find a suitable route for the ocean cable
burial and to prove the route. In addition, consideration must be given to the capability to
carry out repair operations to the buried ocean cable in the event of a failure. A prerequisite
is the survey of the continental shelf and slope covering the section of the cable route over
which burial is intended.
It should be noted that the procedures described here are for burial over long distances, such
as across the continental shelf. For systems in rivers, bays, inlets or near the shore, such as
calibration ranges, the burial route survey can be done using the methods described under the
shore site survey, the inshore and near shore areas ( Section 6.3.4.3.2.6 ).
6.3.4.3.6.2 Cable Burial Systems.
The field survey for the cable burial route is controlled by the burial system that will be
available for the system installation. Table 6.3.4.3.6.2(a) gives basic information on some
available systems.
The cable burial survey procedures ( and cable burial during installation ) are restricted to
the plows, tractors, and cable repair ROV's.
Navigation for the cable burial route survey requires high accuracy and repeatability. Hence
the primary navigation is normally a Differential GPS or Wide Area system capable of covering
the entire length of the burial route, and the same as will be used in the installation. The
navigation system should be part of an integrated navigation system to provide continuous
track and plotting output. The system should be duplicated for reliability.
6.3.4.3.6.4 Reconnaissance Survey.
In order to find a suitable route for cable burial, the reconnaissance survey must cover the
area from the shore site out to the maximum depth that the ocean cable will be buried for full
cable burial across the continental shelf and slope, or if only a section of the cable route is to
be buried, it must cover an area centered on that section. The boundaries of the area are
determined from the survey of the continental shelf and slope done previously.
The first stage is to build up an accurate description of the area showing topography, sub-
bottom profiles and surface features ( rocks boulders, wrecks, pipelines, ocean cables, etc. ).
Survey equipment typically required consists of an echo sounder ( narrow beam or stabilized
multi-beam ), sub-bottom profiler and side scan sonar. General practice is to lay out the
proposed survey tracks in a grid network in order to adequately cover the area. The distance
between the tracks is set by the width of the coverage of the side scan sonar or multibeam echo
sounder and by the expected topography and features. Navigation accuracy for this stage
should be within 0.01 n. miles.
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Table 6.3.4.3.6.2(a)
Ocean Cable Burial Systems.
System Burial Bottom - Maximum Propulsion Weight

Maximum depth in air
burial depth tons
________________________________________________________________________
Plows During Soft sediments, 0.5 n. miles Towed by up to
laying sand, gravel to 1000 meters cable ship 35
hard clay -
2 ft - 0.6 meters
Jetting During Soft sediments 0.8 n. miles Towed by 30

plows laying sand, gravel to 1500 meters cable ship
hard clay -
6 ft - 1.8 meters
Tractor - Post Soft sediments 0.75 n. miles Self propelled 8+

jetting, laying to hard rock - 1400 meters tracks
chain cutter. 3 ft - 1 meter
rock wheel
cutter
Ship Pre Sand to hard .02 - -

mounted lay rock 40 meters
chain cutter 20 ft - 6 meters
Cable repair Post Soft sediments 1.34 n. miles Self propelled up to

ROV's laying to soft clay - 2500 meters thrusters 5
jetting 4 ft - 1.2 meters
Manned Post Soft sediments Varies with Self propelled Varies

submer- laying to soft clay submersible thrusters 10.5
sibles
________________________________________________________________________
On completion of the runs and analysis of the data collected, possible routes for burial are
selected. The survey ship then carries out bottom sampling with corers and grabs, and bottom
photography at points along these routes. The bottom samples are analyzed for sediment type,
shear strengths water contents grain size, etc., in the sediment layers down to the depth below
the seafloor that that the ocean cable will be buried, plus a margin for safety ( of order 50% of
the burial depth ). If the burial will require trenching into rock, rock cores will also need to
be taken. The bottom photography provides fine scale detail of the surface of the seafloor
showing features such as ripples in the sediment surface due to currents, biological forms,
etc.
Upon completion of the field work and analysis of the data, a composite three dimensional
description of the area of interest is formed. The description includes vertical and horizontal
distribution of materials, engineering properties of these materials, and detailed
photographic data for discrete areas along the possible routes for burial. From this
description, a route is selected which is optimum for cable burial operations.
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6.3.4.3.6.5 Plow Survey.
The final selection of the cable burial route is done, the plow is towed the selected route
without actually burying any cable. This ensures that the route selected has no hidden
hazards and that the plow is indeed capable of plowing in the ocean cable. Also, this period of
time, usually immediately prior to the actual cable installation, provides a trial period for
both personnel and equipment. If difficulties are found then the route may have to be changes
slightly or the impediment removed.
Navigation accuracy to ensure the necessary repeatability needed to plow the same route is
0.001 n. miles.
As this phase occurs during the installation, it strictly is not part of the survey, but is
included here, as well as in the installation chapter for completeness.
6.3.4.3.6.6 Survey for Cable Repair ROV's used for Cable Burial.
This is essentially the same as for the plow. The ROV would be driven along the route and the
ability to carry out burial is typically checked at points along the route, rather than
continuously to reduce wear on the ROV's equipment.
6.4 Final Cable Route and Site Layout.
The last phase of the cable route and site survey is to determine the most feasible layout for
the cable route(s) and sites, carry out the risk analysis, present the required engineering data
in the form required for system design and installation, and provide the documentation
required for environmental impact statements.
The information from the desk and field surveys is assembled and carefully analyzed, section
by section, against the system specification. If alternative cable routes or sites exist after the
completion of the field survey, the selection between them is made. In the case of the system
having ocean cable burial along part or parts of the cable route(s), then the field survey will
have finalized the cable route(s) in these areas. Similarly, the cable route(s) at shore sites
will have been finalized on the land and beach areas, if not in the inshore and near shore areas
as well. For systems that include an array site ( e.g. tracking or calibration range ), then the
final arrangement of the sensors is determined before the cable routes are finalized.
The proposed or revised cable route(s) which normally consist of long, straight courses are
broken down into shorter ones between angle points, known as alter course points, to form the
final cable route(s), and are laid out in the Route Position List(s). These shorter courses are
determined by the significant properties, primarily topography, to produce a cable route or
routes of least risk within the constraints of feasibility factors, such as cable length and cost.
The final cable route(s) also include the shore site(s) up to the terminal building.
The total route length is determined first by scaling the distance between alter course points,
and more precisely, by Mercator sailing calculations. These calculations are normally done
independently by more than one person to ensure accuracy and to avoid errors. A profile of
the ocean floor along the finally selected cable route(s) is drawn based on the topography data
obtained during the surveys. The profile is usually drawn to a vertical/horizontal scale
distortion of 50:1 to make relief stand out clearly and reduce the total length of the profile
chart. Figures 6.4(a) and 6.4(b) show a typical cable route section and profile of the ocean
floor. In the area of a shore site a vertical/horizontal profile is normally drawn without
distortion to show clearly the finer bottom features.
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The actual of the ocean cable required is calculated from the total route length ( broken down
into sections between alter course points, or if necessary, shorter lengths ) to which are added
the fill and excess slack. Fill slack is calculated from the actual length of the cable route
along the ocean floor in each section. Excess slack includes a margin of safety and allowance
for repairs. If the cable is plowed in, excess slack is zero. Elsewhere it is determined by
judgment and experience to cover contingencies arising from deviations from course,
unpredictable occurrences during laying of the ocean cable and factors arising from the
accuracy of the ocean floor topography water depth, system specification, repair methods ( ie.
lift bight to surface or cut and lift ends ), nature of the bottom, severe currents and ability to
measure cable distance accurately and sailing distance ( distance along track ). Slack,
including calculations is covered in Part 2, Section 3.9 of the Handbook.
Other data required includes sub-bottom profiles and/ or sub-bottom topography along the
cable route(s) from the shore site(s) out to the continental slope, bottom nature and
properties, bottom temperatures ( water and sediment current speed and direction ), and
possible Benthic storm occurrence. If the system has repeaters, equalizers, etc., then
positions of these determined and shown in form of a Straight Line Diagram.
22o 15 N
10
Koto
Sho
21o N
Skakoto
Sho 804
803
50 802
801
Gadd
Rock
40
21o 30 N
121o E 10 20 30 40 50
122o E
Fig. 6.4(a) Plotting sheet showing cable route with alter course points.
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Page 90
Alter course points

801 802 803 804
0
0.5
Depth
( n. miles ) 1.0
1.5
2.0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Distance along track ( n. miles )
Fig. 6.4(b) Ocean floor profile for cable route shown in figure 6.4(a)
( 10:1 distortion of vertical/horizontal scale ).
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7. Documentation.
This chapter describes the type of documentation normally required during the construction,
installation and operational life of an ocean cable system.
7.1 Overview.
Throughout the construction/installation of an ocean cable system, a range of documentation is

required to ensure the effective design, planning. construction, installation and cost control.
On completion, further ongoing documentation is required to cover the performance and detail
the maintenance and repairs carried out over the system's life.
The following description of documentation is the minimum information required for the cable
route and site evaluation report, detailed system design plan, construction and cable laying
plan, project execution plan, project completion report, operation log and laying data book.
Other documentation may also be required depending on the nature of the system. The
description of the documentation during the project stage is based on that used by the US Navy
with modifications for communications systems. It should be noted that some sections of
information required for array systems are not pertinent for communications systems, and
vice-versa.
The documentation generated is to some respect repetitive, however, this is because they are
either generated during different stages of the project, or are intended for different groups in
the project team.
One of the main uses of this documentation is to provide guidance for the design, construction,
installation and maintenance of future systems. Concise, clear and accurate descriptions and
discussions of the various aspects, including difficulties, will make the future use of the
documentation much easier, such as in future projects of a similar nature.
Documentation may be in electronic or printed form, however it should be recognized that even
though the final form of the documentation may be in electronic form, for the work in the
field, the printed format is more useful and reliable. The notes taken during the work are
generally in personnel notebooks, and often annotations are made on the printed
documentation. At the end of a section of work, if possible, these notes and annotations, and
any other data, are incorporated into the documentation.
7.2 Cable Route and Site Evaluation Report ( CRSER ).
7.2.1 General.
At the conclusion of the cable route and site survey, a report will be required to detail all
information that would affect the design, installations and operation of the system, A typical
outline for the CRSER intended for an acoustic range would be as follows:
a) Introduction.
b) General area and route data.
c) Hydrographic survey.
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d) Oceanographic survey.
e) Acoustic survey.
f) Environmental impact.
g) Operational analysis.
h) Conclusions and recommendations.
For a communications system, the acoustic survey and operational analysis would not be
normally required.
A discussion of each of these topics is given in the following sections.
7.2.2 Introduction.
This portion of the CRSER sets the stage for the entire document. As a minimum, it should
describe the purpose of the survey, the area(s) under investigation, the ships and material
used, the survey team organization, the project management structure, and a brief overview of
the report.
7.2.3 General Area and Route Data.
This section of the CRSER should contain all information pertinent the the cable route and
site(s) that can affect the performance, installation, and maintenance of the system. Typically,
it is divided into three major areas: Environmental, Facilities and services, and Regulatory
and political.
a) Environment. This portion of the CRSER should address the following: general bathymetry,
tides, currents and ice flow, meteorology, seismic activity, biological fouling, ship routes,
commercial cable and pipeline routes, ambient noise levels, and an overview of detailed
hydrographic and oceanographic tasks performed by the survey team. Data should also be
presented that will allow the design team to establish a "weather window" for the installation.
b) Facilities and services, This portion of the CRSER should include detailed information on
facilities and services on or near the cable route and site(s). "Near" has different connotations
and may range from an hour's plane trip for some services to a two day trip by ship from
another port. It is essential, however, that the facilities described include mooring locations,
dockside facilities, hotel accommodations, power availability, repair shops, refueling and
refurbishment areas, hospital locations, and any customer facilities in the areas that could
provide support. Data pertinent to services should include the utilization and talent of local
labor, such as welders, splicers, machinery operators, medical aides, etc.
c) Regulatory and political. This portion may itself determine the feasibility of installing the
ocean cable system. More than on project has been destroyed or severely hampered by local
opposition. In addition, it is necessary to obtain permits and to ensure that all participants in
the construction and installation teams conform to local laws, In some areas, environmental
impact statements will be required in order to obtain permits.
7.2.4 Hydrographic Survey.
Typically, the hydrographic survey should cover the following topics: ships and
instrumentation, large scale exploratory surveys, local area surveys, detailed cable route and
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site surveys, and detailed small boat surveys through the surf zone and shallow water areas.
The importance of defining the ship's navigation equipment and hydrographic instrumentation
cannot be overly stressed. For example, it is worthless to give cable route depths to 1 foot -
0.3 meter accuracy when the instrumentation is only accurate to within 10 feet - 3 meters. In
the same light, the calibration procedure should also be discussed.
7.2.5 Oceanographic Survey.
As a minimum, this section of the CRSER should contain a description of the equipment
calibration procedures and data relative to bottom temperature, bottom sediments ( by jar,
grab or corer ), temperature profiling ( by bathythermograph or Nansen cast ), and sound
velocity profiles. Where possible, this information should be given for seasonal as well as
daily fluctuations.
7.2.6 Environmental Impact.
This section should contain all the information on the impact on the environment of the shore
site, nearshore work, cable routes and, if necessary, the array site. For a communications
system, this will be required for every landing site in the system. Also it should include all
the regulatory requirements of local, state and federal governments. Finally, this information
must be worked to provide the necessary environmental impact statement(s).
7.2.7 Acoustic Survey.
For an acoustic system, this survey should be given ultimate priority. Information which must
be presented in this section includes the survey objective, survey procedures to define
ambient noise and sound transmission paths, and requirements for instrumentation with
regard to arrays, platforms ( ships ), sound source, and navigational aids ( GPS, eLORAN, etc.
). The results should be summarized in graphical format, insofar as possible, to permit their
ready use by project personnel.
7.2.8 Operational Analysis.
In this section, the measured acoustic data ( for an acoustic system ) must be correlated to the
desired performance of the system. A theoretical sound transmission analysis should be
conducted to evaluate sound transmission as a function of source depth, receiver depth,
frequency and season. In addition, ambient noise levels due to traffic, wind, and sea life must
be defined, along with their annual or seasonal variations.
7.2.9 Conclusions and Recommendations.
This portion of the CRSER performs two main functions: it serves as a means of summarizing
the salient features of the report and discusses a recommended preliminary system design.
7.3 Detailed System Design Plan ( DSDP ).
7.3.1 General.
The construction team must prepare a detailed design showing exact cable routes, array
supports, etc. that will meet the system specification. It is essential that the detailed design
be conducted with regard to tradeoffs to ensure that the resulting system will be both
practical and within the projected cost, such tradeoffs include system accuracy versus sensor
location for an acoustic system, A recommended outline for the Detailed System Design Plan
is:
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a) Introduction.
b) Work breakdown structure.
c) Design parameters.
d) System arrangement.
e) Construction equipment requirement.
f) Bill of materials.
g) Suggested fabrication schedule.
7.3.2 Introduction.
This portion of the DSDP should address the purpose of the program, the design preferences of
the procuring activity, and an overview of the report.
7.3.3 Work Breakdown Structure ( WBS ).
The WBS, as used in the DSDP, is an end orientated means of graphically depicting the
hardware, service, and support of the total project. It serves not only to provide a framework
for developing and coordinating the different design functions, but also facilitates the
allocation of budgets and other resources. The level to which the WBS is taken is a function of
the detail required for the design.
Included in the WBS should be provision for design review, problem resolution, and logic of
tradeoff analysis. Section 4.2 and MIL-HDBK-881 provide more detailed information on the
WBS.
7.3.4 Design Parameters.
This section includes data provided by the procuring activity as well as tabulated data from
the CRSER.
a) Specification and constraints. The following data provided by the procuring activity
should be included:
. System constraints dictated by the procuring activity, including a list of applicable

specifications ( Civil, government, military, international, etc. ).
. System data, such as system noise, reliability, and service life.
. Construction system constraints dictated by equipment availability.
b) Design constraints. The design constraints are, to a large extent, a repeat of data from
the CRSER, and should include the following:
. Environmental data,, such as wind, current, and tides.
. Hydrographic data, as necessary, for cable route selection.

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. Oceanographic data, such as thermal structure and bottom composition.
7.3.5 System Arrangement.
This section of the DSDP should describe the design rationale and theoretical approach to
achieving a viable design. As a minimum, it should provide detailed drawings for each of the
following:
a) Array design. This should include assembly drawings and parts lists for the array,
including housings, materials, configuration, anchoring, and handling.
b) Array placement. This should include charts showing positioning, orientation,

numbering sequence, placement tolerance levels, and depth requirements.
c) Cable track. This should contain information with regard to depth, positioning,
numbering, streaming order, strength requirements, ocean cable types, repeaters and
equalizers, bridging, trenching, anchoring, etc.
d) Cable termination. This should describe relative to the conductor, mechanical, and
structural considerations at the array, the cable vault(s), and the shore end(s), the
form of cable terminations to be used.
For a communications system, the requirements for arrays will not apply.
7.3.6 Construction Equipment Requirements.
This portion of the DSDP must address the equipment required to install the system. Topics
included would be ships, shore machinery, support equipment, and stowage requirements. In
addition, this section should discuss cable laying mechanics, forces expected to be
encountered during deployment and retrieval, and means of mooring or restraining ships
during operations.
7.3.7 Bill of Materials.
Utilizing the information from the WBS, a detailed bill of materials should be prepared. This
should be separated into standard sponsor furnished equipment, contractor furnished
equipment, and specially fabricated equipment.
7.3.8 Suggested Fabrication Schedule.
The DSDP should conclude with a PERT type chart showing a recommended construction
schedule. This chart should be complete insofar as it depicts hardware fabrication,
provisioning for spares, ship scheduling, installation scheduling, and test and checkout of
equipment. Major milestones should be carefully detailed.
7.4 Construction and Cable Laying Plan ( CLP ).
7.4.1 General.
The purpose of the cable laying plan is to detail all information necessary for the installation
of the ocean and electromechanical cables. This includes data on cable specifications, ship
loading procedures, cable marking, and cable testing. It should also include information
concerning cable handling limitations, and operational constraints imposed by the ship's
characteristics, as described in section e) of the DSDP, as well as constraints imposed by
environmental impact requirements. Although, for convenience, this report can be combined
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with the DSDP as a single report, it is usually better to produce two separate reports. A
representative outline for the Construction and Cable Laying Plan is:
a) Introduction,
b) Design specifications.
c) Logistic requirements.
d) Ship loading.
e) Array installation procedures.
f) Cable installation procedures.
g) Special considerations.
h) Appendices.
For communications systems, the array installation procedures are not required.
7.4.2 Introduction.
The introduction of the CLP should describe the purpose of the cable system, the purpose of
the CLP, and an overview of the report.
7.4.3 Design Specification.
This section of the CLP sets the stage for the report. Typically, it is divided into three main
sections.
a) Program summary. Contained herein should be an overview of the cabled system

program as it has progressed to date. Included should be an overview of the CRSER,
especially with regard to the "weather window".
b) Detailed system design. This portion of the CLP should describe with the utmost detail
all aspects of the system design. Typically, this is accomplished by a liberal use of
charts and graphs. One convenient method is to draw the cable routes on transparent
overlays that can be placed over a detailed contour map. No crossing of the ocean
cables should be represented on a single overlays but rather on succeeding overlays.
In all cases, cable markings, repeaters, equalizer, buoys and terminations should be
clearly marked.
c) Cable specification. Once the detailed system design has been explained, a detailed
cable specification should be presented, even if standard ocean and electromechanical
cables are being used. This specification must include provisions for:
. Conductor construction ( electrical, optical conductors , dielectrics).
. Mechanical considerations ( strength, diameter, scope ).
. Environmental requirements.
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. Continuity testing.
. Marking.
. Transportation.
7.4.4 Logistic Requirements.
The logistic portion of the CLP must contain detailed lists of material to be installed,
construction equipment, repair equipment, and skilled and unskilled personnel.
a) Bill of materials. The bill of materials should contain detailed item descriptions,
quantity required, spares, manufacturers or sources, and purchase price. It should be
coordinated to a detailed WBS.
b) Shipping instructions. Explicit shipping instructions should be provided for each and
every piece of equipment. Information that should be included covers origin, destin-
ation, packaging, handling, etc. Preferably a PERT type flow chart should be included
to determine critical flow paths of materials.
c) Construction equipment. This portion of the CLP can be considered a "Bill of

Materials" for the construction equipment. It should delineate ships, winches,
handling equipment, cranes, bulldozers, boats for shallow water in inshore areas,
navigational aids, and support aspects required for the project.
d) Personnel requirements. Both skilled and unskilled workers are required for a
satisfactory construction program. These requirements should be tabulated with
regard to category and number ( ie. welders-6. splicers-4. riggers-10, etc. ). In
addition, personnel maintenance requirements, such as training, berthing, messing,
and transportation should be set forth.
7.4.5 Ship Loading.
This portion of the CLP must detail all the factors required for proper ship loading.
a) Supply checkoff list. Supply checkoff lists, correlated to the WBS, help to provide
assurance that all items will arrive at the proper place, and that those items needed
first will be unloaded first. The supply checkoff list should include as a minimum the
following data:
. WBS number.
. Item description.
. Date and port of loading.
. Ship name.
. Date and port of destination.
For cables, the following additional information is required:
. Cable number.
. Cable tank number.

Page 98
. Cable type and manufacturer.
. Cable specification ( e.g. diameter, length, weight, breaking strength, conductor

characteristics ).
. Cable test results.
. Repeater/equalizer numbers and sequence.
b) Cable loading. In the process of loading the cable, the following must be accounted for
and described: loading in cable tanks, loading on winches or drums, fabricating
special holding tanks on deck, etc. An important aspect of cable loading is to ensure
that each end of a section of cable is properly marked, thus negating any possibility of
mismatching the cable/repeater, cable/equalizer, or cable/ array junction. ( See
Section 4 of Volume 3 of the Handbook for more detailed information on cable
loading ).
c) Rigging of major structures. The arrays, stanchions, buoys, and anchors must also be
transported to the site(s). This section should delineate handling precautions, storage
requirements, tiedown procedures, etc.
7.4.6 Array Installation Procedure.
Presented herein should be the detailed information required to accurately place the arrays.
Areas that must be emphasized include:
a) Preparation for deployment. This section should include removal of shipping contai-
ners, electrical checkout, attachment of sacrificial anodes, and the arrangement of
deck equipment.
b) Deployment procedure. Details should be presented in this section on methods of ship

positioning, accounting for cable twist, maintaining proper clearance between the
array cable and lowering line, etc.
c) Instrumentation. This section should tabulate the instrumentation required to monitor

and checkout the equipment and also should include a tabulated list of calibration
methods and precautions in using the equipment.
d) Data recording. The data that must be maintained including array numbering, array
location coordinates, array orientation, array performance relative to specifications,
cable track, laying points for repeaters/ equalizers, etc.
7.4.7 Cable Installation Procedure.
The description of the cable laying procedure should commence by stating at the outset
whether the operation will proceed from ship-to-shore or shore-to-ship. The following
subjects should then be addressed:
a) Handling. Procedures that dictate sheave sizes, tensioning machinery, etc., should be
listed.
b) Deployment. This section should detail the proper streaming rates cable payout rates
bridging of gullies, etc. It is often desirable to generate a detailed track plan for each
cable, or section of cable, such as shown in figures 7.4.7(a) and 7.4.7(b). Special
attention should be given to laying the cable through the surf zone(s).
Page 99
c) Navigational aids. This section of the CLP should detail the specific types of navigation
aids, their accuracy, locations, back-up modes, if any, etc.
d) Termination. Termination should be discussed with regard to maintaining watertight

integrity, deployment, and making conductor connection(s). Specific areas to be dis-
cussed should include the terminal connections at the array, cable vault, shore
facility, repeaters, equalizers, and cable junctions.
e) Immobilization. This portion of the CLP should delineate the methods and materials for
trenching and anchoring the cable ( e.g. split-pipes U-bolts rock bolts ).
f) Instrumentation. The tension meters, payout indicators, etc., should be described with
regard to types use, calibrations and data correlation.
g) Data recording. The data that must be maintained including cable sections cable
marker laying locations repeater and equalizer laying location, cable-to-cable
termination locations etc.
46 soundings
50
in meters
466
0
4670
multiplexer
467
46
0
60
4660 4680
70
array 2 anchor 0 1 2
46
array 1
4680 n. miles
469
4690
0
0
470
0
470
Fig. 7.4.7(a) Typical array and anchor site.

Page 100
soundings in meters
legend: trans: transition

DA: types of cable
40 2 2
8 3
80
60
12 7
16
17
18
12 15
16 14
24
24 1
29 trans
33
18 13 11
DA/RA n. mile
27 23 15
trans
SA/DA
trans
LWA/SA
Fig. 7.4.7(b) Shore end cable.
7.4.8 Special Considerations.
This portion of the CLP should list contingency plans and procedures such as splicing, cable
recovery techniques, and termination repairs, as well as any other supplemental information
essential to maintain the system.
a) Splicing. These techniques should be described with regard to special splicing equip-
ment, waterproofing, verifying the splice, qualification of the splicers, etc.
b) Cable recovery. These techniques should be described relative to cable overlay,

grappling techniques, and cable slipping/lowering after splicing.
c) Termination repairs. This section should describe recovery of the termination point
( cable vaults arrays etc. ), maintaining ship position during the repairs, and repos-
itioning the terminal point.
d) Data recording. The data that must be maintained including splicing verifications
cable recovery location, repairs carried out, etc.
7.4.9 Appendices.
The appendices of the CLP should contain supplemental information to the report. This should
include weather maps to better define the "weather window", shipping schedule, of commercial
traffic in the area(s), location of nearby repair facilities, etc.
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7.5 Project Execution Plan ( PEP ).
7.5.1 General.
The Project Execution Plan is oriented primarily toward the operation personnel. It is
intended to present a logical procedure for the construction and installation of a system.
Whereas the DSDP and the CLP were oriented more toward the technical side or "how to
install" the system, the PEP is meant to be a management document. A recommended outline is:
a) Project description.
b) Responsibilities and interfaces.
c) Work breakdown structure.
d) Construction plan.
e) Schedule and contingency plan.
f) Transportation and scheduling plan.
g) Project support plan.
h) Financial management plan.
i) Project completion plan.
j) Appendices.
7.5.2 Project Description.
This portion of the PEP should completely familiarize the reader with the project status. Each
and every aspect of the project should be stated and explained briefly, but completely.
Summarized herein should be:
a) System definition. This section should describe the function of the system. It should
list the number of arrays, acoustic considerations, operational factors, channel types
and numbers, etc.
b) Site selection. A paragraph should be included to summarize the acoustic, oceano-

graphic, hydrographic surveys that led to the selection of each of the proposed sites.
c) Cable route. Detailed information should be presented in this section on the rational
for selecting the cable route(s). Charts should be included, such as shown in figure
7.5.2(a), with bottom topography, cable mile markers, etc.
d) Acronyms and definitions. To avoid confusion, a table should be included listing all
acronyms and definitions that are used in the report. For example, ILS to an aviator
means instrument landing system, and to management specialists, integrated logistic
support.
Page 102
Commercial
cable
Commercial
cable
MM 130 MM 140
3621 m 2780 m
MM 110 MM 120
MM 90 4509 m 4390 m
MM 60 4399 m RPTR 3
MM 20 MM 40 RPTR 2 N
4554 m MM 100
4710 m RPTR 1 4573 m MM 70 MM 80 4536 m
MM 30 MM 50 4390 m 4591 m
4688 m 4628 m
Array 2
Array 1
legend MM: n. mile marker

m: meters
RPTR: repeater
0 10 20
scale
Fig. 7.5.2(a) Typical track chart.

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7.5.3 Responsibilities and Interfaces.
This section should delineate the responsibilities of all major participants of the ocean
construction project. A recommended format is:
a) Organization listing. Each major participant should be listed ( alphabetically ) in a

chart containing the following information:
. Title of organization.
. Address
. Point of contact ( Name, telephone number, etc.).
. Major function relative to operations.
b) Project organizational chart. Concomitant with the requirement for an organizational

listing is a chart showing the interrelationship of the functions. The organizational
hierarchy should be presented to clearly show reporting and authoritative levels, such
as shown in figure 7.5.3(a).
7.5.4 Work Breakdown Structure.
The WBS is an end item oriented, graphical depiction of the total hardware, service, and
support that comprises the entire project. The work units may be either identifiable products,
data, or services. This section of the PEP should clearly explain the numbering system used
for the particular project. The following topics are representative WBS units, but are not all
inclusive.
a) Onshore work systems. This section should define each work unit and subsystem of the
onshore construction. This would include large items such as the cable vault, and
proceed down to smaller items such as wire rope shackles.
b) Inshore work system. All aspects of the inshore work construction must be defined.
This should include cable buoys, markers, split pipe, etc.
c) Personnel support system. Each person assigned to the construction/installation

project is assigned to a preselected category of the personnel support system. This
would include personnel such as the project execution manager, safety officer,
navigation officers or medical officer.
d) Management system. The management structure must be clearly defined with regard to
reporting and authoritative lines of communication.
e) Training system, A graph should be presented showing all training and test personnel,
their WBS numbers reporting authority, and responsibility.
Project
Page 104
manager
(OICC)
Construction/
Management Design Manufacture
installation
Underwater Navigation
Administration Ocean cable
sub-systems aids/systems
Electro-
Terminal
Planning mechanical Survey
equipment
cable
Analysis Underwater
Procurement Shore site
equipment components
Terminal Terminal
Logistics Cable laying
building /sites equipment
Special Analysis Array

equipment equipment installation
Specialist Special
e.g. acoustics equipment
Quality
assurance
Fig. 7.5.3(a) Project organization chart.

Page 105
7.5.5 Construction Plan.
This section of the PEP must detail the step-by-step construction/installation operation plan.
Typically, it is arranged as follows:
a) Site preparation. Should include a discussion of manpower, equipment, scheduling, etc.
b) Cable vault. Should include drawings showing assembly and details, and charts show-
ing placement and orientation.
c) Cable landing. Should be shown in graphic format similar to that depicted in figure
7.5.5(a).
d) Cable stabilization. Should be shown in graphic format similar to that depicted in

figure 7.5.5(b). Information should be provided on the nature of the land, beach,
inshore, or nearshore areas if trenching is to be carried out, and methods that can be
used or any restrictions that apply ( e.g. no explosive excavation ).
If pipe(s) installed by directional drilling are used instead of beach landing, then
bore hole path(s) and liner ( pipe ) type need to be detailed.
e) Checkout procedures. Should contain details on the instruments, personnel, and

procedures required to verify cable continuity during and after installation.
f) Demobilization. Should be presented with regard to procedures, manpower, and

equipment required for the cleanup and restoration of the site(s).
7.5.6 Schedule and Contingency Planning.
In the event of operational or weather problems, it is necessary to have an alternative

construction/installation plan. This is normally presented as follows:
a) Phases and key elements. All phases of the construction/installation should be delin-
eated in this section. Key elements should be flagged with regard to task, cognizant
authority, and milestone data.
b) Schedule. A graphic format should be presented to define all operations. Critical paths
should be clearly marked.
c) Medical. Medical evacuation plans and onsite facilities should be presented including
trained personnel.
7.5.7 Transportation and Scheduling Plan.
This portion of the PEP should be concerned with the who, what, and where of men and
materials, including:
a) Ship scheduling. Should be coordinated with the master project schedule, individual
ship schedules, and cable manufacturer's fabrication schedule.
b) Personnel transport. Should be detailed and coordinated with airlines, ship schedules,
housing availability, and construction/ installation requirements.
Page 106
MLLW line
Range target
Hauling sheave
and deadman
assembly
Terminal
building
Cable
3/4
vault n
(ap . m i l
pro e
Beach x.)
anchor
Bulldozer
660 ft - 200 m
(approx.) LCM Cable ship
Berm
Fig. 7.5.5(a) Plan view - Cable landing operation.

MLLW line
Road
Cable Sheets of marine plywood
vault covering areas of cable
not protected by split pipe
Terminal
building
280
Armor Beach 85
ft -
termination m
anchor
plates
190 ft -58 m 9 0 0 620 f
f t - t -19
split pipe 275 0 m
under road m
spl
it p
Trenching required ipe
660 ft - 200 m
Fig. 7.5.5(b) Plan view - Cable stabilization.

Page 107
Page 108
7.5.8 Project Support Plan.
These activities represent support functions that are not physically involved with the actual
construction/ installation operation. They include:
a) Project security procedures. As a minimum, this portion of the PEP should explain
provisions for:
. Handling classified and/or company confidential information.
. Regulating area traffic to avoid intruders or even collisions.
. Enclosures on the shore or in surf zone.
. Guards to prevent vandalism or looting.
. Personnel clearances to limit the number of observers and non workers in the area.
b) Project safety procedures. This section should cover all the safety precautions neces-
sary to ensure minimum hazard to personnel and equipment. As a minimum, this
should include:
. Handling and storing of explosives and dangerous materials.
. Limited access areas in the vicinity of equipment operation.
. Identification of danger zones such as landslides, outfalls, coral, electromagnetic

radiation, fuel lines, etc.
. Insurance requirements.
. Instruction of personnel on safety matters.
7.5.9 Financial Management Plan.
This section should present a complete cost breakdown of all project expenditure. It should be
divided as follows:
a) Fund sources and distribution network. This should be detailed in tabular form. As a
minimum, these tables should contain information relative to funding amount, funding
source, cognizant monitor, and limitations on the usage of the funds. If possible, the
funding allocation should be related to the Project Organizational Chart and the WBS to
show distribution networks.
b) Controls. Control of spending allocated funds should be fully explained. Controls may
take the form of fixed price contracts for small equipment fabrication or detailed
reporting procedures on cost-type contracts.
c) Cost estimates. The PEP should provide a complete cost estimate for all phases of the
program. One method is to separately price out all the hardware, services, and support
delineated in the WBS.
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7.5.l0 Project Completion Plan.
This section of the PEP should detail the method whereby the site can be restored to its
natural environment and the system turned over to the operating personnel. This should
include:
a) Project demobilization, Detailed in this section should be procedures for:
. Dismissing personnel and ships.
. Removal of shore equipment.
. Removal of navigational aids.
. Cleanup of beach and surf zone.
. Environmental impact assessment.
b) System responsibility transfer. This section should present the information required
for release of the system to the operational personnel. Included should be briefing
procedures, system checkout, and details on the formal method for transferring
authority.
7.5.11 Appendices.
The appendices of the PEP should contain pertinent miscellaneous tabulations, forms and data.
A typical format would include:
a) List of contracts. The list should include those that are required for the system
construction/installation. Data that should be included in the tabulation are:
. Organization.
. Code.
. Function.
. Point of contact.
. Phone number/fax number.
. Estimated contract amount.
. Estimated contract duration.
b) List of forms. To facilitate reporting procedures,, a sample of each type of form

required should be included, such as:
. Construction/installation progress reports.
. Equipment test reports.
. Daily operation logs.
. Equipment failure reports.

Page 110
. Personnel casualty reports.
. Cable track reports.
c) List of documents and reports. This section should identify the title, availability and
source of all equipment instruction manuals, documents pertinent to the performance
of the system, and reports ( ie. CRSER, DSDP, CLP ) generated specifically for the
project.
7.6 Project Completion Report ( PCR ).
7.6.1 General.
At the conclusion of the construction/installation of a system, a PCR is required. This report

must contain all the essential information required to operate, maintain, and repair the
system. A typical outline would be:
a) Project description.
b) Responsibilities and interfaces.
c) Schedule of events.
d) System and components.
e) Survey.
f) Construction/installation equipment.
g) Construction/installation procedures.
h) Logistics.
i) Financial management.
j) Project assessment.
k) Appendices.
7.6.2 Project Description.
This section of the PCR should summarize all aspects of the project. It should clearly state the
following information:
a) System definition. The function of the system should be described in detail. Array
locations, cable routes, repeater/equalizer locations, reason for site location(s), and
other system details should be listed.
b) Summary. This section should summarize the project construction/installation proc-

edure required to install the system. It should also present an overview of the major
events, problems encountered, and a project completion analysis. The analysis should
discuss the project conclusions and recommendations. additional research and devel-
opment requirements, and test and evaluation results. A statement of remaining
Page 111
fiscal and real assets should also be included.
7.6.3 Responsibilities and Interfaces.
This section should delineate the responsibilities of all major participants of the ocean
construction/installation project. These include:
a) Organizational listing. A chart should be presented that contains the following

information relative to each participating group or agency:
. Title.
. Address.
. Project coordinator.
. Major function(s) relative to the operation.
b) Project organization,chart. Concomitant with the requirement for an organizational

listing is a chart showing the interrelationship of the functional groups. The chart
should clearly show reporting and authoritative levels.
c) Manpower utilization. Where possible, the organizational chart should be broken down
into further detail to show how each task group utilized its personnel.
7.6.4 Schedule of Events.
This portion of the PCR should show the planned and actual construction/installation
schedule. It should explain in detail the following:
a) Event and key elements. This includes all aspects of the construction/installation
process from the project initiation through site and cable route selection, detailed
design, and project execution. Where possible, the events should be correlated to a
PERT chart showing planned and actual events.
b) Milestone Charts. Should be presented showing key events, cost, expenditures

deliverable items, etc.
7.6.5 System and Components.
This section of the PCR should completely describe all components of the system. It should
include:
a) System description. This section should include:
. Array location(s).
. Array orientation.
. Cable route(s) with mile markers and position of repeaters/equalizers.
. Cable immobilization ( e.g. split pipe ).
. Bottom contour map(s).

Page 112
. Cable terminal locations.
. Shore facility location.
. Underwater communications system.
For communications systems, the array location, orientation and underwater communi-
cations are not required.
b) Component description. Each component should be described in enough detail to allow

replacement or refurbishment. A detailed list of drawings should also be included.
Typical components that should be described ( if used ) are:
. Hydrophones or other types of sensors.
. Beacons.
. Support structures.
. Anchors.
. Cables.
. Electrical connectors.
. Split pipe, or pipe(s) installed through directional drilling.
. Cable vault feedthrough.
7.6.6 Surveys.
This portion of the PCR should delineate all the surveys conducted for the project. It should
reference and present a brief overview of the CRSER.
a) General conditions. This should present data on tides, currents, ice flow, biological
fouling, steamship routes, etc.
b) Equipment. This section should summarize ships, instrumentation, and specialized

equipment used for the survey.
c) Hydrographic/oceanographic/acoustic data. This section should summarize the

environmental data obtained during the survey that is pertinent to the operation,
maintenance, or repair of the system.
d) Weather. The environmental data should be presented in such a manner that the oper-
ations of the system could utilize the information for future operations. This would
include presenting historical weather data and delineating methods of forecasting a
"weather window" for routine maintenance or major repairs of the system.
7.6.7 Construction/Installation Equipment.
This portion of the PCR should describe all equipment used for the construction/installation
of the system. In each case there should be an analysis of how well the equipment performed,
what modifications were required, and recommendations for future use. Typically it is divided
into the following categories.
Page 113
a) Offshore equipment. This would include ships, submersibles, special barges or

lighters, etc. Detailed photographs should be used, wherever possible, showing
equipment onboard each of the platforms.
b) Inshore equipment. This would include small boats, landing craft, special "water"
bulldozers, trenching equipment, etc.
c) Onshore equipment . This would include winches, bulldozers, trenchers, graders, etc.,
7.6.8 Construction/Installation Procedure.
This section of the PCR should detail the step-by-step construction/installation of the
systems The discussion of each of the following sections should include as assessment of the
overall procedure, modifications made due to unforeseen contingencies, and recommendations
for future planning on similar projects.
a) Training and testing. This section should address the training required to ensure
proper implanting of the system. Mockup or dummy training systems should be dis-
cussed in detail.
b) Operational plan. This section should delineate all plans and procedures above prior
to the actual construction/installation. It should show equipment modifications, ship
scheduling, personnel, interfacing installation of navigational aids, etc.
c) Construction/installation details. This section should discuss the implementation of

the construction/installation plans. It should present information on the usage of
contingency plans and provide recommendations for future projects.
d) Testing and checkout. The testing and verification procedures that must be described
include cable continuity checks, array position verification, navigation systems, etc.
e) Retrieval operations. Data should be given on the procedures used for recovery of all or
part of the system and their effectiveness if used.
f) Demobilization and restoration. Details should be presented with regard to how the
site(s) were restored, the ships and personnel dismissed, and the system officially
turned over to the operating personnel.
g) Environmental impact report. Detailed report on the meeting of the requirements of the
environmental impact statement(s).
7.6.9 Logistics.
This section should detail the preconstruction planning and onsite logistic support.
a) Preconstruction planning. This should include a discussion of the utilization of a WBS

for logistic planning. The WBS should be broken down to its lowest level and be
correlated to a detailed list of parts, supplies, equipment, etc.
b) Onsite logistic support. This section should include an assessment of onsite logistic
support and delineate the necessity of, and the problems associated with, onsite
purchases.
Page 114
7.6.10 Financial Management.
This section should present a complete cost breakdown of all project expenditures. It should
be divided as follows:
a) Fund sources and distribution network. This should be detailed in tabular form. As a
minimum, these tables should contain information relative to funding amount, funding
source, cognizant monitor, and limitations on the usage of the funds. If possible, the
funding allocation should be related to the Project Organizational Chart to show
distribution networks.
b) Controls. Control of spending allocated funds should be fully explained. Controls may
take the form of fixed price contracts for small equipment fabrication or detailed
reporting procedures for cost type contracts.
c) Cost estimates. The PCR should provide a complete comparison of estimated costs to
actual costs for the program. One method is to separately price out all the hardware,
services, and support delineated in the WBS.
7.6.11 Project Assessment.
This section takes the place of the conclusions and recommendations found in a standard
technical report. It should be structured as follows:
a) Problems encountered. Should be stated along with the solutions for all aspects of the
program.
b) Limitations. Should be explained to qualify the system's performance relative to

design objectives.
c) Special precautions. Should be tabulated, such as cable over tensioning, baring of split
pipe, etc.
d) Technical analysis. Should be discussed as a justification of the conclusions relative to

the project.
7.6.12 Appendices.
The appendices of the PCR should contain the following:
a) Bibliography. Referenced documents used and/or generated on the program should be

listed.
b) List of contracts. Contracts that were required for the construction/installation of the
system should be listed and should include:
. Organization.
. Code.
. Function.
. Point of contact.
. Contract amount.
Page 115
. Contract duration.
. Effectiveness of contractor in carrying out work.
7.7 Operational Log.
7.7.1 General.
The operational log is maintained throughout the life of the system. A copy is kept at each
shore station and normally one at the head office of the operators of the system.
The operational log is typically split into several parts:
a) System up and down times.
b) Original installation characteristics.
c) Original operational characteristics.
d) Routine testing.
e) Repairs.
f) Changes.
A discussion of each of these parts is given in the following sections.
7.7.2 System Up and Down Times.
The log should contain a record of the system up and down times to provide a history of its
operation. Continuously operating systems, such as communications and surveillance systems,
should record the reason for down times, while intermittently operating systems, such as
ranges, should record a brief description of the nature of the operation during up times.
7.7.3 Original Installation Characteristics.
This should contain data in tabular form that completely describes the characteristics of the
system immediately after the installation is complete. In some cases this will not include all
of the terminal equipment ( and if applicable, analysis equipment ), as some units will not be
connected until alignment of the underwater section(s) of the system are complete.
The characteristics measured include, depending on the system design:
. Ocean cable current.
. Carrier levels and frequencies ( analogue ), optical wavelengths and multiplexing

( digital ).
. Noise levels.
. Intermodulation effects ( analogue ).
. Repeater supervisory tone levels and frequencies ( analogue ).
. Any variations with time ( short term ).

Page 116
. Sensor performance.
7.7.4 Original Operational Characteristics.
This should contain data in tabular form that completely describes the characteristics of the
system at commissioning, after all adjustments have been made to bring the system to optimum
performance. This will include all terminal ( and if applicable, analysis ) equipment. The data
will provide the base from which effects such as aging can be assessed, and for detection of
possible failures or faults.
7.7.5 Routine Testing.
Each time a routine test of the system, or part of the system, is carried out, the data should be
recorded in the same format as the original operational characteristics. This allows quick
cross referencing of data to determine if any changes have occurred in the system
performance.
In continuous operation systems, such as communications and surveillance systems, testing is

normally conducted at fixed periods while the system is in operation. For systems that are
used intermittently, such as ranges, testing is normally carried out each time the system is
brought up.
7.7.6 Repair.
Every time a repair is made to the system, either in a terminal station or in the underwater
section(s), full or partial testing should be carried out and the data recorded in the standard
tabular format. If realignment of the underwater section(s) is required after a repair, then
data should cover both the system immediately before and after it is realigned.
7.7.7 Changes.
If any changes are made to the system, such as new terminal equipment, altering the settings
on a shore controlled equalizer, or realignment of terminal equipment to compensate for aging,
then the test data should be recorded in the standard tabular format, for both before and after
the change.
7.8 Laying Data Book.
7.8.1 General.
The laying data book is maintained throughout the life of the system. At least two copies are
kept, one in the head office of the operators of the system and the other on the cable ship that
is designated to carry out repairs to the system. In a large system, each section may have a
separate laying data book so that repair operations may be split between several cable ships.
The laying data book is typically split into several parts:
a) Original installation.
b) Repair operations.
c) Changes.
A discussion of each of these parts is given in the following sections.

Page 117
7.8.2 Original Installation.
The original installation data should be in tabular form showing the actual cable ship position
in relation to cable length laid ( may be at set time intervals or set distances along track ),
and at the laying of repeaters, equalizers, etc. Any offset from the intended track, such as to
compensate for currents, should also be clearly shown. Details of any joints made during the
laying should be listed, showing both ship's position and type of joint.
The navigation system(s) and aids used for the laying should be described in details including
their accuracy and any corrections made to the ship's positions to compensate for drift
between navigation fixes of the highest accuracy ( e.g. GPS ). It should be noted that the
navigation systems and/or aids may not be available over the full life of the system as newer
systems replace older ones.
Also detailed should be the identification and type of each section of ocean cable, each
repeaters equalizer, etc. The repeater supervisory tones characteristics ( analogue ), or
equivalent, should also be recorded, as well as equalizer settings.
In addition to the tabular data, a set of charts should be prepared covering the cable route(s),
shoving the position of the laid ocean cable, repeaters, equalizers, arrays, etc., and bottom
contours and bottom material type, plus all other ocean cables, pipelines, hazardous areas (
e.g. explosive dumping grounds ), etc., to aid in planning repair operations and changes. These
charts should be kept up to date otherwise damage may be done to other newer ocean cable
systems that may be laid across or near the system during repair operations or changes.
7.8.3 Repairs.
The details of each repair operations should be recorded and include:
. Nature of suspected fault and estimated position from terminal equipment tests.
. Method of recovery of ocean cable, arrays etc. and description of operation ( e.g.
operation of ROV, types of grapnels used and number of passes and their tracks,
before ocean cable brought to surface, whether the cable was cut first before
recovery, use of divers ).
. The type of fault found and its position.
. Measurements made on cable during repair operations.
. Details of the repairs made ( e.g. overlaid splice, insertion of repair repeater,
replacement of sensor ).
. Method used to relay cable, sensor unit, etc. and actual position of cable ship during
operation ( and sensor unit if an array ).
. Discussion of repair operation and recommendations.
7.8.4 Changes.
Changes can be the installation of a Tee, the relaying of a section of shore end cable that is
wearing out due to movement on a hard rough bottom, or the insertion of a section of buried
ocean cable in a shore end section to reduce the chance of damage from bottom trawling that
was not anticipated during system design.
Page 118
The data describing the change should be recorded in the same manner as for the original
installation and the data for the original installation should be annotated to show where the
changes were made.
Appendices.
Page A1
A. Ocean Ground Resistivity Measurement.
If the ocean ground is to be installed on the shore, the measurement of the resistance of the earth
connections is required to ascertain if the selected location is suitable, and if so, the number of
electrodes that will be required.
The technique used is the standard three electrode method. The test electrode ( A ) normally a
silicon-iron rod, is inserted into the ground at the center of the proposed ocean ground. Two other
electrodes ( B and C ) are inserted into the ground at least 15 feet - 4.57 meters from A and 15
feet - 4.57 meters from each other. Resistance between the three electrodes is measured by a
voltmeter-ammeter method, or using a specially designed equipment that gives a direct reading of
the resistance of the test earth connection ( A ). If the resistances are measured individually, that
is between A and B, resistance rAB , B and C, rBC , and C and A, rCA , then the resistance of the test
electrode A is given by
rAB " rBC + rCA

RA =
2 ! ! !
The standard measurement uses alternating current, however ocean cable systems use direct
current and it may be necessary to determine the effect of prolonged direct current on the
! resistance of the earth connection. This can be done by putting a fourth electrode in the ground
and passing a direct current between this and the test ground electrode, with the test ground
electrode at the correct polarity for the ocean ground. At intervals, the earth resistance can be
measured to check if changes occur. As the requirement is for a year round earth resistance,
typically of order 1 ohm, it will be necessary to repeat the measurement several times over the
period of a year, covering both wet and dry times if they occur to provide the necessary range of
resistance readings. From the measured resistances of the test earth electrode, the highest value
will provide the information for determining the suitability of the selected site, and if suitable,
the number of electrodes required in the ocean ground to meet the resistance level needed. If the
initial resistance measurements at the selected site appear higher than desired, then several
possible sites at the shore station should be measured for the period of a year and the best
selected. Also in determining the number of electrodes needed in the ocean ground, the spacing of
the electrodes must be such that mutual interference between electrodes is minimal otherwise the
actual resistance of the ocean ground will be less than expected.

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5. Characteristics of the Ocean Floor and Ocean 25

6. Cable Route and Site Survey. 45

6.3.4.3.5 Array Sites. 80

7.5 Project Execution Plan ( PEP ). 101

A. Ocean Ground Resistivity Measurement. A1

2(a) Project Cycle, traditional model. 2

2(b) Project cycle, compressed model. 3

4.2(a) Typical Project Summary Work Breakdown Structure. 16

4.3(a) Flow chart for an ocean cabled system. 18

4.4(a) Project functional organization. 20

4.5(a) Typical WBS breakdown. 22

4.6(a) Typical planning chart. 24

5.2.2.1(a) Typical beach profile. 27

5.6.8(a) Regions of spreading cold bottom water ( light stippling ) 34

5.6.8(b) Areas of high abyssal sediment concentration. 35

6.3.4.1(a) Typical survey area for inshore and nearshore survey 69

6.3.4.3.5.4(a) Ocean temperature at SCARF site. 84

6.3.4.3.5.4(b) Sound velocity at SCARF site. 84

7.4.7(a) Typical array and anchor site. 99

7.4.7(b) Shore end cable. 100

7.5.2(a) Typical track chart. 102

7.5.3(a) Project organization chart. 104

7.5.5(a) Plan view - Cable landing operation. 106

7.5.5(b) P;an view - Cable stabilization. 107

3.4.2(a) Criteria for Selection. 10

5.7(a) Numerical Scale of Ocean Floor Surface Roughness. 37

5.7(b) Descriptive Notes for Rating Scale of Surface Roughness. 38

5.7(c) Distribution and General Relationships of Underwater 39

5.8(a) Distribution of Ocean Cable Samples Received During the 41

5.8(c) External Causes of Cable Faults in the Atlantic. 42

5.8(d) External Causes of Cable Faults for Optical Fiber Ocean 43

5.8(e) Depth of Cable Faults for Optical Fiber Cables Worldwide. 43

6.2.2(a) Significant Properties for Beach Area of Shore Site. 50

6.2.2(b) Accuracy of Significant Properties for Beach Area of Shore 51

6.2.3(a) Significant Properties for Inshore and Nearshore Areas of 54

6.2.3(b) Accuracy of Significant Properties for Inshore and Nearshore 55

6.2.4(a) Significant Properties for Continental Shelf and Slope. 57

6.2.4(b) Accuracy of Significant Properties for Continental Shelf and 58

6.2.5(a) Significant Properties for Deep Ocean. 59

6.2.5(b) Accuracy of Significant Properties for Deep Ocean. 60

6.2.6(a) Significant Properties for Array Sites. 62

6.2.6(b) Accuracy of Significant Properties for Array Sites. 63

6.2.6(c) Accuracy of Significant Properties for Array Sites. 64

6.2.7(a) Accuracy of Significant Properties for Cable Burial 65

6.3.4.3.2. Calculated Limit Depths for Design Wave Conditions. 76

6.3.4.3.6.2(a) Ocean Cable Burial Systems. 85

Sources of Material Used.

NAVFAC P-906 Submarine Cabled System Design and 3, 4, 5.7, 6.2.6

MIL-HDBK-881 Department of Defense Handbook 3

Worldwide Trends in Submarine Cable System Faults. 5.8

IEE - Submarine telecommunication systems, International 5, 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.4

Sea Technology, April 1984, pp 10-14, Kaharl. 5.6.8

Sea Technology, July 1983, pp 27-35,Mulcahy. 6.2.3

Undersea Technology, May 1966, pp 45-49, Munitz. 5.8

SCARF - Sea operations, AC Electronics S68-07, July 1968. 6.2.6

The Art of Laying Undersea Cables, Simplex, Krzystyneak, 6.3.2, 6.3.4

Calculating the yearly limit depth to the active beach 6.3.4.3.2.6

Sources of Material Used ( Continued ).

Directionally Drilled Bores for Remote Cable Landings, 6.2.2, 6.3.4.3.2.4

Permits and marine liaison