Long Distance Telephone Circuits in Cable*

Abstract

This paper first very briefly reviews the history of long distance telephone cables in the United States. A statement is then given of the basis of the electrical design of present day cables, followed by a discussion of the standards applied to cable circuits and the application of cables to the telephone needs of the country. While the present system is satisfactory for the circuits now used in cable up to distances of 1800 miles (3000 kilometers) or more, it would not be satisfactory for the much greater distances expected for the future, both for continental and intercontinental service. The paper closes with a brief account of the progress which has been made in the development of a cable carrier telephone system which is expected to be satisfactory for any distances which may in the future be spanned by telephone circuits in cable. The authors wish to acknowledge their appreciation of the assistance given them by a number of their associates in the American Telephone and Telegraph Company, particularly Messrs. L. G. Abraham and R. M. Goetchius.