Sandwave Effect on the Attenuation Mechanism of Submarine Communication Cable Systems

Submarine Communications Cables (SCC) are single mode and, as such, are a highly promising transmission media for long-distance inter-continental connectivity. Despite attributes of low attenuation, high bandwidth, longer life span, low interference, and high reliability, their performance is hampered by sandwaves that inflict high attenuation values on the cables. Sandwaves do this by causing vibrations, twists, bends, stress, strain, and cuts. Empirical research on how sandwaves affect the attenuation mechanisms of submarine communication cable systems is crucial. This work examines the factors responsible for attenuation degradation in submarine communication cables because of sandwaves. This research demonstrates the sandwaves inflict attenuation on optical fibre communication cables by causing macro-bends and microbends. They all negatively affect the performance of the cables to the detriment of global communication and the economy. It is also proposed here that the installation and maintenance method should prevent in sandwave-prone zones and should use armoring techniques to increase cable security and protection.