Abstract: The invention provides a monitor for monitoring the condition of fibre optic communication cables. The system employs one or more of the optical fibres of a cable to monitor the cable structure for damage or kinks. By using two separate laser sources and simultaneously monitoring the optical losses at two distinct and separate wavelengths, the loss signature of the monitored fibre is determined, analyzed and related to the mechanical condition of the cable structure. To monitor splice points for moisture, a special optical splice sensor unit detects any penetration of water into the splice and transmits a coded alarm signal over the monitored fibre to the optical receiver. Every splice location is assigned a unique sensor code. The optical splice sensor is driven by moisture detection cell, which forms a single cell water activated battery. Water entering the monitored splice closure wets the tape, which activates the cell.

Abstract: The invention provides a monitor for monitoring the condition of fibre optic communication cables. The system employs one or more of the optical fibres of a cable to monitor the cable structure for damage or kinks. By using two separate laser sources and simultaneously monitoring the optical losses at two distinct and separate wavelengths, the loss signature of the monitored fibre is determined, analyzed and related to the mechanical condition of the cable structure. To monitor splice points for moisture, a special optical splice sensor unit detects any penetration of water into the splice and transmits a coded alarm signal over the monitored fibre to the optical receiver. Every splice location is assigned a unique sensor code. The optical splice sensor is driven by moisture detection cell, which forms a single cell water activated battery. Water entering the monitored splice closure wets the tape, which activates the cell.

Abstract: Fiber optic cable comprising an elongated strength member, a plurality of optical fiber carrying means disposed around the outer periphery of the strength member and a plastic jacket circumscribing the optical fiber carrying means. The optical fiber carrying means comprises a tube, a plurality of optical fibers, at least one ribbon member disposed in the tube, and least one of the optical fibers being removably affixed to the ribbon member.

Abstract: Fiber optic cable containing, (a) a core of S-Z stranded strands composed of first and second alternatingly repeating and essentially equal first and second sections, each of the first sections having a common direction and degree of lay substantially equal to but opposite to that of the second sections and (b) a sheath circumscribing the fibers containing marks on its outermost surface essentially transversely co-extensive with that portion of the optical fiber where the first section joins the second section.

Abstract: A fiber optic dropwire having a fiber optic transmission member between two strength members. The optical fiber has an outer coating having a higher melting point than the outer dropwire covering.

Abstract: A flat type feeder cable useful for transmitting electrical energy from a stationary source to a moving apparatus, which has a plurality of spaced apart strength members each with their respective axes arranged in a line and in substantially coplanar relationship with one another; a plurality of strand members stranded together about each of the strength members to form a core, the strand members themselves being composed of a plurality of electrical conductors circumscribed by a sheath, and are "S-Z" stranded so that they contain first and second alternatingly repeating substantially equal first and second sections, each of said first sections having a common direction and degree of lay and each of said second sections also having a common direction and degree of lay substantially equal opposite to that of the first sections, and, a jacket of flexible material circumscribing the core members.