TAT-9 was the ninth transatlantic telephone cable system, a significant piece of infrastructure for international telecommunications.

During what years was the TAT-9 cable system operational?

The TAT-9 cable system was in operation from 1992 until 2004.

What was the data transmission capacity of the TAT-9 cable system?

TAT-9 operated at a speed of 560 Megabits per second (Mbit/s), which was capable of carrying approximately 80,000 telephone circuits simultaneously.

Which continents did the TAT-9 cable system connect?

TAT-9 connected Europe and North America, facilitating communication between these major landmasses.

What were the specific landing points for TAT-9 in Europe?

In Europe, TAT-9 had landing points located in Goonhilly, United Kingdom; Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez, France; and Conil de la Frontera, Spain.

What were the specific landing points for TAT-9 in North America?

In North America, TAT-9 landed at Manahawkin, New Jersey, in the United States, and Pennant Point, Nova Scotia, in Canada.

Who was responsible for the construction of the TAT-9 cable system?

TAT-9 was constructed by an international consortium, which included various co-owners and suppliers working together on the project.

Which major telecommunications companies were identified as co-owners of the TAT-9 system?

Key co-owners of the TAT-9 system included AT&T Corporation, British Telecom, and France Telecom.

What technological milestone did TAT-9 achieve regarding fiber optic technology?

TAT-9 was the first fiber optic transatlantic cable system to operate at a speed of 565 Mbit/s, representing a significant advancement in capacity.

How did TAT-9's operational speed compare to the first transatlantic fiber optic system, TAT-8?

TAT-9 operated at 565 Mbit/s, which was twice the speed of TAT-8, the pioneering transatlantic fiber optic system that preceded it.

What innovative traffic management feature did TAT-9 introduce to transatlantic cables?

TAT-9 was the first transatlantic cable system equipped with the capability to switch traffic on demand between its multiple landing points.

How many distinct landing points could TAT-9 switch traffic between?

TAT-9 had the capacity to switch traffic among its five landing points, which were located in Canada, the United States, France, Spain, and the United Kingdom.

What was a primary economic benefit of TAT-9's traffic switching capability for smaller nations?

The ability to switch traffic on demand allowed smaller countries within the network to afford their own landing points, making participation in the high-capacity network more accessible.

Beyond accessibility for smaller nations, what other advantage did TAT-9's switching capability provide?

This advanced switching capability allowed the network to flexibly accommodate significant fluctuations in traffic demands at any individual station.

Can an example be given of a major event that caused a surge in traffic handled by TAT-9?

Yes, TAT-9 experienced a dramatic increase in traffic during the 1992 Summer Olympics, which were held in Barcelona.

What specific technology enabled the traffic switching functionality in TAT-9?

The switching functionality was enabled by devices known as Undersea Branching Multiplexers (UBMs), which were the first fiber optic switching devices of their kind.

What is the fundamental purpose of a transatlantic telephone cable system?

A transatlantic telephone cable system serves to transmit telephone signals and other telecommunication data across the Atlantic Ocean, connecting continents and enabling global communication.

Based on its name and function, what does the acronym TAT likely represent?

In the context of transatlantic telephone cables, TAT is understood to stand for Transatlantic Telephone.

What is fiber optic technology, as utilized in TAT-9?

Fiber optic technology transmits data using light signals sent through thin strands of glass or plastic fibers, allowing for high bandwidth and speed, which was crucial for systems like TAT-9.

How is the capacity of 560 Mbit/s related to traditional telephone circuits?

The capacity of 560 Mbit/s for TAT-9 was equivalent to the capacity of 80,000 individual telephone circuits, illustrating the massive scale of digital communication it could handle.

What does the term 'international consortium' imply about the development of TAT-9?

It signifies that the project was a collaborative effort involving multiple companies from different countries, sharing the financial investment, technical expertise, and operational responsibilities.

What are the advantages of a transatlantic cable having multiple landing points?

Multiple landing points enhance network resilience by providing alternative routes if one point fails and allow direct connectivity to various countries or regions, improving access and potentially reducing latency.

What does it mean for a system like TAT-9 to 'switch traffic on demand'?

Switching traffic on demand means the system could dynamically allocate or redirect communication capacity between different points in the network as needed, optimizing resource use based on real-time requirements.

What role did AT&T Corporation play in the TAT-9 project?

AT&T Corporation was one of the major international companies that co-owned the TAT-9 transatlantic telephone cable system.

What role did British Telecom play in the TAT-9 project?

British Telecom was among the international co-owners involved in the TAT-9 transatlantic telephone cable system.

What role did France Telecom play in the TAT-9 project?

France Telecom was one of the key international co-owners of the TAT-9 transatlantic telephone cable system.

What is the primary function of submarine communications cables like TAT-9 in the global network?

Submarine communications cables form the backbone of international telecommunications, providing high-capacity links for voice, data, and internet traffic between continents.

How did the transition to fiber optic technology, exemplified by TAT-9, change transatlantic communication?

Fiber optic technology dramatically increased the capacity and speed of data transmission compared to older copper-based cables, enabling the growth of the internet and global digital services.

What information does the accompanying navbox provide about TAT-9's context?

The navbox places TAT-9 within the historical series of TAT transatlantic cables (TAT-1 to TAT-14) and lists related cable systems, providing a broader overview of transatlantic communication infrastructure.

What other series of transatlantic cables are mentioned in the navbox alongside the TAT series?

The navbox also lists the CANTAT series (CANTAT-1, 2, 3) and the PTAT series (PTAT-1) of transatlantic cables.

What does the mention of the 1992 Summer Olympics suggest about the demands placed on TAT-9?

It illustrates that TAT-9 was designed to handle exceptionally high traffic loads, such as those generated by major international events like the Olympics, requiring robust capacity and flexibility.

What does the term 'Undersea Branching Multiplexers' (UBMs) imply about their function and location?

UBMs were the specific devices that enabled the switching of traffic in the TAT-9 system, and the term 'undersea' indicates they were installed on the ocean floor as part of the cable infrastructure.

What does TAT-9's position as the ninth cable in the series suggest about technological evolution?

Its designation as TAT-9 indicates it was part of a sequential development of transatlantic cable technology, likely incorporating improvements and increased capacity over its predecessors.

How did TAT-9 contribute to the global telecommunications network?

TAT-9 significantly enhanced the capacity, speed, and reliability of transatlantic communication, playing a vital role in the infrastructure that supports global data exchange and connectivity.

What can be inferred about the typical lifespan of major transatlantic cables from TAT-9's operational period (1992-2004)?

The operational period of over a decade suggests that these large-scale infrastructure projects were built for longevity, reflecting the significant investment and the sustained demand for their capacity.

What is the role of suppliers within the consortium that built TAT-9?

Suppliers in the consortium would typically provide the necessary technology, equipment, and potentially the expertise for the manufacturing and installation of the cable system.

How might TAT-9's dynamic traffic switching have improved network efficiency?

By enabling traffic to be rerouted as needed, the system could optimize the use of available bandwidth, directing capacity to where it was most needed and preventing congestion.

What is meant by a 'landing point' for a submarine cable?

A landing point is the specific location on land where a submarine cable makes landfall, connecting the undersea portion of the network to terrestrial infrastructure.

What does the data transfer speed of 565 Mbit/s enable in practical terms?

A speed of 565 Mbit/s allows for the transmission of large volumes of digital information very quickly, supporting numerous high-speed internet connections, video streams, and voice communications simultaneously.

What is the difference between measuring capacity in Mbit/s and in telephone circuits?

Mbit/s measures the rate of digital data transfer, while telephone circuits traditionally referred to paths for voice calls; TAT-9's capacity was described in both ways to convey its high digital data rate and its equivalent voice call capacity.

What might the designation 'TAT-12/13' in the navbox imply about cable deployment?

It suggests that sometimes two distinct cable systems might be deployed together or referred to under a combined designation, possibly due to shared infrastructure or a joint project.

What does the 'PTAT' designation likely signify compared to the 'TAT' series?

PTAT likely indicates a Private Transatlantic cable, suggesting it might have operated under a different ownership model or commercial structure compared to the earlier, often consortium-led, TAT series cables.

What does the name 'FLAG Atlantic' suggest about that specific cable system?

'FLAG Atlantic' indicates a specific branding or project name for a transatlantic cable, likely related to the 'Fiber-optic Link Around the Globe' (FLAG) initiative, differentiating it from the numbered TAT series.

What does the inclusion of Google-branded cables like 'Dunant' and 'Grace Hopper' reveal about modern undersea cable development?

It highlights the significant role major technology companies, like Google, now play in funding and deploying transatlantic cables to support their global data infrastructure and services.

What does the navbox entry 'MAREA' represent?

MAREA is another example of a transatlantic communications cable system, included in the navbox to show the diversity and extent of undersea cable networks connecting continents.

Why is a navigation box (navbox) typically included in a Wikipedia article like the one on TAT-9?

A navbox serves to provide navigational context, linking the article's subject (TAT-9) to related topics, such as other cables in the same series or category, helping readers explore the subject more broadly.

How does TAT-9 fit into the historical timeline of transatlantic communication technology?

TAT-9 represents a key advancement in the mid-to-late 20th century, marking the adoption of high-speed fiber optics and introducing sophisticated switching capabilities, building upon earlier generations of undersea cables.

What does the term 'telephony' refer to in relation to TAT-9's function?

Telephony refers to the transmission of voice communications over telephone lines. TAT-9, as a transatlantic telephone cable, was designed to carry a large volume of these calls between continents.

What does the collaborative nature of the 'international consortium' suggest about the scale and complexity of the TAT-9 project?

It implies that the project was of such significant scale, cost, and technical complexity that it required the combined resources, expertise, and financial commitment of multiple organizations to be successfully realized.

What is the main technological difference highlighted between TAT-8 and TAT-9?

The text states that TAT-9 operated at 565 Mbit/s, which was twice the speed of TAT-8, and TAT-9 was also the first system to feature on-demand switching between multiple landing points.

Tat-9 Wiki: TAT-9: The Digital Arteries of the Atlantic

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Overview

A Vital Link

TAT-9 represented a significant advancement in intercontinental communication infrastructure. As the ninth transatlantic telephone cable system, it was instrumental in connecting Europe and North America during the early 1990s, facilitating robust and high-capacity voice and data transmission.

Unprecedented Capacity

Operational from 1992 to 2004, TAT-9 achieved a remarkable data transmission rate of 560 Megabits per second (Mbit/s). This capacity was equivalent to supporting approximately 80,000 simultaneous telephone circuits, a substantial leap from previous generations of undersea cables.

Strategic Landing Points

The system's architecture was designed for resilience and flexibility, with strategic landing points across two continents. These included locations in the United Kingdom, France, and Spain in Europe, and key points in the United States and Canada in North America.

System Specifications

Transatlantic Network

TAT-9 established crucial connections between five distinct geographical locations:

Europe: Goonhilly Downs, United Kingdom; Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez, France; Conil de la Frontera, Spain.
North America: Manahawkin, New Jersey, United States; Pennant Point, Nova Scotia, Canada.

This multi-point connectivity enhanced network redundancy and accessibility.

Performance Metrics

The cable system operated at a nominal speed of 560 Mbit/s, capable of carrying an estimated 80,000 telephone circuits. This high throughput was essential for meeting the growing demands for international voice and data services in the 1990s.

Operational Lifespan

TAT-9 was a cornerstone of transatlantic communication for over a decade. It was deployed in 1992 and remained operational until its decommissioning in 2004, serving as a critical piece of global digital infrastructure during a period of rapid technological expansion.

Technological Innovations

Fiber Optic Advancement

TAT-9 was a pioneering fiber optic system, operating at 565 Mbit/s. This represented a doubling of the speed achieved by its predecessor, TAT-8, the first transatlantic fiber optic cable. This advancement underscored the rapid progress in optical transmission technology.

On-Demand Traffic Switching

A key innovation of TAT-9 was its ability to switch traffic dynamically between its five landing points. This feature allowed for greater network flexibility, enabling smaller countries within the network to manage their connectivity needs more effectively and accommodate significant fluctuations in demand.

The capacity for on-demand switching was particularly vital. For instance, it allowed the network to efficiently handle the dramatic increase in traffic demands during major international events, such as the 1992 Summer Olympics held in Barcelona.

Undersea Branching Multiplexers (UBMs)

The implementation of traffic switching was made possible by the development of novel hardware: the Undersea Branching Multiplexers (UBMs). These were the first fiber optic switching devices deployed in an undersea environment, representing a significant engineering feat that enhanced the operational capabilities of transatlantic communication systems.

The Consortium

Collaborative Foundation

TAT-9 was not the product of a single entity but rather a collaborative effort. It was constructed and operated by an international consortium comprising major telecommunications providers and suppliers from both Europe and North America.

Key Co-Owners

Prominent telecommunications companies served as co-owners of the TAT-9 system. These included industry giants such as AT&T Corporation, British Telecom, and France Telecom, whose investment and expertise were crucial for the project's realization.

Supplier Network

Beyond the primary co-owners, the consortium also involved various suppliers responsible for the engineering, manufacturing, and installation of the complex undersea cable and associated equipment. This broad participation ensured the project leveraged diverse technological capabilities.

Historical Context

A Successor to TAT-8

Following the successful deployment of TAT-8, the first transatlantic fiber optic cable, TAT-9 emerged as the next evolutionary step. It built upon the foundational technology of its predecessor while significantly enhancing speed, capacity, and network management capabilities.

Meeting Demand Surges

The system's advanced switching capabilities proved invaluable. Its ability to dynamically manage traffic flow allowed it to accommodate significant increases in demand, a critical feature demonstrated during high-profile events like the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, ensuring reliable connectivity.

Bridging Continents

Serving as a vital digital artery, TAT-9 facilitated the exchange of information between continents for over a decade. Its operational period from 1992 to 2004 marked a significant era in the development of the global telecommunications network, paving the way for future advancements.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Tat-9" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about tat-9 while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

arsenal player of the season

currency-counting machine

cucc ìa

philip kaufman

depiction of jesus

john neal footballer born 1932

References

A full list of references for this article are available at the TAT-9 Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding telecommunications infrastructure, network engineering, or historical technology analysis. Always refer to official documentation and consult with qualified experts for specific needs.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

TAT-9: The Digital Arteries of the Atlantic

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview 🌊

🔗 A Vital Link

📈 Unprecedented Capacity

🗺️ Strategic Landing Points

System Specifications 📍

🌍 Transatlantic Network

📊 Performance Metrics

⏳ Operational Lifespan

Technological Innovations 💡

✨ Fiber Optic Advancement

↔️ On-Demand Traffic Switching

⚙️ Undersea Branching Multiplexers (UBMs)

The Consortium 🤝

🏢 Collaborative Foundation

👥 Key Co-Owners

🛠️ Supplier Network

Historical Context 📜

🚀 A Successor to TAT-8

🗓️ Meeting Demand Surges

🌐 Bridging Continents

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

A Vital Link

Unprecedented Capacity

Strategic Landing Points

System Specifications

Transatlantic Network

Performance Metrics

Operational Lifespan

Technological Innovations

Fiber Optic Advancement

On-Demand Traffic Switching

Undersea Branching Multiplexers (UBMs)

The Consortium

Collaborative Foundation

Key Co-Owners

Supplier Network

Historical Context

A Successor to TAT-8

Meeting Demand Surges

Bridging Continents

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice