About The Book

What you have in front of you is the story of cable—the backbone of many communication lines crisscrossing the world today.

We often think of cable lines in an overly simplified way. However, modern cable communication links are highly sophisticated engineering structures, composed of numerous components, with cables themselves ranking high in terms of both materials and cost.

Despite its significance, cable has not been given its due recognition in popular science books. This book is an attempt to fill that gap, at least in part. It covers various types of communication cables—local and long-distance, undersea and transoceanic, voice- and carrier-frequency, wire and optical—bringing out what is most important about each.

Although the book focuses on cable, the author places its history within the broader context of the evolution of electrical communications. At times, he strays from the 'cable trail,' but always with purpose—whether to examine well-known topics from a fresh perspective, cite unpublished sources, or uncover intriguing facts.

It is difficult to classify this book under a single category. It blends popular science with a detailed historical study of cable communications. While this might seem like a literary liberty, the author’s commitment to accuracy, reliance on historical documents, and engaging storytelling ensure that no technical detail is sacrificed.

Another commendable aspect is the recognition given to the individuals who contributed to the development of cable communications through their theoretical work and inventions.

This book, written by an enthusiast, will hopefully offer both enjoyment and valuable insights—whether to young readers considering their future careers or to seasoned specialists who may discover facts previously unknown to them.

CONTENTS

About The Book

From The Author

Introduction

Chapter 1: The Age Before Cable Or From Signal Drums To Electricity

Chapter 2: Of Those Who Have Laid The Foundation

Chapter 3: Telegraph Cables Come First 

Chapter 4: The Cable Goes Aquatic

Chapter 5: Enter The Telephone Cable

Chapter 6: Cables In The City—Heaps Of Problems

Chapter 7: The Land Of EI-Ef

Chapter 8: Across The Seas And Oceans 

Chapter 9: A Look At The Future

Will There Be Cables In The Year 2000? – 329

Books To Read – 341

Glossary – 347

Name Index – 348

Subject Index – 359