An adaptive link assignment algorithm for the distributed optimization of dynamically changing network topologies is presented. The algorithm is responsible for determining the network connectivity by controlling the selection of links to be established and disconnected. This algorithm is designed to recover from predictable link outages as well as massive unpredictable failures. To minimize computational time complexity as well as to improve transient response. Some known graph-theoretic algorithms are utilized.>

The design, manufacture, and testing of three armored fiber optic tow cables is discussed. The motivation for these developments was the technical need to have low-loss high-bandwidth transmission lines, that function with negligible crosstalk and absence of ground loops, placed within the limited core space of the cable. General guidelines for avoiding serious microbending loss in this type of cable structure are reviewed, and different methods of implementing the design principles are demonstrated by way of discussions specific to the three electrooptic core designs that were manufactured. A discussion is given regarding some of the practical problems associated with manufacturing. For two of the cable designS, measurements of optical attenuation with a Tektronix model 150 optical time-domain reflectometer are presented for several stages of manufacture, and approximate changes in attenuation are given for a tension loading of 33kN.