An optical amplifier module is provided that contains at least one optical amplifier.
The module includes an internal housing having an outer dimension substantially
equal to an outer dimension of an internal fiber splice housing of an undersea
optical fiber cable joint. The internal housing includes a pair of opposing end
faces each having a retaining element for retaining the internal housing within
an outer housing of the undersea optical fiber cable joint. The internal housing
also includes a sidewall interconnecting the opposing end faces, which extends
between the opposing end faces in a longitudinal direction. The sidewall includes
a receptacle portion having a plurality of thru-holes each being sized to receive
a passive optical component employed in an optical amplifier. The module also includes
at least one circuit board on which reside electronics associated with the optical
amplifier. An isolated electrical path provides electrical power received from
a conductor in at least one optical fiber cable to the at least one circuit board.
