New optical configurations for the ITER core CXRS system offer the possibility of longer ducts between the first mirror and the plasma. This has led to a renewed optimization of the availability, using a simple model of the degradation of the first mirror that starts with the conditions of (a) the required measurement performance and (b) the geometry of the port plug.

It is found that for a fully passive system the design should strive for the longest duct length possible. Given known data, this will result in a diagnostic lifetime still substantially shorter than ITER lifetime. When an option of cleaning the first mirror is introduced (assuming this is a feasible option) the optimum is less straightforward, because the lifetime of the second mirror then also becomes important. The optimum then depends on the ratio between the cleaning interval and the ITER lifetime. Options are presented for various sets of assumptions. Finally practical limitations of supporting subsystems (cleaning system, shutter, calibration system) may influence the final design. Examples of such limitations with their impact are presented.