An excellent primer for individuals learning fiber optic technology and optical communications. It examines the reasons that optical fibers are the preferred communications medium, surpassing copper wire in all performance measures. A thorough explanation of how fibers work is offered, as well as useful coverage of other related optical components and how those components fit into system-level applications. Premises (LAN), metro, 10G Ethernet, and long-haul applications are also briefly surveyed.

Features:

• Information new to this edition includes coarse wavelength division multiplexing and small-form-factor transceivers/connectors
• New types of application-specific fibers and holey fibers are discussed
• New coverage of the evolution of tunable components and VCSELs helps keep readers current on the technology
• Real-world examples bridge the gap between the theory of fiber and its applications in communications
• Writing style is easy-to-read and understand with numerous illustrations that help concepts come alive