Understanding Fiber Optics

Ideal for technicians, entry-level engineers, and other nonspecialists, this best-selling practical, thorough, and accessible introduction to fiber optics reflects the expertise of an author who has followed the field for over 25 years. Using a non-theoretical/non-mathematical approach, it explains the principles of optical fibers, describes components and how they work, explores the tools and techniques used to work with them and the devices used to connect fiber network, and concludes with applications showing how fibers are used in modern communication systems. It covers both existing systems and developing technology, so readers can understand present systems and new developments. Includes an accompanying CD of additional resources. Fundamentals of Fiber-Optic Technology. Fundamentals of Communications. Types of Optical Fibers. Fiber Properties. Fiber Materials and Manufacture. Special-Purpose Fibers. Cabling. Light Sources. Transmitters. Repeaters, Regenerators, and Amplifiers. Connectors and Splices. Couplers and Other Passive Components. Wavelength-Division Multiplexing Optics. Optical Switches, Modulators, and Other Active Components. Optical Measurements. Troubleshooting and Test Equipment. System and Optical Networking Concepts. Fiber System Standards. Single Channel System Design. Optical Networking System Design. Global Telecommunications. Metro and Regional Telecommunications. Local Telephone Systems and Access Networks. Computers and Local Area Networks. Video Transmission. Vehicle and Military Fiber Communications. Fiber-Optic Sensors. Imaging and Illuminating Fiber Optics. For technicians, marketing personnel, applications engineers, fiber-optic sales engineers, manufacturing personnel, quality control technicians, and similar positions at fiber-optics, optical components, and system manufacturers.