Understanding Fiber Optics

Ideal for technicians, entry-level engineers, and other nonspecialists, this practical, thorough, and accessible introduction to fiber optics reflects the expertise of an author who has followed the field for over 20 years. Using a non-theoretical/mathematical, and well-illustrated approach, it begins with the technical details of optical fibers, moves through the tools and techniques used to work with them, the devices used to connect fiber network, and concludes with applications showing how fibers are used. Covers: Fundamentals of Fiber Optics; Applications of Fiber Optics; Types of Fibers; Cabling; Light Sources; Transmitters; Receivers; Repeaters, Regenerators, and Optical Amplifiers; Connectors; Splicing; Couplers and Switches; Other Components, Tools, and Accessories; Measurements; System Concepts; System Design; Long-Distance Telecommunication Applications; Regional and Local Telephone Systems; Video Transmission; Computers and Local Area Networks; Mobile and Military Fiber Communications; Fiber-Optic Sensors; Noncommunication Fiber Optics; and Laser Safety. For anyone wanting to understand fiber optics.

Jeff Hecht is a contributing editor to Laser Focus World and Integrated Communications Design, and a correspondent for New Scientist magazine. He is the author of Understanding Fiber Optics, City of Light: The Story of Fiber Optics, Understanding Lasers, The Laser Guidebook, Beam Weapons: The Next Arms Race, and several other books. He has been writing about lasers, optics, and fiber optics for over 25 years. He holds a B.S. in electronic engineering from the California Institute of Technology.