Embodying the dynamic nature of fiber-optic communications, this practical introduction takes a broad, up-to-date look at the industry, and fully prepares students for their future work in the field by providing a solid foundation in the basics with plenty of examples, graphical presentations, and solutions to problems that are similar to those found in the actual workplace. Enabling students to follow either a beginning or more advanced course of study for each chapter topic, it integrates many practical applications, presents the newest technological innovations in fibers, systems and networks, integrates pictures of commercially available devices and equipment throughout, and guides students step-by-step to a clear understanding of commercial data sheets they'll be working with professionally.