In recent years, neural computation has developed from a specialized research discipline into a broadly based and dynamic activity with applications in an astonishing variety of fields. Many scientists, engineers and other practitioners are now using neural networks to tackle problems that are either intractable or unrealistically time consuming to solve through traditional computational strategies. The inaugural volume in the Computational Intelligence Library provides speedy dissemination of new ideas to a broad spectrum of neural network users, designers and implementers. Devoted to network fundamentals, models, algorithms and applications, the work is intended to become the standard reference resource for the neural network community. As the field expands and develops, leading researchers will report on an analyze promising new approaches. In this way, the Handbook will become an evolving compendium on the state of the art of neural computation. Available in loose-leaf print form as well as in an electronic edition that combines both CD-ROM and on-line (World Wide Web) access to its contents, the Handbook of Neural Computation is available on a subscription basis, with regularly published supplements keeping readers abreast of late-breaking developments and new advances in this rapidly developing field.