Here is a current, complete, and exclusive technical reference on designing, evaluating and maintaining optical communications networks—possibly the solution for the ever-expanding worldwide information infrastructure. All the latest developments of this emerging next-generation technology are covered, including wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM), time-division multiplexing (TDM) and Multicasting. Several case studies provide an in-depth look at the recent optical network experiences of such leading research centers as AT&T, IBM, British Telecom, and NTT. A special companion WWW site extends and enriches the book's content with color pictures and other useful supplements.