One of the many problems facing designers of fibre systems is the basic question of how best to transmit analogue-sourced signals; either on dedicated point-to-point links or as part of mixed-mode traffic on a predominantly digital fibre service network. This book discusses the fundamental principles involved and describes a variety of techniques and applications. The chapters have been contributed by invited researchers with expertise in a range of areas and outline the latest methods and analytical approaches, components and systems.

The optical fiber industry has experienced a period of consolidation and reorganization and is now poised for a new surge in growth. To take advantage of that growth, and to respond to the demand to use fiber more efficiently, designers need a better understanding of fiber optics. Taking the approach that optical fibers are an extension of RF-based communications, the author explains basic optical concepts, applications, and systems; the nature and performance characteristics of optical fibers; and optical sources, connectors and splices. Subsequent chapters explore current applications of fiber optic technology. Appropriate for use as a college text, this is an accessible and thorough treatment of fiber optics, without an intimidating amount of mathematical derivations.

Free Space Optical (FSO) Communication uses light propagation in free space (air, outer space, and vacuum) to wirelessly transmit data for telecommunications and communication networking. FSO Communication is a key wireless and high-bandwidth technology for high speed large-capacity terrestrial and aerospace communications, which is often chosen as a complement or alternative to radio frequency communication. The propagating optical wave can be influenced negatively by random atmospheric changes such as wind speed, temperature, relative humidity, and pressure, thermal expansion, earthquakes, and high-rise buildings. This edited book covers the principles, challenges, methodologies, techniques, and applications of Free Space Optical Communication for an audience of engineers, researchers, scientists, designers, and advanced students.