Includes bibliographical references and index.

1. An Introduction to Optical Fiber -- 2. The Physics of Light -- 3. Light Propagation -- 4. Types of Optical Fiber and Their Properties -- 5. Light Sources for Optical Fibers -- 6. Optical Detectors -- 7. Splices, Connectors, Cables, and Other Components -- 8. Fundamentals of Communications -- 9. Communications Applications for Optical Fiber -- 10. Optical Fiber Measurement and Testing -- Appendix A: Safety -- Appendix B: Useful Constants and Data.

This introduction to optical fiber concepts, applications, and techniques, presented with a minimum of mathematics, is written for the technician or technologist. Basic theory in optics, an explanation of waveguide propagation, and information about fiber types and designs allows students new to the field to form a good working knowledge of how optical fiber is used in communications. Chapters also include fiber types and their uses; types of detectors, light sources, and transmitters and receivers used with optical fiber; algebra-based mathematics; common applications; measurement and testing of fiber and light sources, including a discussion of the specialized equipment required for measurement and testing; and practical examples and reviews of information for each chapter. An Introduction to Fiber Optics fills the void of books about leading technologies written for non-engineering and science students.