Optical Networks -- Optical Fibres -- Laser Components -- Ultrafast Semiconductor Laser Sources -- Widely Tuneable Laser Diodes -- Semiconductor-based Modulators -- Photodetectors -- Systems with Higher-order Modulation -- Wavelength Filters -- Passive Devices -- Fibre Amplifiers -- Linear Semiconductor Optical Amplifiers -- Optical Signal Processing for High-speed Data Transmission -- Silicon Lasers and Photonic Integrated Circuits.  .

The book gives an in-depth description of the key devices of current and next generation fibre optic communication networks. In particular, the book covers devices such as semiconductor lasers, optical amplifiers, modulators, wavelength filters, and detectors but the relevant properties of optical fibres as well. The presentations include the physical principles underlying the various devices, the technologies used for the realization of the different devices, typical performance characteristics and limitations, and development trends towards more advanced components are also illustrated. Thus the scope of the book spans relevant principles, state-of-the-art implementations, the status of current research and expected future components.