This book is a comprehensive treatise on the components and devices of the lightwave explosion. Multiple advances in lightwave technology have led to a veritable overload of global information systems throughout the world. Given the sheer number and growing importance of such systems, Govind Agrawal's "Lightwave Technology" answers the need for a comprehensive and up-to-date account of all major aspects of this rapidly expanding field. "Components and Devices", the first independent volume of this two-volume engineering resource, is devoted to describing a multitude of today's silica- and semiconductor- based optical devices. Conceived and written by the foremost expert and bestselling author in the fiber optic field, the text provides detailed, in-depth coverage of both theoretical and practical aspects of the science, including: Fiber optics; Passive and active fiber components; Planar waveguides; Semiconductor lasers and amplifiers; Optical modulators Photodetectors; WDM components; and, Space- and time- domain switching. The second volume, "Lightwave Technology: Communication Systems", deals with the design and performance of modern transmission systems making use of these devices. Complete with chapter problems, a CD, and a "Solutions Manual", this title serves as both a basic text book for students and a practical everyday reference for engineers and researchers in the field.