Omnipresent in society, telecom networks integrate a wide range of technologies. These include quantum field theory for the study of optical amplifiers, software architectures for network control, abstract algebra required to design error correction codes, and network, thermal, and mechanical modeling for equipment platform design.

Illustrating how and why network developers make technical decisions, this book takes a practical engineering approach to systematically assess the network as a whole-from transmission to switching. Emphasizing a uniform bibliography and description of standards, it explores existing technical developments and the potential for projected alternative architectural paths, based on current market indicators.

The author characterizes new device and equipment advances not just as quality improvements, but as specific responses to particular technical market necessities. Analyzing design problems to identify potential links and commonalities between different parts of the system, the book addresses interdependence of these elements and their individual influence on network evolution. It also considers power consumption and real estate, which sometimes outweigh engineering performance data in determining a product's success.

To clarify the potential and limitations of each presented technology and system analysis, the book includes quantitative data inspired by real products and prototypes. Whenever possible, it applies mathematical modeling to present measured data, enabling the reader to apply demonstrated concepts in real-world situations. Covering everything from high-level architectural elements to more basic component physics, its focus is to solve a problem from different perspectives, and bridge descriptions of well-consolidated solutions with newer research trends.