Covering short-reach and long-haul networks, the volume Planning Fiber Optic Networks provides detailed information on major fiber optic parameters and includes background theory and design calculations. The 400-page document discusses topics such as signal propagation in a single-mode fiber, planning an optical loss budget, maintaining an acceptable optical signal-to-noise ratio, the effects of chromatic and polarization mode dispersion, and testing Ethernet and Sonet/SDH networks. Real-world examples are included. Bob Chomycz; McGraw-Hill Professional, New York, 2009; $79.95.