Understanding Lasers: An Entry-Level Guide (IEEE Press Understanding Science & Technology Series) (Paperback)

by Jeff Hecht (Author)
Key Phrases: laser accessories, lasers work, metastable upper laser level, Low-Power Laser Applications, Physical Basics, High-Power Laser Applications (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Review
"This book is an easy-to-follow guide that requires a minimal background in algebra. The use of simple language, drawings, tables and multiple-choice quizzes make this book an ideal text for advanced high school students, undergraduates studying physics and engineering, and professionals who work with lasers but lack a formal knowledge of the subject." (Optics & Photonic News, April 2009)

"College-level libraries strong in science and technology titles will appreciate this easy introduction guide to laser technology, which moves from the foundations of how lasers work and how they are used to discussions of specific advanced laser types, applications, and the science involved." (The Midwest Book Review, September 2008) --This text refers to the Paperback edition.

Product Description
This updated edition is both accurate and easy to understand. Written for students, hobbyists, non-specialist engineers and anyone who wants an entry-level introduction to laser technology, this book provides practical, intuitive descriptions of the workings of major types of lasers and their applications. Key topics include: semiconductor lasers...solid-state lasers...gas lasers...laser applications in information processing, medicine, communications, industry and military systems. Clear, succinct, and amply illustrated, this book makes an ideal learning tool and a valuable reference for technical and nontechnical readers alike.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 448 pages
• Publisher: Wiley-IEEE Press; 2 edition (December 1, 1993)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0780310055
• ISBN-13: 978-0780310056
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 6.3 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.3 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #844,832 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A study guide suitable for college-level classroom assignments., September 5, 2008

By	Midwest Book Review (Oregon, WI USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Understanding Lasers: An Entry-Level Guide (IEEE Press Understanding Science & Technology Series) (Paperback)

College-level libraries strong in science and technology titles will appreciate this easy introductory guide to laser technology, which moves from the foundations of how lasers work and how they are used to discussions of specific advanced laser types, applications, and the science involved. Add drawings, tables, and multiple-choice quizzes and you also have a study guide suitable for college-level classroom assignments.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Simply the best Laser book, August 13, 2005

By	V. Kuroodi (Cupertino, CA United States) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

If you are a hobbyist, this is all you need to get started. A great book that leans towards the practical aspects, laser applications and avoids use of excessive math. The end of each chapter contains a summary and a small quiz that drives home the points to give you confidence.

For example, you will be able to answer questions such as 'What is the length of a Q switched pulse from a 10cm long Neodymium-glass laser with 90% reflective output mirror assuming refractive index is 1.5'

You may also want to consider Jeff Hecht's 'The Laser Guidebook', which does not seem to have a chapter on Laser Applications or the end of chapter quiz.