Book excerpt: From basic terms and concepts to advanced optimization techniques-a complete, practical introduction to modern geometrical optics Most books on geometrical optics present only matrix methods. Modern Geometrical Optics, although it covers matrix methods, emphasizes y-nu ray tracing methods, which are used most commonly by optical engineers and are easier to adapt to third-order optics and y-??? diagrams. Moving by logical degrees from fundamental principles to advanced optical analysis and design methods, this book bridges the gap between the optical theory taught in introductory physics texts and advanced books on lens design. Providing the background material needed to understand advanced material, it covers important topics such as field of view, stops, pupils and windows, exact ray tracing, image quality, and optimization of the image. Important features of Modern Geometrical Optics include: * Examples of all important techniques presented * Extensive problem sets in each chapter * Optical analysis and design software * Chapters covering y-??? diagrams, optimization, and lens design This book is both a primer for professionals called upon to design optical systems and an ideal text for courses in modern geometrical optics. Companion Software Special lens design and analysis software capable of solving all problems presented in the book is available via Wiley's FTP site. This software also serves as an introduction to the use of commercial lens design software. Appendix C is a user's manual for the software.