Book excerpt: This book provides a first introduction to the subject of telecommunications suit able for first and second year undergraduates following degree or similar courses in electronic engineering. There are very few specific prerequisites other than a general background in electric circuit principles and a level of mathematical maturity consistent with entry to engineering courses in British universities. The intention is to provide a broad perspective of modern telecommunication principles and applications. Following a general overview of telecommunications, a thorough, albeit introductory, treatment is provided of underlying principles such as signal representation and analysis, sampling, analogue and digital trans of several mission, modulation and coding. The book concludes with a description important systems applications which serve as case studies to illustrate further the principles introduced and demonstrate their application in a practical context. Many people have contributed, directly and indirectly, to this book. I am espe cially grateful to Professor Kel Fidler of the Open University for suggesting that I write the book and for the support and guidance he has provided throughout the endeavour. The Telecommunications Research Group of the Department of Elec trical Engineering Science at the University of Essex has provided a stimulating environment in which to develop my appreciation of telecommunication systems and in particular Professor Ken Cattermole has influenced my thinking greatly.