This slim volume is not about computers as such, but rather about aspects of communications engineering applied to computer networks. The author claims that the book will help managers, engineers, and operators involved with data communications to understand the electrical principles of broadband nepworks.

The first chapter is a general introduction to broadband networks, describing the multiple services and applications of such networks. Chapter 2 covers several, key broadband concepts, such as physical and logical topology and two-way and one-way communication. Coaxial and electrical aspects of network design are also discussed. The third chapter contains details regarding different cable system architectures that are currently used, including a comparison of single abd dual cable systems. Chapter 4 describes characteristics of the active and passive components that comprise broadband networks. The next chapter constitutes about one-third of the book and provides detailed information relating to the electrical design of broadband networks. The next chapter provides details on aligning the complete network so it can provide its specified services. A list of further reading material is contained in the last chapter. Appendices provide the reader with an incomplete glossary, a list of broadband equipment suppliers in North America, design aspects, etc.

This is a well-written book that reads like an installation manual in places, and it is therefore unsuitable as a textbook except perhaps at a technical training school. While attempting to provide an overview of the subject and be technical, the book falls somewhat short of its intended purpose.