In this course, students will receive an introduction to the fundamental principles and components of optical communications. The course objective is to provide a basic understanding of present optical communication systems as well as future engineering challenges. The course covers the basic concepts of data modulation in optical fiber channels, channel multiplexing, wavelength division multiplexing, and fiber optics. The course also includes the basic function principles of optical fiber, light emitting diodes, lasers, optical amplifiers, optical filters, and optical receivers. 3 hrs. lec., 1 hr rec.