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.