From semiconductor fundamentals to state-of-the-art semiconductor devices used in the telecommunications and computing industries, this book provides a solid grounding in the most important devices used in the hottest areas of electronic engineering today. The book includes coverage of future approaches to computing hardware and RF power amplifiers, and explains how emerging trends and system demands of computing and telecommunications systems influence the choice, design and operation of semiconductor devices. The book begins with a discussion of the fundamental properties of semiconductors. Next, state-of-the-art field effect devices are described, including MODFETs and MOSFETs. Short channel effects and the challenges faced by continuing miniaturization are then addressed. The rest of the book discusses the structure, behavior, and operating requirements of semiconductor devices used in lightwave and wireless telecommunications systems. This is both an excellent senior/graduate text, and a valuable reference for engineers and researchers in the field.