What are the latest developments in telecommunications? How are new and emerging products impacting the industry ± and your job? Where are we headed tomorrow? The Irwin Handbook of Telecommunications, Fourth Edition provides the answers to virtually every question on the past, present and future of telecommunications. This covers-every-issue volume is the indispensable reference in the field, including detailed -- yet easy-to-understand -- coverage of: *new technologies, including packet switching, pulse code modification, cellular and PCS systems, gigabit Ethernet, voice/data convergence and many others. *the latest Internet applications, including virtual private networks and voice over protocols E-commerce *strategies to help you more effectively utilize the business-to-business aspects of the Internet the continuing impact of the Telecommunications Act of 1996. Also included are over 250 web addresses for telecommunications manufacturers, carriers, vendors and organizations. Plus an exhaustive dictionary of over 400 acronyms ± everything from AAC (alternate access carrier) to XPD (cross-polarization discrimination).