FEATURES Presents the theory and practical applications of coding and information theory integrated with detailed examples which illustrate key concepts and enlarge the theory. Every major section of the book includes at least one example of a design-oriented problem where the theory is applied. balances the discussion between theory and practical applications without sacrificing one for the other Required mathematical developments immediately precede material on ‘how to’ apply the methods and theory, however the traditional theorem-proof format is not used. Presents an overview of digital communication systems and the concept of information. Introduces discrete information sources and the fundamental concepts of entropy and data compression codes. Includes a brief introduction to the application of information theory to cryptography. Written in an easy-to-follow conversational style that integrates practical engineering issues through formal and conceptual discussions of mathematical issues. Makes extensive use of explicit examples that illustrate the methods and theory throughout the book..