Specialists in the technical components of a synchrotron light source are usually well versed in their field and in the associated technical literature. However, with the rapid and continuing growth of synchrotron radiation research, and with new facilities coming online and being authorized for design and construction around the world, there is a need for a reference book that describes the various technical components of a synchrotron light source in a manner that will be useful to those who lack specialized technical background, but who have responsibility for some part of the design, construction, operation or development of such a facility. This would include technicians, engineers and physicists who have technical background in related fields but no specific experience with a synchrotron light source, and also project managers, laboratory directors, and government officials involved with synchrotron light facilities.

College level scientific or engineering training or the equivalent experience is assumed and appropriate mathematics is used throughout. However, the basic concepts in each chapter are given in less technical language and a glossary of terms as well as an index will make the book useful for those with less technical training or experience.