Each year a large number of first rate articles on the physics and technology of semiconductor devices, written by Soviet experts in the field, are published. However, due to the lack of exchange and personal contact, most of these, unfortunately, are neglected by many scientists from the United States, Japan as well as Western Europe. Consequently, many important developments in semiconductor physics are missed by the Western world.This book is a serious attempt to bridge the gap between the Soviet and Western scientific communities. Most of all, it is an effort towards facilitating the communication and sharing of knowledge amongst people from different parts of the world. Ultimately, the aim is to contribute towards the building of a better world for all ? one where the knowledge of advanced technology and scientific discoveries is used to improve the quality of life and not the pursuit of selfish mutually destructive behavior. For those in the field who wish to partake in this exchange of knowledge and as a gesture of support for their Soviet counterparts, the reading of this book provides the first step.