Various sophisticated techniques such as capillary electrophoresis, pulsed- field electrophoresis, fingerprinting using RFLP and RAPD, DNA sequencing, and mobility shift assay are described here in detail. Leading experts present the required apparatus, appropriate use, preparation of probes, gel staining, interpretation of results, tricks for troubleshooting, manufacturers' addresses, helpful Internet resources, as well as specific applications, e.g. in legal medicine, microbiology and agriculture.