Telecommunications is the communication of information over distances and includes electronic transmission of impulses by telephone, computer and television. The beginning of telecommunications started with the invention of the telephone in 1874. Today, it has evolved from basic voice conversation to combining voice, video and data.

Since communications in only one direction is ineffective, telecommunication systems can handle two-way communications. There are essentially four types of telecom copper cables, all of which are manufactured by General Cable. The first three types qualify as outside plant cables and include: aerial cables, which are used above ground; duct/buried cables, which are used below ground; and wire products used as the last link in bringing telecommunication services to the subscriber. In addition, central office cables round out the group and serve to distribute or cross-connect signals within buildings.