The first edition of this Handbook was published in 1994. Due to the rapid development of technologies, a second edition was considered useful to include new applications for computers and microprocessors, taking into account that many countries are adopting such devices and equipment. Outside plant occupies a wide area which requires a large amount of investment and a huge amount of work on design, construction, installation and protection, especially considering the new telecommunication services now available and the future role of access networks.