Abstract: A cable reel is disclosed which permits rapid and simple pay out and deployment of cable, retention of cable in operating position, and rapid and controlled retraction of the cable, without overrunning or overwinding of the reel. The reel utilizes a highly functional slip ring capsule which provides positive and continual communications contact and transmission, regardless of adverse weather conditions, handling or operating stresses, or other conditions which would otherwise affect transmissions in prior art devices. It also reduces damage to cables; premature loss of cables through workers' carelessness or deliberate discard of loose cables; operational delays caused by missing cables, or by workers being required to hunt for individual lengths of cable; and delays or malfunctions resulting from having cables of the wrong size, length, weather resistance, etc. A slip-on member prevents damage to the cable tip when the cable is dropped, and a retractable cover prevents damage to the cable tip.