Hardened fiber optic connection systems

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to optical connection systems. Certain aspects relate to fiber optic connection devices that can be used to increase the capacity of existing optical component designs, to allow effective backward compatibility and / or to allow interfaces of a connector core to be readily changed.

Description

HARDENED FIBER OPTIC CONNECTION SYSTEMSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 668,670 filed on July 8, 2024; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 685,375 filed on August 21, 2024; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 839,433 filed on July 7, 2025, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to fiber optic connection systems. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to fiber optic connection systems that are hardened to be suitable for outside environmental use.BACKGROUND

[0003] Fiber optic communication systems are becoming prevalent in part because service providers want to deliver high bandwidth communication capabilities (e.g., data and voice) to customers. Fiber optic communication systems employ a network of fiber optic cables to transmit large volumes of data and voice signals over relatively long distances. Optical fiber connectors are an important part of most fiber optic communication systems. Fiber optic connectors allow two optical fibers to be quickly optically connected without requiring a splice. Fiber optic connectors can be used to optically interconnect two lengths of optical fiber. Fiber optic connectors can also be used to interconnect lengths of optical fiber to passive and active equipment.

[0004] A typical fiber optic connector includes a ferrule assembly supported at a distal end of a connector housing. A spring is used to bias the ferrule assembly in a distal direction relative to the connector housing. The ferrule functions to support an end portion of at least one optical fiber (in the case of a multi-fiber ferrule, the ends of multiple fibers are supported). The ferrule has a distal end face at which a polished end of the optical fiber is located. When two fiber optic connectors are interconnected, the distal end faces of the ferrules abut and the ferrules are forced proximally relative totheir respective connector housings against the bias of their respective springs. With the fiber optic connectors connected, their respective optical fibers are coaxially aligned such that the end faces of the optical fibers directly oppose one another. In this way, an optical signal can be transmitted from optical fiber to optical fiber through the aligned end faces of the optical fibers. For many fiber optic connector styles, alignment between two fiber optic connectors is provided through the use of an intermediate fiber optic adapter.

[0005] Ruggedized (i.e., hardened) fiber optic connection systems include fiber optic connectors and fiber optic adapters suitable for outside environmental use. These types of systems are typically environmentally sealed and include robust fastening arrangements suitable for withstanding relatively large pull loading and side loading. Example ruggedized fiber optic connection systems are disclosed by US. Patent Nos. 7,467,896; 7,744,288 and 8,556,520.

[0006] It will be appreciated that a number of different types of ruggedized fiber optic connectors are available for outside environmental use. PCT International Publication No. WO2015 / 028433 discloses a system for making fiber optic connectors in which a number of different ruggedized outer assemblies having different formfactors or configurations can be selectively mounted on a pre-terminated cable such that the pre-tenninated cable can be customized to be compatible with a particular style or type of fiber optic connector or fiber optic adapter. Other systems are disclosed by PCT International Publication Nos. W02021 / 041305 and WO2020 / 236512; US Patent Nos. 11,822,142 and 11,921,329; and US Patent Publication No. US 20223 / 0161111.SUMMARY

[0007] Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to fiber optic connection systems, features and components adapted for providing enhanced connection density for hardened applications. Other aspects of the present disclosure relate to fiber optic connection systems, features and components having enhanced backwards compatibility. Still other aspects of the present disclosure relate to fiber optic connection systems that are robust, reliable and intuitive to use. Still further aspects of the present disclosure relate to fiber optic connection systems having design flexibility that allow for the conversion between different types of connectors.

[0008] A variety of additional inventive aspects will be set forth in the description that follows. The inventive aspects can relate to individual features and to combinations of features. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the broad inventive concepts upon which the examples disclosed herein are based.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] FIG. 1 depicts a fiber optic connection system in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

[0010] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a connector body of a connector core of the system of FIG. 1;

[0011] FIG. 3 is another perspective view of the connector body of FIG. 2;

[0012] FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the connector body of FIG. 2;

[0013] FIG. 5 is a top view of the connector body of FIG. 2;

[0014] FIG. 6 is a side view of the connector body of FIG. 2;

[0015] FIG. 7 is an opposite side view of the connector body of FIG 2;

[0016] FIG. 8 is a cable connection and view of the connector body of FIG. 2;

[0017] FIG. 9 is an optical connection end view of the connector body of FIG. 2;

[0018] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line 10-10 of FIG. 5;

[0019] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a tum-to-engage coupler of the connection system of FIG. 1;

[0020] FIG. 12 is a first axial end view of the tum-to-engage coupler of FIG. 11;

[0021] FIG. 13 is a second axial end view of the tum-to-engage coupler ofFIG. 11;

[0022] FIG. 14 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the tum-to-engage coupler of FIG. 11;

[0023] FIG. 15 is another perspective cross-sectional view of the tum-to-engage coupler of FIG. 11;

[0024] FIG. 16 is a further perspective cross-sectional view of the tum-to-engage coupler of FIG. 11;

[0025] FIG. 17 is another perspective cross-sectional view of the tum-to-engage coupler of FIG. 11;

[0026] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of another tum-to-engage coupler of the system of FIG. 1;

[0027] FIG. 19 is another perspective view of the tum-to-engage coupler of FIG. 18;

[0028] FIG. 20 is a further perspective view of the tum-to-engage coupler of FIG. 18;

[0029] FIG. 21 is a first axial end view of the tum-to-engage coupler of FIG. 18;

[0030] FIG. 22 is a second axial end view of the tum-to-engage coupler of FIG.18;

[0031] FIG. 23 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the tum-to-engage coupler of FIG. 18;

[0032] FIG. 24 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the tum-to-engage coupler of FIG. 18;

[0033] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a main connection unit of a fiber optic connection device in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

[0034] FIG. 26 is another perspective view of the main connection unit of FIG. 25;

[0035] FIG. 27 is a further perspective view of the main connection unit of FIG. 25;

[0036] FIG. 28 is an end view showing the hardened connector port end of the main connection unit of FIG. 25;

[0037] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the fiber optic connection device which incorporates the main connection unit of FIG. 25;

[0038] FIG. 30 is an exploded view of the fiber optic connection device of FIG. 29 depicting alternative dust plug configurations;

[0039] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the main connection unit of the fiber optic connection device of FIG. 29;

[0040] FIG. 32 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the main connection unit of FIG. 31 having dust plugs depicted inserted in a first and second connector port of the main connection unit;

[0041] FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a fastening structure of the fiber optic connection device of FIG. 29;

[0042] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a prior art terminal housing having prior art adapters mounted within example adapter mounting openings;

[0043] FIG. 35 is a plan view depicting the example adapter mounting openings of FIG. 33;

[0044] FIG. 36 is an end view of the main connection unit of FIG. 31 ;

[0045] FIG. 37 is a top view of a hardened fiber optic connector in accordance with the principles of this disclosure;

[0046] FIG. 38 is the longitudinal cross-sectional view of FIG. 32 showing nonhardened fiber optic connectors inserted in the non-hardened ports of the main connection unit;

[0047] FIG. 39 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view depicting the tum-to-engage couplers mounted onto the main connection unit of FIG. 31;

[0048] FIG. 40 is a perspective view of two of the tum-to-engage couplers of FIG. 18;

[0049] FIG. 41 is another perspective view of the two tum-to-engage couplers of FIG. 40;

[0050] FIG. 42 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the two tum-to-engage couplers of FIG. 40;

[0051] FIG. 43 is a side view of a hardened fiber optic adapter of the type shown mounted in the terminal of FIG. 34;

[0052] FIG. 44 is a perspective view of a dust cap assembly adapter to mount on the hardened fiber optic connector of FIG. 4 or FIG. 37;

[0053] FIG. 45 is an exploded view of the dust cap assembly of FIG. 44;

[0054] FIG. 46 is an exploded view depicting the dust cap assembly of FIG. 44 aligned for installation onto the hardened fiber optic connector of FIG. 37;

[0055] FIG. 47 is an exploded view showing an alternative dust cap aligned for installation onto the hardened fiber optic connector of FIG. 37;

[0056] FIG. 48 is a perspective view depicting the locking interface between the alternative dust cap of FIG. 47 and the hardened fiber optic connector of FIG. 37;

[0057] FIG. 49 is a perspective view of a fiber optic adapter of the system of FIG. 1;

[0058] FIG. 50 is a perspective view of a fiber optic converter in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

[0059] FIG. 51 a dust plug in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

[0060] FIG.52 is a perspective view of an alternative dust plug in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

[0061] FIG. 53 is perspective view of an adapter pack including a plurality of fiber optic adapters positioned in a plurality of rows;

[0062] FIG. 54 is side view of the adapter pack of FIG. 53 depicting the different adapter port depths of the various rows of the adapter pack;

[0063] FIG. 55 is a perspective view of an alternative adapter pack in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure shown installed within an opening of a terminal;

[0064] FIG. 56 is a perspective view of the adapter pack of FIG. 55;

[0065] FIG. 57A is a perspective view of a dust plug with a lanyard in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

[0066] FIG. 57B is a perspective view showing lanyards of the type depicted at FIG. 57A being used to tether dust plugs to the connection device of FIG. 29;

[0067] FIG. 57C is an enlargement showing how sealing rings of the lanyard seal ends of the tum-to-engage couplers of the connection device of FIG. 29;

[0068] FIG. 58 is a perspective view of an axial snap-on dust cap of the system of FIG. 1;

[0069] FIG. 59 is another perspective view of the dust cap of FIG. 58;

[0070] FIG. 60 is an end view of the dust cap of FIG. 58;

[0071] FIG. 61 is a cross-sectional view of the dust cap of FIG. 58;

[0072] FIG. 62 is a perspective view of the dust cap of FIG. 44;

[0073] FIG. 63 is another perspective view of the dust cap of FIG. 44;

[0074] FIG. 64 is a cross-sectional view of the dust cap of FIG. 44;

[0075] FIG. 65 is an end view of the dust cap of FIG. 44;

[0076] FIG. 66 is a perspective view of a fiber optic connector in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure shown in co-axial alignment with a mating component depicted as a dust cap;

[0077] FIG. 67 is a side view of the dust cap of FIG. 66;

[0078] FIG. 68 is a top view of the dust cap of FIG. 66;

[0079] FIG. 69 is a rear perspective view of the dust cap of FIG. 66;

[0080] FIG. 70 is a front perspective view of the dust cap of FIG. 66;

[0081] FIG. 71 is a right side view of a connector body of the fiber optic connector of FIG. 66;

[0082] FIG. 72 is a bottom view of the connector body of FIG. 71;

[0083] FIG. 73 is a left side view of the connector body of FIG. 71;

[0084] FIG. 74 is a top view of the connector body of FIG. 71;

[0085] FIG. 75 is a rear perspective view of the connector body of FIG. 71 ;

[0086] FIG. 76 is another rear perspective view of the connector body of FIG. 71;

[0087] FIG. 77 is a front perspective view of the connector body of FIG. 71;

[0088] FIG. 78 is a rear perspective view of a rotatable fastener of the fiber optic connector of FIG. 66;

[0089] FIG. 79 is a front perspective view of the rotatable fastener of FIG. 78;

[0090] FIG. 80 is a front end view of the rotatable faster of FIG. 78;

[0091] FIG. 81 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line 81-81 of FIG. 80;

[0092] FIG. 82 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line 82-82 of FIG. 80;

[0093] FIG. 83 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line 83-83 of FIG. 80;

[0094] FIG. 84 is a cross-sectional line taken along section line 84-84 of FIG. 80;

[0095] FIG. 85 depicts the fiber optic connector of FIG. 66 with the dust cap secured on the fiber optic connector by the rotatable fastener which is in a retained / locked rotational position;

[0096] FIG. 86 depicts the fiber optic connector of FIG. 85 with the rotatable fastener turned to a retained / unlocked rotational position in which the dust cap can be removed from the fiber optic connector;

[0097] FIG. 87 depicts the fiber optic connector of FIG. 86 with the dust cap moved axially to a disconnected state relative to the fiber optic connector;

[0098] FIG. 88 depicts the fiber optic connector of FIG. 87 with the rotatable fastener rotated to and installation / removal rotational position;

[0099] FIG. 89 depicts the fiber optic connector of FIG. 88 with the rotatable faster in the process of being removed from the connector body by sliding the rotatable fastener forwardly over the front end of the connector body;

[0100] FIG. 90 depicts a plurality of fiber optic adapters in accordance with the principles and present disclosure attached to a base of an enclosure;

[0101] FIG. 91 depicts the base of FIG. 90 mounted to a dome of the enclosure;

[0102] FIG. 92 depicts a fiber optic connection device in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure configured for mounting to fiber optic adapters in a single opening of an enclosure;

[0103] FIG. 93 is a partially exploded view of the fiber optic connection device of FIG. 92;

[0104] FIG. 94 is a perspective view depicting the fiber optic connection device of FIG. 92 in isolation from the enclosure;

[0105] FIG. 95 is a perspective view of the fiber optic connection device of FIG. 92 showing a first keying structure; and

[0106] FIG. 96 is a perspective view of the fiber optic connection device of FIG. 92 showing a second keying structure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0107] Figure 1 illustrates an example fiber optic connector assembly system 520 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. The fiber optic connector assembly system 520 allows a pre-terminated fiber optic cable to be readily configured in one of any number of different connector configurations. The different connector configurations can include connector configurations having different connector housings / shrouds, different keying arrangements for keying with different styles or types of fiber optic adapters or fiber optic connectors, different fasteners compatible with different fiber optic adapters and fiber optic connectors, and the like. In certain examples, the different connector arrangements can include a plurality of different hardened (i.e., ruggedized) connector arrangements adapted to be compatible with different styles or types of hardened fiber optic connectors or hardened fiber optic adapters. It will be appreciated that the pre-terminated cable can be fitted with a selected one of the different outer connector arrangements either in the field or in the factory to render the pre-terminated fiber optic cable compatible with a particular type of connector system (e.g., the pre-terminated fiber optic cable with the selected connector assembly mounted thereon is compatible and mateable with a particular fiber optic adapter style and / or a particular fiber optic connector style). In certain examples, the pre-terminated cable can include a connector core that is directly compatible with a fiber optic adapter.

[0108] Certain components of the present disclosure are interconnected by tum-to- engage coupling interfaces. The tum-to-engage coupling interfaces can each include first and second axial retention structures each including at least two axial stops. When the tum-to-engage coupling interface is in a release position, the first and second axial retention structures can be slid axially past one another as the components are mated together. When the tum-to-engage coupling interface is turned (e.g., rotated) from the release position to a retention position, the first and second axial retention structures oppose each other to prevent the mated components from being axially separated. Tum-to-engage coupling interfaces in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure can have a range of motion less than 180° between the release rotational position and the retention rotational position. In certain examples, the range of motion between the release rotational position and the retention rotational position is in the range of 70°-l 10°. Certain components of the present disclosure also include axial snap-fit coupling interfaces including axial snap-fit retention structures that are axially slid with respect to one another to provide an axial interlock between components. The axial snap-fit interfaces often include snap-fit retention structures in which one structure snaps past another structure as the mating components are mated axially together to provide a snap-fit interlock that prevents the components from being axially separated. Certain components of the present disclosure also include circumferential snap-fit coupling interfaces including circumferential snap-fit retention structures that are circumferentially slid with respect to one another to provide a circumferential interlock between components. The circumferential snap-fit interfaces also include snap-fit retention structures in which one structure snaps past another structure as the mating components are rotated circumferentially in a first direction relative to one another to provide a snap-fit interlock that prevents or resists the components from being rotated in an opposite second direction relative to one another.

[0109] Referring still to Figure 1, the fiber optic connector assembly system 520 includes a connector core 523 terminating one end of a fiber optic cable 544 (see FIG. 4). The connector core 523 includes a fiber optic connector body 524 defining a connector body axis 525. As depicted the connector body 524 has an elongate configuration. The connector core 523 includes a seal 530 (e.g., an O-ring seal or other elastomeric seal) mounted about an exterior of the fiber optic connector body 524. The seal 530 can fit within an exterior circumferential groove 521 (see FIG.2) defined at anexterior of the fiber-optic connector body 524. The groove 521 can be defined between circumferential shoulders 519 that project radially outwardly from a main body of the connector body 524. The connector body 524 includes an elongate key 531 that extends along a length of the connector body 524. The fiber optic connector assembly system 520 also includes different components, arrangements, assemblies or the like that can be selected and coupled with the connector core 523. The seal 530 can be configured to seal against the components, arrangements, or assemblies when the components, arrangements or assemblies are coupled to the connector core 23. The various components, arrangements, and assemblies are depicted as including a first hardened connector shroud and fastener arrangement 534, a second hardened connector shroud and fastener arrangement 536, a first small form-factor fiber optic adapter 538 having at least one ruggedized port for directly receiving the connector core 523, a second small form-factor fiber optic adapter 539 having at least one ruggedized port for directly receiving the connector core 523, and a dust cap 535.

[0110] The fiber optic connector body 524 is depicted at FIGS. 2-10. As best shown at FIG, 4, the connector body 524 includes an optical connection end 540 at which a ferrule 541 supporting an optical fiber 542 is located and an opposite cable connection end 543. The fiber optic cable 544 can be secured to and sealed at the cable connection end 543. Sealing can be provided by a shape memory (heat -shrink) sleeve containing adhesive, adhesive, gaskets or other means. Strength members of the cable544 can be secured to the cable connection end 543 by adhesive, crimping or other means. An axial retention structure such as a tum-to-engage coupler axial retention structure 545 is provided at an exterior of the connector body 524 at an axial location between the seal 530 and the cable connection end 543. The fiber optic connector body 524 includes a snap-fit axial retention shoulder 546 at the exterior of the fiber optic connector body 524 axially between the tum-to-engage coupler axial retention structure545 and the cable connection end 543 of the fiber optic connector body 524. The snap- fit axial retention shoulder 546 projects radially outwardly from an outer surface of the connector body 524. The snap-fit axial retention shoulder 546 includes recessed regions 547 circumferentially spaced about the connector body axis 525. The recessed regions 547 have a shorter radial height than the remainder of the snap-fit axial retention shoulder 546. As depicted the recessed regions 547 include four recessed regions 547 spaced about 90 degrees apart with respect to each other about the connector body axis525. The tum-to-engage coupler axial retention structure 545 includes axial stops 548 that are circumferentially spaced with respect to each other about the connector body axis 525 and that project radially outwardly from an outer surface of the connector body 524. Axial stop pass-through regions 549 are located circumferentially between the axial stops 548. The axial stop pass-through regions 549 are recessed relative to the axial stops 548. As depicted, the tum-to-engage coupler axial retention structure 545 includes four axial stops 548 spaced about 90° apart with respect to each other about the connector body axis 525. The axial stop pass-through regions 549 include four axial stop pass-through regions 549 positioned circumferentially between the axial stops 548. The recessed regions 547 are axially offset from and circumferentially aligned with the axial stop pass-through regions 549. As shown at FIG. 9, the axial stops 548 have a larger radial height and project radially outwardly further than the snap-fit axial retention shoulder 546.

[0111] Referring back to FIG.l, the connector core 523 is configured to couple (e.g., axially secured) with the first hardened connector shroud and fast arrangement 534, the second hardened connector shroud and fastener arrangement 536 and the fiberoptic adapter 538 through the use of a tum-to-engage coupler 550. The tum-to-engage coupler 550 is configured to couple with axial retention structures of the above components 534, 536 and 538 to provide a tum-to-engage coupling interface for selectively preventing the components from being axially disconnected. In contrast, the connector core 523 is configured to couple directly with the fiber-optic adapter 539 and the dust cap 535 without requiring use of the tum-to-engage coupler 550. The fiberoptic adapter 539 includes its own tum-to-engage coupler 552 integrated therewith. Therefore, the connector core 523 is not required to carry its own tum-to-engage coupler to be secured to the fiber-optic adapter 539. Instead, the tum-to-engage coupler 552 is mounted on an adapter body of the fiber-optic adapter 539 and is used to secure the connector core 523 within the fiber-optic adapter 539 via a tum-to-engage coupling interface. However, if the coupler 552 is not present, the coupler 550 can be used to secure the connector core 523 within the fiber optic adapter 539. The connector core 523 can couple directly to the dust cap 535 via an axial snap-fit connection interface. In certain examples, the dust cap 535 can include structure that interfaces with the key 531 of the connector core 523 to prevent relative rotation between the dust cap 535 and the connector core 523 when the dust cap 535 is mounted over the connector core 523.

[0112] The tum-to-secure coupler 550 is shown at FIGS. 11-17. The tum-to-secure coupler 550 includes a coupler body 560 depicted as a rotatable sleeve. The coupler body 560 includes a first axial end 561 and an opposite second axial end 562. The coupler body 560 includes an interior 563 having a plurality of different types of retention structures. For example, the interior of the coupler body 560 includes a mating component axial retention structure 564 and a connector core axial retention structure 565 that are axially separated from one another. The mating component axial retention structure 564 is positioned closer to the first axial end 561 than the connector core axial retention structure 565. The interior of the coupler body 560 also includes an axial snap-fit retention structure 566 and a circumferential snap-fit retention structure 567. The axial snap-fit retention structure 566 is positioned axially between the axial retention structure 565 and the second axial end 562 of the coupler body 560. The circumferential snap-fit retention structure 567 is positioned directly at the first axial end 561 of the coupler body 560. The mating component axial retention structure 564 includes a plurality of circumferentially separated axial stops 568 that are circumferentially separated by axial stop pass-through regions 569. The axial stops 568 project radially inwardly from an inner surface of the coupler body 560 which defines the interior of the coupler body. As depicted, the plurality of axial stops 568 include four of the axial stops 568 spaced about 90° apart from one another with the axial pass-through regions 569 located circumferentially between the axial stops 568. The connector core axial retention structure 565 includes a plurality of axial stops 570 that project inwardly from the inner surface of the coupler body 560. The axial stops 570 include two of the axial stops 570 that are circumferentially separated from one another. In one example, the axial stops 570 are circumferentially separated from one another by about 180°. Axial stop pass-through regions 581 are located circumferentially between the axial stops 570. The axial stops 570 project further radially inwardly and have larger radial heights than the axial stops 568. The axial stops570 are axially offset from and circumferentially aligned with corresponding ones of the axial stop pass-through regions 569.

[0113] The axial snap-fit retention structure 566 includes two snap fit members571 that are circumferentially separated from one another. As depicted, the snap fit members 571 are circumferentially separated from one another by about 180° and are circumferentially offset from the axial stops 570 by about 90°. The snap-fit members571 are axially offset from the axial stops 570. The snap-fit members 571 have ramped surfaces 585 that face toward the second axial end 562 of the tum-to-secure coupler 550. The circumferential snap-fit retention structure 567 includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced-apart circumferential stops 572 each having a ramp surface 573 and a stop surface 574.

[0114] The first hardened connector shroud and fastener arrangement 534, the second hardened connector shroud and fastener arrangement 536 and the fiber-optic adapter 538 each includes an axial retention structure adapted to engage with the mating component axial retention structure 564 of the tum-to-engage coupler 552 provide a tum-to-engage coupling interface for securing the connector core 523 to the corresponding mated component 534, 536 or 538. FIG. 49 depicts the fiber-optic adapter 538 and shows an axial retention structure 575 configured to engage with the mating component axial retention structure 564. The axial retention structure 575 includes four circumferentially spaced-apart axial stops 577 that project radially outwardly from a main body 578 of the fiber optic adapter 538. The axial stops 537 are circumferentially separated by axial stop pass-through locations 579. Circumferential snap-fit stops 586 (e.g., bumps) can also be provided circumferentially about the exterior of the adapter 538. It will be appreciated that retention structures such as the axial retention structure 575 and the circumferential snap-fit stops 586 can also be provided on the first hardened connector shroud and fastener arrangement 534 and the second hardened connector shroud and fastener arrangement 536.

[0115] The main body 578 of the fiber-optic adapter 538 defines an exterior hardened port 580 for receiving the connector core 523 with the seal 530 providing radial sealing between the connector body 524 and the fiber optic adapter 538. The axial retention structure 575 is provided around the hardened port 580 at the exterior of the fiber-optic adapter 538. A ferrule alignment sleeve can be positioned within the fiber-optic adapter 538. An end 582 of the main body of the fiber-optic adapter 538 that is opposite from the hardened port 580 can be configured for receiving a non-hardened fiber optic connector such that the fiber-optic adapter 538 is configured for optically coupling a non-hardened fiber optic connector loaded into the end 582 of the fiber-optic adapter 538 with the connector core 523 loaded into the hardened port 580.

[0116] The tum-to-engage coupler 550 can be installed on the fiber optic connector body 524 by initially positioning the tum-to-engage coupler 550 in a firstrotational position (e.g., a release rotational position) relative to the connector body 524. In the first rotational position, the axial stops 570 of the connector core axial retention structure 565 (within the coupler 550) align with the axial stop pass-through regions 549 of the tum-to-engage coupler axial retention structure 525 (on the connector body 524). Also, the snap fit members 571 within the coupler 550 align with the axial stop pass-through regions 549 as well as the recessed regions 547 of the snap- fit axial retention shoulder 546. Further, the axial stops 548 align with the axial pass- through regions 581. With the tum-to-engage coupler 550 in the first rotational position, the second axial end 561 of the tum-to-engage coupler 550 is inserted over the optical connection end 540 of the fiber optic connector body 524 and is slid in an installation direction oriented toward the cable connection end 543 of the fiber optic connector body 524. During sliding of the tum-to-engage coupler 550 in the installation direction, the snap-fit members 571 initially pass through axial stop pass- through regions 549. Subsequently, the snap-fit members 571 pass though the recessed regions 547 and snap-past the snap-fit axial retention shoulder 546 concurrent with the axial stops 570 of the connector core axial retention structure 565 passing through the axial stop pass-through regions 549. The axial stops 548 also pass through the axial stop pass-through regions 581.

[0117] Once the snap-fit members 571 snap past an interlock with the snap-fit axial retention shoulder 546, this interlock prevents the coupler 550 from unintentionally being removed from the connector body 525 when in the first rotational position while concurrently allowing for rotation of the coupler 550 about the axis 525 of the connector body 524. The coupler 550 can be rotated relative to the connector body 524 about the axis 525 from the first rotational position to a second rotational position (e.g., a retaining rotational position) in which the axial stops 570 of the coupler 550 circumferentially overlap and oppose the axial stops 548 of the connector body 524. When coupler 550 is in the second rotational position, interference between the axial stops 548 and the axial stops 570 prevents the coupler 550 from being axially removed from the connector body 524 in an axial removal direction that is opposite with respect to the axial installation direction. The interlock between the snap-fit members 571 and the snap-fit axial retention shoulder 546 also provides axial retention of the coupler 550 on the connector body 524, but the retention provided by engagement between the axial stops 548 and the axial stops 570 is more robust.

[0118] To couple the connector core 523 with one of the components 534, 536 or 538, the connector core 523 is inserted axially into a port (e.g., hardened port 580 of the adapter 538) of a selected one of the components with the key 531 fitting within a corresponding slot defined within the port to provide rotational positioning of the connector core 523 within the port. As the connector core 523 is inserted into the port, the tum-to-secure coupler 550 is preferably in the release rotational position relative to the connector body 524 such that the axial stops 568 of the mating component axial retention structure 564 pass axially through the axial stop pass-through locations 579 provided at an exterior of the port. Once the connector core 523 is fully inserted within the port, the tum-two-secure coupler 550 can be manually rotated from the release rotational position to the retention rotational position. In the retention rotational position, the axial stops 568 oppose the axial stops 577 of the port to prevent the coupler 550 from being axially pulled from the port. Concurrently, the axial stops 570 of the coupler 550 oppose the axial stops 548 of the connector body 524 to prevent the connector core 523 from being axially pulled outwardly from the coupler 550. The circumferential stops 572 of the circumferential snap-fit retention structure 567 of the coupler 550 can engage circumferential snap-fit stops 582 to retain the coupler in the retention rotational position. In certain examples, the circumferential retention provided by the circumferential stops 572 and the circumferential snap-fit retention structure 567 can be manually overcome when it is desired to rotate the coupler 550 from the rotational retention position back to the rotational release position to allow for removal of the connector core 523 from the port.

[0119] The tum-to-secure coupler 552 integrated with the fiber optic adapter 539 is shown at FIGS. 18-24. The tum-to-secure coupler 552 includes a coupler body 590 depicted as a rotatable sleeve. The coupler body 590 includes a first axial end 591 and an opposite second axial end 592. The coupler body 560 includes an interior 593 having two axially spaced-apart axial retention structures (e.g., one for engagement with the fiber optic adapter 539 and the other for engagement with the connector core 523). For example, the interior of the coupler body 590 includes a connector core axial retention structure 594 and an adapter axial retention structure 595 that are axially separated from one another. The connector core axial retention structure 594 is positioned closer to the first axial end 591 than the adapter axial retention structure 595. The coupler body 590 also includes a snap-fit retention structure 596 provided byresilient arms 597 that project axially from the second axial end 592 of the coupler body 590. The arms 597 are configured to provide both axial retention and circumferential retention functionality. The arms 597 of the snap-fit retention structure 596 include resilient cantilever members 603 having base ends integrally formed with the second axial end 592 of the coupler 552 and free ends including a pair of snap-fit tabs 604.

[0120] The connector core axial retention structure 594 includes a plurality of circumferentially separated axial stops 598 that are circumferentially separated by axial stop pass-through regions 599. The axial stops 598 project radially inwardly from an inner surface of the coupler body 590 which defines the interior of the coupler body. As depicted, the plurality of axial stops 598 include four of the axial stops 598 spaced about 90° apart from one another with the axial pass-through regions 599 located circumferentially between the axial stops 598. The adapter axial retention structure 595 includes a plurality of axial stops 600 that project inwardly from the inner surface of the coupler body 590. The axial stops 600 include four of the axial stops 600 that are circumferentially separated from one another (e.g., by about 90 degrees). Axial stop pass-through regions 601 are located circumferentially between the axial stops 600. The axial stops 598 project further radially inwardly and have larger radial heights than the axial stops 600. The axial stops 600 are axially offset from and circumferentially aligned with corresponding ones of the axial stop pass-through regions 599.

[0121] FIGS. 25-28 depict two of the fiber optic adapters 539 unitarily formed with a mounting plate 68. The fiber-optic adapters 539 each include a main body defining a hardened port 608 sized for receiving the connector core 523 with the seal 530 providing radial sealing between the connector body 524 and the fiber optic adapter 539. A coupler axial retention structure 610 is provided around each hardened port 580 at the exterior of main body of each fiber-optic adapter 539. A ferrule alignment sleeve can be positioned within each fiber-optic adapter 539. An end 612 of the main body 606 of each fiber-optic adapter 539 that is opposite from the hardened port 608 can be configured for receiving a non-hardened fiber optic connector such that each fiber-optic adapter 539 is configured for optically coupling a non-hardened fiber optic connector loaded into the end 612 of each fiber-optic adapter 539 with connector cores 523 loaded into the hardened ports 608.

[0122] Each of the coupler axial retention structures 610 of the adapters 539 includes a plurality of axial stops 614 spaced circumferentially about the exterior of each of the main bodies adjacent the hardened ports 608. The axial stops 614 are circumferentially separated by axial stop pass-through regions 616. As depicted, the plurality of axial stops 14 includes four of the axial stops 614 spaced apart circumferentially apart from one another by about 90°. The main bodies 606 also include snap-fit axial retention shoulders 618 that are annular and that extend around the circumference of each of the main bodies 606. Circumferential stop structures 620 are positioned between axially between the snap-fit axial retention shoulder 618 and the mounting plate 68.

[0123] To assemble the tum-to-engage coupler 552 on one of the fiber-optic adapters 539 adjacent the hardened port 608, the coupler 552 is rotationally oriented in a release rotational position such that the axial stops 600 of the chapter axial retention structure 595 align with the axial stop pass-through region 616 of the coupler axial retention structure 610. The second axial and 592 of the coupler 552 is then slid axially over the hardened port 608 such that the snap-fit tabs 604 of the cantilever members 603 snap past the snap-fit axial retention shoulder 618 and the axial stops 600 pass axially through the axial stop pass-through regions 616. As so mounted, the arms 597 of the snap-fit retention structure 596 retain the coupler 552 on the main body 606 defining the hardened port 608 while concurrently allowing the coupler 552 to be rotated about an axis of the hardened port 606 between the release rotational position and a retention rotational position. When the coupler 552 is rotated to the retention rotational position, the snap-fit tabs 604 engage the circumferential stop structure 602 to inhibit unintentional rotational movement of the coupler 552 from the retention rotational position back to the release rotational position. It will be appreciated that application of manual rotational force to the coupler 552 can overcome the snap-fit engagement provided by the snap-fit tabs 604 thereby allowing the coupler 552 to be rotated from the retention rotation position back to the release rotational position. When the copper 552 is in the retention rotational position, the axial stops 606 oppose the axial stops 614 such that opposition between the stops 606, 614 prevents the coupler 552 from being axially pulled from the main body 606. It will be appreciated that the interface between the stops 606, 604 provides a more robust axial interlock than the snap-fit engagement provided by the snap-fit tabs 604. When in the release rotationalposition, the coupler 552 can be removed by outwardly flexing the arms 597 and pulling the coupler 552 axially outwardly from the adapter 539.

[0124] To secure the connector core 523 within the hardened ports 608 of one of the fiber-optic adapters 539, the coupler 552 is positioned in the release rotational position and the connector core 523 is inserted into the hardened port 608. During insertion, the key 531 on the connector body 524 fits in a keyway defined within the hardened port 608 to orient the connector body 524 at a rotational position in which the axial stop pass-through regions 549 align with the axial stops 598 of the connector core axial retention structure 594 and the axial stop pass-through locations 599 of the connector core axial retention structure 594 align with the axial stops 548 of the tum- two-engage coupler axial retention structure 545 of the connector body 524. The connector core 523 is inserted into the hardened port 608 until the axial stops 548 of the connector body 524 pass through the axial stop pass-through locations 599. Then, the coupler 552 is rotated from the release rotation a position to the retention rotational position. In the retention rotational position interference between the axial stops corresponding to the connector body 524 and the retention sleeve 552 (e.g., stops 548 and 598). Prevent the connector body 524 from being axially withdrawn from the hardened port 608. By rotating the coupler 552 from the rotational retention position back to the rotational release position, the connector core 523 can be withdrawn from the hardened port 608. If the coupler 552 is not present on the adapter 539, the coupler 550 can be used to secure the connector core 523 in the adapter 539 via a tum-to- engage coupling interface between the axial retention structure 564 of the coupler 550 and the axial retention structure 610 of the adapter 539.

[0125] It will be appreciated that the dust cap 535 can be secured over the connector core 523 to protect the connector core 523 and the terminated optical fiber or fibers supported thereby prior to coupling the connector core 523 with another mating component. It will be appreciated that the dust cap 535 is required to be removed from the connector core 523 prior to coupling the connector core with any of its other mating components. The dust cap 535 can be secured directly over the connector core 523 by a direct snap-fit connection without the need for the tum-to-engage coupler 550. As depicted at FIGS. 58-61 , the dust cap 535 has a molded plastic construction anchor includes an open end 630 and an opposite closed end 632. Snap-fit members 634 are formed with an interior of the dust cap 535 and are circumferentially spaced about acentral axis 635 of the dust cap 535. The snap-fit members 634 are adapted to provide a snap-fit axial retention engagement with respect to the snap-fit axial retention shoulder 546 of the connector body 524 to retain the dust cap 535 on the connector core 523. The dust cap 535 also includes an interior sealing surface 636 adapted to provide radial sealing with respect to the seal 530 of the connector core 523. The interior sealing surface 636 is formed as an annular ring that extends fully or about the dust cap axis 635. The interior of the dust cap 535 also include circumferentially spaced apart longitudinal slots 637 adapted for receiving the key 531 of the connector body 524 to prevent relative rotation between the connector core 523 and the dust cap 535 when the dust cap 535 is mounted on the connector core 524.

[0126] A first fiber optic connector assembly that results when the first hardened connector shroud and fastener arrangement 534 is mounted on the connector core 523 is compatible and mateable with a FastConnect™ fiber optic adapter 541 (shown schematically at Figure 1) sold by Huawei Technologies Company Ltd. (see U.S. Patent No. 9,557,493, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety). A second fiber optic connector assembly that results when the second hardened connector shroud and fastening arrangement 536 is mounted on the connector core 523 is configured to be compatible with an Opti Tap™ fiber optic adapter 543 (shown schematically at Figure 1) by Coming Cable Systems LLC (e.g., see U.S. Patent No. 7,090,407, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety). The small formfactor fiber optic adapter 538 includes a ruggedized port adapted to directly receive the connector core 523 without requiring the use of an intermediate shroud for keying, alignment or sealing. The fiber optic adapter is representative of a Prodigy™ adapter sold by Commscope Technologies LLC and disclosed in PCT publication No. WO 2021 / 041305 which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0127] FIGS. 29 and 30 depict a fiber optic connection device 50 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. The fiber optic connection device 50 is configured to accommodate two demateable fiber optic connections with each of the connections being made between a hardened fiber optic connector and a non-hardened fiber optic connector. In one example, the fiber optic connection device 50 is designed to mount within an adapter mounting opening 30 of a terminal 20 (see FIGS. 34 and 35). The depicted adapter mounting opening 30 is designed to receive a first type of hardened fiber optic adapter 32 (see FIGS. 34 and 43). In one example, the first type ofhardened fiber optic adapter 32 is an Optitap™ type fiber optic adapter sold by Coming Cable Systems Inc. of Hickory, N.C., USA. The first type of fiber optic adapter 32 is designed to interconnect one hardened fiber optic connector to one non hardened fiber optic connector. In contrast, the fiber optic connection device 50 includes two nonhardened receptacles that are accessible from within a terminal 20 and two hardened ports that are accessible from the outside of the terminal 20. The fiber optic connection device 50 thereby doubles the connection capacity of each adapter mounting opening 30. As such, the terminal 20 that has the fiber optic connection device 50 mounted within each of the adapter mounting openings 30 will have twice the connection capacity as the terminal 20 that has the first fiber optic adapters 32 mounted within each of the adapter mounting openings 30. In certain examples, to allow for backwards compatibility, the fiber optic connection device 50 can be mounted in one or more of the openings, and the first type of hardened fiber optic adapter 32 can be mounted in others of the openings 30. In other examples, all of the mounting openings 30 can be filled with the fiber optic connection devices 50.

[0128] The fiber optic connection devices 50 preferably mounts at the adapter mounting openings 30 in a sealed relation with respect to a terminal housing 22. The fiber optic connection device 50 includes a main connection unit 52 and a fastening structure 54 that attaches to the main connection unit 52 and engages an interior 24 of the terminal housing 22 to retain the main connection unit 52 in the adapter mounting opening 30.

[0129] The fiber optic connection device 50 can, in some examples, as depicted in FIG. 30, include connector retention sleeves 552 (i.e., tum-to-engage couplers) rotatably mounted on first and second port-defining extensions 57 and 58 (i.e., main adapter bodies) of the main connection unit 52 for securing hardened fiber optic connector cores 523, 523a (see FIGS. 2-10 and 37)) or a first set of dust plugs 62 (see FIG. 51) within first and second connector ports 63 and 64 (i.e., hardened connector port 608) of the main connection unit 52 from an exterior 26 of the terminal 20. The dust plugs 62 can include a tum-to-engage coupler axial retention structure 545 like the connector core 523 for engagement with the axial retention structures 594 of the coupler 552. A second set of dust plugs 66 (see FIG. 52) can be alternatively secured over the first and second port-defining extensions 57 and 58 of the main connection unit 52 without the use of the connector retention sleeves 552. The dust plugs 66 canbe secured to the first and second port-defining extensions 57 and 58 by a tum-to- secure locking interface (e.g. an axial retention structure like the tum-to-engage axial retention structure 565 of coupler 550 adapted for engagement with the axial retention structure 610 of the fiber optic adapter 539 when the coupler 552 is not present).

[0130] Referring to FIGS. 31 and 32, the main connection unit 52 includes the mounting plate 68 that fits within and covers the adapter mounting opening 30. The mounting plate 68 has an interface portion 70 that fits within the adapter mounting opening 30 and a flange portion 72 that projects radially outward from the interface portion 70. A sealing gasket 74 is mounted around the interface portion 70 such that the sealing gasket 74 is axially compressed between the terminal housing 22 and the flange portion 72 when the fiber optic connection device 50 is mounted in the adapter mounting opening 30.

[0131] The interface portion 70 has an interface form factor that compliments the formfactor of the adapter mounting opening 30. As shown at FIG. 36, the interface portion 70 includes a first curved interface side 76 and a second curved interface side 78, each adapted to oppose first and second curved opening sides, 40 and 42, of the adapter mounting opening 30. The first and second curved interface sides, 76 and 78, are interconnected by opposite first and second straight interface sides, 80 and 82, respectively. The first and second straight interface sides, 80 and 82, are adapted to oppose first and second straight opening sides, 44 and 46, of the adapter mounting opening 30. The interface portion 70 includes a key 84 that fits within a keyway notch 48 of the adapter mounting opening 30 such the mounting plate 68 can be mounted at the adapter mounting opening 30 in only one rotational position.

[0132] The mounting plate 68 defines an outer side 86 and an inner side 88. The first and second port-defining extensions 57 and 58 are unitarily formed with the outer side 86 and are configured to project outwardly from the outer side 86. The first and second port-defining extensions 57 and 58 respectively define the first and second connector ports 63 and 64 configured to receive hardened fiber optic connector cores 523, 523a from outside the terminal 20. The first and second connector ports 63 and 64 respectively define first and second connector insertion axes 89 and 90 that extend through the main connection unit 52 to the interior 24 of the terminal housing 22.

[0133] First and second connector receiver extensions 92 and 94 inwardly project from an inner side 88 of the mounting plate 68 and are unitarily formed with the innerside 88. The first and second connector receiver extensions 92 and 94 define first and second non-hardened connector ports 93 and 95. The first and second connector receiver extensions 92 and 94 coaxially align with the first and second port-defining extensions 57 and 58 such that a through passage 153 is formed between the first and second connector ports 63 and 64 and first and second non-hardened connector ports 93 and 95. The first and second connector receiver extensions 92 and 94 are configured for receiving non-hardened fiber optic connectors 97 from the interior 24 of the terminal housing 22. The first and second connector receiver extensions 92 and 94 define latches 152 that snap onto and axially secure the non-hardened fiber optic connectors 97 to the main connection unit 52.

[0134] The first and second connector receiver extensions 92 and 94 are interconnected by a main unit cross bar 118 and a threaded fastener receiving structure 120. The threaded fastener receiving structure 120 defines first and second fastener receivers 122 and 124 (i.e., openings in which threaded fastener such as fasteners 107 can be threaded).

[0135] Referring now to FIG. 33, the fastening structure 54 includes a retaining ring 96 that surrounds the main connection unit 52 in a non-threaded manner where an outer surface 108 of the retaining ring 96 engages the inside of a housing wall 28 of the terminal housing 22. The fastening structure 54 further includes first and second anchoring arms 98 and 100 that are unitarily formed with an inner surface 109 of the retaining ring 96 and project inwardly from the retaining ring 96. The first and second anchoring arms 98 and 100 are interconnected by a connector cross bar 102 that defines first and second fastener ports 104 and 106. The first and second fastener ports 104 and 106 are configured to allow the threaded fasteners 107 (e.g. screws) to pass therethrough to allow for connection within the fastener ports / receivers 122, 124 of the main unit to secure the fastening structure 54 to the main connection unit 52. The first and second anchoring arms 98 and 100 each include first and second rectangular gaps 110 and 112 configured to receive a snap fit clip 114 that further secures the retaining ring 96 relative to the main connection unit 52.

[0136] The snap fit clip 114 is inserted in either of the first or second rectangular gaps 110 or 112 and snapped into place in a medial gap 116 between the first and second connector receiver extensions 92 and 94, the main unit cross bar 118, and the fastener receiving structure 120 of the main connection unit 52. When the snap fit clip114 is within the medial gap 116, the first and second fastener ports 104 and 106 (e.g., sleeves) are coaxially aligned with the first and second fastener receivers 122 and 124 of the main connection unit 52. Thus, allowing for threaded fasteners 107 to be used to secure the main connection unit 52 to the fastening structure 54.

[0137] FIG. 34 depicts the terminal 20 including the terminal housing 22 having the interior 24 and the exterior 26. The terminal housing 22 includes the housing wall 28 defining the adapter mounting openings 30 having an opening formfactor defining an area less than 498.8 square millimeters. As depicted, the terminal housing 22 defines a plurality of the adapter mounting openings 30 in which the first fiber optic adapters 32 are mounted. As depicted, the terminal housing 22 includes a base 34 and a cover 36 that mounts to the base 34 in a sealed manner. In the depicted example, the housing wall 28 is integrated with the cover 36.

[0138] In the depicted example, the terminal 20 is shown as a drop terminal / multi- service terminal which is typically installed in the field to provide access locations for optically coupling subscribers to a fiber optic network. A cable 38 such as a feed cable can be routed into the interior 24 of the terminal housing 22 and optical fibers of the cable 38 can be coupled to fiber optic connectors corresponding to each of the first one or more fiber optic adapters in the openings 30. The fiber optic connectors can be installed within non-hardened ports of the first fiber optic adapters 32 or the connection device 50. It will be appreciated that the non-hardened ports of the first fiber optic adapters 32 and / or the connection devices 50 are accessible from within the interior 24 of the terminal housing 22. The first fiber optic adapters 32 also include hardened ports that are accessible from the exterior 26 of the terminal housing 22.

[0139] FIG. 35 is a plan view of the adapter mounting opening 30 having an opening formfactor defining an area less than 498.8 square millimeters. In the depicted example, the adapter mounting opening 30 includes the first curved opening side 40 and the second curved opening side 42 interconnected by the opposite first and second straight opening sides, 44 and 46, respectively. In the depicted example, the adapter mounting opening 30 also includes the keyway notch 48 at one of the straight opening sides, 44 or 46. In the example provided, the first and second straight opening sides 44 and 46 are separated by a cross dimension range, L, of 21-23 millimeters, and the first and second curved opening sides 40 and 42 are defined by a radius range of 12-13 millimeters.

[0140] The hardened fiber optic core 523a, as shown in FIG.37, includes the key 531 that corresponds to a connector keyway notch 148 on an interior port surface 150 of the first and second connector ports 63 and 64 of the main connection unit 52. The hardened fiber optic core 523a is designed with the tum-to-engage coupler axial retention structure 545 for securing a coupler such as coupler 550 to the connector core 523a. The connector core 523a has been modified with respect to connector core 523 to include a snap-fit circumferential retention shoulder 546a in place of the snap-fit axial retention shoulder 546.

[0141] The main connection unit 52 defines ferrule alignment sleeves 154 that are mounted within each of the through passages 153 of the main connection unit 52. The ferrule alignment sleeves 154 are coaxially aligned with their respective through passage 153. FIG. 38 shows the ferrule alignment sleeves 154 receiving ferrules 156 of non-hardened fiber optic connectors 97 installed within the first and second nonhardened connector ports 93 and 95. In its most basic form, the non-hardened fiber optic connectors 97 can include a ferrule and a hub configured be snapped into connector receiver extensions 92.

[0142] As depicted in FIGS. 32 and 39-42, the coupler 552 mounts on the first and second port-defining extensions 57 and 58 via axial and circumferential retention structures as previous described above with respect to the fiber optic adapter 539. The couplers 552 each define an interior surface 133 and an exterior surface 135. The couplers 552 are configured to secure hardened connector cores 523, 523a or the dust plugs 62 within the extensions 57, 58.

[0143] Referring now to FIGS. 44-46 and 62-65, an alternative dust cap assembly 160 includes the tum-to-engage coupler 550 and a dust cap 164. The dust cap assembly 160 is used prior to protect the connector core 523 prior to inserting the core 523 into another component. The dust cap assembly 160 slides over the connector core 523, protecting the connector core 523 from dust or other contamination or damage, prior to use. The dust cap assembly 160 is rotationally and axially locked onto connector core 523. To lock and unlock the dust cap assembly 160 with respect to the connector core 523, the tum-to-engage coupler 550 is rotated relative to the dust cap 162 between the retaining rotational position and the release rotational position. The dust cap 160 includes the same axial retention structure 575 and circumferential snap-fit stops 586 as the fiber optic adapter 538. The axial retention structure 575 is adapted to interlockwith the axial retention structure 564 of the coupler 550 and the circumferential snap-fit stops 586 are adapted to interlock with the circumferential snap-fit retention structure 567 of the coupler 550. The dust cap 164 includes longitudinal slots 650 any one of which can receive the key 531 of the connector core 523 when the connector core 523 is inserted in the dust cap 164 to prevent relative rotation between the connector core 523 and the dust cap 164 about the central longitudinal axis of the connector core 523. The slots 650 are unitarily formed within the interior of the dust cap 164.

[0144] Referring now to FIGS. 47 and 48, a dust cap 174 is depicted that can be used with the connector core 523a without the use of the coupler 550. The dust cap 174 is also used prior to inserting the connector core 523a into another component. The dust cap 174 slides over the connector core 523a, protecting the hardened connector core 523a from dust or other contamination or damage, prior to use. The dust cap 174 uses a combination of a tum-to-engage axial interlock and a circumferential snap-fit interlock to secure the dust cap 174 on the connector core 523a. Similar to the tum-to-engage coupler 550, the dust cap 174 includes the axial retention structure 565 adapted for engagement with the axial retention structure 545 of the connector core 523a. Further, the dust cap includes a circumferential snap-fit arrangement 652 adapted to engage with the snap-fit circumferential retention shoulder 546a of the connector core 523a when the dust cap 174 is rotated to a retention rotational position relative to the connector core 523a. The circumferential snap-fit engagement can be manually overcome by manually turning the dust cap 174 from the rotational retaining position to the rotational release position to allow for removal of the dust cap 174.

[0145] FIG. 50 depicts a fiber optic converter 180 that can be snap mounted a fiber optic adapter such as the fiber optic adapter 538 to allow the adapter 538 to directly receive the connector core 523, 523a without use of the coupler 550. Hence, the converter 180 is another means to provide backward compatibility. The converter 180 includes a snap-on support housing 181 adapted to snap over the adapter 538 and a tum-to-engage coupler 182 secured to the housing 181 such that the coupler 182 can rotate relative to the housing 181 but not move axially relative to the housing 181. The coupler 182 can have internal axial retention structures of the type disclosed with respect to the tum-to-secure coupler 552 for use in providing axial interlocks with respect to both the adapter 538 and the connector cores 523, 523a or dust plugs 62.

[0146] FIGS. 53-54 depict an adapter pack 200 adapted to be mounted in sealed relation with respect to a housing such as a terminal. In one example, the pack 200 includes a base or plate 201 adapted to be mounted within an opening of an enclosure with a seal providing sealing between the enclosure and the perimeter of the base or plate 201. A plurality of the fiber optic adapters 538 are mounted to the base or plate 201. The fiber optic adapters 538 are arranged in a plurality of rows. Each row of adapters 538 varies in the length that that the connector ports of the adapters 538 protrude beyond the exterior of the base or plate 201. For example, the adapters of one row (e.g., the top row) are inset within the base or plate 201 as compared to the adapters of the other row (e.g., the bottom row). This staggered depth allows for users to easily access each connector port for installation of connectors.

[0147] FIGS. 55 and 56 depict an alternate adapter pack 300 wherein a plurality of the fiber optic adapters 539 are unitarily formed with a base or plate 301 and are aligned in a row of adapters including at least three of the fiber optic adapters 539. The pack 300 is adapted to be mounted in sealed relation with respect to a housing 302 such as a terminal. In one example, the pack 300 includes the base or plate 301 adapted to be mounted within an opening 303 of the housing 302 with a seal providing sealing between the housing 302 and the perimeter of the base or plate 301 This configuration may allow for the rapid installation of numerous fiber optic connections and can provide high connection density.

[0148] FIGS. 57A-57C depict a lanyard 400 that, in some embodiments, can be used to secure dust plugs (e.g., dust plug 62 as depicted) or dust caps to fiber optic adapters 537 such as those integrated with the fiber optic connection device 50 for ease of storage and to prevent accessories from becoming lost when not in use. The dust plug 62 includes a sealing member 654 (e.g., an O-ring) for forming a seal (e.g., a radial seal) within the hardened connector port 608 of the fiber optic adapter 539 when the dust plug 62 is secured therein. The lanyard 400 has a first end 410 that defines a first sealing ring 412 that seals the second axial end 592 (e.g., the inner axial end) of the tum-to-engage coupler 552. The sealing ring 412 can be axially pressed between the second axial end 591 of the coupler 552 and the snap-fit retention shoulder 618 of the fiber optic adapter 539. The lanyard 400 also has a second end 420 that defines a second sealing ring 422 that seals the first axial end 591 of the coupler 552. The sealing ring 422 can be pressed between the first axial end 591 of the coupler 552 andan end flange 656 of the dust plug 62. The sealing member 654 is located at an intermediate position along the length of the dust plug 62 axially between the locations of the sealing rings 412, 422. The sealing member 654 seals inside the hardened port 608 while the sealing rings 412, 422 are located outside the hardened port 608 and seal the opposite axial ends of the tum-to-secure coupler 552. When the dust plug 62 is removed from the hardened port 608, it can attach to a dust cap of a connector core installed within the hardened port 608 to make the dust cap readily available at a later date as needed.

[0149] FIG. 66 depicts a fiber optic connector 720 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure adapted for connection with a mating component such as a dust cap 722. The dust cap 722 can be configured for connection to a pulling structure such as a wire and can also be referred to as a pulling cap. Other mating components to which the fiber optic connector 720 can be connected include structures such as fiber optic adapters, connector formfactor converters, other fiber optic connectors or other structures. The fiber optic connector 720 includes a connector body 719 and a rotatable fastener 721 (i.e., a tum-to-engage coupler).

[0150] The dust cap 722 (see FIGS. 67-70) includes a first end 724 (e.g., a closed end). The first end 724 can include a pulling eye for attaching a structure such as a pulling wire that can be used to pull the fiber optic connector 720 and its corresponding cable through a duct. The dust cap 722 also includes a second end 726 which is an open end configured for receiving the connector body 719. A keying structure (e.g., a key 728) of the connector body 719 can engage a corresponding structure (e.g., a receiver such as an axial slot) within the dust cap 722 to prevent relative rotation between the connector body 719 and the dust cap 722 about a central connector axis 730 of the connector body 719. Adjacent the second end 726, the dust cap 722 can include axial retention structures 732 of the type previously described herein that are configured to interlock with corresponding axial retention structures 734 within the rotatable fastener 721 to retain the connector body 719 in mating engagement with the dust cap 722. It will be appreciated that other mating components that are configured to couple with the fiber optic connector 720 can include similar axial retention structures configured to interlock with the interior of the rotatable fastener 721.

[0151] The connector body 719 (see FIGS. 71-77) of the fiber optic connector 720 has a length that extends along the connector axis 730. The connector body719includes a front optical connection end 736 and a rear cable connection end 738. The connector body 719 includes the key 728 positioned at an exterior of the connector body 719. The key 729 is depicted as an elongate rail and is configured for providing rotational keying of the connector body with respect to the mating component. In an alternative arrangement, the keying structure of the connector body 719 could be a keyway. It will be appreciated that keying is more important for mating components such as adapters and converters as compared to the dust cap. For the dust cap, the key 729 may not provide a keying function but may instead provide an anti-rotation function and can be referred to as an anti-rotation structure.

[0152] The fiber optic connector 720 can include an outer seal 740 (see FIG. 72) positioned at the exterior of the connector body 719 rearward of the key 728. The outer seal 740 extending around the connector axis 730. In one example, the outer seal 740 is an elastomeric gasket such as an O-ring. In the depicted example, the outer seal 740 is a radial seal mounted within a circumferential groove defined at the exterior of the connector body 719 around the connector axis 730.

[0153] The fiber optic connector 720 includes a ferrule 742 (see FIG. 72) to which an optical fiber is secured. The ferrule 742 is accessible at the front optical connection end 736 of the connector body 719. In one example, the optical fiber is bonded within an opening defined axially through the ferrule 742.

[0154] The connector body 719 includes a connector body stop arrangement 744 defining first and second axial pass-through locations 746, 748. The first and second axial pass-through locations 746, 748 are circumferentially spaced-apart from one another. The connector body stop arrangement 744 also defines a circumferential pathway arrangement 750 rearward of the first and second axial pass-through locations 746, 748. The connector body stop arrangement 744 is located rearward of the outer seal 740 and includes a first set of stops 752 defining the first and second axial pass- through locations 746, 748 and a second set of stops 754. The second set of stops 754 is positioned rearward of the first set of stops 752. A circumferential pathway 756 of the circumferential pathway arrangement 750 is defined axially between the first and second sets of stops 752, 754.

[0155] The rotatable fastener 721 rotatably mounts on the connector body 719 so as to be rotatable relative to the connector body 719 about the connector axis 730. The rotatable fastener 721 is configured to interlock with the mating component (e.g., thedust cap 722) to retain the connector body 719 in mating engagement with the mating component. The interlock can be between the axial retention structures 732 and the axial retention structures 734. The rotatable fastener 721 includes a rotatable fastener stop arrangement 758 including first and second stops 760, 762 that are circumferentially spaced-apart from one another. The first and second stops 760, 762 are located within an interior of the rotatable fastener 721 and are configured to project radially inwardly into the interior of the rotatable fastener 721.

[0156] The connector body stop arrangement 744 and the rotatable fastener stop arrangement 758 are relatively configured such that the rotatable fastener 721 can be installed on the connector body 719 by moving the rotatable fastener 721 in a rearward direction axially over the front optical connection end 736 and can be removed from the connector body 719 by moving the rotatable fastener 721 in a forward direction axially over the front optical connection end 736. The rotatable fastener 721 is positionable in an installation / removal rotational position (see FIGS. 88 and 89) relative to the key 728 about the connector axis 730 to enable installation or removal of the rotatable fastener 721 from the connector body 719. The first and second stops 760, 762 respectively align with the first and second axial pass-through locations 746, 748 when the rotatable fastener is in the installation / removable rotational position. The circumferential pathway 756 allows the rotatable fastener 721 to be rotated relative to the connector body 719 about the connector axis 730 from the installation / removal rotational position to a retained rotational position (see FIG. 85 or FIG. 86) relative to the key 728 once the first and second stops 760, 762 have passed axially through the first and second axial pass-through locations 746, 748. When the rotatable fastener 721 is in the retained rotational position the connector body stop arrangement 744 and the rotational fastener stop arrangement 758 prevent the rotational fastener 721 from being moved in a forward direction axially over the front optical connection end 736 of the connector body 719.

[0157] In one example, the first and second axial pass-through locations are circumferentially separated by an angle range including 70-110 degrees and the first and second stops are also circumferentially separated by the angle range including 70- 110 degrees. In the depicted example, the first and second axial pass-through locations are circumferentially separated by an angle at or about 90 degrees and the first and second stops are also circumferentially separated by the angle at or about 90 degrees.

[0158] In the depicted example, the first stop 760 is part of a pair of oppositely positioned first stops 760 and the second stop 762 is part of a pair of oppositely positioned second stops 762. Similarly, the first axial pass-through location 746 is part of a pair of oppositely positioned first axial pass-through locations 746, and the second axial pass-through location 748 is part of a pair of oppositely positioned second axial pass-through locations 748.

[0159] In the depicted example, the second axial pass-through locations 748 are circumferentially wider than the first axial pass-through locations 746, the second stops 762 are circumferentially wider than the first stops 760, and the second stops 762 are axially longer than the first stops 760. When the fiber optic connector 720 is installed on a cable, a heat shrink sleeve can be installed over the rear cable connector end 738 in abutment with rear sides of the second set of stops 754 (see heat shrink sleeve in FIGS. 85-89). When the rotatable fastener 721 is installed on the connector body 719, rear ends of the second stops 762 cannot but against the forward end of the heat shrink sleeve to stop rearward movement of the rotatable fastener 721 relative to the connector body 718. Also, when the rotatable fastener 721 is installed on the connector body 719, the second stops 762 can engage circumferential ends of the second set of stops 754 to limit a range of rotational movement of the rotatable fastener 721 about the connector body 719. In the factory prior to installation of the connector body 719 on a cable, the rotatable fastener 721 can be installed on the connector body 719 by inserting the rotatable fastener 721 forwardly over the rear cable connector and 738 of the connector body 719. Thereafter, the rear cable connector and 738 can be connected to a cable and the heat shrink sleeve can be installed on the rear cable connector and 738 thereby preventing removal of the rotatable fastener 721 from the connector body 719 over the rear cable connector and 738.

[0160] The connector body 719 is depicted including a first detent 764 for resisting the rotational fastener 721 from being moved in a forward direction axially over the front optical connection end 736 of the connector body 719 when the rotational fastener 721 is in the installation / removal rotational position.

[0161] The retained rotational position of the rotatable fastener 721 includes a first retained rotational position (see FIGS. 86 and 87) and a second retained rotational position (see FIG. 85). The first and second retained rotational positions correspond to different rotational positions of the rotatable fastener 721 about the connector axis 730relative to the keying 728. The fiber optic connector 720 is configured to be mated with or de-mated from the mating component when the rotatable fastener is in the first retained rotational position. The rotatable fastener 721 is configured to interlock with the mating component to retain the connector body 719 in mating engagement with the mating component when the rotatable fastener 721 is in the second retained rotational position.

[0162] In the depicted example, the connector body 719 includes a second detent 766 for resisting the rotational fastener 721 from being rotated relative to the connector body 719 away from the second retained rotational position. The second detent 766 is configured such that a first manual rotational force required to rotate the rotatable fastener 721 from the second retained rotational position to the first retained rotational position is less than a second manual rotational force required to rotate the rotatable fastener 721 from the second retained rotational position to the installation / removal rotational position.

[0163] The rotatable fastener 721 includes rearwardly projecting paddles 768. The rearwardly projecting paddles 768 are configured to cover indicia 770 (see FIGS. 85- 89) when the rotatable fastener 721 is in the second retained rotational position relative to the connector body 719 to provide a visual indication that the rotatable fastener 721 is in the second retained rotational position. The indicia 770 is provided on a heat shrink sleeve mounted the rear end of the connector body 719.

[0164] FIG. 90 depicts a fiber optic adapter arrangement 800 for an enclosure 802. The fiber-optic adapter arrangement 800 includes a base 804 defining a plurality of sleeves 806. Separate fiber optic adapters 808 are mounted in each of the sleeves 806. In certain examples, the fiber optic adapters 808 can each include a radial seal that provide sealing within the interior of the corresponding sleeve 806. The fiber optic adapters 808 can be secured within their corresponding sleeves 806 by a retainer 810 that couples to the base 804 (e.g., via a connection such as a snap-fit connection). The retainer 810 can be used to simultaneously secure a plurality of the adapters 808 within their corresponding sleeves. As shown at FIG. 91, the base 804 can couple to an end of a dome-type cover 812 of the enclosure 802. The adapters 808 can load into the sleeves 806 from a back side / interior side of the base 804.

[0165] FIGS. 92-96 depict another optical connection device 850 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure for securing multiple adapters 808 withinone of the adapter mounting openings 30. The optical connection device 850 includes a body 852 defining a pair of sleeves 806 for receiving a pair of the adapters 808. Radial seals can provide sealing between the adapters 808 and the insides of the sleeves 806. The body 852 can include oppositely positioned flats 854 (see FIGS. 95 and 96) adapted to correspond with straight opening sides 44, 46. One of the flats 854 can include a key 856 adapted to fit within notch 48. An exterior of the body 852 can include threads 858 for engaging a nut 860 used to secure the body 852 within the adapter mounting opening 30. A seal 862 can be provided about the exterior of the body 852 four sealing between the body 852 and the enclosure defining the adapter mounting opening 30. The adapters 808 can be secured within the sleeves 806 by snap- fit connections, by fasteners, or by other connection techniques.

[0166] As used herein a detent is a mechanical device that provides a holding force to position and hold a component in a specific location, often requiring a specific force to move it away from that position. It can act as a catch, pawl, or spring-loaded mechanism to prevent or allow movement. It can include a component that provides a "click" or "snap" into a certain position, offering tactile feedback and resistance to movement.

[0167] Aspects of the present disclosure are applicable to both single fiber and multiple fiber connectors.

[0168] Ferrules in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure in some examples can protrude from the front optical connection end of the connector body and in other examples can be recessed relative to the front optical connection end. In either case, the ferrule is accessible at the front optical connection end.

[0169] A connector body as used herein can include one or more parts / pieces.

[0170] Rotational movement as used herein is movement about an axis. Rotational movement does not require continuous 360 degree range of movement. Rotational movement includes limited ranges of movement about an axis such as less than or equal to about 120 degrees of movement about an axis or less than or equal to about 90 degrees of movement about an axis. A range of rotational movement can be limited by stops.

[0171] Rotational fastener stops as used herein are stops integrated with and carried by rotational fasteners. Connector body stops as used herein are stops integrated with and carried by connector bodies.

[0172] Further details regarding axial stop configurations can be found in PCT international publication number W02020 / 236512 which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.Example Aspects of the Disclosure

[0173] Aspect 1. An optical connection device adapted to be coupled to a mating optical component including a first axial retention structure, the optical connection device comprising:

[0174] a connection body including a fiber optic connector body or a fiber optic adapter body, the connection body defining a connection body axis and including a second axial retention structure; and

[0175] a tum-to-engage coupler rotationally mounted with respect the connection body such that the tum-to-engage coupler can be turned about the connection body axis relative to the connection body between a retention position and a release position, the tum-to-engage coupler including third and fourth axial retention structures positioned within the tum-to-engage coupler at axially spaced-apart locations from each other, each of the first, second, third and fourth axial retention structures including at least two axial stops that are circumferentially spaced with respect to each other about the connector body axis, wherein axial stop pass-through regions are located circumferentially between the axial stops, wherein when the optical connection device is mated with the mating optical component and the tum-to engage coupler rotated to the retention position, the third axial retention structure and the fourth axial retention structure respectively oppose the first axial retention structure and the second axial retention structure such that the tum-to-engage coupler prevents the connection body and the mating optical component from being axially disconnected, and wherein when the tum-to-engage coupler is in the release position the axial stops of the third axial retention structure and the fourth axial retention structure respectively axially align with the axial stop pass-through regions of the first axial retention structure and the second axial retention structure.

[0176] Aspect 2. The optical connection device of Aspect 1 , wherein the connection body is the fiber optic connector body, wherein the fiber optic connector body includes an optical connection end at which a ferrule supporting an optical fiber islocated and an opposite cable connection end, and wherein the tum-to-engage coupler can be installed on the fiber optic connector body by inserting the tum-to-engage coupler over the optical connection end of the fiber optic connector body and sliding the tum-to-engage coupler in an installation direction oriented toward the cable connection end of the fiber optic connector body, wherein during sliding of the tum-to- engage coupler in the installation direction the axial stops of the fourth axial retention structure pass through the axial stop pass-through regions of the second axial retention structure.

[0177] Aspect 3. The optical connection device of Aspect 2, wherein the fiber optic connector body includes a snap-fit axial retention shoulder located between the fourth axial retention structure and the cable connection end of the fiber optic connector body, and wherein the tum-to-engage coupler includes internal snap-fit members that pass through the axial stop pass-through regions of the second axial retention structure and snap axially past the snap-fit axial retention shoulder as the tum-to-engage axial coupler is slid axially over the fiber optic connector body in the installation orientation.

[0178] Aspect 4. The optical connection device of Aspect 3, wherein the snap-fit members are circumferentially offset from the axial stops of the fourth axial retention structure.

[0179] Aspect 5. The optical connection device of Aspect 3, wherein the axial stops of the second and fourth axial retention structures provide more robust axial retention of the tum-to-engage coupler on the fiber optic connector body than the snap- fit members and the snap-fit axial retention shoulder.

[0180] Aspect 6. The optical connection device of Aspect 5, wherein engagement between the snap-fit members and the snap-fit retention shoulder inhibits the tum-to- engage coupler from being unintentionally removed from the fiber optic connector body when the tum-to-engage coupler is in the release position.

[0181] Aspect 7. The optical connection device of Aspect 1 , wherein the connection body is the fiber optic adapter body, wherein the fiber optic adapter bodyincludes a hardened port end adapted for receiving a hardened fiber optic connector, wherein the tum-to-engage coupler can be installed on the fiber optic adapter body by sliding the tum-to-engage coupler in an installation orientation axially over the hardened port end of the fiber optic adapter body, wherein during sliding of the tum-to- engage coupler in the installation direction the axial stops of the fourth axial retention structure pass through the axial stop pass-through regions of the second axial retention structure.

[0182] Aspect 8. The optical connection device of Aspect 7, wherein the fiber optic adapter body includes a snap-fit axial retention shoulder and also includes rotational retention projections, and wherein the tum-to-engage coupler includes external snap-fit members that snap axially past the snap-fit axial retention shoulder as the tum-to-engage axial coupler is slid axially over the fiber optic adapter body in the installation orientation, and wherein the external snap-fit members are configured to also engage the rotational tension projections to retain the tum-to-engage coupler in the retention position..

[0183] Aspect 9. The optical connection device of Aspect 8, wherein the axial stops of the second and fourth axial retention structures provide more robust axial retention of the tum-to-engage coupler on the fiber optic connector body than the snap- fit members and the snap-fit axial retention shoulder.

[0184] Aspect 10. The optical connection device of Aspect 8, wherein engagement between the snap-fit members and the snap-fit axial retention shoulder inhibits the tum- to-engage coupler from being unintentionally removed from the fiber optic adapter body when the tum-to-engage coupler is in the release position.

[0185] Aspect 11. A fiber optic device comprising:

[0186] a connector core including a connector body having an optical connection end at which a ferrule supporting an optical fiber is located and an opposite cable connection end to which a fiber optic cable can be secured, the connector body extending along a connector body axis, the connector body including an external axial retention structure unitarily formed at an exterior of the connector body, the externalaxial retention structure including at least two axial stops that project in an outward radial direction from an external surface of the connector body and are spaced circumferentially about the connector body axis, the connector body including axial stop pass-through locations located circumferentially between the axial stops.

[0187] Aspect 12. The fiber optic device of Aspect 11 , wherein the external axial retention structure includes at least three of the axial stops.

[0188] Aspect 13. The fiber optic device of Aspect 11, wherein the external axial retention structure includes at least four of the axial stops.

[0189] Aspect 14. The fiber optic device of any of Aspects 11-13, wherein the connector body includes an external longitudinal key and an external circumferential groove in which a circumferential seal is mounted, wherein the longitudinal key is located between optical connection end of the connector body and the circumferential seal, and wherein the external retention structure is located between the cable connection end of the connector body and the circumferential seal.

[0190] Aspect 15. The fiber optic device of any of Aspects 11-14, wherein the connector core includes an external snap-fit retention structure located between the external axial retention structure and the cable connection end of the connector body.

[0191] Aspect 16. The fiber optic device of Aspect 15, wherein the external snap- fit retention structure is an axial snap-fit retention structure.

[0192] Aspect 17. The fiber optic device of Aspect 16, wherein the external snap- fit retention structure is an annular shoulder that extends circumferentially around the connector body axis.

[0193] Aspect 18. The fiber optic device of Aspect 17, wherein the annular shoulder includes recessed regions that align with the stop pass-through locations of the external axial retention structure.

[0194] Aspect 19. The fiber optic device of any of Aspects 15-18, further comprising a dust cap that mounts over the connector body, the dust cap having internal snap-fit members adapted to interlock with the external snap-fit retention structure via an axial snap-fit interface to retain the dust cap on the connector core.

[0195] Aspect 20. The fiber optic device of Aspect 19, wherein the dust cap includes internal circumferentially spaced-apart longitudinal grooves configured such that one of the longitudinal grooves receive the longitudinal key when the connector body is inserted into the dust cap to prevent relative rotation between the connector core and the dust cap.

[0196] Aspect 21. The fiber optic device of Aspect 19, wherein the dust cap has an internal sealing surface against which the circumferential seal makes a radial seal.

[0197] Aspect 22. The fiber optic device of Aspect 15, wherein the external snap- fit retention structure is a circumferential snap-fit retention structure.

[0198] Aspect 23. The fiber optic device of Aspect 22, further comprising a dust cap that mounts over the connector body, the dust cap having internal snap-fit members adapted to interlock with circumferential snap-fit retention structure via a circumferential snap-fit interface relative rotation of the dust cap and the connector core from an retention rotation position to a release rotational position, the dust cap also including an internal axial retention structure the interfaces with the external axial retention structure via a tum-to-engage interface which prevents the dust cap from being axially separated from the connector core when the connector core and the dust cap are in the retention rotational position and that allows the dust cap to be removed from the connector core when the connector core and the dust cap are in the release rotational position.

[0199] Aspect 24. The fiber optic device of any of Aspects 11-15, further comprising a tum-to-engage coupler that mounts over the connector core by inserting the tum-to-engage coupler over the optical connection end of the connector body and sliding the tum-to-engage coupler in a direction toward the cable connection end of theconnector body, wherein the tum-to-engage coupler is retained on the connector by via a mechanical interface with the external axial retention structure of the connector body.

[0200] Aspect 25. The fiber optic device of Aspect 24, wherein the tum-to-engage coupler includes first and second axially spaced apart internal axial retention structures each including a plurality of axial stops that are circumferentially spaced apart within the tum-to engage coupler and that project in a radially inward direction from an interior surface of the tum-to-engage coupler, wherein the axial stops of the second internal axial retention structure pass through the axial stop pass-through locations of the connector body when the tum-to-engage coupler is installed on the connector body, and wherein the axial stops of the second internal axial retention structure form a tum- to-engage axial stop interface with respect to the axial stops of the connector body.

[0201] Aspect 26. The fiber optic device of Aspect 25, further comprising a dust cap secured to the connector core by the axial stops of the first internal axial retention structure of the tum-to-engage coupler, and wherein an anti-rotation interface is provided between the dust cap and the connector core for preventing relative rotation between the connector core and the dust cap.

[0202] Aspect 27. The fiber optic connection device of Aspect 26, wherein the key of the connector body fits within an internal groove of the dust cap for preventing relative rotation between the connector core and the dust cap.

[0203] Aspect 28. A fiber optic device comprising:

[0204] a fiber optic adapter including a ferrule alignment sleeve and defining a hardened port in alignment with the ferrule alignment sleeve, the hardened port defining a port axis, the hardened port being configured to receive a connector core inserted into the hardened port along the port axis;

[0205] a tum-to-engage coupler mounted on the fiber optic adapter adjacent the hardened port for retaining the connector core within the hardened port, the tum-to- engage coupler being rotatably movable about the port axis between a release rotational position where the connector core can be inserted into and removed from the hardened port and a retention rotational position where the tum-to-engage coupler prevents theconnector core from being removed from the hardened port, wherein the tum-to-engage coupler is configured to remain on the fiber-optic adapter when the connector core is removed from the fiber-optic adapter.

[0206] Aspect 29. The fiber optic device of Aspect 28, wherein the tum-to-engage coupler includes first and second axially spaced apart internal axial retention structures each including a plurality of axial stops that are circumferentially spaced apart within the tum-to engage coupler and that project in a radially inward direction from an interior surface of the tum-to-engage coupler, wherein the axial stops of the second internal axial retention structure are adapted to engage axial stops on an exterior of the fiber optic adapter and the axial stops of the first internal axial retention structure are adapted to engage axial stops on an exterior of the connector core.

[0207] Aspect 30. The fiber optic device of Aspect 28 or 29, further comprising a dust plug that fits in the hardened port and includes an outer seal for providing radial sealing within the hardened port, the dust plug being configured to be secured within the hardened port by the tum-to-engage coupler, the dust plug being tethered to the fiber-optic adapter by a lanyard, the lanyard including a first sealing ring for sealing an inner axial end of the tum-to-engage coupler and a second sealing ring for sealing and outer axial end of the tum-to-engage coupler.

[0208] Aspect 31. A terminal comprising:

[0209] a terminal housing including an interior and an exterior, the terminal housing defining at least one adapter mounting opening having an opening formfactor defining an area less than 498.8 square millimeters; and

[0210] a fiber optic connection device that mounts at the adapter mounting opening in sealed relation with respect to the terminal housing, the fiber optic connection device defining first and second connector ports configured for receiving hardened fiber optic connectors from outside the terminal housing, the first and second connector ports respectively defining first and second connector insertion axes that extend through the adapter mounting opening.

[0211] Aspect 32. The terminal of Aspect 31 , wherein the fiber optic connection device includes a first ferrule alignment sleeve that co-axially aligns with the first connector insertion axis and a second ferrule alignment sleeve that aligns with the second connector insertion axis.

[0212] Aspect 33. The terminal of Aspect 31 or 32, wherein the first and second connector ports define internal sealing surfaces for engaging outer seals carried by the hardened fiber optic connectors when the hardened fiber optic connectors are inserted in the first and second connector ports.

[0213] Aspect 34. The terminal of any of Aspects 31-33, wherein the fiber optic connection device includes a mounting plate that fits within and covers the adapter mounting opening.

[0214] Aspect 35. The terminal of Aspect 34, wherein the mounting plate includes an interface portion that fits within the adapter mounting opening and a flange portion that projects radially outwardly from the interface portion, wherein the fiber optic connection device includes a sealing gasket that mounts around the interface portion, and wherein the sealing gasket is axially compressed between the terminal housing and the flange portion when the fiber optic connection device is mounted at the adapter mounting opening.

[0215] Aspect 36. The terminal of Aspect 35, wherein the interface portion has an interface formfactor that complements the opening formfactor.

[0216] Aspect 37. The terminal of Aspect 36, wherein the mounting plate is keyed with respect to the adapter mounting opening such that the mounting plate can be mounted at the adapter mounting openings in only one rotational position.

[0217] Aspect 38. The terminal of Aspect 37, wherein the opening formfactor includes opposite first and second curved opening sides interconnected by opposite first and second straight opening sides, wherein the opening formfactor also includes a key way notch at one of the first and second straight sides, wherein the interfaceformfactor includes opposite first and second curved interface sides that oppose the first and second curved opening sides, wherein the interface formfactor includes first and second straight interface sides that oppose the first and second straight opening sides, and wherein the interface formfactor includes a key that fits within the keyway notch.

[0218] Aspect 39. The terminal of Aspect 38, wherein the first and second straight sides are separated by a cross-dimension in the range of 21-23 millimeters, and wherein the first and second curved sides are defined by a radius in the range of 12-13 millimeters.

[0219] Aspect 40. The terminal of Aspect 31 , wherein a spacing between the first and second connector insertion axes is less than or equal to 13.5 mm.

[0220] Aspect 41. The terminal of Aspect 35, wherein the mounting plate is circular.

[0221] Aspect 42. The terminal of Aspect 35, wherein the mounting plate has an outer side and an inner side, wherein the fiber optic connection device includes first and second port-defining extensions unitarily formed with the outer side of the mounting plate, the first and second port-defining extensions being configured to project outwardly from the outer side of the mounting plate, and the first and second portdefining extensions and respectively defining the first and second connector ports.

[0222] Aspect 43. The terminal of Aspect 42, wherein the fiber optic connection device includes first and second connector receiver extensions unitarily formed with the inner side of the mounting plate, the first and second connector receiver extensions being configured to project inwardly from the inner side of the mounting plate, the first and second connector receiver extensions respectively co-axially aligning with the first and second port-defining extensions, and the first and second connector receiver extensions being configured for receiving and retaining non-hardened fiber optic connectors from inside the terminal.

[0223] Aspect 44. The terminal of Aspect 43, wherein the mounting plate, the first and second port-defining extensions and the first and second connector receiver extensions are part of a main connection unit of the fiber optic connection device, and wherein the fiber optic connection device includes a fastening structure that attaches to the main connection unit and engages an interior of the terminal housing to retain the main connection unit in the adapter mounting opening.

[0224] Aspect 45. The terminal of Aspect 44, wherein the fastening structure includes a retaining ring that surrounds the main connection unit in a non-threaded manner and engages the interior of the terminal housing.

[0225] Aspect 46. The terminal of Aspect 45, wherein the fastening structure incudes a snap-fit clip for securing the retaining ring relative to the main connection unit.

[0226] Aspect 47. The terminal of Aspect 46, wherein the fastening structure includes anchoring arms that project inwardly from the retaining ring, and wherein threaded fasteners are used to attach the anchoring arms to the main connection unit.

[0227] Aspect 48. The terminal of Aspect 42, wherein the first and second portdefining extensions each include first and second rotational interlock structures unitarily formed with the first and second port-defining extensions, the first rotational interlock structures being inwardly offset with respect to the second rotational interlock structures, wherein the fiber connection device includes connector retention sleeves rotatably mounted om the first and second port-defining structures for securing the hardened fiber optic connectors within the first and second connector ports, wherein the hardened fiber optic connectors include third rotational interlock structures unitarily formed with connector bodies of the hardened fiber optic connectors, wherein the connector retention sleeves each include fourth fifth and sixth axially spaced apart rotational interlock structures, wherein the fourth rotational interlock structures are inwardly offset with respect to the fifth rotational interlock structures and the fifth rotational interlock structures are inwardly offset from the sixth rotational interlock structures, wherein the sixth rotational interlock structures are outwardly offset fromouter ends of the first and second port-defining extensions, wherein the connector retention sleeves are rotatable relative to the first and second port-defining extensions about the first and second axes between connector retaining positions and connector insertion / release positions, wherein when the connector retention sleeves are in the connector insertion / release positions the third rotational interlocks of the hardened fiber optic connectors can be moved axially through the sixth rotational interlocks of the connector retention sleeves as the hardened fiber optic connectors are inserted into or removed from the first and second connector ports, wherein when the connector retention sleeves are in the connector retaining positions while the hardened fiber optic connectors are inserted within the first and second connector ports, the sixth rotational interlocks of the connector retention sleeves oppose the third rotational interlocks of the hardened fiber optic connectors to prevent removal of the hardened fiber optic connectors from the first and second connector ports, wherein when the connector retention sleeves are in the connector retaining positions the second rotational interlocks of the first and second port-defining extensions oppose the fifth rotational interlocks of the connector retention sleeves to prevent the connector retention sleeve from being pulled axially from the first and second port-defining extensions, wherein when the connector retention sleeves are in the connector insertion / release positions the second rotational interlocks of the first and second port-defining extensions do not oppose the fifth rotational interlocks of the connector retention sleeves, and wherein when the connector retention sleeves are rotated to the connector retention positions the fourth rotational interlocks of the connector retention sleeves engage the first rotational interlocks of the first and second port-defining extensions to resist rotational movement of the connector retention sleeves from the connector retention positions back to the connector insertion / release positions.

[0228] Aspect 49. A fiber optic adapter assembly comprising:

[0229] a fiber optic adapter defining a connector port configured for receiving hardened fiber optic connectors, the connector port defining a connector insertion axis that extends through the adapter mounting opening;

[0230] a sleeve defining an adapter-side and a connector side, mounted on the connector port configured for securing a hardened fiber optic device within the connector port;

[0231] a lanyard configured to have a first end that defines a sealing ring configured to seal the interface between the adapter and the sleeve and a second end that defines a sealing ring configured to seal the interface between the sleeve and the hardened fiber optic device.

[0232] Aspect 50. The fiber optic adapter assembly of Aspect 49 wherein the hardened fiber optic device is a hardened fiber optic dust plug.

[0233] Aspect 51. A fiber optic connector adapted for connection with a mating component, the fiber optic connector comprising:

[0234] a connector body having a length that extends along a connector axis, the connector body including a front optical connection end and a rear cable connection end, the connector body including a keying structure positioned at an exterior of the connector body, the keying structure being configured for providing rotational keying of the connector body with respect to the mating component;

[0235] an outer seal positioned at the exterior of the connector body rearward of the key, the outer seal extending around the connector axis;

[0236] a ferrule to which an optical fiber is secured, the ferrule being accessible at the front optical connection end of the connector body;

[0237] the connector body defining a pathway arrangement including an axial pathway and a circumferential pathway in communication with the axial pathway, the pathway arrangement being located rearward of the outer seal; and

[0238] a rotatable fastener that mounts on the connector body, the rotatable fastener being configured to interlock with the mating component to retain the connector body in mating engagement with the mating component, the rotatable fastener including a stop within an interior of the rotatable fastener that projects radially inwardly into the interior of the rotatable fastener; and

[0239] the pathway arrangement and the stop being relatively configured such that the rotatable fastener can be installed on the connector body by moving the rotatable fastener in a rearward direction axially over the front optical connection end and can be removed from the connector body by moving the rotatable fastener in a forward direction axially over the front optical connection end, wherein the rotatable fastener is positionable in an installation / removal rotational position relative to the keyingstructure about the connector axis to enable installation or removal of the rotatable fastener from the connector body, wherein the stop aligns with the axial pathway when the rotatable fastener is in the installation / removable rotational position, wherein the circumferential pathway allows the rotatable fastener to be rotated relative to the connector body about the connector axis from the installation / removal rotational position to a retained rotational position relative to the keying structure, wherein when the rotatable fastener is in the retained rotational position the stop opposes a rearwardly facing retention surface corresponding to the circumferential pathway to prevent the rotational fastener from being moved in a forward direction axially over the front optical connection end of the connector body.

[0240] Aspect 52. The fiber optic connector of Aspect 51 , wherein the pathway arrangement includes a first detent for resisting the rotational fastener from being moved in a forward direction axially over the front optical connection end of the connector body when the rotational fastener is in the installation / removal rotational position.

[0241] Aspect 53. The fiber optic connector of Aspect 52, wherein the retained rotational position is a first retained rotational position, wherein the rotatable fastener can also be positioned in a second retained rotational position, wherein the first and second retained rotational positions correspond to different rotational positions of the rotatable fastener about the connector axis relative to the keying structure, wherein the fiber optic connector is configured to be mated with or de-mated from the mating component when the rotatable fastener is in the first retained rotational position, and wherein the rotatable fastener is configured to interlock with the mating component to retain the connector body in mating engagement with the mating component when the rotatable fastener is in the second retained rotational position.

[0242] Aspect 54. The fiber optic connector of Aspect 53, wherein the pathway arrangement includes a second detent for resisting the rotational fastener from being rotated relative to the connector body away from the second retained rotational position.

[0243] Aspect 55. The fiber optic connector of Aspect 51 , wherein the pathway arrangement and the stop are relatively configured such that the rotatable fastener can be installed on the connector body prior to termination of the connector body with respect to the cable by moving the rotatable fastener in a forward direction axially over the rear cable connection end of the connector body.

[0244] Aspect 56. The fiber optic connector of Aspect 54, wherein the second detent is configured such that a first manual rotational force required to rotate the rotatable fastener from the second retained rotational position to the first retained rotational position is less than a second manual rotational force required to rotate the rotatable fastener from the second retained rotational position to the installation / removal rotational position.

[0245] Aspect 57. The fiber optic connector of Aspect 56, wherein the rotatable fastener includes rear the projecting paddles, and wherein the rearwardly projecting paddles cover indicia on the connector body when the rotatable fastener is in the second retained rotational position to provide a visual indication that the rotatable fastener is in the second retained rotational position.

[0246] Aspect 58. A fiber optic connector adapted for connection with a mating component, the fiber optic connector comprising:

[0247] a connector body having a length that extends along a connector axis, the connector body including a front optical connection end and a rear cable connection end, the connector body including a keying structure positioned at an exterior of the connector body, the keying structure being configured for providing rotational keying of the connector body with respect to the mating component;

[0248] an outer seal positioned at the exterior of the connector body rearward of the key, the outer seal extending around the connector axis;

[0249] a ferrule to which an optical fiber is secured, the ferrule being accessible at the front optical connection end of the connector body;

[0250] the connector body including a connector body stop arrangement defining first and second axial pass-through locations the first and second axial pass- through locations being circumferentially spaced-apart from one another, the connectorbody stop arrangement also defining a circumferential pathway arrangement rearward of the first and second axial pass-through locations, the connector body stop arrangement being located rearward of the outer seal; and

[0251] a rotatable fastener that mounts on the connector body, the rotatable fastener being configured to interlock with the mating component to retain the connector body in mating engagement with the mating component, the rotatable fastener including rotatable fastener stop arrangement including first and second stops that are circumferentially spaced-apart from one another, the first and second stops being located within an interior of the rotatable fastener and being configured to project radially inwardly into the interior of the rotatable fastener; and

[0252] the connector body stop arrangement and the rotatable fastener stop arrangement being relatively configured such that the rotatable fastener can be installed on the connector body by moving the rotatable fastener in a rearward direction axially over the front optical connection end and can be removed from the connector body by moving the rotatable fastener in a forward direction axially over the front optical connection end, wherein the rotatable fastener is positionable in an installation / removal rotational position relative to the keying structure about the connector axis to enable installation or removal of the rotatable fastener from the connector body, wherein the first and second stops respectively align with the first and second axial pass-through locations when the rotatable fastener is in the installation / removable rotational position, wherein the circumferential pathway arrangement allows the rotatable fastener to be rotated relative to the connector body about the connector axis from the installation / removal rotational position to a retained rotational position relative to the keying structure once the first and second stops have passed axially through the first and second axial pass-through locations, wherein when the rotatable fastener is in the retained rotational position the connector body stop arrangement and the rotational fastener stop arrangement prevent the rotational fastener from being moved in a forward direction axially over the front optical connection end of the connector body.

[0253] Aspect 59. The fiber optic connector of Aspect 58, wherein the first and second axial pass-through locations are circumferentially separated by an angle range including 70-110 degrees and the first and second stops are also circumferentially separated by the angle range including 70-110 degrees.

[0254] Aspect 60. The fiber optic connector of Aspect 59, wherein the first stop is part of a pair of oppositely positioned first stops, wherein the second stop is part of a pair of oppositely positioned second stops, wherein the first axial pass-through location is part of a pair of oppositely positioned first axial pass-through locations, and wherein the second axial pass-through location is part of a pair of oppositely positioned second axial pass-through locations.

[0255] Aspect 61. The fiber-optic connector of Aspect 60, wherein the second axial pass-through locations are circumferentially wider than the first axial pass- through locations, wherein the second stops are circumferentially wider than the first stops, and wherein the second stops are axially longer than the first stops.

[0256] Aspect 62. The fiber optic connector of any of Aspects 58-61, further comprising a first detent for resisting the rotational fastener from being moved in a forward direction axially over the front optical connection end of the connector body when the rotational fastener is in the installation / removal rotational position.

[0257] Aspect 63. The fiber optic connector of Aspect 62, wherein the retained rotational position is a first retained rotational position, wherein the rotatable fastener can also be positioned in a second retained rotational position, wherein the first and second retained rotational positions correspond to different rotational positions of the rotatable fastener about the connector axis relative to the keying structure, wherein the fiber optic connector is configured to be mated with or de-mated from the mating component when the rotatable fastener is in the first retained rotational position, and wherein the rotatable fastener is configured to interlock with the mating component to retain the connector body in mating engagement with the mating component when the rotatable fastener is in the second retained rotational position.

[0258] Aspect 64. The fiber optic connector of Aspect 63, wherein the fiber optic connector includes a second detent for resisting the rotational fastener from being rotated relative to the connector body away from the second retained rotational position.

[0259] Aspect 65. The fiber optic connector of Aspect 58, wherein the connector body stop arrangement and the rotational fastener stop arrangement are relatively configured such that the rotatable fastener can be installed on the connector body prior to termination of the connector body with respect to the cable by moving the rotatable fastener in a forward direction axially over the rear cable connection end of the connector body.

[0260] Aspect 66. The fiber optic connector of Aspect 64, wherein the second detent is configured such that a first manual rotational force required to rotate the rotatable fastener from the second retained rotational position to the first retained rotational position is less than a second manual rotational force required to rotate the rotatable fastener from the second retained rotational position to the installation / removal rotational position.

[0261] Aspect 67. The fiber optic connector of Aspect 66, wherein the rotatable fastener includes rearwardly projecting paddles, and wherein the rearwardly projecting paddles cover indicia on the connector body when the rotatable fastener is in the second retained rotational position to provide a visual indication that the rotatable fastener is in the second retained rotational position.

[0262] Having described the preferred aspects and implementations of the present disclosure, modifications and equivalents of the disclosed concepts may readily occur to one skilled in the art. However, it is intended that such modifications and equivalents be included within the scope of the claims which are appended hereto.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A fiber optic connector adapted for connection with a mating component, the fiber optic connector comprising: a connector body having a length that extends along a connector axis, the connector body including a front optical connection end and a rear cable connection end, the connector body including a keying structure positioned at an exterior of the connector body, the keying structure being configured for providing rotational keying of the connector body with respect to the mating component; an outer seal positioned at the exterior of the connector body rearward of the key, the outer seal extending around the connector axis; a ferrule to which an optical fiber is secured, the ferrule being accessible at the front optical connection end of the connector body; the connector body including a connector body stop arrangement defining first and second axial pass-through locations, the first and second axial pass-through locations being circumferentially spaced-apart from one another, the connector body stop arrangement also defining a circumferential pathway arrangement rearward of the first and second axial pass-through locations, the connector body stop arrangement being located rearward of the outer seal; and a rotatable fastener that mounts on the connector body, the rotatable fastener being configured to interlock with the mating component to retain the connector body in mating engagement with the mating component, the rotatable fastener including rotatable fastener stop arrangement including first and second stops that are circumferentially spaced-apart from one another, the first and second stops being located within an interior of the rotatable fastener and being configured to project radially inwardly into the interior of the rotatable fastener; and the connector body stop arrangement and the rotatable fastener stop arrangement being relatively configured such that the rotatable fastener can be installed on the connector body by moving the rotatable fastener in a rearward direction axially over the front optical connection end and can be removed from the connector body by moving the rotatable fastener in a forward direction axially over the front optical connection end, wherein the rotatable fastener is positionable in an installation / removal rotational position relative to the keying structure about the connector axis to enable installation or removal of the rotatable fastener from the connector body, wherein thefirst and second stops respectively align with the first and second axial pass-through locations when the rotatable fastener is in the installation / removable rotational position, wherein the circumferential pathway arrangement allows the rotatable fastener to be rotated relative to the connector body about the connector axis from the installation / removal rotational position to a retained rotational position relative to the keying structure once the first and second stops have passed axially through the first and second axial pass-through locations, wherein when the rotatable fastener is in the retained rotational position the connector body stop arrangement and the rotational fastener stop arrangement prevent the rotational fastener from being moved in a forward direction axially over the front optical connection end of the connector body.

2. The fiber optic connector of claim 1 , wherein the first and second axial pass- through locations are circumferentially separated by an angle range including 70-110 degrees and the first and second stops are also circumferentially separated by the angle range including 70-110 degrees.

3. The fiber optic connector of claim 2, wherein the first stop is part of a pair of oppositely positioned first stops, wherein the second stop is part of a pair of oppositely positioned second stops, wherein the first axial pass-through location is part of a pair of oppositely positioned first axial pass-through locations, and wherein the second axial pass-through location is part of a pair of oppositely positioned second axial pass- through locations.

4. The fiber-optic connector of claim 3, wherein the second axial pass-through locations are circumferentially wider than the first axial pass-through locations, wherein the second stops are circumferentially wider than the first stops, and wherein the second stops are axially longer than the first stops.

5. The fiber optic connector of any of claims 1-4, further comprising a first detent for resisting the rotational fastener from being moved in a forward direction axially over the front optical connection end of the connector body when the rotational fastener is in the installation / removal rotational position.

6. The fiber optic connector of claim 5, wherein the retained rotational position is a first retained rotational position, wherein the rotatable fastener can also be positioned in a second retained rotational position, wherein the first and second retained rotational positions correspond to different rotational positions of the rotatable fastener about the connector axis relative to the keying structure, wherein the fiber optic connector is configured to be mated with or de-mated from the mating component when the rotatable fastener is in the first retained rotational position, and wherein the rotatable fastener is configured to interlock with the mating component to retain the connector body in mating engagement with the mating component when the rotatable fastener is in the second retained rotational position.

7. The fiber optic connector of claim 6, wherein the fiber optic connector includes a second detent for resisting the rotational fastener from being rotated relative to the connector body away from the second retained rotational position.

8. The fiber optic connector of claim 1, wherein the connector body stop arrangement and the rotational fastener stop arrangement are relatively configured such that the rotatable fastener can be installed on the connector body prior to termination of the connector body with respect to the cable by moving the rotatable fastener in a forward direction axially over the rear cable connection end of the connector body.

9. The fiber optic connector of claim 7, wherein the second detent is configured such that a first manual rotational force required to rotate the rotatable fastener from the second retained rotational position to the first retained rotational position is less than a second manual rotational force required to rotate the rotatable fastener from the second retained rotational position to the installation / removal rotational position.

10. The fiber optic connector of claim 9, wherein the rotatable fastener includes rearwardly projecting paddles, and wherein the rearwardly projecting paddles cover indicia on the connector body when the rotatable fastener is in the second retained rotational position to provide a visual indication that the rotatable fastener is in the second retained rotational position.

11. A fiber optic device comprising: a connector core including a connector body having an optical connection end at which a ferrule supporting an optical fiber is located and an opposite cable connection end to which a fiber optic cable can be secured, the connector body extending along a connector body axis, the connector body including an external axial retention structure unitarily formed at an exterior of the connector body, the external axial retention structure including at least two axial stops that project in an outward radial direction from an external surface of the connector body and are spaced circumferentially about the connector body axis, the connector body including axial stop pass-through locations located circumferentially between the axial stops.

12. The fiber optic device of claim 11, wherein the external axial retention structure includes at least three of the axial stops.

13. The fiber optic device of claim 11, wherein the external axial retention structure includes at least four of the axial stops.

14. The fiber optic device of any of claims 11-13, wherein the connector body includes an external longitudinal key and an external circumferential groove in which a circumferential seal is mounted, wherein the longitudinal key is located between optical connection end of the connector body and the circumferential seal, and wherein the external retention structure is located between the cable connection end of the connector body and the circumferential seal.

15. The fiber optic device of any of claims 11-14, wherein the connector core includes an external snap-fit retention structure located between the external axial retention structure and the cable connection end of the connector body.

16. The fiber optic device of claim 15, wherein the external snap-fit retention structure is an axial snap-fit retention structure.

17. The fiber optic device of claim 16, wherein the external snap-fit retention structure is an annular shoulder that extends circumferentially around the connector body axis.

18. The fiber optic device of claim 17, wherein the annular shoulder includes recessed regions that align with the stop pass-through locations of the external axial retention structure.

19. The fiber optic device of any of claims 15-18, further comprising a dust cap that mounts over the connector body, the dust cap having internal snap-fit members adapted to interlock with the external snap-fit retention structure via an axial snap-fit interface to retain the dust cap on the connector core.

20. The fiber optic device of claim 19, wherein the dust cap includes internal circumferentially spaced-apart longitudinal grooves configured such that one of the longitudinal grooves receive the longitudinal key when the connector body is inserted into the dust cap to prevent relative rotation between the connector core and the dust cap.

21. The fiber optic device of claim 19, wherein the dust cap has an internal sealing surface against which the circumferential seal makes a radial seal.

22. The fiber optic device of claim 15, wherein the external snap-fit retention structure is a circumferential snap-fit retention structure.

23. The fiber optic device of claim 22, further comprising a dust cap that mounts over the connector body, the dust cap having internal snap-fit members adapted to interlock with circumferential snap-fit retention structure via a circumferential snap-fit interface relative rotation of the dust cap and the connector core from an retention rotation position to a release rotational position, the dust cap also including an internal axial retention structure the interfaces with the external axial retention structure via a tum-to-engage interface which prevents the dust cap from being axially separated from the connector core when the connector core and the dust cap are in the retentionrotational position and that allows the dust cap to be removed from the connector core when the connector core and the dust cap are in the release rotational position.

24. The fiber optic device of any of claims 11-15, further comprising a tum-to- engage coupler that mounts over the connector core by inserting the tum-to-engage coupler over the optical connection end of the connector body and sliding the tum-to- engage coupler in a direction toward the cable connection end of the connector body, wherein the tum-to-engage coupler is retained on the connector by via a mechanical interface with the external axial retention structure of the connector body.

25. The fiber optic device of claim 24, wherein the tum-to-engage coupler includes first and second axially spaced apart internal axial retention structures each including a plurality of axial stops that are circumferentially spaced apart within the tum-to engage coupler and that project in a radially inward direction from an interior surface of the tum-to-engage coupler, wherein the axial stops of the second internal axial retention structure pass through the axial stop pass-through locations of the connector body when the tum-to-engage coupler is installed on the connector body, and wherein the axial stops of the second internal axial retention structure form a tum-to-engage axial stop interface with respect to the axial stops of the connector body.

26. The fiber optic device of claim 25, further comprising a dust cap secured to the connector core by the axial stops of the first internal axial retention structure of the tum-to-engage coupler, and wherein an anti-rotation interface is provided between the dust cap and the connector core for preventing relative rotation between the connector core and the dust cap.

27. The fiber optic connection device of claim 26, wherein the key of the connector body fits within an internal groove of the dust cap for preventing relative rotation between the connector core and the dust cap.

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