Abstract:
Optical fiber cables ( 180 ) are installed at an enclosure defining at least one cable port ( 109 ) by loading a seal block assembly ( 120, 140, 220, 340 ) onto each optical fiber cable ( 180 ); installing and/or connecting a fixation assembly ( 160, 460 ) onto each optical fiber cable ( 180 ); and latching the seal block assembly ( 120, 140, 220, 340 ) to the enclosure. The cable ( 180 ) is secured by the fixation assembly ( 160, 460 ). The fixation assembly ( 160, 460 ) retains one or more types of strength members ( 182, 183 ) of the optical fiber cable ( 180 ). The seal block assembly ( 120, 140, 220, 340 ) snaps and/or clips into a locked position relative to the enclosure. A filler rod ( 502 ) can be used to fill an unused port in the seal block assembly ( 120, 140, 220, 340 ). An attachment device ( 504 ) can be used to connect to the filler rod ( 502 ) for adding a new tube ( 510 ) to the seal block assembly.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
       [0001]    The present patent application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/651,869, filed May 25, 2012, which application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
       [0002]    The present disclosure relates to telecommunications enclosures, and more particularly, to telecommunications enclosures including cable port assemblies that seal fiber optic cables entering the enclosures. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0003]    Telecommunications systems typically employ a network of telecommunications cables capable of transmitting large volumes of data and voice signals over relatively long distances. The telecommunications cables can include fiber optic cables, electrical cables, or combinations of electrical and fiber optic cables. A typical telecommunications network also includes a plurality of telecommunications enclosures integrated throughout the network of telecommunications cables. The telecommunications enclosures are adapted to house and protect telecommunications components such as splices, termination panels, power splitters, and wavelength division multiplexers. 
         [0004]    It is often preferred for telecommunications enclosures to be re-enterable. The term “re-enterable” means that the telecommunications enclosures can be reopened to allow access to the telecommunications components housed therein without requiring the removal and destruction of the telecommunications enclosures. For example, certain telecommunications enclosures can include separate access panels that can be opened to access the interiors of the enclosures, and then closed to re-seal the enclosures. Other telecommunications enclosures take the form of elongated sleeves formed by wrap-around covers or half-shells having longitudinal edges that are joined by clamps or other retainers. Still other telecommunications enclosures include two half-pieces that are joined together through clamps, wedges or other structures. Telecommunications enclosures are typically sealed to inhibit the intrusion of moisture or other contaminants. 
         [0005]    Cables enter the enclosures at sealed cable ports. Cables may be secured to the enclosures using clamps and/or strength members (e.g., rods or aramid yarn) to inhibit axial and/or lateral pull. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0006]    Aspects of the disclosure are directed a cable seal block for a port, the block including a first housing portion; a second housing portion; a gasket disposed between the first housing portion and the second housing portion; and an activation assembly that axially compresses the gasket when actuated. The first housing portion forms a first end of the cable sealing assembly, and defines a stop surface. The first housing portion may include at least one latching finger extending outwardly past the stop surface in an axial direction to mount the block to the port. A C-shaped locking clip may be used in addition to, or in the alternative to, mount the block to the port. 
         [0007]    Aspects of the disclosure also are directed to a cable fixation assembly for mounting to an optical cable having at least one optical fiber and at least one strength member. The cable fixation assembly mounts to a section of the cable at which a jacket has been stripped to reveal the buffered fibers and strength members. The cable fixation assembly includes a body defining a channel extending from a first end of the body towards a second end of the body. 
         [0008]    The cable fixation assembly may include an enclosing structure defining a first pocket at the second end of the body. The pocket is sized to receive the at least one strength member. A flexible flange is coupled to the body to at least partially define the first pocket. The flexible flange is configured to flex into and out of the first pocket. A tightening member is mounted to the body and is configured to selectively force the flexible flange towards the first pocket. 
         [0009]    The cable fixation assembly may include a plate element which is used to press against the cable strength member. 
         [0010]    A cable clamp may also be provided to press against the exterior of the cable jacket. 
         [0011]    In some cases the cable may or may not utilize flexible strength members such as aramid yarns. In other cases, the cable may or may not utilize more rigid strength members such as glass rods. Some cable may use both. 
         [0012]    In some cases the cable fixation includes fixing the cable by the jacket exterior clamp, the strength member clamp such as in the form of a glass rod clamp, and a yarn fixation device. In other cases the cable fixation includes fixing by the jacket exterior clamp and the strength member clamp such as in the form of a glass rod clamp. 
         [0013]    Aspects of the disclosure also are directed to a cable port assembly including a seal block assembly and a fixation assembly. The seal block assembly defines at least one axial passage that is sized to receive at least one fiber optic cable. The seal block assembly includes a gasket that is activated through axial compression. The seal block has a stop surface and may have a latching finger that cooperate to axially fix the seal block assembly to a cable port defined at an enclosure. The fixation assembly defines an axial channel sized to receive the at least one fiber optic cable. The fixation assembly also is configured to receive and secure at least one strength member of the at least one fiber optic cable. 
         [0014]    The fixation assembly may be mounted separately from the seal block assembly, or it may be mounted to and/or extend from the seal block assembly. 
         [0015]    One fixation assembly mounted to the seal block includes a cable jacket clamp mounted with a fastener to press against an exterior of the jacket. A glass rod fixation clamp includes a fastener mounted plate to press against the glass rod strength member. 
         [0016]    One separate fixation assembly defines a pocket having an open face and a slot at the first end of the fixation assembly. The open face extends generally parallel to the axial channel. The open face and slot together define a T-shaped profile for mounting directly to the enclosure. 
         [0017]    Aspects of the disclosure also are directed to an enclosure arrangement including a base defining at least one cable port at a first end, the cable port leading from an exterior of the base to an interior of the base. The enclosure arrangement also includes a duct extending through the at least one cable port, and a mounting screw disposed within the interior of the base at the first end of the base adjacent the duct. The duct includes stops extending inwardly into the axial passage at an interior end of the duct. The mounting screw, which has a head facing the interior of the base, is positioned outside of a perimeter of the axial passage through the duct and allows for mounting of the separate fixation assembly. 
         [0018]    Aspects of the disclosure are also directed to an enclosure arrangement where the seal block assembly and the fixation assembly are together as a single unit, allowing the cable to be loaded into the seal block and the fixation assembly to be activated outside of the enclosure, then the cable and the single unit inserted into the cable port. At that point, the seal block assembly can be activated. 
         [0019]    Aspects of the disclosure also are directed to a method of installing an optical fiber cable at an enclosure defining at least one cable port at a first end of the enclosure. The method includes loading a seal block assembly onto the optical fiber cable; installing a fixation assembly onto a stripped region of the optical fiber cable; and securing the fixation assembly to the enclosure. Installing the fixation assembly includes routing at least one optical fiber of the optical fiber cable through the fixation assembly and securing at least one strength member of the optical fiber cable to the fixation assembly. Securing the fixation assembly includes hooking the fixation assembly onto a mounting screw protruding inwardly from the first end of the enclosure and tightening the mounting screw to axially secure the optical fiber cable to the first end of the enclosure. 
         [0020]    Aspects of the disclosure also are directed to a method of installing an optical fiber cable at an enclosure defining at least one cable port at a first end of the enclosure. The method includes loading a seal block assembly onto the optical fiber cable; installing a fixation assembly onto a stripped region of the optical fiber cable; and inserting the fixation assembly and seal block assembly into the port of the enclosure a the same time. Installing the cable includes installing the cable in the seal block assembly, and routing at least one optical fiber of the cable through the fixation assembly and securing at least one strength member of the optical fiber cable to the fixation assembly. 
         [0021]    Aspects of the disclosure relate to securing the yarn of the cable if present with a yarn clamp. 
         [0022]    Aspects of the disclosure relate to clamping of the jacket by pressing on an exterior of the jacket. 
         [0023]    Aspects of the disclosure are also related to a filler rod removal system and method. If a filler rod is positioned in a seal block assembly, the filler rod is provided with an attachment device to attach to a new tube which can be pushed and/or pulled through the seal block assembly into position during connection of the filler rod and the new tube. Typically, the new tube is added when the seal block assembly is deactivated. 
         [0024]    One attachment device for the filler rod is one or more barbed projections which fit into the new tube, such as a corrugated tube. Generally, the filler rod and the new tube have the same outer diameter. 
         [0025]    Once the new tube is located in position in the seal block assembly, the filler rod can be separated from the new tube and discarded, and cables and/or blown tubes can be inserted through the new tube. The seal block assembly can also be reactivated to seal the new tube. 
         [0026]    One of the ports is non-circular, sized for use with a loop cable. In one embodiment, the loop cable is passed through two main outer axial passages. The seal activation assembly is located in general alignment between the two outer axial passages. An extra axial passage in general alignment between the two outer axial passages is provided for adding cables. In another embodiment, the loop cable is passed through two main adjacent axial passages, and the extra axial passage and the seal activation assembly are located outside of the two adjacent main axial passages. 
         [0027]    A variety of additional aspects will be set forth in the description that follows. These 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 concepts upon which the embodiments disclosed herein are based. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0028]      FIG. 1  is a top, front perspective view of an example base defining cable ports at a first end at which two cable port assemblies are received; 
           [0029]      FIG. 2  is a front perspective view of the base and seal block assemblies; 
           [0030]      FIG. 3  is a top, rear perspective view of the first end of the base and the cable port assemblies; 
           [0031]      FIG. 4  is a perspective view of an example round-type seal block assembly; 
           [0032]      FIG. 5  is a perspective view of the seal block assembly of  FIG. 4  shown along an axial cross-section; 
           [0033]      FIG. 6  is a perspective view of an example oblong-type seal block assembly; 
           [0034]      FIG. 7  is a top plan view of the seal block assembly of  FIG. 6  shown along an axial cross-section; 
           [0035]      FIG. 8  is a top, rear perspective view of the first end of the base with a side portion of the base hidden to reveal a cross-section of two cable ports; 
           [0036]      FIG. 9  is a top, rear perspective view of the first end of the base with two seal blocks mounted at the cable ports that were shown in cross-section in  FIG. 8 , a side portion of the base being hidden for ease in viewing the inner ends of the ports; 
           [0037]      FIG. 10  is a bottom perspective view of an example fixation assembly coupled to a stripped region of an optical cable where the optical fibers of the cable are hidden for clarity; 
           [0038]      FIG. 11  is a top perspective view of the example fixation assembly of  FIG. 10 ; 
           [0039]      FIG. 12  is a bottom perspective view of the example fixation assembly of  FIG. 10  shown along an axial cross-section; 
           [0040]      FIG. 13  is a top, rear perspective view of the first end of the base with fixation assemblies exploded away from the ports towards an interior of the base and seal block assemblies exploded away from the ports towards an exterior of the base; 
           [0041]      FIG. 14  is a top, rear perspective view of the first end of the base with a side portion of the base hidden to reveal a cross-section of two cable ports and a fixation assembly mounted at one of the two cable ports; 
           [0042]      FIG. 15  is a top, rear perspective view of a portion of the base with three cable port assemblies mounted at the first end with a side portion of the base hidden to reveal an axial cross-section of two of the cable port assemblies; 
           [0043]      FIG. 16  is a top, front perspective view of an enclosure in the closed and sealed position with alternative seal block assemblies and cable fixation assemblies; 
           [0044]      FIG. 17  is a bottom, front perspective of the enclosure of  FIG. 16 ; 
           [0045]      FIG. 18  is a view looking into the empty ports of the base of the enclosure of  FIGS. 16 and 17 ; 
           [0046]      FIG. 19  is a perspective view of a portion of the base of the enclosure of  FIGS. 16 and 17  from an interior position; 
           [0047]      FIG. 20  is a cross-sectional side view of the enclosure of claims  16  and  17 , wherein the cross-section passes through the oblong port; 
           [0048]      FIG. 21  is a perspective view of an example oblong-type seal block assembly in the enclosure of  FIGS. 16 and 17 ; 
           [0049]      FIG. 22  is a cross-sectional view of the example oblong-type seal block assembly in the enclosure of  FIG. 21 ; 
           [0050]      FIGS. 23-25  are exploded views of the example oblong-type seal block assembly of  FIG. 22 ; 
           [0051]      FIG. 26  is a perspective view of an example round-type seal block assembly in the enclosure of  FIGS. 16 and 17 ; 
           [0052]      FIGS. 27 and 28  are exploded views of the example round-type seal block assembly of  FIG. 26 ; 
           [0053]      FIG. 29  is a perspective view of the example oblong-type seal block assembly in the enclosure of  FIGS. 16 and 17 , showing the method of adding a new tube through the seal block; 
           [0054]      FIG. 30  is an exploded view of the example oblong-type seal block assembly and method of  FIG. 29 ; 
           [0055]      FIGS. 31 and 32  show the oblong-type seal block assembly being mounted to the enclosure; 
           [0056]      FIGS. 33 and 34  show the round-type seal block assembly being mounted to the enclosure. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0057]    Reference will now be made in detail to the exemplary aspects of the present disclosure that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like structure. 
         [0058]    In general, optical fiber cables may be routed into an enclosure through one or more cable ports. The cables are mounted to cable port assemblies to secure the cables to the base and to seal the ports around the cables. Certain types of cable port assemblies include seal block assemblies to seal the ports. Certain types of cable port assemblies include fixation assemblies to secure (e.g., axially secure, torsionally secure, laterally secure, etc.) the optical cables. In certain implementations, the fixation assemblies axially fix the optical cables separate from the seal block assemblies. In other certain implementations, the fixation assemblies axially fix the optical cables together with the seal block assemblies. 
         [0059]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an example base  100  of an example telecommunications enclosure assembly. The base  100  extends from a first end  101  to a second end  102 . The base  100  also extends from a first side  103  to a second side  104 . The base  100  includes a sidewall  106  extending upwardly from a base  108  to define an interior  105 . The base  100  is shaped and configured to cooperate with a cover to form an enclosure that defines an interior. One or more telecommunications components may be mounted within the interior of the enclosure. For example, a splice tray assembly may be mounted within the interior. 
         [0060]    A gasket or sealing ring may be disposed between the base  100  and the cover around the perimeter of the enclosure. The gasket inhibits dirt, water, or other contaminants from entering the enclosure when the cover is secured to the base  100  (e.g., by the latches). In some implementations, the base  100  defines a gasket channel  107  in which the gasket may seat. In certain implementations, the cover includes a tongue that extends downwardly so that the tongue compresses the gasket in the channel  107  when the cover is disposed on the base  100 . In other implementations, the cover may define a second channel instead of the tongue to accommodate the gasket. In still other implementations, the cover may define the channel and the base  100  may define the tongue. 
         [0061]    A latch arrangement may be provided to releasably secure the cover in a closed position relative to the base  100 . The latch arrangements may be released to enable the cover to be removed from the base  100 . Additional details regarding an example latch arrangement, an example splice tray assembly, and an example cover can be found in U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/506,378, filed Jul. 11, 2011, and titled “Telecommunications Enclosure with Splice Tray Assembly,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein. 
         [0062]    The base  100  defines one or more cable ports  109  at the first end  101  of the base  100 . Each cable port  109  is configured to receive a cable port assembly  190  ( FIG. 15 ) including a seal block  120 ,  140  and a fixation device  160 . Fiber optic cables  180  are routed into and out of the enclosure through the seal blocks and are fixed to the enclosure using the fixation devices. In the example shown, the base  100  includes seven ports  109 . In other implementations, however, the base  100  may include a greater or lesser number of ports  109 . Input and output cables may be routed into the base  100  through the ports  109 . As used herein, the terms “input” and “output” are used for convenience and are not intended to be exclusory. Optical signals carried over optical fibers may travel in either or both directions. Accordingly, optical fibers routed through any of the ports  109  may carry input and/or output signals. 
         [0063]    In some implementations, at least one of the ports  109  has a different size and/or shape from at least one other port  109 . In the example shown, one of the ports  109  defines an oval or oblong cross-sectional profile and the other six ports  109  define round cross-sectional profiles. In other implementations, each of the ports  109  may have any desired cross-sectional profile. In still other implementations, one or more of the round ports  109  may be larger or smaller than others of the round ports  109 . 
         [0064]    Ducts  110  extend through the first end  101  of the base  100  to define the cable ports  109 . The ducts  110  are generally sized and shaped to fit within a respective one of the cable ports  109 . In some implementations, a tear-off sealing member is disposed in one or more of the ducts  110 . Each sealing member extends across the duct  110  to inhibit contaminants from entering the enclosure. The sealing members are connected to the ducts with weak webs or other frangible connections that facilitate removing the sealing members from the ducts  110 . Accordingly, the sealing members temporally seal the ducts  110  until the cable port is needed. 
         [0065]    As shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3 , each of the ducts  110  has a first end extending partially into the interior  105  of the base  100  and a second end extending outwardly from the first end  101  of the base  100 . By disposing a portion of each duct  110  within the base interior  105 , an overall length of the base  100  is reduced as compared to a base having ducts  110  extending only outside of the base  100 . In the example shown, a majority of each duct  110  extends outwardly from the first end  101  of the base  100 . In other implementations, however, a greater portion of each duct may extend into the interior  105 . 
         [0066]    One or more fiber optic cables  180  may be routed into the interior  105  of the base  100  through one or more of the cable ports  109 . To inhibit the ingress of contaminants (e.g., dirt, water, etc.) and pests (e.g., insects, rodents, etc.) into the base  100 , the cable ports  109  are sealed around the cables  180 . In accordance with some aspects of the disclosure, seal block assemblies may be used to seal the cable ports  109 . In general, seal blocks include a gasket that activates (e.g., performs sealing functions) upon compression. In one example implementation, the gasket includes a gel-based gasket. In other implementations, however, other types of gaskets may be utilized. 
         [0067]    Each seal block includes a gasket disposed between a first housing portion and a second housing portion. In some implementations, each housing portion is formed from an integral piece. In other implementations, each housing portion is formed from multiple pieces. An activation assembly selectively forces the first and second housing portions together to squeeze the gasket therebetween. Axial passages are provided through the housing portions and the gasket to allow optical fiber cables  180  to be routed through the seal block. 
         [0068]    In the example shown in  FIGS. 1-3 , a first seal block assembly  120  is disposed within one of the ducts  110  at one of the cable ports  109 . The first seal block assembly  120  is configured to fit within one of the round cable ports  109 . The first seal block assembly  120  includes a body  121  extending from a first end  122  to a second end  123 . An axial passage  124  ( FIG. 5 ) extends through the body  121  from the first end  122  to the second end  123 . One or more optical fiber cables  180  may be routed through the axial passage  124 . In some implementations, the axial passage  124  extends along center longitudinal axis of the body  121 . In other implementations however, the axial passage  124  may be offset from the center (e.g., see  FIG. 5 ). 
         [0069]    One or more stop surfaces (e.g., shoulders, notches, lips, etc.)  125  are disposed at the first end  122  of the body  121 . In some implementations, the stop surfaces  125  are formed by the edge of the first end  122  of the seal block assembly  120 . In other implementations, the stop surfaces  125  are notched surfaces offset from the edge of the first end  122 . For example, the stop surfaces may define circumferentially spaced shoulders cut into an exterior surface of the seal block body  121  at the first end  122 . In certain implementations, one or more tabs  129  are disposed at the second end  123  of the body  121 . 
         [0070]    The seal block assembly body  121  also includes a latching arrangement to secure the body  121  at the cable port  109 . In the example shown, the latching arrangement includes one or more flexible fingers  126  at the first end  122  of the body  121 . A ramp  127  and a shoulder  128  are disposed on an external surface of each flexible finger  126 . In certain implementations, the flexible fingers  126  extend axially from the first end  122  of the body  121  past the stop surface  125 . In the example shown, four latching fingers  126  extend from circumferentially spaced locations at the first end  122  of the body  121 . In other implementations, however, the body  121  may have a greater or lesser number of latching fingers  126 . 
         [0071]    The seal block body  121  is configured to seal a cable port  109  when plugged into the cable port  109 . In the example shown, the seal block body  121  includes a gasket  130  (e.g., a gel structure, a foam structure, a rubber structure, etc.) sandwiched between a first body portion and a second body portion. In the example shown, the first body portion includes an integral body piece  131  and the second body portion includes a second integral body piece  132 . An activation assembly  133  holds the body pieces  131 ,  132  together and selectively axially compresses the gasket  130  therebetween to activate the seal. 
         [0072]    In the example shown in  FIG. 5 , the activation assembly  133  includes a screw  134  having a threaded region  135 , a grip  136  having a threaded region  137 , and a spring  138 . The screw  134  extends axially through the gasket  130 . A first end of the screw  134  is secured to the first body piece  131  and a second end of the screw  134  protrudes from the second body piece  132 . The threaded region  137  of the grip  136  cooperates with the threaded region  135  of the screw  134  to telescopically mount the grip  136  to the second end of the screw  134 . The spring  138  is mounted over the screw  134  so that tightening the grip  136  on the screw  134  compresses the spring  138 . As the spring  138  is compressed, the spring  138  exerts a greater axial bias on the gasket  130  (see  FIG. 5 ). 
         [0073]    A second seal block assembly  140  is disposed within another of the ducts  110  at one of the cable ports  109 . The second seal block assembly  140  is configured to fit within the oblong cable port  109 . The second seal block assembly  140  includes a body  141  extending from a first end  142  to a second end  143 . One or more axial passages  144  ( FIG. 7 ) extend through the body  141  from the first end  142  to the second end  143 . One or more optical fiber cables  180  may be routed through each of the axial passage  144 . In the example shown, a first axial passage  144   a  extends along a first side of the body  141 , a second axial passage  144   b  extends along an intermediate region of the body  141 , and a third axial passage  144   c  extends along a second side of the body  141  opposite the first side. In other implementations however, the body  141  may include a greater or lesser number of axial passages  144  or may have a different configuration of axial passages. 
         [0074]    The first end  142  of the body  141  defines a first stop surface  145 . The seal block assembly body  141  also includes a latching arrangement to secure the body  141  at the respective cable port  109 . In the example shown, the latching arrangement includes one or more flexible fingers  146  at the first end  122  of the body  121 . A ramp  147  and a shoulder  148  are disposed on an external surface of each flexible finger  146 . In certain implementations, the flexible fingers  146  extend axially from the first end  142  of the body  141  past the first stop surface  145 . In the example shown, one latching finger  146  extends from each of the elongated sides of the body  141 . In other implementations, however, the body  141  may include a greater or lesser number of latching fingers  146 . 
         [0075]    The seal block body  141  is configured to seal a cable port  109  when plugged into the respective duct  110 . In the example shown, the seal block body  141  includes a gasket  150  (e.g., a gel structure, a foam structure, a rubber structure, etc.) sandwiched between a first body portion and a second body portion. In the example shown, the first body portion includes a first body assembly  151  and the second body portion includes a second body assembly  152 . In certain implementations, each of the body assemblies  151 ,  152  include two or more sections that cooperate to define the axial passages  144 . The sections of the body assemblies  151 ,  152  may be separated to load the fiber optic cables within the body assemblies  151 ,  152  (e.g., see  FIG. 7 ). 
         [0076]    An activation assembly  153  holds the body assemblies  151 ,  152  together and selectively axially compresses the gasket  150  therebetween to activate the seal. In the example shown in  FIG. 7 , the activation assembly  153  includes a screw  154  having a threaded region  155 , a grip  156  having a threaded region  157 , and a spring  158 . The screw  154  extends axially through the gasket  150 . A first end of the screw  154  is secured to the first body assembly  151  and a second end of the screw  154  protrudes from the second body assembly  152 . The threaded region  157  of the grip  156  cooperates with the threaded region  155  of the screw  154  to telescopically mount the grip  156  to the second end of the screw  154 . The spring  158  is mounted over the screw  154  so that tightening the grip  156  on the screw  154  compresses the spring  158 . As the spring  158  is compressed, the spring  158  exerts a greater axial bias on the gasket  150  (see  FIG. 7 ). 
         [0077]      FIG. 8  illustrates the front end  101  of the enclosure base  100  from the interior  105  of the base  100 . As noted above, the first end  101  defines multiple ports  109  leading into the interior  105  of the base  100 . In the example shown, the first end  101  defines a first row of round ports  109  and a second row of round and oblong ports  109 . In other implementations, the ports  109  may by arranged in any desired configuration. 
         [0078]    In the example shown, the ports  109  are defined by ducts  110  extending into and out of the base  100 . Each duct  110  includes an elongated body  111  extending from an outer end  112  to an inner end  113 . Each elongated body  111  defines an axial passage  114  extending from the outer end  112  to the inner end  113 . The inner end  113  of the elongated body  111  defines a shoulder  116  that faces the interior  105  of the base  100 . In the example shown, the shoulder  116  extends around the circumference of the inner end  113 . In other implementations, however, the shoulder  116  may be broken/interrupted along the circumference. 
         [0079]    One or more stops  115  are disposed at the inner end  113  of the elongated body  111  and extend into the passage  114 . In the example shown, four circumferentially spaced stops  115  extend inwardly at the inner end  113  of each elongated body  111 . In other implementations, however, a greater or lesser number of stops  115  may extend inwardly from the elongated body  111 . In certain implementations, one or more of the elongated bodies  111  may define one or more slots  117  at the outer end  112  of the elongated body  111 . In the example shown, the outer end  112  defines a single slot that is useful for aligning the seal block assembly  120  at the duct  110 . 
         [0080]    One or more fastener supports  118  may be disposed at the inner ends  113  of the ducts  110 . Each fastener support  118  defines a fastener hole  119  accessible from the interior  105  of the base  100 . The fastener supports  118  aid in securing the optical fiber cables  180  separate from the seal blocks  120 ,  140  as will be discussed in more detail herein. 
         [0081]      FIG. 9  shows the example seal blocks  120 ,  140  secured at respective cable ports  109 . Each seal block  120 ,  140  is inserted through the axial passage  114  defined by the elongated body  111  of the duct  110  installed at the respective cable port  109 . The first end  122 ,  142  of each seal block body  121 ,  141  is inserted through the outer end  112  of each duct and pushed towards the inner end  113  until the stop surfaces  125 ,  145  of each seal block body  121 ,  141  abuts the stops  115  of the respective duct  110 . The stops  115  inhibit the seal block bodies  121 ,  141  from being pushed too far into the base  100 . 
         [0082]    As the seal block body  121 ,  141  is pushed toward the inner end  113  of the duct  110 , the latching fingers  126  cam inwardly to pass the inner end  113  and snap over the shoulder  116  of the duct body  111 . The shoulder  128 ,  148  of the latching fingers  126 ,  146  abuts the shoulder  116  of the duct body  111  to inhibit the seal block bodies  121 ,  141  from being pulled out of the ducts  110 . Accordingly, a user need not separately fasten (e.g., with screws) the seal blocks  120 ,  140  to the base  100 . Merely pushing the seal blocks  120 ,  140  into position secures the seal blocks  120 ,  140  to the base  100 . The latching fingers  126  are manually releasable by compressing the latching fingers  126  inwardly until the shoulders  128 ,  148  clear the inner shoulder  116  of the ducts  110 . 
         [0083]    In certain implementations, the duct bodies  111  include alignment structures that facilitate mounting the seal blocks in accordance with a preferred orientation. For example, the slot  117  at the outer end  112  of the round ducts  110  may be sized and shaped to receive the tab  129  disposed at the second end  123  of the first seal block body  121 . In other implementations, the tab  129  also aids in inhibiting the seal block body  121  from being inserted too far into the duct  110 . In still other implementations, one or more tabs may be disposed on the oblong seal block  140 . 
         [0084]    The gasket  130 ,  150  of each seal block  120 ,  140  is spaced towards the exterior of the base  100  from the point at which the seal block  120 ,  140  is axially fixed to the base  100 . In some implementations, the stops  115  and/or tab  129  aid in maintaining the seal block  120 ,  140  within the ducts  110  when pressure is applied to the seal block  120 ,  140  from outside the base  100 . External pressure applied to the seal block  120 ,  140  will further compress the gasket  130 ,  150  axially since the stops  115  and/or tab  129  maintain the seal block  120 ,  140  in a fixed axial position. 
         [0085]    In accordance with some aspects, the optical fiber cables  180  may be secured to the base  100  separate from the seal blocks  120 ,  140  using fixation mounts  160  ( FIG. 10 ). A fixation mount  160  is coupled to an optical fiber cable  180  at a location where one or more strength members have been terminated (e.g., trimmed). The fixation mount  160  is coupled to an interior  105  of the base  100 . For example, the fixation mount  160  may be coupled to the inner surface of the first end  101  of the base  100 . In certain implementations, the fixation mount  160  axially fixes the cable  180  relative to the base  100 . In certain implementations, the fixation mount  160  torsionally fixes the cable  180  relative to the base  100 . In certain implementations, the fixation mount  160  laterally fixes the cable  180  relative to the base  100 . Accordingly, stress applied to the cables  180  is not transferred to the seal blocks  120 ,  140  and, hence, does not affect the seal at the respective port  109 . 
         [0086]    The fiber optic cables  180  include one or more optical fibers  181  and at least one strength member. In certain implementations, the optical fibers  181  are contained within a buffer tube. A jacket  185  is stripped or otherwise removed at a section of the cable that is to be secured to the enclosure. Stripping the jacket  185  reveals the optical fiber(s)  181  and one or more strength members. The strength members may be terminated (e.g., trimmed) at or near the stripped region. In certain implementations, the strength members include a plurality of strength yarns (e.g., aramid yarn, such as Kevlar®)  182 . In certain implementations, the strength members include a tensile strength member (e.g., a fiberglass rod)  183  in addition to the strength yarns  182 . In other implementations, the strength members include a tensile strength member (e.g., a fiberglass rod)  183  instead of the strength yarns  182 . 
         [0087]    In some implementations, the seal blocks  120 ,  140  are loaded onto the optical cables  180  before the fixation assemblies  160  are coupled to the optical cables  180 . For example, the fixation assemblies  160  may be sized so that a fixation assembly  160  does not fit easily through the axial passages  124 ,  144  defined by the seal blocks  120 ,  140 . Indeed, some fixation assemblies  160  may not fit at all through the axial passages  124 ,  144  of the certain example types of seal blocks  120 ,  140 . 
         [0088]    In certain implementations, the optical cables  180  are routed through the passages  124 ,  144  of the seal blocks  120 ,  140  before being stripped (e.g., while the jacket  185  still covers the optical fibers  181  and strength members  182 ,  183 ). For example, an optical cable  180  may be routed axially through the passage  124  of the round-type seal block  120 . In other implementations, however, an optical cable  180  may be routed radially into the passage  144  of the oblong-type seal block  140 . 
         [0089]      FIGS. 10-12  illustrate one example fixation mount  160 . The fixation assembly  160  includes a body  161  extending from a first end  162  to a second end  163 . The body  161  defines an axial channel  164  that extends at least partially between the first and second ends  162 ,  163 . In some implementations, the axial channel  164  has a ribbed (e.g., laterally ribbed) or otherwise textured surface. A fiber optic cable  180  may be routed along the channel  164  from the first end  162  towards the second end  163 . The textured surface may aid in holding the cable  180  against axial and/or torsional strain. In certain implementations, a sizing flange  169  may be positioned in the channel  164  to accommodate various sizes of optical fiber cables  180  (i.e., optical cables having various diameters). In some such implementations, the sizing flange  169  has a ribbed (e.g., laterally ribbed) or otherwise textured surface. The textured surface of the sizing flange  169  may aid in holding the cable  180  against axial and/or torsional strain. 
         [0090]    A cover  170  is configured to selectively mount to the body  161  to close the channel  164 , thereby enclosing a portion of the fiber optic cable  180  (see  FIG. 12 ). In certain implementations, the cover  170  is pivotally coupled to the body  161  (e.g. using hinge arrangement  171 ). In certain implementations, the cover  170  latches to the body  161  using latch arrangement  172 . In the example shown in  FIG. 10 , the latch arrangement  172  includes two latching fingers extending upwardly from the body  161  adjacent the channel  164 . The cover  170  may be latched to the body  161  after being pivoted to the closed position. In other implementations, the cover  170  may be otherwise secured to the body  161 . 
         [0091]    The jacket  185  of the optical cable  180  terminates at an intermediate position within the fixation body  161 . The optical fibers  181  and strength members extend past the jacket  185  towards the second end  163  of the body  161 . The strength members may be trimmed at a location spaced from the jacket  185 . In some implementations, the jacketed cable  180  extends through the axial channel  164  of the body  161 . In such implementations, the cover  170  cooperates with the channel  164  (or sizing flange  169 ) to enclose the jacketed portion of the cable  180 . In certain implementations, the cover  170  and the channel  164  (or sizing flange  169 ) cooperate to radially compress the jacketed portion of the cable  180 . 
         [0092]    The fixation assemblies  160  are configured to retain the strength members of the optical fiber cables  180 . In some implementations, the cable fixation body  161  includes a winding arrangement  165  at which the strength yarns  182  may be wound or otherwise retained. In the example shown, the winding arrangement  165  includes four L-shaped flanges that extend upwardly from the fixation body  161  (see  FIG. 10 ). In various implementations, the strength yarns may be wound around the flanges in a variety of configurations (e.g., an X-pattern, an L-pattern, or an O-pattern). In other implementations, the winding arrangement  165  may have a greater or lesser number of flanges or have flanges of different shapes. 
         [0093]    In some implementations, the fixation body  161  includes an enclosing structure defining a first pocket  166  at which the tensile strength member  183  may be retained. The first pocket  166  is located at the second end  163  of the body  161 . In some implementations, the first pocket  166  is axially aligned with the channel  164  of the body  161 . In other implementations, the first pocket  166  is radially offset from the channel  164  (e.g., see  FIG. 12 ) so that the tensile strength member  183  flexes radially away from the channel  164  when routed to the first pocket  166 . The first pocket  166  is sized to receive the tensile strength member  183  and still allow the optical fibers  181  to extend past the first pocket  166  (see  FIG. 13 ). 
         [0094]    The pocket  166  is defined at least partially by a flexible flange  167  that is configured to flex selectively into the pocket  166 . In certain implementations, a tightening member  168  is configured to apply a force to the flange  167  that directs the flange  167  into the first pocket  166 . The force may be increased to move the flange  167  into the first pocket  166  and decreased to allow the flange  167  to move out of (or to extend flush with) the first pocket  166 . In the example shown, the tightening member  168  includes a set screw  168  that is mounted at a screw hole located above the flange  167 . 
         [0095]    The flexible flange  167  radially compresses the strength member  183  to aid in retaining the strength member  183  in the first pocket  166 . By applying the inward force with the flange  167  instead of the tightening member  168 , itself, the radial compression is spread out along a greater surface area of the strength member  183 , decreasing the chances of crushing or breaking the strength member  183 . 
         [0096]    The flexible flange  167  and tightening member  168  of the fixation device  160  cooperate to accommodate tensile strength members  183  of various sizes. To accommodate a tensile strength member  183  having a small diameter, the tightening member  168  is screwed or otherwise moved towards the flange  167  to press the flange  167  into the first pocket  166 . To accommodate a tensile strength member  183  having a larger diameter, the tightening member  168  is unscrewed or otherwise moved away from the flange  167 , thereby allowing the flange  167  to unflex and bend away from the first pocket  166 . 
         [0097]    The fixation mount bodies  161  also are configured to secure to the interior of the base  100 . In some implementations, the fixation assemblies  160  are coupled to the fiber optic cables  180  before routing the cables  180  through the ports  109 . In such implementations, the fixation bodies  161  and stripped regions of the optical cables  180  are routed through the ducts  110  from an exterior of the base  100  into the interior  105  of the base  100 . In other implementations, however, the fixation assemblies  160  may be coupled to the optical cables  180  after the cables  180  are routed through the ports  109 . 
         [0098]    As shown in  FIG. 13 , one or more fastener supports  118  are disposed at the inner ends  113  of the ducts  110 . Each fastener support  118  defines a fastener hole  119  accessible from the interior  105  of the base  100 . Each fastener hole  119  is located outside of a perimeter of the axial passage  114  extending through the respective duct  110  (e.g., see  FIGS. 8 and 9 ). A mounting member  175  is secured in each fastener hole  119  at which a fixation assembly  160  is to be secured. In the example shown, the mounting member  175  includes a screw. In some implementations, mounting members  175  may be preinstalled in one or more of the fasteners holes  119  in the factory or other manufacturing facility. In other implementations, the mounting members  175  may be added during the installation of the cables 1   180  to be secured. 
         [0099]    As shown in  FIG. 14 , the body  161  of each fastening assembly  160  defines a second pocket  173  at the first end  162  of the body  161 . To secure the fixation assembly  160  to the base  100 , the fixation assembly  160  is positioned so that the mounting member  175  is disposed within the second pocket  173 . For example, the fixation assembly  160  may be moved laterally relative to the ports  109  to slide the mounting member  175  into the second pocket  173 . The mounting member  175  may be tightened to clamp the fixation assembly  160  between the screw head and the fastener support  118 , thereby axially securing the fixation assembly  160  to the base  100 . 
         [0100]    As shown in  FIG. 11 , the second pocket  173  is sized to accommodate the head of the mounting screw  175 . The second pocket  173  has an open face  176  that extends generally parallel to the channel  164  of the fixation body  161 . The open face  176  is sized to enable the head of the mounting screw  175  to pass into the second pocket  173 . The fixation body  161  also defines a slot  174  extending through a wall defining the second pocket  173 . The slot  174  is sized to enable the body of the screw  175  to extend therethrough. In the example shown, the slot  174  and the open face  176  define a T-shaped profile. An inner surface of the second pocket  173  forms shoulders  177  at opposite sides of the slot  174 . When the mounting member  175  is tightened, the head of the mounting member  175  axially compresses against the shoulders  177  (see  FIG. 14 ). 
         [0101]    When coupled to the cables  180 , the seal block assemblies  120 ,  140  and the fixation assemblies  160  cooperate to form cable port assemblies  190  ( FIG. 15 ). In some implementations, the seal blocks  120 ,  140  are slid into the ducts  110  to seal the cable ports  109  after the fixation assemblies  160  are secured to the first end  101  of the base  100 . In other implementations, the seal blocks  120 ,  140  may be slid into the ducts  110  after the fixation assemblies  160  are routed through the ducts  110 , but before the fixation assemblies  160  are secured to the base  100 . 
         [0102]    In the example shown in  FIGS. 16-34 , an alternative first seal block assembly  220  is disposed within one of the ducts  110  at one of the cable ports  109 , and a an alternative second seal block  340  is disposed within another one of the ducts  110  at the cable ports. A complete enclosure  200  is shown with a base  204 , a cover  206 , and latches  208  The first seal block assembly  220  is configured to fit within one of the round cable ports  109 . The second seal block assembly  340  is configured to fit within one of the oblong cable ports  109 . Note the oblong port  109  in  FIGS. 16-20  is 90 degrees from the position shown in  FIGS. 1-15 . Such a rotated position assists with cable management of loop cables, such as for storage in a hinged tray. Oblong port  109  is particularly useful for loop cables. 
         [0103]    The first seal block assembly  220  includes a body  221  extending from a first end  222  to a second end  223 . Two axial passages  224  ( FIG. 26 ) extend through the body  221  from the first end  222  to the second end  223 . One or more optical fiber cables  180  may be routed through each of the axial passages  224 . The axial passages  224  extend in separate halves  290  which can be used separately and accessed separately. 
         [0104]    One or more stop surfaces (e.g., shoulders, notches, lips, etc.)  245  are disposed at the first end  222  of the body  221 . In some implementations, the stop surfaces  245  are formed by the edge of the first end  222  of the seal block assembly  220 . 
         [0105]    The seal block assembly body  221  also includes a latching arrangement to secure the body  221  at the cable port  109 . In the example shown, the latching arrangement includes one or more flexible fingers  226  at the first end  222  of the body  221 . A ramp  227  and a shoulder  228  are disposed on an external surface of each flexible finger  226 . In the example shown, two latching fingers  226  extend from circumferentially spaced locations at the first end  222  of the body  221 . In other implementations, however, the body  221  may have a greater or lesser number of latching fingers  226 . A groove  240  and a c-clip  242  secure seal block assembly  220  to cable port  109 . 
         [0106]    The seal block body  221  is configured to seal a cable port  109  when plugged into the cable port  109 . In the example shown, the seal block body  221  includes a gasket  230  (e.g., a gel structure, a foam structure, a rubber structure, etc.) sandwiched between a first body portion and a second body portion. In the example shown, the first body portion includes an integral body piece  231  and the second body portion includes a second integral body piece  232 . Body piece  231  holds halves  290 . An activation assembly  233  holds the body pieces  231 ,  232  together and selectively axially compresses the gasket  130  therebetween to activate the seal. 
         [0107]    In the example shown in  FIGS. 26 and 27 , the activation assembly  233  includes a screw  134  having a threaded region  135 , a grip  136  having a threaded region  137 , and a spring  138 . The screw  134  extends axially through the gasket  130 . A first end of the screw  134  is secured to the first body piece  231  and a second end of the screw  134  protrudes from the second body piece  232 . The threaded region  137  of the grip  136  cooperates with the threaded region  135  of the screw  134  to telescopically mount the grip  136  to the second end of the screw  134 . The spring  138  is mounted over the screw  134  so that tightening the grip  136  on the screw  134  compresses the spring  138 . As the spring  138  is compressed, the spring  138  exerts a greater axial bias on the gasket  130  (see  FIG. 5 ). 
         [0108]    Halves  290  are held inside body piece  231  by stops  215  in port  109 . Halves  290  also define cable fixture structures as will be defined in more detail below. First seal block assembly  220  allows for seal assembly on the cable  180  and fixation to the strength member or members outside of enclosure  200 , and the unit can be inserted into port  109 . At that point the seal can be activated. Halves  290  include tabs  260  which fit into notches  262  of body piece  231 . 
         [0109]    A second seal block assembly  340  is disposed within another of the ducts  110  at one of the cable ports  109 . The second seal block assembly  340  is configured to fit within the oblong cable port  109 . The second seal block assembly  340  includes a body  341  extending from a first end  342  to a second end  343 . One or more axial passages  344  ( FIGS. 20-22 ) extend through the body  341  from the first end  342  to the second end  343 . One or more optical fiber cables  180  may be routed through each of the axial passage  344 . In the example shown, a first axial passage  344   a  extends along a first side of the body  341 , a second axial passage  344   b  extends along an intermediate region of the body  341 , and a third axial passage  344   c  extends along a second side of the body  341  opposite the first side. In other implementations however, the body  341  may include a greater or lesser number of axial passages  344  or may have a different configuration of axial passages. 
         [0110]    The first end  342  of the body  341  defines a first stop surface  345 . The seal block assembly body  341  also includes a securing arrangement to secure the body  341  at the respective cable port  109 . In the example shown, the securing arrangement includes one or more grooves  346  at the first end  342  of the body  341 . A clip  347  fits into groove  346 . 
         [0111]    The seal block body  341  is configured to seal a cable port  109  when plugged into the respective duct  110 . In the example shown, the seal block body  341  includes a gasket  350  (e.g., a gel structure, a foam structure, a rubber structure, etc.) sandwiched between a first body portion and a second body portion. In the example shown, the first body portion includes a first body assembly  351  and the second body portion includes a second body assembly  352 . In certain implementations, each of the body assemblies  351 ,  352  include two or more sections that cooperate to define the axial passages  344 . The sections of the body assemblies  351 ,  352  may be separated to load the fiber optic cables within the body assemblies  351 ,  352  (e.g., see  FIG. 7 ). 
         [0112]    An activation assembly  353  holds the body assemblies  351 ,  352  together and selectively axially compresses the gasket  350  therebetween to activate the seal. In the example shown in  FIG. 7 , the activation assembly  353  includes a screw  154  having a threaded region  155 , a grip  156  having a threaded region  157 , and a spring  158 . The screw  154  extends axially through the gasket  150 . A first end of the screw  154  is secured to the first body assembly  351  and a second end of the screw  154  protrudes from the second body assembly  352 . The threaded region  157  of the grip  156  cooperates with the threaded region  155  of the screw  154  to telescopically mount the grip  156  to the second end of the screw  154 . The spring  158  is mounted over the screw  154  so that tightening the grip  156  on the screw  154  compresses the spring  158 . As the spring  158  is compressed, the spring  158  exerts a greater axial bias on the gasket  350  (see  FIG. 7 ). 
         [0113]      FIG. 19  illustrates the front end  101  of the enclosure base  204  from the interior  105  of the base  100 . As noted above, the first end  101  defines multiple ports  109  leading into the interior  105  of the base  100 . First axial passage  344   a  is adjacent to second axial passage  344   b  for receipt of a loop cable. Third axial passage  344   c  is for later use and can be initially plugged. Third axial passage  344   c  can be used to later add a repair cable should to loop cable become damaged or more capacity is needed. In the example enclosure  200  shown, the first end  101  defines a first row of round ports  109  and a second row of round and oblong ports  109 . In other implementations, the ports  109  may by arranged in any desired configuration. 
         [0114]    In the example enclosure shown, the ports  109  are defined by ducts  110  extending into and out of the base  100 . Each duct  110  includes an elongated body  111  extending from an outer end  112  to an inner end  113 . Each elongated body  111  defines an axial passage  114  extending from the outer end  112  to the inner end  113 . The inner end  113  of the elongated body  111  defines a shoulder  116  that faces the interior  105  of the base  100 . In the example shown, the shoulder  116  extends around the circumference of the inner end  113 . In other implementations, however, the shoulder  116  may be broken/interrupted along the circumference. 
         [0115]    One or more stops  215  are disposed at the inner end  113  of the elongated body  111  and extend into the passage  114 . In the example shown, two circumferentially spaced stops  215  extend inwardly at the inner end  113  of each round elongated body  111 . In other implementations, however, a greater or lesser number of stops  215  may extend inwardly from the elongated body  111 . Three stops  215  are provided for the oblong elongated body. In certain implementations, one or more of the elongated bodies  111  may define one or more slots  117  at the outer end  112  of the elongated body  111 . In the example shown, the outer end  112  defines a single slot that is useful for aligning the seal block assembly  120  at the duct  110 . 
         [0116]      FIGS. 16 and 17  show the example seal blocks  220 ,  340  secured at respective cable ports  109 . Each seal block  220 ,  340  is inserted through the axial passage  114  defined by the elongated body  111  of the duct  110  installed at the respective cable port  109 . The first end  222 ,  342  of each seal block body  221 ,  341  is inserted through the outer end  112  of each duct and pushed towards the inner end  113  until the stop surfaces  245 ,  345  of each seal block body  221 ,  341  abuts the stops  215  of the respective duct  110 . The stops  215  inhibit the seal block bodies  221 ,  341  from being pushed too far into the base  100 . 
         [0117]    As the seal block body  221 , is pushed toward the inner end  113  of the duct  110 , the latching fingers  126  cam inwardly to pass the inner end  113  and snap over the shoulder  116  of the duct body  111 . The shoulder  228  of the latching fingers  226  abuts the shoulder  116  of the duct body  111  to inhibit the seal block bodies  221 , from being pulled out of the ducts  110 . If desired, each half  290  can be removed separately to add or adjust a cable. Clip  242  is added to secure seal block body  221  to duct body  111 . For seal block body  341 , after insertion into duct body  111 , clip  347  is added. 
         [0118]    In certain implementations, the duct bodies  111  include alignment structures that facilitate mounting the seal blocks in accordance with a preferred orientation. For example, the slot  117  at the outer end  112  of the round ducts  110  may be sized and shaped to receive the tab  129  disposed at the second end  223  of the first seal block body  221 . In other implementations, the tab  129  also aids in inhibiting the seal block body  221  from being inserted too far into the duct  110 . In still other implementations, one or more tabs may be disposed on the oblong seal block  340 . 
         [0119]    The gasket  230 ,  350  of each seal block  220 ,  340  is spaced towards the exterior of the base  100  from the point at which the seal block  220 ,  340  is axially fixed to the base  100 . In some implementations, the stops  215  and/or tabs  129  aid in maintaining the seal block  220 ,  340  within the ducts  110  when pressure is applied to the seal block  220 ,  340  from outside the base  100 . External pressure applied to the seal block  220 ,  340  will further compress the gasket  230 ,  350  axially since the stops  215  and/or tab  129  maintain the seal block  220 ,  340  in a fixed axial position. 
         [0120]    In accordance with some aspects, the optical fiber cables  180  may be secured to the seal blocks  220 ,  340  using fixation mounts  460  ( FIGS. 20 ,  21 ,  26 ). A fixation mount  460  is coupled to an optical fiber cable  180  at a location where one or more strength members have been terminated (e.g., trimmed). The fixation mount  460  is coupled to pieces  231 ,  351 . For example, the fixation mount  460  may be coupled to the seal block assembly body  221 ,  341  for fixation before the seal is inserted into the port  109 . In certain implementations, the fixation mount  460  axially fixes the cable  180  and torsionally fixes the cable  180 . In certain implementations, the fixation mount  460  laterally fixes the cable  180 . The fixation mount  460  can be integrally formed with seal block bodies  221 ,  341 . 
         [0121]    The fiber optic cables  180  include one or more optical fibers  181  and at least one strength member. In certain implementations, the optical fibers  181  are contained within a buffer tube. A jacket  185  is stripped or otherwise removed at a section of the cable that is to be secured to the enclosure. Stripping the jacket  185  reveals the optical fiber(s)  181  and one or more strength members. The strength members may be terminated (e.g., trimmed) at or near the stripped region. In certain implementations, the strength members include a plurality of strength yarns (e.g., aramid yarn, such as Kevlar®)  182 . In certain implementations, the strength members include a tensile strength member (e.g., a fiberglass rod)  183  in addition to the strength yarns  182 . In other implementations, the strength members include a tensile strength member (e.g., a fiberglass rod)  183  instead of the strength yarns  182 . In some implementations, the yarns  182  are not present or not used (e.g., cut-off). 
         [0122]    The seal blocks  220 ,  340  are loaded onto the optical cables  180  before or after the fixation assemblies  460  are coupled to the optical cables  180 . 
         [0123]    In certain implementations, the optical cables  180  are routed through the passages  224 ,  344  of the seal blocks  220 ,  340  before being stripped (e.g., while the jacket  185  still covers the optical fibers  181  and strength members  182 ,  183 ). For example, an optical cable  180  may be routed axially through the passage  224  of the round-type seal block  220 . In other implementations, however, an optical cable  180  may be routed radially into the passage  144  of the oblong-type seal block  140 . Such would be the case for loop cables. 
         [0124]      FIGS. 21-25  illustrate one example fixation mount  460 . The fixation assembly  460  includes a body  461  extending from a first end  462  to a second end  463 . The body  461  defines an axial channel  464  that extends at least partially between the first and second ends  462 ,  463 . In some implementations, the axial channel  464  has a ribbed (e.g., laterally ribbed) or otherwise textured surface. A fiber optic cable  180  may be routed along the channel  464  from the first end  462  towards the second end  463 . The textured surface may aid in holding the cable  180  against axial and/or torsional strain. In certain implementations, a cover  469  may be positioned over the channel  464  to clamp or press against the exterior of the cable jacket. Different sized covers  469  can accommodate various sizes of optical fiber cables  180  (i.e., optical cables having various diameters). In some such implementations, the cover  469  has friction promoting surface. One example is the use of a rubber sheet or something with a textured surface. The cover  469  aids in holding the cable  180  against axial and/or torsional strain. In certain implementations, the cover  469  is fastened to body  461  with a fastener  470 . Alternatively, a latch to the body  461  can be used. 
         [0125]    The jacket  185  of the optical cable  180  terminates at an intermediate position within the fixation body  461 . The optical fibers  181  and strength members extend past the jacket  185  towards the second end  463  of the body  461 . The strength members may be trimmed at a location spaced from the jacket  185 . In some implementations, the jacketed cable  180  extends through the axial channel  464  of the body  461 . In such implementations, the cover  469  cooperates with the channel  464  to enclose the jacketed portion of the cable  180 . In certain implementations, the cover  469  and the channel  464  cooperate to radially compress the jacketed portion of the cable  180 . 
         [0126]    The fixation assemblies  460  are configured to retain the strength members of the optical fiber cables  180 . In some implementations, the cable fixation body  461  includes a pad area  465  at which the tensile strength member  183  may be retained. The pad area  465  is located at the second end  463  of the body  461 . In some implementations, the pad area  465  is axially aligned with the channel  464  of the body  461 . The pad area  465  is sized to receive the tensile strength member  183  and still allow the optical fibers  181  to extend past the first pocket  166 . Cover  480  presses against tensile strength member  183 , and is held in place with a fastener  482 . The pad area  465  is textured to facilitate improved fixation. 
         [0127]    When coupled to the cables  180 , the seal block assemblies  220 ,  340  and the fixation assemblies  460  cooperate to form cable port assemblies  490  ( FIGS. 21 and 26 ). In this implementation, the seal blocks  220 ,  340  are slid into the ducts  110  after the fixation assemblies  460  are routed through the ducts  110 . 
         [0128]    A filler rod removal system  500  and method is provided. If a filler rod  502  is positioned in a seal block assembly, the filler rod  502  is provided with an attachment device  504  to attach to a new tube  510  which can be pushed and/or pulled through the seal block assembly into position during connection of the filler rod  502  and the new tube  510 . Typically, the new tube  510  is added when the seal block assembly is deactivated. 
         [0129]    One attachment device  504  for the filler rod  502  is one or more barbed projections  514  which fit into the new tube  510 , such as a corrugated tube. Generally, the filler rod  502  and the new tube  510  have the same outer diameter. 
         [0130]    Once the new tube  510  is located in position in the seal block assembly, the filler rod  502  can be separated from the new tube and discarded, and cables and/or blown tubes can be inserted through the new tube. The seal block assembly can also be reactivated to seal the new tube. Such a system is particularly useful for seal block assemblies  140 ,  340 , but may be used on the other disclosed seal block assemblies. 
         [0131]    A tube clip  520  is shown mounted to second seal block assembly for storage. Once new tube  510  is added, clip  520  is inserted into first body assembly  351  to retain tube  510  with first body assembly  351 . 
         [0132]    Having described the preferred aspects and embodiments of the present invention, 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. 
       PARTS LIST 
       [0000]    
       
           100  base 
           101  first end 
           102  second end 
           103  first side 
           104  second side 
           105  interior 
           106  sidewall 
           107  gasket channel 
           108  base 
           109  ports 
           110  ducts 
           111  elongated body 
           112  outer end 
           113  inner end 
           114  passage 
           115  stops 
           116  inner shoulder 
           117  outer slot 
           118  fastener support 
           119  fastener hole 
           120  first example seal block 
           121  body 
           122  first end 
           123  second end 
           124  axial passage 
           125  stop surface 
           126  flexible finger 
           127  ramp 
           128  shoulder 
           129  rear tab 
           130  gasket 
           131  first piece 
           132  second piece 
           133  activation assembly 
           134  screw 
           135  threaded surface 
           136  grip 
           137  threaded surface 
           138  spring 
           140  second example seal block 
           141  body 
           142  first end 
           143  second end 
           144  axial passages 
           144   a  first axial passage 
           144   b  second axial passage 
           144   c  third axial passage 
           145  front stop surface 
           146  flexible finger 
           147  ramp 
           148  shoulder 
           150  gasket 
           151  first body assembly 
           152  second body assembly 
           153  activation assembly 
           154  screw 
           155  threaded surface 
           156  grip 
           157  threaded surface 
           158  spring 
           160  cable fixation assembly 
           161  body 
           162  first end 
           163  second end 
           164  channel 
           165  winding arrangement 
           166  first pocket 
           167  flexible flange 
           168  set screw 
           169  sizing flange 
           170  cover 
           171  hinge member 
           172  latching arrangement 
           173  second pocket 
           174  slot 
           175  mounting screw 
           176  open front 
           177  shoulders 
           180  fiber optic cables 
           181  optical fibers 
           182  yarn 
           183  strength member 
           185  jacket 
           190  cable port assembly 
           200  enclosure 
           204  base 
           206  cover 
           208  latches 
           220  first seal block assembly 
           221  body 
           222  first end 
           223  second end 
           224  two axial passages 
           226  flexible fingers 
           227  ramp 
           228  shoulder 
           230  gasket 
           231  integral body piece 
           232  second integral body piece 
           233  activation assembly 
           240  groove 
           242  c-clip 
           245  first stop surface 
           260  tabs 
           262  notches 
           290  halves 
           340  second seal block assembly 
           341  body 
           342  first end 
           343  second end 
           344  axial passages 
           344   a  first axial passage 
           344   b  second axial passage 
           344   c  third axial passage 
           345  stop surfaces 
           346  grooves 
           347  clip 
           350  gasket 
           351  first body assembly 
           352  second body assembly 
           353  activation assembly 
           460  fixation mount 
           461  body 
           462  first end 
           463  second end 
           464  axial channel 
           465  pad area 
           469  cover 
           480  cover 
           482  fastener 
           490  cable port assemblies 
           500  filler rod removal system 
           502  filler rod 
           504  attachment device 
           510  new tube 
           514  barbed projections 
           520  clip