Patent Publication Number: US-2022236497-A1

Title: Terminals having optical connection ports with securing features providing stable retention forces and methods of making the same

Description:
PRIORITY 
     This application is a continuation of International Patent Application Serial No. PCT/US2020/053443 filed on Sep. 30, 2020, which claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/923,245 filed on Oct. 18, 2019, both applications being incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The disclosure is directed to devices providing at least one optical connection port along with methods for making the same. More specifically, the disclosure is directed to devices such as terminals comprising a connection port and a securing feature associated with the connection port for securing an optical connector with a stable retention force along with methods of making the same. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Optical fiber is increasingly being used for a variety of applications, including but not limited to broadband voice, video, and data transmission. As bandwidth demands increase optical fiber is migrating deeper into communication networks such as in fiber to the premises applications such as FTTx, 5G and the like. As optical fiber extended deeper into communication networks the need for making robust optical connections in outdoor applications in a quick and easy manner was apparent. To address this need for making quick, reliable, and robust optical connections in communication networks hardened fiber optic connectors such as the OptiTap® plug connector were developed. 
     Multiports were also developed for making an optical connections with hardened connectors such as the OptiTap. Prior art multiports have a plurality of receptacles mounted through a wall of the housing for protecting an indoor connector inside the housing that makes an optical connection to the external hardened connector of the branch or drop cable. 
     Illustratively,  FIG. 1  shows a conventional fiber optic multiport  1  having an input fiber optic cable  4  carrying one or more optical fibers to indoor-type connectors inside a housing  3 . The multiport  1  receives the optical fibers into housing  3  and distributes the optical fibers to receptacles  7  for connection with a hardened connector. The receptacles  7  are separate assemblies attached through a wall of housing  3  of the multiport  1 . The receptacles  7  allow mating with hardened connectors attached to drop or branching cables (not shown) such as drop cables for “fiber-to-the-home” applications. During use, optical signals pass through the branch cables, to and from the fiber optic cable  4  by way of the optical connections at the receptacles  7  of multiport  1 . Fiber optic cable  4  may also be terminated with a fiber optic connector  5 . Multiports  1  allowed quick and easy deployment for optical networks. 
     Although, the housing  3  of the prior art multiport  1  is rugged and weatherable for outdoor deployments, the housings  3  of multiport  1  are relatively bulky for mounting multiple receptacles  7  for the hardened connector on the housing  3 . Receptacles  7  allow an optical connection between the hardened connector such as the OptiTap male plug connector on the branch cable with a non-hardened connector such as the SC connector disposed within the housing  3 , which provides a suitable transition from an outdoor space to a protected space inside the housing  3 . 
     Receptacle  7  for the OptiTap connector is described in further detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,579,014. As depicted in U.S. Pat. No. 6,579,014, the receptacle includes a receptacle housing and an adapter sleeve disposed therein. Thus, the receptacles for the hardened connector are large and bulky and require a great deal of surface array when arranged in an array on the housing  3  such as shown with multiport  1 . Further, conventional hardened connectors use a separate threaded or bayonet coupling that requires rotation about the longitudinal axis of the connector and room for grabbing and rotating the coupling by hand when mounted in an array on the housing  3 . 
     Consequently, the housing  3  of the multiport  1  is excessively bulky. For example, the multiport  1  may be too boxy and inflexible to effectively operate in smaller storage spaces, such as the underground pits or vaults that may already be crowded. Furthermore, having all of the receptacles  7  on the housing  3 , as shown in  FIG. 1 , requires sufficient room for the drop or branch cables attached to the hardened connectors attached to the multiport  1 . While pits can be widened and larger storage containers can be used, such solutions tend to be costly and time-consuming. Network operators may desire other deployment applications for multiports  1  such as aerial, in a pedestal or mounted on a façade of a building that are not ideal for the prior art multiports  1  for numerous reasons such as congested poles or spaces or for aesthetic concerns. 
     Other multiports designs have been commercialized to address the drawbacks of the prior art multiports depicted in  FIG. 1 . By way of explanation, US 2015/0268434 discloses multiports  1 ′ having one or more connection ports  9  positioned on the end of extensions  8  that project from the housing of the multiport  1 ′ such as depicted in  FIG. 2 . Connection ports  9  of multiport  1 ′ are configured for mating directly with a hardened connector (not shown) such as an OptiTap without the need to protect the receptacle  7  within a housing like the prior art multiport  1  of  FIG. 1 . 
     Although, these types of multiport designs such as shown in  FIG. 2  and disclosed in US 2015/0268434 allow the device to have smaller footprints for the housing  3 ′, these designs still have concerns such as the space consumed by the relatively large ports  9  and associated space requirements of optical connections between the ports and hardened connector of the drop cables along with organizational challenges. Simply stated, the ports  9  on the extensions  8  of the multiport  1 ′ and the optical connections between ports  9  and hardened connector occupy significant space at a location a short distance away from the multiport housing  3 ′ such as within a buried vault or disposed on a pole. In other words, a cluster of optical ports  9  of multiport  1 ′ are bulky or occupy limited space. The conventional hardened connectors used with multiport  1 ′ also use a separate threaded or bayonet coupling that requires rotation about the longitudinal axis of the connector along with sufficient space for grabbing and rotating the coupling means by hand. Further, there are aesthetic concerns with the prior art multiports  1 ′ as well. 
     Additionally, the threaded or bayonet couplings between the external connectors and the multiport do not allow the external connectors to release from the multiports in the event of an over-stress pulling condition without damaging the cable, external connector or the multiport. 
     Consequently, there exists an unresolved need for devices that allow flexibility for the network operators to quickly and easily make optical connections in their optical network while also addressing concerns related to limited space, organization, aesthetics or stable retention forces for the external connector disposed within the port. 
     SUMMARY 
     The disclosure is directed to terminals comprising at least one connection port and a securing feature associated with the connection port. Terminals that may use the concepts disclosed herein include multiports, closures, wireless devices or other devices that may receive a fiber optic connector for optical connection. Methods of making the terminals are also disclosed. The terminals can have any suitable construction such as disclosed herein such as comprising a connection port that is keyed for inhibiting a non-compliant connector from being inserted and potentially causing damage to the device or not. 
     One aspect of the disclosure is directed to terminals comprising a shell, at least one connection port, at least one securing feature, and at least one securing feature resilient member. The at least one connection port is disposed on the terminal with the at least one connection port comprising an optical connector opening extending from an outer surface of the terminal to a cavity of the terminal and defining a connection port passageway. The at least one securing feature is disposed within the shell and associated with the connection port passageway, and at least one securing feature resilient member for biasing a portion of the at least one securing feature, wherein the at least one securing feature resilient member comprises a pre-load restoring force between 5 pounds force and 12 pounds force. 
     Another aspect of the disclosure is directed to terminals comprising a shell, at least one connection port, at least one modular adapter sub-assembly disposed within the shell, at least one securing feature, and at least one securing feature resilient member for biasing a portion of the at least one securing feature. The at least one connection port comprising an optical connector opening extending from an outer surface of the terminal to a cavity of the terminal and defining a connection port passageway. The at least one securing feature is associated with the connection port passageway, and the at least one securing feature comprising a bore with a locking feature. The locking feature projects form the bore with a locking feature height between 3-8 millimeters. 
     Still another aspect of the disclosure is directed to terminals comprising a shell, at least one connection port, at least one modular adapter sub-assembly disposed within the shell, and at least one securing feature. The at least one connection port comprising an optical connector opening extending from an outer surface of the terminal to a cavity of the terminal and defining a connection port passageway. The at least one securing feature capable of translating being associated with the connection port passageway, where a portion of the at least one securing feature is part of the modular adapter sub-assembly. The securing feature comprising a bore with a locking feature disposed within the bore, wherein the locking feature projects from the bore with a locking feature height between 3-8 millimeters. 
     Yet another aspect of the disclosure is directed to terminals comprising a shell, at least one connection port, modular adapter sub-assembly disposed within the shell, at least one securing feature, and at least one securing feature resilient member for biasing a portion of the at least one securing feature. The at least one connection port comprising an optical connector opening extending from an outer surface of the terminal to a cavity of the terminal and defining a connection port passageway. The at least one securing feature capable of translating being associated with the connection port passageway, and a portion of the at least one securing feature comprises a bore. The at least one securing feature resilient member comprises a pre-load restoring force between 5 pounds force and 12 pounds force. 
     A further aspect of the disclosure is directed to terminals comprising a shell, at least one connection port, at least one modular adapter sub-assembly disposed within the shell, at least one securing feature, and at least one securing feature resilient member for biasing a portion of the at least one securing feature. The at least one connection port comprising an optical connector opening extending from an outer surface of the terminal to a cavity of the terminal and defining a connection port passageway. The at least one securing feature capable of translating being associated with the connection port passageway, and a portion of the at least one securing feature comprises a bore with a locking feature disposed within the bore. The locking feature projects from the bore with a height between 3-8 millimeters and the at least one securing feature resilient member comprises a pre-load restoring force between 5 pounds force and 12 pounds force. The at least one securing feature translates from a retain position to an open position as a suitable fiber optic connector is inserted into the at least one connection port. 
     A further aspect of the disclosure is directed to terminals comprising a shell, at least one connection port, at least one modular adapter sub-assembly disposed within the shell, at least one securing feature, and at least one securing feature resilient member for biasing a portion of the at least one securing feature. The at least one connection port comprising an optical connector opening extending from an outer surface of the terminal to a cavity of the terminal and defining a connection port passageway. The at least one securing feature capable of translating being associated with the connection port passageway, and a portion of the at least one securing feature comprises a bore with a locking feature disposed within the bore. The locking feature projects from the bore with a height between 3-8 millimeters and the at least one securing feature resilient member comprises a pre-load restoring force between 6 pounds force and 10 pounds force. The at least one securing feature translates from a retain position to an open position as a suitable fiber optic connector is inserted into the at least one connection port. 
     Still another aspect of the disclosure is directed to terminals comprising a shell, at least one connection port, at least one modular adapter sub-assembly disposed within the shell, at least one securing feature, and at least one securing feature resilient member for biasing a portion of the at least one securing feature. The at least one connection port comprising an optical connector opening extending from an outer surface of the terminal to a cavity of the terminal and defining a connection port passageway. The at least one securing feature capable of translating being associated with the connection port passageway, and the securing feature comprises an actuator and a securing member, and the at least one securing member comprises a bore and a locking feature. The at least one securing feature resilient member comprises a pre-load restoring force between 5 pounds force and 12 pounds force. The at least one securing feature translates from a retain position to an open position as a suitable fiber optic connector is inserted into the at least one connection port. 
     Other aspects of the disclosure are directed to terminals comprising a shell, at least one connection port, a securing feature passageway, at least one securing feature, at least one securing feature resilient member for biasing a portion of the at least one securing feature, and at least one modular adapter sub-assembly disposed within the shell. The at least one connection port comprising an optical connector opening extending from an outer surface of the terminal to a cavity of the terminal and defining a connection port passageway. The at least one securing feature being disposed within the shell. The at least one securing feature capable of translating being associated with the connection port passageway, and the at least one securing feature comprises a securing member and an actuator, and the actuator is capable of translating within a portion of the at least one securing feature passageway. The at least one securing feature resilient member comprises a pre-load restoring force between 6 pounds force and 10 pounds force. The at least one securing feature translates from a retain position to an open position as a suitable fiber optic connector is inserted into the at least one connection port. The securing member being a part of the modular adapter sub-assembly. 
     A still further aspect of the disclosure is directed to a wireless device comprising a shell, at least one connection port, at least one securing feature, and at least one securing feature resilient member. The at least one connection port is disposed on the wireless device, the at least one connection port comprising an optical connector opening extending from an outer surface of the wireless device into a cavity of the wireless device and defining a connection port passageway. The at least one securing feature capable of translating being associated with the connection port passageway, and at least one securing feature resilient member for biasing a portion of the at least one securing feature. The at least one securing feature resilient member comprises a pre-load restoring force between 5 pounds force and 12 pounds force. In further embodiments, the at least one securing feature may comprises a securing member and an actuator or be formed as a single component as desired. The connection port of the wireless device may also comprise other features, structures or components as disclosed herein. 
     Other aspects of the disclosure are directed to methods of making the terminal or devices described herein. One method of making terminals or devices comprising an optical connection port comprises the steps of installing at least one securing feature into the device so that the at least one securing feature is associated with a respective connection port. The securing feature may translate between an open position and a retain position, and at least one securing feature resilient member is positioned for biasing a portion of the at least one securing feature to a retain position. The at least one securing feature resilient member comprises a pre-load restoring force between 5 pounds force and 12 pounds force. The methods may further comprise a locking feature on the securing feature. Any suitable locking feature may be used, and in one embodiment the locking feature comprises a ramp with a ledge. 
     Methods of making the terminals or devices may further comprise the securing feature translating from a retain position to an open position as a suitable fiber optic connector is inserted into the at least one connection port. Still other methods may further comprise the securing feature being capable of moving to a retain position RP automatically when a suitable fiber optic connector is fully inserted into a connector port passageway. Yet further methods may comprise translating the at least one securing feature the open position from a normally biased retain position. 
     Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the detailed description which follows, and in part will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from that description or recognized by practicing the same as described herein, including the detailed description that follows, the claims, as well as the appended drawings. 
     It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description present embodiments that are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the claims. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the disclosure and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate various embodiments and together with the description serve to explain the principles and operation. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES 
         FIGS. 1 and 2  are prior art multiports; 
         FIGS. 3 and 4  respectively are top and bottom perspectives view of an assembled device such as an explanatory terminal comprising at least one connection port defined by a respective optical connector opening disposed in the shell of the terminal along with a securing feature associated with the connection port passageway and disposed within the shell; 
         FIG. 5  depicts a longitudinal sectional view of the terminal of  FIGS. 3 and 4  through the connection port for showing the internal construction of the terminal with the rear (internal) connector shown and the optical fibers removed for clarity; 
         FIGS. 6 and 7  are detailed sectional views of the terminal of  FIGS. 3 and 4  through the connection port for showing the internal construction of the terminal with the rear (internal) connectors shown and the optical fibers removed for clarity; 
         FIG. 7A  depicts a partial sectional view of a fiber optic connector secured in the connection port of the terminal with the locking feature of the terminal biased to a retain position by a resilient member that provides a pre-load restoring force; 
         FIG. 7B  a partial sectional view of a fiber optic connector secured in the connection port of the terminal showing the locking feature projecting from its bore with a predetermined height; 
         FIG. 7C  schematically depicts a portion of the securing feature depicting a surface area of the locking feature that may engage with the external connector; 
         FIG. 8  is a partially exploded view of the terminal of  FIGS. 3 and 4  with the optical fibers assembly comprising an optical splitter; 
         FIGS. 9 and 10  respectively are assembled front and rear perspective views of the modular adapter sub-assembly comprising an adapter and a portion of the securing feature for cooperation with one connection port of the device of  FIGS. 3 and 4  with the rear connector attached; 
         FIG. 11  is an exploded view of the modular adapter sub-assembly of  FIGS. 9 and 10  along with the rear connector; 
         FIG. 12  is a longitudinal sectional view of the modular adapter sub-assembly of  FIGS. 9 and 10  with the rear connector attached; 
         FIGS. 13 and 14  are top perspective views from different directions of a second portion of the shell of the terminal of  FIGS. 3 and 4 ; 
         FIG. 15  is a front perspective view of the second portion of the shell depicted in  FIGS. 13 and 14 ; 
         FIG. 16  is a detailed perspective view of the second portion of shell showing the mounting features for modular adapter sub-assembly of  FIGS. 9 and 10 ; 
         FIG. 17  is a top perspective view of the modular adapter sub-assemblies loaded into the second portion of the shell with the optical fibers removed for clarity; 
         FIG. 18  is an inside perspective view of the first portion of the shell; 
         FIGS. 19 and 20  depict perspective views showing the details of the actuator of the securing feature of the terminal of  FIGS. 3 and 4  that cooperates with the securing member of  FIGS. 21-23 ; 
         FIGS. 21-23  are various perspective views showing the details of the securing member of the securing feature of the terminal of  FIGS. 3 and 4  that cooperates with the actuator of  FIGS. 19 and 20 ; 
         FIG. 24-27  are various perspective views showing the details of the adapter body of the modular adapter sub-assembly of  FIGS. 9-12 ; 
         FIGS. 28 and 29  are perspective views of the adapter of the modular adapter sub-assembly of  FIGS. 9-12 . 
         FIG. 30  is perspective view of the retainer of the modular adapter sub-assembly of  FIGS. 9-12 ; 
         FIGS. 31 and 32  are perspective views of a keeper of the modular adapter sub-assembly of  FIGS. 9-12 ; 
         FIG. 33  is a partially exploded view of another explanatory terminal with the optical fibers removed for clarity that is similar to the terminal of  FIGS. 3 and 4 ; 
         FIG. 34  is an exploded view of the modular adapter sub-assembly of the terminal of  FIG. 33 ; 
         FIG. 35  is a perspective view of the modular adapter sub-assembly of  FIG. 34 ; 
         FIG. 36  is a longitudinal sectional view of the modular adapter sub-assembly of  FIG. 35 ; 
         FIG. 37  is a detailed top perspective view of the modular adapter sub-assemblies of  FIG. 35  being loaded into the second portion of the shell with the optical fibers removed for clarity; 
         FIG. 38  is a detailed perspective view showing how the features of the modular sub-assemblies of  FIG. 35  engage the first portion of the shell when assembled; 
         FIG. 39  is a detailed sectional view of the terminal of  FIG. 33  through the connection port for showing the internal construction of the terminal with a fiber optic connector retained using the securing feature; 
         FIGS. 40A and 40B  depict perspective views of an input tether and the input tether as part of the terminals disclosed; 
         FIGS. 41-43  depict various views of a mounting feature insert that may be attached to the bottom of the second portion of the shell for use with the devices disclosed; 
         FIGS. 44-46  depict various views of a mounting tab that may be attached to the front end of the second portion of the shell for use with the devices disclosed; and 
         FIGS. 47 and 48  depict views of a dust cap for the connection ports of the devices disclosed; 
         FIG. 49  is a perspective view of a wireless device comprising at least one connector port and a securing member according to the concepts disclosed herein; and 
         FIG. 50  is a perspective view of a closure comprising at least one connector port and a securing member according to the concepts disclosed herein. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to the embodiments of the disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Whenever possible, like reference numbers will be used to refer to like components or parts. 
     The concepts for the terminals or devices disclosed herein are suitable for providing at least one optical connection to the device for indoor, outdoor or other environments as desired. As used herein, the term “terminal” means any device comprising at least one connection port for receiving an external fiber optic connector. Generally speaking, the terminals disclosed and explained in the exemplary embodiments are multiports, but the concepts disclosed may be used with any suitable device as appropriate. As used herein, the term “multiport” means any device comprising one or more connection ports for making an optical connection and a securing feature associated with the at least one connection port. As known in the art, a connection port receives a connector. By way of example, the terminal may be any suitable device having at least one optical connection such as a passive device like an optical closure (hereinafter “closure”) or an active device such as a wireless device having electronics for transmitting or receiving a signal. Although the concepts are disclosed with respect to terminals the concepts disclosed may be used with devices having a securing feature or a securing member such as an insert for a terminal having a securing feature or securing member. 
     The concepts disclosed advantageously allow compact form-factors for devices such as terminals comprising at least one connection port and a securing feature associated with the connection port. The concepts are scalable to any suitable count of connection ports on a device in a variety of arrangements or constructions. The securing features disclosed herein for devices engage directly with a portion of connector without conventional structures like prior art devices that require the turning of a coupling nut, bayonet or the like. As used herein, “securing feature” excludes threads and features that cooperate with bayonets on a connector. The securing feature is also disposed within the shell as depicted. Thus, the terminals disclosed may allow connection ports to be closely spaced together and may result in small devices since the room needed for turning a threaded coupling nut or bayonet is not necessary. The compact form-factors may allow the placement of the devices in tight spaces in indoor, outdoor, buried, aerial, industrial or other applications while providing at least one connection port that is advantageous for a robust and reliable optical connection in a removable and replaceable manner. The disclosed terminals may also be aesthetically pleasing and provide organization for the optical connections in manner that the prior art devices cannot provide. 
     Moreover, the concepts disclosed for terminals herein provide securing features with stable retention or pull-out forces for external connectors attached to the connection port(s) of the terminal. More specifically, the terminals disclosed allow the external connectors to be released (e.g., pulled-out) from the respective connection port, thereby inhibiting damage to the securing device or the external connector. By way of explanation, the external connector disposed in the connection port of the terminal may be released upon a predetermined pulling force being applied to the cable assembly having the external connector. For instance, if an unexpected pulling event of fifty pounds or more is applied to the cable assembly having the external connector, then the external connector is released from the connection port of the terminal for inhibiting damage to the terminal or the cable assembly having the external connector. Moreover, the securing feature of the terminal may be designed so that in the event of a second unexpected pulling event occurs, then the force required for releasing the external connector is within 20 percent of the designed release force for the external connector. Of course, the concepts disclosed may be used to design to any desired connector release force as appropriate such as having a release force of 75 pounds or more or even 100 pounds or more. 
     Several different factors may contribute to providing a designed release force for an external fiber optic connector received in the connection port of the terminals disclosed. By way of explanation, a first factor is pre-load restoring force applied by a resilient member biasing the securing feature of the connection port of the terminal to retain position. A second factor for the designed release force is a height of a locking feature disposed within a bore of the securing feature for the connection port that interacts with a locking feature on a housing of a suitable connector. A third factor for the designed release force is the angle of a ledge of the locking feature disposed on the securing feature for the connection port. Other factors may also contribute to the designed release force for the connection port such as materials or the like. These factors for the designed release force for the connection port of the terminal may be used independently or in combination as desired. 
     Besides being several contributing factors there are other factors that may influence the range of pull-out results for the external fiber optic connector so that results for similarly constructed parts could yield very different results when tested. For instance, a user could get oils from their skin on a locking feature of the connector, which could radically change the coefficient of friction between materials and thereby change pull-out results. Likewise, moisture could be present on a connector that could change pull-out results. Thus, when testing the pull-out forces for external connectors disposed in connection port of terminals the parts should be clean and dry and the pull-out force should be applied inline with the connection port and measured using a suitable scale with a smoothly applied force, and outlier results of pull-out performance should be disregarded. Moreover, the pull-out forces should only be measured two or three times for each connection port to avoid wear issues that may influence test results (e.g., an initial pull-out force and then a second and third pull-out force for gauging repeatability within the desired range). However, generally speaking, the concepts disclosed may produce relatively consistent results for pull-out forces for the external fiber optic connector using predetermined features as disclosed. 
     The terminals disclosed are simple and elegant in their designs. The terminals disclosed comprise at least one connection port and a securing feature associated with the connection port that is suitable for retaining an external fiber optic connector received by the connection port. The connection port may include a keying portion that cooperates with a key on a complimentary external fiber optic connector to inhibit damage to the connection port by inhibiting the insertion of a non-compliant connector. The keying portion may also aid the user during blind insertion of the external connector into the connection port of the device to determine the correct rotational orientation with respect to the connection port when a line of sight is not possible or practical for alignment. 
     Unlike prior art multiports, the concepts disclosed advantageously allow the quick and easy connection and retention by inserting the fiber optic connectors directly into the connection port of the device without the need or space considerations for turning a threaded coupling nut or bayonet for retaining the external fiber optic connector. Generally speaking, the securing features disclosed for use with terminals herein may comprise one or more components with at least one component translating for releasing or securing the external fiber optic connector to the terminal. As used herein, the term “securing feature” excludes threaded portions or features for securing a bayonet disposed on a connector. 
     Since the connector footprint used with the devices disclosed does not require the bulkiness of a coupling nut or bayonet, the fiber optic connectors used with the devices disclosed herein may be significantly smaller than conventional connectors used with prior art multiports. Moreover, the present concepts for connection ports on terminals allows an increased density of connection ports per volume of the shell or increased port width density since there is no need for accessing and turning the coupling nut or bayonets by hand for securing a fiber optic connector like the prior art multiports. 
     The terminals disclosed comprise a securing feature for directly engaging with a suitable portion of a connector housing of the external fiber optic connector or the like for securing an optical connection with the connection port of the terminal. Different variations of the concepts are discussed in further detail below. The structure for securing the fiber optic connectors in the terminals disclosed allows much smaller footprints for both the terminals and the fiber optic connectors along with a quick-connect feature. Terminals may also have a dense spacing of connection ports if desired. The terminals disclosed advantageously allow a relatively dense and organized array of connection ports in a relatively small form-factor while still being rugged for demanding environments. As optical networks increase densifications and space is at a premium, the robust and small-form factors for terminals such as multiports, closures and wireless devices disclosed herein becomes increasingly desirable for network operators. 
     The concepts disclosed herein are suitable for optical distribution networks such as for Fiber-to-the-Home and 5G applications but are equally applicable to other optical applications as well including indoor, automotive, industrial, wireless, or other suitable applications. Additionally, the concepts disclosed may be used with any suitable fiber optic connector footprint that cooperates with the securing feature of the terminal. Various designs, constructions, or features for terminals are disclosed in more detail as discussed herein and may be modified or varied as desired. 
     The terminals disclosed may locate the at least one connection port  236  in different portions or components of the device as desired using the disclosed concepts. The concepts are shown and described with a device  200  having 4-connection ports that are optically connected to an input port arranged in an array on one end of the device, but other configuration are possible such as connection ports or input ports on both ends, an express port, a pass-through port or the like.  FIGS. 3-32  show the construction and features for a first explanatory terminal, and  FIGS. 33-47  show the construction of a second explanatory terminal  200  similar to the first terminal  200 . Although, these concepts are disclosed and described with respect to terminals configured as multiports the concepts may be used with any other suitable devices such as wireless devices ( FIG. 49 ), closures ( FIG. 50 ) or other suitable devices. 
       FIGS. 3 and 4  respectively depict top and bottom perspective views of the first explanatory terminal  200  comprising at least one connection port  236 . Generally speaking, devices such as terminal  200  comprise a shell  210  comprising a body  232  and one or more connection ports  236  disposed on a first end or portion  212  of terminal  200 . The connection ports  236  or input port  260  are configured for receiving and retaining suitable external fiber optic connectors  10  ( FIG. 39 ) for making optical connections with the terminal  200 . 
     Connection ports  236  each comprises a respective optical connector opening  238  extending from an outer surface  234  of the terminal  200  into a cavity  216  of the terminal  200  and defining a portion of a connection port passageway  233 . By way of explanation, at least one connection port  236  is molded as a portion of shell  210 . At least one securing feature  310  is associated with the connection port passageway  233  for cooperating with the external fiber optic connector  10 . The securing feature  310  may translate for releasing or securing the external fiber optic connector  10 . Terminal  200  of  FIGS. 3 and 4  also comprises an input port  260  that is similar to the connection ports  236 . As shown, the connection ports  236  or input port  260  may comprise a marking indicia such as an embossed number or text, but other marking indicia are also possible. For instance, the marking indicia may be on the securing feature  310  such as text or the securing features may be color-coded to indicate fiber count, input or output for the associated connection port or input port. 
     The concepts disclosed use a securing feature resilient member  310 RM for biasing a portion of the securing feature  310  as discussed herein. Terminals  200  disclosed use one or more modular adapter sub-assemblies  310 SA ( FIGS. 9-12 ) disposed within a shell for a scalable form-factor for manufacturing similar devices with different port counts. The selection of pre-load restoring force PRF for the securing feature resilient member  310 RM may provide a stable retention force for external connectors attached to the connection port(s) of the terminal. A predetermined range for the pre-load restoring force for the securing feature resilient member  310 RM in the retain position allows the external connectors to be released from the respective connection port when a predetermined pulling force is applied to the cable assembly having the external connector, thereby inhibiting damage to the securing device or the external connector. As used herein, “a predetermined pulling force” means the pulling force PF applied ±20 percent. Even though a securing feature of the terminal is designed for a predetermined pulling force release the result may vary due to tolerances or other factors in design or the environment such as angle of pull, application of force, etc. By way of example, the pre-load restoring force range for the securing feature resilient member  310 RM in the retain position is between 5 pounds and 12 pounds. Other pre-load restoring force ranges are possible for the securing feature resilient member  310 RM in the retain position such as between 6 pounds and 10 pounds. 
     The shell comprises one or more connection ports and device comprises one or more respective securing features  310  cooperating with the connection ports for providing quick and easy optical connectivity with a robust and reliable design that is intuitive to use. 
     Optical connections to the devices are made by inserting one or more suitable external fiber optic connectors into respective connection port passageways  233  as desired. Specifically, the connection port passageway  233  is configured for receiving a suitable external fiber optic connector (hereinafter connector) of a fiber optic cable assembly (hereinafter cable assembly). Connection port passageway  233  is associated with a securing feature  310  for retaining (e.g., securing) the connector in the terminal  200  for making an optical connection. The securing feature  310  advantageously allows the user to make a quick and easy optical connection at the connection port  236  of terminal  200 . The securing feature  310  may also operate for providing a connector release feature when actuated. 
     Specifically, the connector may be retained within the respective connection port  236  of the device by pushing and fully seating the connector within the connection port  236 . To release the connector from the respective connection port  236 , the securing feature  310  is actuated by pushing inward and releasing the securing feature  310  from the locking feature  20 L on the external connector housing  20  ( FIG. 39 ) and allowing the connector to be removed from the connection port  236 . Stated another way, the at least one securing feature  310  is capable of releasing the connector when a portion of the securing feature  310  translates within a portion of a securing feature passageway  245 . The full insertion and automatic retention of the connector may advantageously allow one-handed installation of the connector by merely pushing the connector into the connection port  236 . The devices disclosed accomplish this connector retention feature upon full insertion by biasing the securing feature to a retain position. However, other modes of operation for retaining and releasing the connector are possible according to the concepts disclosed. For instance, the securing feature  310  may be designed to require actuation for inserting the connector; however, this may require a two-handed operation. 
     Securing feature  310  may be designed for holding a minimum pull-out force for the connector (e.g., retention force). In some embodiments, the pull-out force may be selected to release the connector before damage is done to the device or the connector. By way of example, the securing feature  310  associated with the connection port  236  may require a pull-out force of about 50 pounds (about 220 N) before the connector would release. Likewise, the securing feature  310  may provide a side pull-out force for connector for inhibiting damage as well. By way of example, the securing feature  310  associated with the connection port  236  may provide a side pull-out force of about 25 pounds (about 110 N) before the connector would release. Of course, other pull-out forces such as 75 pounds (about 330 N) or 100 (about 440 N) pounds are possible along with other side pull-out forces. Further, the pull-out force may be designed to be relatively stable so that the second force required for releasing the external connector is within 20 percent of the designed pull-out force for the external connector. By way of example, the first pull-out force may require about 50 pounds or more to release the connector from the connection port of the terminal and the second pull-out force may require 40 pounds or more to release the connector from the connection port of the terminal. However, other pull-out forces for the external fiber optic connector from the connector port may be possible. 
       FIGS. 3 and 4  depict that shell  210  is formed by a first portion  210 A and a second portion  210 B, but other constructions are possible for shell  210  using the concept disclosed. Terminal  200  or devices may comprise mounting features that are integrally formed in the shell  210  or that are separate components attached to shell  210  for mounting the device as depicted in  FIGS. 3 and 4 . By way of example, shell  210  depicts mounting features  210 MF disposed near first and second ends  212 ,  214  of shell  210 . Mounting feature  210 MF adjacent the first end  212  of terminal  200  is a mounting tab  298  attached to shell  210 , and the mounting feature  210 MF adjacent the second end  214  is a through hole with a support  210 S. Details of mounting tab will be discussed in further detail with respect to  FIG. 15  and, and details of support  210 S will be discussed in further detail with respect to  FIG. 8 . However, mounting features  210 MF may be disposed at any suitable location on the shell  210  or connection port insert  230 . For instance, terminal  200  also depicts a plurality of mounting features  210 MF integrally formed on shell  210  and configured as passageways disposed on the lateral sides. Thus, the user may simply use a fastener such as a zip-tie threaded thru these lateral passageways for mounting the terminal  200  to a wall or pole as desired. Shell  210  may also include one or more notches  210 N on the bottom side for aiding in securing the device to a round pole or the like as shown in  FIG. 4 . 
       FIGS. 5-7  depict various cross-sections through a connection port passageway  233  showing the internal construction of terminal  200 , and  FIG. 8  is a partially exploded view of terminal  200  showing the optical fibers  250  that optically connect the connection ports  236  with the input port  260  inside the device. As depicted in  FIG. 8 , terminal  200  comprises a shell  210  comprising at least one connection port  236 , and a modular adapter sub-assembly  310 SA as discussed in further detail herein 
       FIGS. 5-7  depicts the terminal  200  comprising at least one connection port  236  extending from an outer surface  234  of the terminal  200  into a cavity  216  of the terminal  200  and defining a connection port passageway  233 . Terminal  200  also comprises at least one securing feature  310  associated with the connection port passageway  233 . Terminal  200  also comprises at least one securing feature passageway  245  for receiving a portion of the securing feature  310 . As depicted, the securing feature passageways  245  extend from the outer surface  234  of terminal  200  to cooperate with the respective connection port passageways  233  of the terminal  200 . Terminal  200  also comprises a plurality of adapters  230 A for receiving respective rear connectors  252  in alignment with the respective connection port  236  for making the optical connection with the external fiber optic connector. 
     The securing features  310  disclosed herein may take many different constructions or configurations as desired such as being formed as a single component or a plurality of components. Securing features  310  may be biased by a resilient member  230 RM as discussed. Furthermore, the securing features  310  or portions of securing features  310  may be constructed as a portion of a modular adapter sub-assemblies  310 SA such as shown in  FIGS. 9-12  for easy assembly of the terminal  200 . Moreover, the modular sub-assemblies  230 SA advantageously allow the mating components for each connection port  236  to move or “float” independently of other mating components relative to the shell  210  for the other connection ports for preserving optical performance. “Float” means that the adapter  230 A can have slight movement in the X-Y plane for alignment, and may be inhibited from over-traveling in the Z-direction along the axis of connector insertion so that suitable alignment may be made between mating connectors, which may include a biasing spring for allowing some displacement of the adapter  230 A with a suitable restoring force provided by the spring. 
     Generally speaking, the devices disclosed comprise at least one connection port  236  defined by an optical connector opening  238  extending into a cavity  216  of the device  200 ,  500 ,  700  along with a securing feature  310  associated with the connection port  236 . 
     As best shown in  FIGS. 6 and 7 , securing feature  310  is biased to a retain position. Specifically, the securing feature  310  is biased in an upward direction using a securing feature resilient member  310 RM. More specifically, securing feature resilient member  310 RM is disposed beneath securing feature  310  for biasing to a normally retain position for the securing feature  310  where the locking feature  310 L is disposed in the connection port passageway  233 . 
     As best depicted in  FIGS. 6 and 7 , a portion of actuator  310 A is disposed within a portion of the securing feature passageway  245  and cooperates with the securing member  310 M of the respective securing feature. Consequently, a portion of securing feature  310  (i.e., the actuator  310 A) is capable of translating within a portion of the securing feature passageway  245 . Actuator  310 A comprises a finger  310 F for seating within a rim  310 R of securing member  310 M for transferring forces to the same. As depicted, a sealing feature  310 S is disposed on the securing feature  310 . Sealing feature  310 S provides a seal between a portion of the securing feature  310  and the securing feature passageway  245  to inhibit dirt, dust and debris from entering the device. As shown, the sealing feature  310 S is disposed within a groove of actuator  310 A. 
     In this embodiment, the securing feature  310  comprises a bore  310 B that is aligned with the least one connection port passageway  233  when assembled as best shown in  FIG. 7 . Bore  310 B is sized for receiving a suitable connector therethrough for securing the same for optical connectivity. Bores or openings through the securing feature  310  may have any suitable shape or geometry for cooperating with its respective connector. As used herein, the bore may have any suitable shape desired including features on the surface of the bore for engaging with a connector. Bore  310 B is disposed on the securing member  310 M in this embodiment. The design of the securing feature  310  and in particular the geometry of the locking feature  310 L may influence the pull-out force needed to release the external connector from the connection port  236  of terminal  200 . 
     In some embodiments, a portion of the securing feature  310  is capable of moving to an open position when inserting a suitable connector  10  into the connection port passageway  233 . When the connector  10  is fully inserted into the connector port passageway  233 , the securing feature  310  such as the securing member  310 M is capable of moving to the retain position automatically. Consequently, the connector  10  is secured within the connection port  236  by securing feature  310  without turning a coupling nut or a bayonet like the prior art terminals. Stated another way, the securing feature  310  translates from the retain position to an open position as a suitable connector  10  is inserted into the connection port  236 . The securing feature passageway  245  is arranged transversely to a longitudinal axis LA of the terminal  200 , but other arrangements are possible. Other securing features may operate in a similar manner but use an opening instead of a bore that receives the connector therethrough. 
       FIGS. 6 and 7  depict securing feature  310  comprising a locking feature  310 L. Locking feature  310 L cooperates with a portion of the connector  10  when it is fully inserted into the connection port  236  for securing the same. As best shown in  FIG. 39 , the connector housing  20  of connector  10  may have a cooperating geometry that engages the locking feature  310 L of securing feature  310 . In this embodiment, locking feature  310 L comprises a ramp  310 RP. The ramp is integrally formed at a portion of the bore  310 B with the ramp angling up when looking into the connection port  236 . The ramp allows the connector to push and translate the securing feature  310  downward against the securing feature resilient member  310 RM as the connector is inserted in the connection port  236  as shown. Ramp may have any suitable geometry. Once the locking feature  310 L of the securing feature  310  is aligned with the cooperating geometry of the locking feature  20 L of connector, then a portion of the securing feature  310  translates so that the locking feature  310 L engages the locking feature of connector. 
     As discussed, there are several factors that may influence the pull-out force needed to release (e.g., pull-out) an external connector from the connection port  236  of terminal  200 .  FIGS. 7A-7C  depict further details of the securing feature  310  of terminals  200  that may factor into tailoring the desired range of pull-out forces for the connection ports  236 .  FIGS. 7A and 7B  depict a partial sectional view of an external fiber optic connector  20  secured in the connection port  236  of the terminal  200  using securing feature  310  and  FIG. 7C  schematically depicts a portion of the securing feature  310  looking into a bore  310 B (from inside the cavity of the terminal) and depicting a surface area (SA) of the locking feature  310 L that may engage with the external connector. 
     As depicted in  FIGS. 7A and 7B , fiber optic connector  20  may comprise a locking feature  20 L that cooperates with the securing feature locking feature  310 LF for holding the connector  20  in connection port  236 . This cooperation of these geometries along with the securing feature resilient member  310 RM are factors that influence the pulling force required for releasing the connector  20  from the connection port  236  for inhibiting damage to the connection port. The connector  20  may also comprise a keying portion  20 KP such as a female key that cooperates with a connection port keying feature  233 KP for orientating the connector  20  in the port. The connection port keying feature  233 KP may be disposed about 180 degrees (e.g. the opposite side of the port) from the locking feature  310 LF on the securing feature  310  or securing member  310 M. 
       FIG. 7A  depicts a pre-load restoring force (PRF) applied to the securing feature  310  by the securing feature resilient member  310 RM as represented by the arrow. By way of example, the securing feature resilient member  310 RM may be a coil spring that applies the pre-load restoring force to the securing feature  310  such as applying the force to the securing member  310 M. The pre-load restoring force (PRF) is the force applied by the resilient member  310 RM to bias the securing feature  310  to the retain position (RP) without the connector in the connection port. The pre-load restoring force (PRF) may be calculated by multiplying the spring rate K (e.g., the spring constant) for the resilient member by the compression of the resilient member. 
     By way of example, the securing feature resilient member  310 RM may comprise a pre-load restoring force that is greater than 5 pounds force. The securing feature resilient member  310 RM may comprise a pre-load restoring force that is greater than 6 pounds force. Other pre-load restoring forces for the securing feature resilient member  310 RM may be in the range between 5 pounds force and 12 pounds force, or in the range between 6 pounds and 10 pounds force. Other pre-load restoring forces may also be possible. 
     The securing feature resilient member  310 RM may have any suitable spring rate (e.g. the spring constant). By way of example, the spring rate may be in the range of 60 lbf/inch to 100 lbf/inch, in the range of 70 lbf/inch to 90 lbf/inch, or in the range of 75 lbf/inch to 85 lbf/inch. In one example, the securing feature resilient member  310 RM has a spring rate of about 79 lbf/inch. Thus, if the securing feature resilient member  310 RM has a compression in the range of about 0.063 inches to about 0.152 inches, then the pre-load restoring force is in the range of about 5 pounds force to about 12 pounds force. 
       FIG. 7B  depicts the locking feature  310  and labels a locking feature height (LFH) and the angle θ for the retention surface  310 RS. The locking feature height (LFH) of the locking feature  310 L may influence the pull-out force needed to release the external connector from the connection port  236  of terminal  200 . The locking feature height (LFH) is the height that the locking feature  310 L projects from the round bore  310 B (that receives the external connector) of the securing feature or securing member  310 . For instance, the locking feature  310 L projects from the bore ( 310 B) with the locking feature height (LFH) greater than 3 millimeters. In one example, the locking feature  310 L projects from the bore ( 310 B) with the locking feature height (LFH) between 3-8 millimeters, or the locking feature height (LFH) between 4-7 millimeters. Other locking feature heights (LFH) may also be possible. 
     As shown, locking feature  310 L comprises a retention surface  310 RS. In this embodiment, the backside of the ramp of locking feature  310 L forms a ledge that cooperates with complimentary geometry on the connector housing of connector. However, retention surface  310 RS may have different surfaces or edges that cooperate for securing connector for creating the desired mechanical retention. For instance, the retention surface  310 RS may be canted or have a vertical wall for influencing the pull-out force. More specifically, retention surface  310 RS comprises an angle θ for of the ledge as labeled in  FIG. 7B  for influencing the pull-out force of the external connector from the connection port  236 . 
     By way of explanation, if the retention surface  310 RS has a vertical wall the angle θ is zero, and if the retention surface  310 RS if canted forward toward the optical connector opening of the connection port (as shown) then the angle θ is positive. By way of explanation, the angle θ for the retention surface  310 RS may be between 0 and 30 degrees depending on the pull-out force desired. Other ranges for the angle θ are possible such as between 10 and 25 degrees. A specific angle θ for the retention surface  310 RS may be used as well such as 0 degrees or 20 degrees as desired. However, other geometries such as negative angles are possible for the retention surface  310 RS for influencing the pull-out forces. Moreover, the features disclosed herein may influence the pull-out force for the external connector in combination so that it is possible to have a range of pull-out forces that may be reached in a variety of combinations of predetermined features such as preload restoring force and the height of the locking feature. Additionally, the connection port  236  has a sealing location at a connection port passageway sealing surface with the connector that is located closer to the optical connector opening  238  at the outer surface  234  than the securing feature  310  or locking feature  310 L. In other words, connection port  236  has connection port passageway sealing surface for the O-ring of connector  20  disposed at a distance from the optical connector opening  238  and the locking feature  310 L and securing feature  310  are disposed at a distance further into the connection port passageway  233  than distance where the connector sealing occurs. The O-ring of connector  20  may also provide a friction force that needs to be overcome for the pull-out force of connector  20 . 
       FIG. 7C  is a schematic representation of the securing feature  310  showing the bore  310 B for receiving the external connector along with the locking feature  310 L that projects from the bore. The locking feature  310 L may provide a locking feature surface area (SA) as represented by the area bounded in  FIG. 7C  that may engage with the connector locking feature  20 LF for influencing the pull-out force of the connector. The locking feature surface area (SA) is a function of the locking feature heights (LFH). The friction force between the connector  20  and the securing member locking feature  310 L is a function of the surface area (SA). The locking feature surface area (SA) may be greater than 3 square millimeters, greater than 5 square millimeters, or greater than 7 square millimeters. In other embodiments, the locking feature surface area (SA) may in the range between about 3-7 square millimeters, or in the range between about 4-6 square millimeters. 
     The material properties of the securing feature  310  or securing member  310 M may also influence the pull-out forces for fiber optic connector. A portion of the securing feature  310  or securing member  310 M may be formed from any suitable material such as a polymer, a metal or like as desired. In one embodiment, a portion of the securing feature  310  or securing member  310 M is formed from a polymer comprising a break strain range of 2-10 percent elongation before breaking as measured by ASTM D638, but other ranges are possible for the break strain range. In other embodiments, a portion of the securing feature  310  or securing member  310 M is formed from a polymer comprising a break stress range of 70-250 MPa as measured by ASTM D638, but other suitable ranges are possible for the break stress range. As an example, a portion of the securing feature  310  or securing member  310 M may be formed of Veradel® AG-320 available from Specialty Polymers of Alpharetta, Ga., but other suitable materials are possible such as Ultem® materials. 
     Generally speaking, the connection port passageways  233  may be configured for the specific connector intended to be received in the connection port  236 . Likewise, the connection port passageways  233  should be configured for receiving the specific rear connector  252  for mating and making an optical connection with the connector  10 . 
     The device  200  also comprises at least one adapter  230 A aligned with the respective connection port  236  or connection port passageway  233 . Adapter  230 A and other components are a portion of the modular sub-assembly  310 SA as depicted in  FIGS. 9-12 . Adapter  230 A is suitable for securing a rear connector  252  thereto for aligning the rear connector  252  with the connection port  236 . One or more optical fibers  250  ( FIG. 8 ) may be routed from the connection port  236  toward an input connection port  260  of the terminal  200 . For instance, the rear connector  252  may terminate the optical fiber  250  for optical connection at connection port  236  and route the optical fiber  250  for optical communication with the input connection port  260 . 
     A plurality of rear connectors  252  are aligned with the respective connector port passageways  233  within the cavity  216  of the terminal  200 . The rear connectors  252  are associated with one or more of the plurality of optical fibers  250 . Each of the respective rear connectors  252  aligns and attaches to a structure such as the adapter  230 A or other structure related to the connection port passageway  233  in a suitable matter. The plurality of rear connectors  252  may comprise a suitable rear connector ferrule  252 F as desired and rear connectors  252  may take any suitable form from a simple ferrule that attaches to a standard connector type inserted into an adapter. By way of example, rear connectors  252  may comprise a resilient member for biasing the rear connector ferrule  252 F or not. Additionally, rear connectors  252  may further comprise a keying feature. 
     The rear connectors  252  shown in  FIGS. 5-7  have a SC footprint, but other connectors are possible. If SC connectors are used as the rear connector  252 , they have a keying feature  252 K that cooperates with the keying feature of adapter  230 A. Additionally, adapters  230 A comprise a retention feature (not numbered) for seating the adapters  230 A in the device adjacent to the connection port passageway  233 . 
     As best shown in  FIGS. 7 and 15 , the connection port passageway  233  may comprises a keying portion  233 KP disposed forward of the securing feature  310  in connection port passageway. As shown, the keying portion  233 KP is an additive keying portion to the primitive geometric round shape of the connection port passageway  233  such as a male key that is disposed forward of the securing feature in the connection port passageway  233 . However, the concepts for the connection ports  236  of devices may be modified for different connector designs. 
     Adapters  230 A are secured to an adapter body  255  using retainer  240 . Adapters  230 A may be biased using a resilient member  230 RM as shown. Rear connectors  252  may take any suitable form and be aligned for mating with the connector secured with the connection ports  236  in any suitable manner. Adapters  230 A may comprise latch arms for securing respective rear connectors therein. 
     Terminal  200  may have the input connection port  260  disposed in any suitable location. As used herein, “input connection port” is the location where external optical fibers are received or enter the device, and the input connection port does not require the ability to make an optical connection as discussed below. By way of explanation, terminal  200  may have the input connection port  260  disposed in an outboard position of the array of connection ports  236 , on another side of the terminal, or disposed in a medial portion of array of connection ports  236  as desired. 
       FIG. 8  shows a partially exploded view of terminal  200  of  FIGS. 3 and 4 . Terminal  200  comprises a shell  200 , at least one connection port  236 , and a plurality of modular adapter sub-assemblies  310 SA. Terminal  200  has one or more optical fibers  250  routed from the one or more connection ports  236  toward an input connection port  260  in a suitable fashion inside cavity  216  as depicted. In this embodiment, the rear connectors  252  are attached to optical fibers  250  that are routing through an optical splitter  275  (hereinafter “splitter(s)”) for optical communication with the optical fiber  250  in optical communication with the input port  260 . As shown, the modular adapter sub-assembly  310 SA for the input connection port  260  is disposed in second portion  210 B of shell  210 . 
     Optical fibers  250  are routed from one or more of the plurality of connection ports  236  toward an input connection port  260  for optical communication within the terminal  200 . Consequently, the input connection port  260  receives one or more optical fibers and then routes the optical signals as desired such as passing the signal through 1:1 distribution, routing through an optical splitter or passing optical fibers through the terminal. Splitters  275  such as shown in  FIG. 8  allow a single optical signal to be split into multiple signals such as 1×N split, but other splitter arrangements are possible such as a 2×N split. For instance, a single optical fiber may feed input connection port  260  and use a 1×8 splitter within the terminal  200  to allow eight connector ports  236  for outputs on the terminal  200 . The input connection port  260  may be configured in a suitable manner with any of the terminals  200  disclosed herein as appropriate such as a single-fiber or multi-fiber port. Likewise, the connection ports  236  may be configured as a single-fiber port or multi-fiber port. For the sake of simplicity and clarity in the drawings, all of the optical fiber pathways may not be illustrated or portions of the optical fiber pathways may be removed in places so that other details of the design are visible. 
     Additionally, the terminals or shells  210  may comprise at least one support  210 S or fiber guide for providing crush support for the terminal and resulting in a robust structure. As depicted in  FIG. 8 , terminal  200  may comprise a support  210 S configured as a support insert that fits into shell  210 . Support  210 S has a bore therethrough and may act as a mounting feature for the use to a fastener to mount the terminal  200 . Consequently, the support  210 S carries the majority of any crushing forces that may be applied by the fastener and inhibits damage to the shell  210 . Support  210 S may also be located and attached to the shell at a location outside of the sealing interface between the first portion  210 A and the second portion  210 B of shell  210 . 
       FIG. 7  also depicts a detailed sectional view of the interlocking features between the first portion  210 A and the second portion  210 B of the shell  210 . Specifically, portions of the terminal may have a tongue  210 T and groove  210 G construction for alignment or sealing of the device. 
     Any of the terminals  200  disclosed herein may optionally be weatherproof by appropriately sealing seams of the shell  210  using any suitable means such as gaskets, O-rings, adhesive, sealant, welding, overmolding or the like. To this end, terminal  200  or devices may also comprise a sealing element  290  disposed between the first portion  210 A and the second portion  210 B of the shell  210 . The sealing element  290  may cooperate with shell  210  geometry such as respective grooves  210 G or tongues  210 T in the shell  210 . Grooves or tongue may extend about the perimeter of the shell  210 . By way of explanation, grooves  210 G may receive one or more appropriately sized O-rings or gaskets  290 A for weatherproofing terminal  200 , but an adhesive or other material may be used in the groove  210 G. By way of example, the O-rings are suitably sized for creating a seal between the portions of the shell  210 . By way of example, suitable O-rings may be a compression O-ring for maintaining a weatherproof seal. Other embodiments may use an adhesive or suitable welding of the materials for sealing the device. If welding such as ultra-sonic or induction welding of the shell is used a special sealing element  290  may be used as known in the art. If the terminal  200  is intended for indoor applications, then the weatherproofing may not be required. 
     As shown in  FIG. 8 , terminal  200  comprises a single input optical fiber of the input connection port  260  is routed to a 1:4 splitter  275  and then each one of the individual optical fibers  250  from the splitter is routed to each of the respective rear connector  252  of the four connection ports  236  for optical connection and communication within the terminal. Input connection port  260  may be configured in any suitable configuration for the terminals disclosed as desired for the given application. Examples of input connection ports  260  include being configured as a single-fiber input connection, a multi-fiber input connector, a tether input that may be a stubbed cable or terminated with a connector or even one of the connection ports  236  may function as an pass-through connection port as desired. 
     By way of explanation for multi-fiber ports, two or more optical fibers  250  may be routed from one or more of the plurality of connection ports  236  of the terminal  200  disclosed herein. For instance, two optical fibers may be routed from each of the four connection ports  236  of terminal  200  toward the input connection port  260  with or without a splitter such as single-fiber input connection port  260  using a 1:8 splitter or by using an eight-fiber connection at the input connection port  260  for a 1:1 fiber distribution. To make identification of the connection ports or input connection port(s) easier for the user, a marking indicia may be used such as text or color-coding of the terminal, color codes on the actuator  310 A, or marking the input tether (e.g. an orange or green polymer) or the like. 
     Other configurations are possible besides an input connection port  260  that receives a connector  10 . Instead of using an input connection port that receives a connector  10 , terminals  200  may be configured for receiving an input tether  270  attached to the terminal at the input connection port  260  such as represented in  FIGS. 40A and 40B . 
       FIGS. 9-12  show modular adapter sub-assembly  310 SA used in the terminal of  FIGS. 3 and 4 . Modular adapter sub-assemblies  310 SA enable quick and easy assembly of terminals  200  in a scalable manner. Moreover, the modular sub-assemblies  230 SA advantageously allow the mating components (i.e., the adapters  230 A) corresponding to each connection port  236  to move or “float” independently of other the other modular adapter sub-assemblies  310 SA relative to the shell  210  for preserving optical performance. 
       FIGS. 9 and 10  respectively show front and rear perspective views of modular adapter sub-assemblies  310 SA with a rear connector  252  attached to the adapter  230 A.  FIG. 11  depicts an exploded view of the modular adapter sub-assemblies  310 SA and shows that the rear connector  252  is not a portion of modular adapter sub-assembly  310 SA, and  FIG. 12  is a cross-sectional view of the modular adapter sub-assembly  310 SA. Modular adapter sub-assemblies  310 SA comprises an adapter  230 A aligned with the at least one connection port  236  when assembled. Adapter  230  may be biased by a resilient member  230 RM. The adapter ( 230 A) may be secured to the adapter body  255  using retainer  240 .  FIGS. 21-32  show details of select components of the modular adapter sub-assembly  310 SA. 
     As best shown in  FIG. 11 , modular adapter sub-assembly  310 SA comprises a portion of securing feature  310  and a securing feature resilient member  310 RM. Specifically, modular adapter sub-assembly  310 SA comprises securing member  310 M. However, other embodiments could comprise an actuator  310 A or have a single securing feature  310  as part of the assembly. Securing member  310 M is inserted into a front end of an adapter body  255  along with securing feature resilient member  310 RM. 
     Specifically, the rim  310 R of securing member  310 M is inserted into a hoop  255 H of adapter body  255  and standoffs  310 SO are disposed in a portion of the resilient member pocket  255 SP at the bottom of the adapter body  255 . Securing feature resilient member  310 RM is disposed in the resilient member pocket  255 SP for biasing the securing member  310 M to a retain position as shown in  FIG. 12 . This construction advantageously keeps the assembly intact using the securing feature resilient member  310 RM. Standoffs  310 SO of adapter body  255  may also act as stops to limit the translation of the securing member  310 . 
     In this embodiment, modular adapter sub-assembly  310 SA may comprises an adapter body  255 , securing member  310 M, securing feature resilient member  310 RM, a ferrule sleeve  230 FS, a ferrule sleeve retainer  230 R, resilient member  230 RM, a retainer along with the adapter  230 A. Adapter body  255  has a portion of the connection port passageway  233  disposed therein. 
     As best depicted in  FIGS. 11 and 12 , the is resilient member  230 RM is disposed over a barrel of adapter  230 A and seated on the flange of adapter  230 A as depicted, then retainer  240  can be attached to adapter body  255  using latch arms  240 LA to secure the same. Ferrule sleeve retainer  230 R and ferrule sleeve  230 FS are aligned for assembly into the adapter  230 A for assembly as shown in  FIG. 11  and seated using the ferrule sleeve retainer  230 R. Of course, other variations of the modular adapter sub-assembly  310 SA are possible. 
       FIGS. 13-16  depict detailed views of the second portion  210 B of shell  210  with the internal components removed for showing the internal construction of the terminal  200  of  FIGS. 3 and 4 . Shells  210  may have any suitable shape, design or configuration as desired. Second portion  210 B cooperates with first portion  210 A to form shell  210 . Second portion  210 B comprises a plurality of connection ports  236  and input connection port  260 . Second portion  210 B provides a portion of cavity  216  of terminal  200 , and the internal bottom surface of second portion  210 B comprises a plurality of alignment features  210 AF for aligning the modular adapter sub-assembly  310 SA with the respective connection ports  236 . Alignment features  210 AF have a U-shape and cooperate with the alignment features  255 AF on the bottom of adapter body  255 . Second portion  210 B also includes a plurality of studs  210 D on top of the respective connection ports  236  within cavity  216  for seating the hoop  255 H of the adapter body  255  for assembly. Second portion  210 B may also include a plurality of guide features  210 SF for aligning the first portion  210 A with the second portion  210 B of the shell  210 . 
       FIG. 15  is a front perspective view of second portion  210 B showing other features. As shown, the keying portion  233 KP is an additive keying portion to the primitive geometric round shape of the connection port passageway  233  such as a male key that is disposed forward of the securing feature in the connection port passageway  233 . However, the concepts for the connection ports  236  of devices may be modified for different connector designs. For instance, the keying portion  233 KP may be defined as a walled-portion across part of the connection port passageway  233  as represented by the dashed line  233 KP′ shown in one of the connection ports  236 . Thus, the connection port with keying portion  233 KP′ would be able to properly receive an external fiber optic connector having a portion with a proper D-shaped portion. 
       FIG. 15  also depicts alignment protrusions  210 AP on the front end  212  of second portion  210 B of shell  210 . Alignment protrusions  210 AP cooperate with mounting tab  298  for aligning and attaching the same to the shell  210  of the terminal  200 . In other embodiments, the mounting tab could be integrally formed with the shell  210 , but that requires a more complex molding process. 
       FIG. 17  depicts the assembly of modular sub-assemblies  310 SA into the second portion  210 B of shell  200 . As shown, modular adapter sub-assemblies  310 AS are aligned and installed onto the U-shaped alignment features  210 AF of the second portion  210 B of shell  210  as discussed.  FIG. 26  shows a representation of the alignment features  210 AF of the second portion  210 B of shell  210  cooperating with the alignment features  255 AF on the bottom of adapter body  255  in another embodiment.  FIG. 17  also shows the hoops  255 H of the adapter bodies  255  disposed about the plurality of studs  210 D on top of the respective connection ports  236  within cavity  216  for aligning the modular adapter sub-assembly  310 SA within the second portion  210 B of shell  210  for aligning the connection port passageway  233  of the adapter body  255  with the connection port passageway  233  of the shell  210 .  FIG. 17  also shows the support  210 S placed into the respective bore of the second portion  210 B of the shell. As depicted, support  210 S is located outside of the sealing interface of the second portion  210 B of shell  210 . 
       FIG. 18  depicts an inside surface of the first portion  210 A of shell  200 . As shown, first portion  210 A comprises a profile that conforms to the profile of the second portion  210 B of shell  210 . By way of explanation, first portion  210 A comprises a plurality of scallops  210 SC for cooperating with the connection ports  236  on the second portion  210 B of shell  210 . First portion  210 A also comprise a sealing perimeter that cooperates with the sealing perimeter of the second portion  210 B of shell  210 . First portion  210 A also comprises alignment features  210 AF sized and shaped for cooperating with the alignment features  255 AFT on the top of adapter body  255  for securing the same when the terminal is assembled. The respective alignment features  210 AF, 255 AF only allow assembly of the modular adapter sub-assemblies  310 AS into the shell  210  in one orientation for the correct orientation of the locking feature  310 L with respect to the connection port  236 . 
     Terminal may include a fiber tray or fiber guide/supports that are discrete components that may attach to the shell  210 ; however, fiber guides may be integrated with the shell if desired. Shell may also  210  comprise one or more fiber guides for organizing and routing optical fibers  250 . The fiber tray inhibits damage to optical fibers and may also provide a location for the mounting of other components such as splitters, electronics or the like if desired. Fiber guides may also act as support  210 S for providing crush strength to the shell  210  if they have a suitable length. 
       FIGS. 19 and 20  show detailed perspective view of actuator  310 A. Actuator  310 A may include a sealing member  310 S for keeping dirt, debris and the like out of portions of the terminal  200 . Sealing member  310 S is sized for the retention groove  310 RG in the securing feature  310  and the securing feature passageway  245  for sealing. Actuator  310 A may also comprise a stop surface  310 SS for inhibiting overtravel of the securing feature  310  of inhibit the actuator from being removed from the terminal  200  when assembled. In this embodiment, the stop surface  310 SS. Actuator  310 A may also include a dimple  310 D or other feature for inhibiting inadvertent activation/translation of the securing feature  310  or allowing a tactical feel for the user. Actuator  310 A comprises a finger  310 F for seating within a rim  310 R of securing member  310 M for transferring forces to the same. 
     Actuator  310 A may also be a different color or have a marking indicia for identifying the port type. For instance, the actuator  310 A may be colored red for connection ports  236  and the actuator  310 A for the input connection port  260  may be colored black. Other color or marking indicia schemes may be used for pass-through ports, multi-fiber ports or ports for split signals. 
       FIGS. 21-32  show details of select components of the modular adapter sub-assembly  310 SA.  FIGS. 21-23  show various perspective detailed views of securing member  310 M. Securing member  310 M comprises a locking feature  310 L. Locking feature  310 L is configured for engaging with a suitable locking portion  20 L on the housing  20  of connector  10 . In this embodiment, securing feature  310  comprise a bore  310 B that is respectively aligned with the respective connector port passageway  233  as shown in  FIG. 8  when assembled. The bore  310 B is sized for receiving a portion of connector  10  therethrough as shown in  FIG. 39 . 
     As depicted in this embodiment, locking feature  310 L is disposed within bore  310 B of securing member  310 M. As shown, locking feature  310 L is configured as ramp  310 RP that runs to a short flat portion, then to a ledge for creating the retention surface  310 RS for engaging and retaining the connector  10  once it is fully inserted into the connector port passageway  233  of the connection port  236 . Consequently, the securing feature  310  is capable of moving to an open position (OP) when inserting a suitable connector  10  into the connector port passageway  233  since the connector housing  20  engages the ramp  310 RP pushing the securing feature downward during insertion. 
     Securing member  310 M may also comprises standoffs  310  as best shown in  FIG. 23 . Standoffs  310  cooperate with the resilient member pocket  255 SP of the adapter body  255  for keeping the bore  310 B in the proper rotational orientation within the respective to the adapter body  255 . Specifically, standoffs  310  have curved shapes that only allow the securing member  310 M to fully-seat into the adapter body  255  when oriented in the proper orientation. 
       FIG. 24-27  are various perspective views showing the details of the adapter body  255  of the modular adapter sub-assembly  310 SA. Adapter body  255  comprises an adapter body bore  255 B that comprises a portion of the connection port passageway  233  when assembled. As discussed, adapter body  255  comprises alignment features  255 AF on the bottom of adapter body  255  that cooperate with the shell  210  to align and seat the same in the shell  210 . Adapter body  255  also comprises hoop  255 H. Hoop  255 H captures the ring  255 R at the top of the securing member  310 M when assembled and also seats the adapter body  255  in the second portion  210 B of shell  210  during assembly. Adapter body  255  also comprises alignment features  255 AFT on the top of adapter body  255  for securing the same in the first portion  210 A of the shell  210  when the terminal  200  is assembled. Adapter body  255  also comprise resilient member pocket  255 SP at the bottom of the adapter body  255  for capturing the securing feature resilient member  310 RM as depicted in  FIG. 12 . 
       FIGS. 28 and 29  depict detailed views of adapter  230 A. Adapter  230 A comprises a plurality of resilient arms  230 RA comprising securing features (not numbered). Adapter  230 A also comprises an adapter key  230 K for orientating the adapter  230 A with the adapter body  255 . Securing features  230 SF cooperate with protrusions on the housing of rear connector  252  for retaining the rear connector  252  to the adapter  230 A. The ferrule  252 F is disposed within the ferrule sleeve  230 FS when assembled.  FIG. 12  is a sectional view showing the attachment of the rear connector  252  with the adapter  230 A with ferrule sleeve retainer  230 R and the ferrule sleeve  230 FS therebetween. Ferrule sleeves  230 FS are used for precision alignment of mating ferrules between rear connectors  252  and connector  10 . Devices may use alternative rear connectors if desired and can have different structures for supporting different rear connectors.  FIG. 30  depicts details of the ferrule sleeve retainer  230 R.  FIGS. 31 and 32  show detailed views of retainer  240  that forms a portion of the modular sub-assembly  310 SA. Retainer  240  comprises one or more latch arms  240 LA for cooperating with the adapter body  255  for securing the adapter  230 A and resilient member  230 RM of the modular adapter sub-assembly  310 SA. 
     The concepts disclosed allow relatively small terminals  200  having a relatively high-density of connections along with an organized arrangement for connectors  10  attached to the terminals  200 . Shells have a given height H, width W and length L that define a volume for the terminal as depicted in  FIG. 3 . By way of example, shells  210  of terminal  200  may define a volume of 800 cubic centimeters or less, other embodiments of shells  210  may define the volume of 400 cubic centimeters or less, other embodiments of shells  210  may define the volume of 100 cubic centimeters or less as desired. Some embodiments of terminals  200  comprise a connection port insert  230  having a port width density of at least one connection port  236  per 20 millimeters of width W of the terminal  200 . Other port width densities are possible such as 15 millimeters of width W of the terminal. Likewise, embodiments of terminals  200  may comprise a given density per volume of the shell  210  as desired. 
     The concepts disclosed allow relatively small form-factors for terminals as shown in Table 1. Table 1 below compares representative dimensions, volumes, and normalized volume ratios with respect to the prior art of the shells (i.e., the housings) for terminals having 4, 8 and 12 ports as examples of how compact the terminals of the present application are with respect to convention prior art terminals. Specifically, Table 1 compares examples of the conventional prior art terminals such as depicted in  FIG. 1  with terminals having a linear array of ports. As depicted, the respective volumes of the conventional prior art terminals of  FIG. 1  with the same port count are on the order of ten times larger than terminals with the same port count as disclosed herein. By way of example and not limitation, the terminal may define a volume of 400 cubic centimeters or less for 12-ports, or even if double the size could define a volume of 800 cubic centimeters or less for 12-ports. Terminals with smaller port counts such as 4-ports could be even smaller such as the shell or terminal defining a volume of 200 cubic centimeters or less for 4-ports, or even if double the size could define a volume of 200 cubic centimeters or less for 4-ports. Devices with sizes that are different will have different volumes form the explanatory examples in Table 1 and these other variations are within the scope of the disclosure. Consequently, it is apparent the size (e.g., volume) of terminals of the present application are much smaller than the conventional prior art terminals of  FIG. 1 . In addition to being significantly smaller, the terminals of the present application do not have the issues of the conventional prior art terminals depicted in  FIG. 2 . Of course, the examples of Table 1 are for comparison purposes and other sizes and variations of terminals may use the concepts disclosed herein as desired. 
     One of the reasons that the size of the terminals may be reduced in size with the concepts disclosed herein is that the connectors that cooperate with the terminals have locking features that are integrated into the housing  20  of the connectors  10 . In other words, the locking features for securing connector are integrally formed in the housing of the connector, instead of being a distinct and separate component like a coupling nut of a conventional hardened connector used with conventional terminals. Conventional connectors for terminals have threaded connections that require finger access for connection and disconnecting. By eliminating the threaded coupling nut (which is a separate component that must rotate about the connector) the spacing between conventional connectors may be reduced. Also eliminating the dedicated coupling nut from the conventional connectors also allows the footprint of the connectors to be smaller, which also aids in reducing the size of the terminals disclosed herein. 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
             
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Comparison of Conventional Multiport of FIG. 1 with 
               
               
                 Multiports of Present Application 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Multiport  
                 Port  
                 Dimension L ×  
                 Volume  
                 Normalized 
               
               
                 Type 
                 Count 
                 W × H (mm) 
                 (cm 3 ) 
                 Volume Ratio 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Prior Art 
                 4 
                 274 × 66 × 73  
                 1320 
                 1.0 
               
               
                 FIG. 1 
                 8 
                 312 × 76 × 86  
                 2039 
                 1.0 
               
               
                   
                 12 
                  381 × 101 × 147 
                 5657 
                 1.0 
               
               
                 Linear 
                 4 
                 76 × 59 × 30 
                 134 
                 0.10 
               
               
                   
                 8 
                 123 × 109 × 30 
                 402 
                 0.20 
               
               
                   
                 12 
                 159 × 159 × 30 
                 758 
                 0.14 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Terminal or Devices may have other constructions using the concepts disclosed.  FIGS. 33-47  depict views of another explanatory device  200  configured as a terminal that comprises at least one connection port  236  along with a securing feature  310  associated with the connection port  236  that is similar to the terminal  200  of  FIGS. 3 and 4 . 
       FIG. 33  depicts a partially exploded view of another terminal  200  that is similar to terminal  200  of  FIGS. 3 and 4  and has the optical fibers  250  removed for clarity, and  FIGS. 34-36  are views of the modular adapter sub-assembly  310 SA of the terminal  200  of  FIG. 33 .  FIG. 37  shows the modular adapter sub-assemblies  310 SA of  FIG. 35  being loaded into the second portion  210 B of the shell  210 . 
     Like, the terminal  200  of  FIGS. 3 and 4 , this securing feature  310  comprises an actuator  310 A and a securing member  310 M with the securing member  310 M being a portion of a modular adapter sub-assembly  310 SA for ease of assembly and isolation of the retaining mechanisms so they can float independently. The securing feature member  310 M of securing feature  310  is suitable for retaining connector in connection port  236  as discussed herein. Various different embodiments are possible for securing features  310  comprising more than one component for the devices disclosed. 
     Terminal  200  of  FIG. 33  comprise one or more connection ports  236  and the one or more securing feature passageways  245  as a portion of the shell  210 . Terminal  200  of  FIG. 33  comprises a shell  210  comprising a body  232  with one or more connection ports  236  disposed on a first end or portion  212  with each connection port  236  comprising a respective optical connector opening  238 . The optical connector openings  238  extend from an outer surface  234  of shell  210  into a cavity  216  and define a connection port passageway  233 . One or more respective securing feature passsageways  245  extend from the outer surface  234  of the shell  210  to the respective connection port passageways  233 . A plurality of security features  310  are associated with the respective plurality of connection ports  236 . As depicted, shell  210  is formed by a first portion  210 A and a second portion  210 B. 
       FIGS. 34-36  are views of the modular adapter sub-assembly  310 SA of the terminal  200  of  FIG. 33 , that is similar to the modular adapter sub-assembly  310 SA used in the terminal  200  of  FIGS. 3 and 4 . The main difference in the modular adapter sub-assembly of  FIGS. 34-36  are in the design of the adapter body  255 . In this adapter body  255  the securing feature resilient member  310 RM is not capture in a resilient member pocket of the adapter body  255 . Instead, the second shell  210 B comprises a spring keeper  210 SK adjacent to the respective connection port  236  best shown in  FIG. 37 . This may make the assembly of the terminal  200  more challenging. Additionally, adapter body  255  of the terminal  200  of  FIG. 33  has different alignment feature  255 Af on the bottom of the adapter body  255 . 
       FIG. 37  is a top detailed perspective view of the modular adapter sub-assemblies of  FIG. 35  being loaded into the second portion  210 B of the shell  210  with the optical fibers removed for clarity. As best shown in  FIG. 37 , the modular sub-assembles  310 SA are individually placed into the second portion  210 B of shell  210  after the securing feature resilient member  310 RM is place about the spring keeper  210 SK. As shown the alignment features  210 AF of the second portion  210 B of shell  210  align the modular adapter sub-assembly  310 SA with the respective connection ports  236 . In this embodiment, the alignment features  210 AF are configured as a T-rail for seating the adapter body  255 . 
       FIG. 38  is a detailed perspective view showing how the features of the modular adapter sub-assemblies  310 SA of  FIG. 35  engage the first portion  210 A of the shell  210  when assembled.  FIG. 38  depicts a partial assembled view of terminal  200  of  FIG. 33  showing the respective actuators  310 A placed into securing feature passageways  245  within the first portion  210 A of the shell  210  and the modular sub-assemblies  310 SA being placed on the first portion  210 A of the shell. This view is shown to depict the cooperating geometry between the modular sub-assembles  310 SA and the first portion  210 A of shell  210 . Like the other terminal  200 , first portion  210 A of shell  210  also comprises alignment features  210 AF sized and shaped for cooperating with the alignment features  255 AFT on the top of adapter body  255  for securing the same when the terminal is assembled. The respective alignment features  210 AF, 255 AF only allow assembly of the modular adapter sub-assemblies  310 AS into the shell  210  in one orientation for the correct orientation of the locking feature  310 L with respect to the connection port  236 . This view also shows that actuators  310 A have a different geometry since they do not have a completely round form-factor like the actuators  310 A shown in  FIGS. 19 and 20 . After the internal assembly is completed, the first and second portions  210 A, 210 B of shell  210  may assembled in suitable fashion using a sealing element  290  or not. 
       FIG. 39  is a detailed sectional view of the terminal  200  of  FIG. 33  through the connection port for showing the internal construction of the terminal with a fiber optic connector retained using the securing feature  310 . As shown in  FIG. 39 , the connector mating plane  230 MP between the ferrule of the rear connector  252  and ferrule of connector  10  is disposed within the cavity  216  terminal  200  for protecting the connector mating interface. Specifically, the respective ferrules are aligned using the ferrule sleeve  230 FS. Connector  10  includes a locking feature  20 L on the housing  20  for cooperating with a securing feature  310  of terminal  200 . This arrangement is similar for retaining connectors  10  in the terminal  200  of  FIGS. 3 and 4 . Connector  10  comprises at least one O-ring  65  for sealing with the connector port passageway  233  at a sealing surface when the connector  10  is fully inserted into the connection port  236 . 
       FIGS. 40A and 40B  depicts the use of an input tether  270  with terminal  200 . The concepts disclosed may be used with the pass-through cables as well. Input tether  270  has optical fibers  250  that enter the terminal  200  and are terminated with to rear connectors  252  for making an optical connection at the connection port  236 . In this embodiment, there is no securing feature for the input connection port  260 . However, other embodiments may retain the securing feature and secure the input tether  270  from inside the device. 
     If used, input tether  270  may terminate the other end with a fiber optic connector or be a stubbed cable as desired. For instance, the input tether connector could be an OptiTip® connector for optical connection to previously installed distribution cables; however, other suitable single-fiber or multi-fiber connectors may be used for terminating the input tether  270  as desired. Input tether  270  may be secured to the terminal  200  in other suitable manners inside the terminal such as adhesive, a collar or crimp, heat shrink or combinations of the same. In other embodiments, the input tether could be secured using a securing member internal to the shell without the actuator as shown. The input tether to terminal interface could also be weatherproofed in a suitable manner. The input tether  270  may also have stubbed optical fibers for splicing in the field if desired, instead of the connector  278 . 
     Furthermore, the input tether  270  may further comprise a furcation body that has a portion that fits into the terminal  200  at the input port of the shell  210  such as into the optical connector opening  238  of the input connection port  260 , but the furcation body may be disposed within the shell  210  if desired as well. The furcation body is a portion of the input tether that transitions the optical fibers  250  to individual fibers for routing within the cavity  216  of the shell  210  to the respective connector ports. As an example, a ribbon may be used for insertion into the back end of the ferrule of fiber optic connector  278  and then be routed through the input tether  270  to the furcation body where the optical fibers are then separated out into individual optical fibers  250 . From the furcation body the optical fibers  250  may be protected with a buffer layer or not inside the cavity  216  of the terminal  200  and then terminated on rear connector  252  as desired. 
     The input tether  270  may be assembled with the rear connectors  252  and/or fiber optic connector  278  in a separate operation from the assembly of terminal  200  if the rear connectors  252  fit through the input port. Thereafter, the rear connectors  252  may be individually threaded into the input connection port  260  of the terminal with the appropriate routing of the optical fiber slack and then have the rear connectors  252  attached to the appropriate structure for optical communication with the connection port passageways  233  of the terminal  200 . The furcation body may also be secured to the connection port insert in the manner desired. By way of explanation, the input tether may be secured to shell  210  using a collar that fits into a cradle. This attachment of the input tether using collar and cradle provides improved pull-out strength and aids in manufacturing; however, other constructions are possible for securing the input tether. 
       FIGS. 41-43  depict various views of a mounting feature insert  200 MFI that may be attached to a portion of the shell  210  for securing the device such as with a band or tie-strap.  FIG. 41  shows the bottom of the second portion  210 B of shell  210  comprising one or more pockets  210 MFP. As shown, mounting feature insert  200 MFI cooperates with a suitable pocket  210 MF to snap-fit together with a band for securing the terminal to a pole or the like.  FIG. 42  depicts the mounting feature insert  200 MFI comprising insert openings  20010  disposed on opposite sides of a curved saddle for receiving a band or strap, and  FIG. 43  is a cross-sectional view of the cooperation between mounting feature insert  200 MFI and the second portion  210 B of shell  210 . 
       FIGS. 44-46  depict various views of a mounting feature  298  that may be attached to the front end of the second portion  210 B of the shell  210  similar to the other mounting tab  298  disclosed.  FIG. 44  depicts alignment protrusions  210 AP on the front end  212  of second portion  210 B of shell  210  for securing mounting tab  298 . Alignment protrusions are configured as T-rails in this embodiment, but other geometry is possible. Specifically, alignment protrusions  210 AP cooperate with a plurality of T-rail slots on mounting tab  298  as shown in  FIG. 45  for aligning and attaching the mounting tab to the shell  210  of the terminal  200 . Mounting tab  298  may be attached to the shell  210  as shown in  FIG. 46 , and adhesive or fastener may be used as desired. Other variations of for the mounting tab are possible. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 47 and 48 , terminals  200  may also have one or more dust caps  295  for protecting the connection port  236  or input connection ports  260  from dust, dirt or debris entering the terminal or interfering with the optical performance. Thus, when the user wishes to make an optical connection to the terminal, the appropriate dust cap  295  is removed from the connector port  236  and then connector  10  of cable assembly  100  may be inserted into the respective connection port  236  for making an optical connection to the terminal  200 . Dust caps  295  may use similar release and retain features as the connectors  10 . By way of explanation, when securing feature  310  is pushed inward or down, the dust cap  295  is released and may be removed. Moreover, the interface between the connection ports  236  and the dust cap or connector  10  may be sealed using appropriate geometry and/or a sealing element such as an O-ring or gasket. 
       FIG. 49  is a perspective view of a wireless device  500  having a similar construction to the concepts disclosed herein and comprising at least one connector port  236  associated with securing member  310 . Wireless device  500  may have a securing feature resilient member  310 RM for biasing a portion of the securing feature  310 . Wireless device  500  may comprise one or more connection ports  236  disposed on the portion of shell  210  as shown in  FIG. 49 . Wireless device  500  may have an input port that includes power and may have electronics  500 E (not visible) disposed with in the cavity (not visible) of the device. The wireless device  500  may have any of the other features disclosed herein and they will not be repeated for the sake of brevity. 
     Still other devices are possible according to the concepts disclosed.  FIG. 50  is a perspective view of a closure  700  comprising at least one connector port  236  and associated securing member  310 . Like wireless device  500 , closure  700  may comprise one or more connection ports  236  disposed on the portion of shell  210  as shown in  FIG. 50 . Closure  700  may also have a securing feature resilient member  310 RM for biasing a portion of the securing feature  310 . Closure  700  may have one or more input ports or include other components disposed with in the cavity (not visible) of the device as disclosed herein. The closure  700  may have any of the other features disclosed herein and they will not be repeated for the sake of brevity. 
     Methods for making devices  200 ,  500  and  700  are also disclosed herein. The methods disclosed may further include installing at least one securing feature  310  into a device  200 ,  500  and  700  so that the at least one securing feature  310  is associated with connection port  236  (e.g., the securing feature is disposed within the shell). The securing feature  310  may translate between an open position OP and a retain position RP, and at least one securing feature resilient member ( 310 RM) is positioned for biasing a portion of the at least one securing feature ( 310 ) to a retain position RP. 
     The methods may further comprise the securing feature ( 310 ) comprising a locking feature  310 L. The locking feature further comprise a ramp with a ledge. 
     The methods may further comprise at least one securing feature ( 310 ) translating from a retain position (RP) to an open position (OP) as a suitable fiber optic connector ( 10 ) is inserted into the at least one connection port ( 236 ). 
     The method may further comprise securing feature  310  being capable of moving to a retain position RP automatically when a suitable fiber optic connector is fully inserted into the at least one connector port passageway  233 . 
     The method may further comprise translating the securing feature  310  for moving the securing feature  310  to the open position OP from a normally biased closed position CP. 
     Although the disclosure has been illustrated and described herein with reference to explanatory embodiments and specific examples thereof, it will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that other embodiments and examples can perform similar functions and/or achieve like results. For instance, the connection port insert may be configured as individual sleeves that are inserted into a passageway of a device, thereby allowing the selection of different configurations of connector ports for a device to tailor the device to the desired external connector. All such equivalent embodiments and examples are within the spirit and scope of the disclosure and are intended to be covered by the appended claims. It will also be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the concepts disclosed without departing from the spirit and scope of the same. Thus, it is intended that the present application cover the modifications and variations provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.