Patent Publication Number: US-2023161112-A1

Title: Fiber optic terminal having one or more connection ports for receiving fiber optic connectors having a latching trigger

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63/282,747 filed on Nov. 24, 2021, the content of which is relied upon and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The disclosure is directed to fiber optic terminals having one or more connection ports configured for receiving external fiber optic connectors having a latching trigger as a connector securing/release mechanism such as used on LC or SC connectors. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Optical fiber is increasingly being used for a variety of applications, including but not limited to broadband voice, video, and data transmission in a variety of new and expanding applications. As bandwidth demands increase optical fiber is migrating deeper into these new communication networks such as fiber inside the premises applications and the like. As optical fiber extends deeper into these communication networks there exist a need for quickly and easily making optical connections in a quick and easy manner for the demands of these new application spaces. 
     Rugged fiber optic terminals and hardened fiber optic connectors were developed for making one or more plug and play optical connections for outdoor applications that can maintain optical performance in adverse environmental conditions such as extreme cold temperatures or wet and damp locations for extending optical networks toward subscribers. These fiber optic terminals and connectors provide a node for mating and demating to the optical network and provide the flexibility of locating the connection points in convenient locations for efficient network assembly, design and/or deployment. Conventional fiber optic terminals and connectors used for these outdoor environments are typically larger fiber optic terminals that accommodate hardened fiber optic connectors that use a rotating fastener for securing the connector such as a threaded coupling nut or bayonet that rotates about the connector for securing the ruggedized optical connection to the fiber optic terminal or device. Since these hardened connectors require a rotating fastener the fiber optic connectors are substantially larger than non-hardened fiber optic connectors. Once the optical lines transition into indoor spaces these robust hardened fiber optic terminals and fiber optic connectors are not required for the indoor environment. Moreover, the hardened robust solutions are typically large and bulky and not desired for indoor environments for these reasons and other reasons. 
     Thus, network operators may have a desire to use simplified fiber optic terminals for their optical networks for indoor space or protected environment that mate using typical indoor (i.e., non-hardened) fiber optic connectors, thereby improving space requirements, routing and aesthetics. Thus, there is an unresolved need for fiber optic terminals that can use non-hardened fiber optic connectors for the reasons discussed herein. 
     SUMMARY 
     The disclosure is directed to fiber optic terminal (hereinafter “terminals”) comprising at least one connection port having an optical connector opening extending toward or into a cavity of the terminal along with a flexible tab and actuator associated with the connection port for releasing an external connector from the connection port of the terminal. 
     One aspect of the disclosure is directed to a fiber optic terminal comprising a shell, at least one connection port comprising an optical connector opening configured for receiving and optically mating an external fiber optic connector, an adapter, a flexible tab and an actuator. 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 toward a cavity of the terminal. The adapter is associated with the at least one connection port for mating fiber optic connectors, and the flexible tab is disposed within the shell and associated with the at least one connection port. The actuator is capable of translating relative to the terminal and capable of engaging a portion of the flexible tab for deflecting a portion of the flexible tab. 
     Another aspect of the disclosure is directed to a fiber optic terminal comprising a shell, at least one connection port comprising an optical connector opening configured for receiving and optically mating an external fiber optic connector comprising a latching trigger, an adapter, a flexible tab, and an actuator. 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 toward a cavity of the terminal. The adapter is associated with the at least one connection port for mating fiber optic connectors, and the flexible tab is disposed within the shell and associated with the at least one connection port with the flexible tab bowed to a normally-open connection position. The actuator is capable of translating relative to the terminal and capable of engaging a portion of the flexible tab for deflecting a portion of the flexible tab. 
     Yet another aspect of the disclosure is directed to a fiber optic terminal comprising a shell, at least one connection port comprising an optical connector opening configured for receiving and optically mating an external fiber optic connector comprising a latching trigger, an adapter, a flexible tab, and an actuator. 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 toward a cavity of the terminal. The adapter is associated with the at least one connection port for mating fiber optic connectors, and the flexible tab is disposed within the shell and associated with the at least one connection port with the flexible tab bowed to a normally-open connection position. The actuator is capable of translating relative to the terminal within a portion of at least one securing feature passageway for engaging a portion of the flexible tab for deflecting a portion of the flexible tab. 
     Still another aspect of the disclosure is directed to a fiber optic terminal comprising a shell, at least one connection port comprising an optical connector opening configured for receiving and optically mating an external LC fiber optic connector comprising a latching trigger, an adapter, a flexible tab, and an actuator. 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 toward a cavity of the terminal. The adapter is associated with the at least one connection port for mating fiber optic connectors, and the adapter is configured for receiving a portion of the external LC connector inserted into the at least one connection port. The flexible tab is disposed within the shell and associated with the at least one connection port with the flexible tab bowed to a normally-open connection position. The actuator is capable of translating relative to the terminal for engaging a portion of the flexible tab for deflecting a portion of the flexible tab, and the flexible tab is capable of flexing to a connector release position when the actuator engages a portion of the flexible tab. 
     A further aspect of the disclosure is directed to a fiber optic terminal comprising a shell, a plurality of connection ports comprising an optical connector opening configured for receiving and optically mating an external fiber optic connector comprising a latching trigger, an adapter interface insert, an adapter, a plurality of flexible tabs, and a plurality of actuators. The plurality of connection ports are disposed on the terminal with each of the connection ports comprising an optical connector opening extending from an outer surface of the terminal toward a cavity of the terminal. The adapter interface insert forming a portion of the optical connector opening and cooperating with the shell. The adapter is associated with the at least one connection port for mating fiber optic connectors. The plurality of flexible tabs are disposed within the shell with each one of the plurality flexible tabs associated with a respective connection port with the plurality of flexible tabs integrally-formed on a common flexible tab component. The plurality of actuators are capable of translating relative to the terminal with each one of the plurality of actuators being capable of engaging a portion of the respective flexible tab for deflecting a portion of the respective flexible tab. 
     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 
         FIG.  1    is a top perspective view of an explanatory fiber optic terminal having a shell with a plurality of fiber optic connection ports for receiving external fiber optic connectors for making optical connections; 
         FIG.  2    is a top perspective view of the fiber optic terminal of  FIG.  1    with an input fiber optic tether on the left-side and a plurality of external fiber optic connectors disposed in respective fiber optic connection ports to the right; 
         FIG.  3    depicts a front view of the explanatory fiber optic terminal of  FIG.  2    with the input fiber optic connector on the left-side and a plurality of external fiber optic connectors having a latching trigger disposed in respective fiber optic connection ports to the right; 
         FIG.  4    depicts a sectional view of the explanatory fiber optic terminal of  FIG.  2    showing the external fiber optic connector having a latching trigger disposed in the fiber optic connection port for optical mating with an internal fiber optic connector of the fiber optic terminal; 
         FIG.  5    depicts a detailed sectional view of the flexible tab associated with the connection port of the fiber optic terminal of  FIG.  2    showing the flexible tab cooperating with the latching trigger of the external fiber optic connector disposed in the fiber optic connection port; 
         FIG.  6    depicts a top view of the flexible tab associated with the connection port of the fiber optic terminal of  FIG.  2    configured for a fiber optic terminal having four fiber optic connection ports; 
         FIGS.  7 - 9    are perspective views of the flexible tab of  FIG.  6   ; 
         FIGS.  10  and  11    are perspective views of the adapter interface of the fiber optic terminal depicted in  FIG.  4   ; 
         FIG.  12    are rear perspective view of the adapter interface of the fiber optic terminal depicted in  FIG.  4   ; 
         FIG.  13    is a side view of the adapter interface of the fiber optic terminal depicted in  FIG.  4   ; 
         FIG.  14    is a perspective view of the explanatory fiber optic terminal of  FIGS.  1  and  2    having dust plugs disposed within respective fiber optic connection ports of the terminal; 
         FIG.  15    is a sectional view of the fiber optic terminal of  FIG.  14    having the dust plugs disposed within a respective fiber optic connection port of the terminal; and 
         FIGS.  16  and  17    are respective sectional and perspective views of the dust plugs shown in  FIGS.  14  and  15   . 
     
    
    
     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 disclosed are related to fiber optic terminals (hereinafter “terminals”) for making fiber optic connections with external fiber optic connectors. The concepts disclosed use a flexible tab  250  disposed within a shell of the terminal for creating a scalable form-factor devices for manufacturing. The terminal comprises one or more connection ports along with an associated actuator(s) cooperating with flexible tabs for providing quick and easy release of an external connector from the connection port with a robust and reliable design that is intuitive to use. The terminals comprising flexible tab(s) disclosed herein may take many different constructions or configurations for supporting optical connections with different types of external fiber optic connectors as desired. 
     The terminals disclosed comprise at least one connection port disposed on the terminal and the connection port has an optical connector opening configured for receiving and optical mating of an external fiber optic connector (hereinafter “external connector”) with an internal connector of the terminal. The disclosed terminals comprise a flexible tab disposed within the terminal and is associated with the connection port and an actuator that is capable of translating with respect to the terminal for engaging a portion of the flexible tab, thereby deflecting a portion of the flexible tab. Deflecting a portion of the flexible tab allows the releasing of an external connector that may secured within the connection port of the terminal. Generally speaking, the connection port may be configured for the specific connector intended to be received in the terminal. By way of explanation, the external connector may be secured to the terminal using a latch of the external connector such as used on a LC-type or a SC-type of connector. 
     The terminals may have the flexible tab bowed to a normally-open position. Biasing the flexible tab to the normally-open position allowing insertion of the external connector into the connection port of the terminal without disrupting the flexible tab, and the flexible tab is only actuated (or flexed) for releasing the external connector from the connection port. In other words, the flexible tab is capable of flexing to a connector release position when the actuator engages and deflects a portion of the flexible tab. The flexible tab may be configured an individual component associated with each respective connection port or the flexible tab may be a portion of a common flexible tab component comprising a plurality of flexible tabs on a single-component. 
     The terminal may have a connection port that is configured for receiving the external connector comprising a latching trigger and/or a latch. The external connector is received in an adapter of the terminal for optical mating with an internal connector of the terminal. The latching trigger of the respective external connectors are used as a releasing mechanism for engaging the latch of the external connector such as used on LC connector or the like. 
     When deflected by the actuator of the terminal, the flexible tab engages the latching trigger of the external connector pushing it downward onto a latch of the external connector (i.e., to a connector release position) so that the external connector may be released from the respective connection port of the terminal. In other embodiments, the flexible tab may be configured for directly cooperating with the latch of the external connector such as when the external connector does not have a latching trigger, rather than engaging the latching trigger if desired. The concepts disclosed may be used with any suitable external connector such a LC type, SC type or other suitable type of connector having a latching trigger or latch for releasing the connector from an adapter of the terminal. 
     The terminal concepts disclosed are modular and/or adaptable for supporting different types of connectors for optical mating by changing certain parts of the terminal such as changing the adapter and/or adapter interface insert, thereby configuring the terminal for optical mating for the desired connectors. By way of explanation, the adapter and/or adapter interface insert may be configured for a LC type of connectors or SC type of connectors. Likewise, the flexible tab may be configured for cooperating with a latch of the external connector or cooperating with the latching trigger of the external connector as desired. 
     Of course, the terminal concepts disclosed may be used in any suitable applications such as in-home networks, multi-dwelling units (MDUs), office buildings or the like. For instance, the concepts disclosed herein may also be suitable for fiber optic networks such as for Fiber-to-the-location (FTTx) and 5G applications, and are equally applicable to other optical applications as well including indoor, industrial, wireless, or other suitable applications. Additionally, the concepts disclosed may be used with fiber optic connectors having any suitable footprint or construction. Various designs, constructions, or features for fiber optic terminals are disclosed in more detail with respect to explanatory embodiments as discussed herein and may be modified or varied as desired. 
       FIGS.  1 - 6    depict various views of an explanatory terminal  200  for depicting the disclosed concepts.  FIGS.  6 - 9    depict a plurality of flexible tabs  250  that are ganged together as a common flexible tab component  251  for use a component within the terminal  200 .  FIGS.  10 - 13    depict views of the adapter interface insert  220  that are ganged together for forming portions of the respective connection ports or connection port opening and configured for external fiber optic connectors comprising a latching trigger or the like.  FIGS.  14  and  15    depict terminal  200  with dust plugs  290  disposed in respective connection ports  236  for inhibiting dirt, debris and the like from entering the connection ports, and  FIGS.  16  and  17    depict perspective views of the dust plug  290 . 
       FIG.  1    shows a top perspective view of an explanatory terminal  200  having a shell  210  that defines an internal cavity  216  of the terminal  200  such as depicted in  FIG.  4   . Terminals may have any suitable size or shape as desired and may be re-enterable or not as desired. Terminal  200  comprises at least one connection port  236  disposed on the terminal  200  for receiving a suitable external fiber optic connectors (EC) for making an optical connection with the terminal. The explanatory terminal  200  shown has four connection ports  236  in a linear row as numbered, but other terminals may have any suitable number of connection ports  236  as desired. Further, the terminal  200  may have the connection ports  236  arranged in any desired configuration such as having the connection ports in multiple rows, or on more than one end, etc. 
     One or more input optical fibers may be attached to the terminal  200  by way of a fiber optic connector or as tether cable that enters into the terminal  200 . In other words, one or more optical signals from one or more optical fibers are inputted to the terminal at the input and one or more optical signals are outputted at the respective connection ports of the terminal as output signals. 
     Illustratively, terminals  200  may also have one or more input ports  280  for receiving an input tether  285  as shown in  FIGS.  1  and  2   .  FIG.  3    depict the input port for receiving a suitable external input connector so input optical signals may optically connect to terminal  200 . The input optical signals from the input connection or input optical fibers may be routed to the various connection ports  236  (e.g., output ports) of the terminal  200  as desired for distributing optical signals using terminal  200 . For instance, optical fibers inside the terminal  200  may have direct wiring from the input port  280  to the various connection ports  236  for optical communication, or the optical fibers from the input port  280  may be routed to one or more splitters, couplers or wavelength division multiplexers (WDM) disposed within the cavity  216  of the terminal and then routed to the connection ports  236  as desired. 
       FIG.  2    is a top perspective view of terminal  200  with an input fiber optic tether  285  shown attached at the input port  260  on the left-side of the connection ports  236  along with a plurality of external fiber optic connectors (EC) disposed in respective connection ports  236  on the right-side.  FIG.  3    depicts a front view of the explanatory fiber optic terminal of  FIG.  2    with the input connector port  280  on the left-side and a plurality of external fiber optic connectors (EC) to the right of the input connection port  260  disposed in respective fiber optic connection ports  236 . 
     Generally speaking, terminal  200  comprises a shell  210  comprising a body 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  280  are configured for receiving and retaining suitable external connectors (EC) as shown in  FIG.  2    for making optical connections with internal connector  240  of the terminal  200 . 
     The internal connectors  240  shown in  FIG.  4    have a LC footprint, but other types of internal connectors are possible for use such as a SC type connector for optical mating with a suitable external connector (EC). Internal connectors  240  or external connectors (EC) may use a latch or other key for orientating the alignment of the connectors within adapter  230 . Additionally, adapter  230  may comprise a retention feature or geometry (not numbered) for seating or securing the adapter(s)  230  in the terminal  200  adjacent to the connection ports  236 . 
     Connection ports  236  each comprises a respective optical connector opening  238  extending from an outer surface  234  of the terminal  200  toward or into a cavity  216  of the terminal  200  and defining a portion of a connection port passageway. By way of explanation, at least one connection port  236  may be formed from one or more components such as an adapter interface insert  220 , shell  210  or both the adapter interface insert  220  and the shell  210  as desired. For instance, the connection port  236  may molded as a portion of shell  210  or the connection port  236  may be formed by the adapter interface for allowing modular adaptability for different connector type by selecting the desired adapter interface for use. Terminal  200  may also comprises an input port  280  that is similar to the connection ports  236 , but may be configured for a multifiber connector or not. As shown, the connection ports  236  or input port  280  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 actuator  260  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. 
     Terminal  200  may have the input connection port  280  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, but may use an input tether cable if desired. Other configurations are possible besides an input connection port  280  that receives an external connector. Instead of using a input connection port that receives a connector, terminals  200  may be configured for receiving an input tether  285  attached to the terminal  200  at the input connection port  280  such as represented in  FIG.  2   . 
     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. 
     Terminal  200  has one or more optical fibers  250  routed from the one or more connection ports  236  toward an input connection port  280  in a suitable fashion inside cavity  216  for optical communication using terminal  200 . The internal connectors  240  may be are attached to optical fibers  250  that are routing through an optical splitter, wavelength division multiplexer (WDM) or the like for optical communication with the optical fiber(s) that are in optical communication with the input port  280  as known in the art. 
     The input connection port  280  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, WDM or passing optical fibers through the terminal  200 . Splitters 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  280  and use a 1×8 splitter within the terminal  200  for allowing eight connection ports  236  for outputs on the terminal  200 . The input connection port  280  may be configured in a suitable manner such as a single-fiber or multi-fiber port. The WDM splits the optical signals into different wavelengths for the respective connection ports as known in the art. 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. 
     As depicted in  FIGS.  1  and  2   , terminal  200  may comprise mounting features  210 MF that are integrally formed in the shell  210  or that are separate components attached to shell  210  for mounting the device. By way of example, shell  210  may have mounting features  210 MF disposed near first and second ends  212 ,  214  of shell  210 . The mounting feature  210 MF adjacent the second end  214  may a through hole with an internal support, and the mounting feature adjacent the first end of terminal may be a mounting tab (not shown) attached to shell  210 . However, mounting features  210 MF may be disposed at any suitable location on the shell  210 . 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 on the bottom side for aiding in securing the device to a round pole or the like. 
       FIG.  4    depicts a partial sectional view of terminal  200  showing internal construction details for the terminal  200  with the external fiber optic connector (EC) disposed within the connection port  236 , and  FIG.  5    is a detailed sectional view of a portion of the terminal  200 . Terminal  200  comprises shell  210 , at least one connection port  236  comprising an optical connector opening  238  disposed on the terminal  200 , an adapter  230  associated with the connection port for mating fiber optic connectors, flexible tab  250  disposed within the shell  210  and associated with the connection port  236 , and an actuator  260  capable of translating with respect to the terminal  200 . External fiber optic connectors (EC) may each comprise a latching trigger (ECT) for engaging the latch (ECL) of the respective external connector (EC) as shown in  FIG.  4   . 
     In some embodiments, a portion of the flexible tab  250  is capable of deflecting for engaging a latching trigger for releasing the external fiber optic connector. When the external connector EC is fully-inserted into the connection port  236 , the latch (ECL) is capable of deflecting and springing-back for securing the external connector (EC) within adapter  230 . In other words, the latch (ECL) is flexible and springs back to a retain position after being deflected for securing the external connector (EC) in the adapter  230 . Consequently, the external connector (EC) is released or secured within the connection port  236  without turning a coupling nut or a bayonet like the prior art multiports. 
     Terminal  200  also comprises one or more adapters  230  for receiving respective internal connectors  240  in alignment with the respective connection port  236  for making the optical connection with the external connector (EC). Adapters  230  may be ganged together for simplifying assembly or may be individual adapter components for each connection port  236  as desired. 
     When assembled, adapter(s)  230  are aligned with the respective connection port  236  or connection port passageway for optical mating between the respective internal connectors  240  and external connectors (EC). Adapter  230  is suitable for securing an internal (i.e., rear) connector  240  thereto for aligning and registering the internal connector  240  with the connection port  236  for optical mating. One or more optical fibers  250  (not visible) may be routed from the connection port  236  toward an input connection port  260  of the terminal  200 . For instance, the internal connector  240  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 . 
     Internal connector(s)  240  are aligned with the respective passageways of the connection port(s)  236  within the cavity  216  using the adapter(s)  240  of the terminal  200  as shown. The internal connectors  240  are associated with one or more of the plurality of optical fibers  250 . Each of the respective internal connectors  240  aligns and attaches to a structure such as the adapter  230  or other structure related to the connection ports  236  in a suitable matter. The plurality of internal connectors  240  may comprise a suitable rear connector ferrule (not visible) as desired and internal connectors  240  may take any suitable form from a simple ferrule that attaches to a standard connector type inserted into an adapter to a standard type of LC or SC connector. 
     Terminal  200  may also comprise an optional adapter interface insert  220  that can be swapped as desired for the intended external connector (EC). Adapter interface insert  220  allows the shell  210  of the terminal  200  to be adaptable to different external connector types by allowing the adapter interface insert  220  to be swapped out for different external connector types such as LC-type or SC-type of external connectors, instead of having the connector specific geometry molded into the shell  210 . Additionally, the adapter  230  and/or the flexible tab  250  may need to be swapped out for a specific connector type as well. In other embodiments, the specific adapter interface insert may be molded as a portion the connection port  236 , rather than forming all of the connection port as desired. 
     Alternatively, the adapter interface may be integrally formed as a portion of the shell  210  so that it is connector specific such as LC-type connector specific and requires fewer parts since an adapter interface insert  220  would not be necessary, but instead these connection port features would be formed as a portion of the shell  210 . In other words, a second portion  210 B of shell  210  would comprise the adapter interface geometry integrally molded as part of the second portion  210 B of shell  210 . 
     As best shown in  FIGS.  4  and  5   , the external fiber optic connector (EC) is disposed within the connection port  236 . The external fiber optic connector (EC) is secured within an adapter  230  associated with the connection port  236  for mating with the internal connector  240  of the terminal  200 . Specifically, the external fiber optic connector (EC) may be secured within adapter  230  using a latch (ECL) of the external connector (EC). Adapter  230  allows optical mating of the external connector (EC) with an internal fiber optic connector  240 . External connector (EC) also comprises a latching trigger (ECT) that is configured for engaging the latch (ECL) for releasing the external connector (EC) by pushing downward onto the latch (ECL) for deflecting the same and releasing the external connector (EC). 
     As depicted, when fully-inserted into the connection port  236  of terminal  200  the external fiber optic connector (EC) is secured by the latch (ECL) in adapter  230  for optical mating with an internal fiber optic connector  240  of terminal  200 . The internal fiber optic connector  240  may also comprise a latch  241  for securing the fiber optic connector  240  in adapter  230  as shown for optical mating. Internal fiber optic connector  240  may also comprise a latching trigger  243  for releasing the fiber optic connector  240  from the adapter  230  if desired. 
     Optical connections to the devices are made by inserting one or more suitable external fiber optic connectors (EC) into a respective connection port  236 , and may be optically disconnected as desired. Connection port  236  is associated with a actuator  260  for releasing the external connector in the terminal  200  and the latch (ECL) of the external connector (EC) is used for securing the external connector (EC) to the connection port  236  for making an optical connection. The actuator  260  advantageously allows the user to quickly and easily release the optical connection at the connection port  236  of terminal  200 . 
     Specifically, the external connector (EC) may be retained within the respective connection port  236  of the terminal by pushing and fully-seating the connector within the connection port  236  to engage the latch (ECL) with adapter  230 . To release the external connector (EC) from the respective connection port  236 , the actuator  260  is translated by pushing inward for engaging and deflecting the flexible tab  250  so it pushes on the latch trigger (ECT) of the external connector (EC), thereby translating the latch (ECL) to release the external connector (EC) from the adapter  230  and allowing the external connector (EC) to be removed from the connection port  236 . 
     Stated another way, the actuator  260  is capable of releasing the external connector (EC) when the actuator  260  translates within a portion of a securing feature passageway  245  to deflect the flexible tab  250  to release the external connector (EC). Additionally, the full insertion and automatic retention of the external connector (EC) may advantageously allow one-handed installation of the external connector (EC) by merely pushing the connector into the connection port  236  to engage the latch (ECL) with the adapter  230 , and pushing the actuator  260  for releasing the external connector (EC). However, other modes of operation for retaining and releasing the connector are possible according to the concepts disclosed. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  4  and  5   , terminal  200  comprises flexible tab  250  disposed within the shell  210  of the terminal  200 , and associated with the respective connection port  236  along with an actuator  260  capable of translating relative to the terminal  200 . As depicted, actuator  260  is capable of engaging a portion of the flexible tab  250  for deflecting a portion of the flexible tab  250 . The flexible tab  250  is bowed to a normally-open connection position so it does not appreciably deflect the latching trigger (ECT) of the external connector (EC). When the flexible tab  250  is suitably deflected by translating the actuator  260 , the flexible tab  250  engages the latching trigger (ECT) of the external connector (EC). Consequently, the latching trigger (ECT) translates and pushes onto the latch (ECL) of the external connector (EC) for releasing the external connector from adapter  230 . The flexible tab  250  is capable of deflecting to a connector release position when the actuator  260  engages a portion of the flexible tab  250 . In other words, the latch (ECL) that secures the external connector (EC) in adapter  230  is moved from a normally-open position connection position to a release position so that the external connector (EC) is released or releasable from the adapter  230 . Further, the flexible tab  250  may bias the actuator  260  to a normally-open position. 
     As depicted in  FIG.  4   , the shell  210  may be formed by a first portion  210 A and a second portion  210 B, but other constructions are possible for shell  210  using the concepts disclosed. Shell  210  may also comprise interlocking features between the first portion  210 A and the second portion  210 B of the shell  210  such as a tongue and groove construction for alignment or sealing of the device. Additionally, the shell  210  may have features for aligning and seating portions of the adapter interface insert  220 , adapter  230 , or flexible tabs  250 , thereby aligning components and making assembly of the terminal  200  easier and quicker. 
     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 if desired. To this end, terminal  200  or devices may also comprise a sealing element disposed between the first portion  210 A and the second portion  210 B of the shell  210 . The sealing element may cooperate with shell  210  geometry such as respective grooves or tongues in the shell  210 . 
     The concepts disclosed allow relatively small terminals  200  having a relatively high-density of connections along with an organized arrangement for the connection port  236  of the terminals  200 . Shells have a given height H, width W and length L that define a volume for the multiport as depicted in  FIGS.  1  and  3   . By way of example, the shell  210  of terminal  200  may define a volume of 800 cubic centimeters or less, other embodiments of the terminal  200  with shell  210  may define the volume of 400 cubic centimeters or less, still other embodiments of terminal  200  with shell  210  may define the volume of 100 cubic centimeters or less as desired. Some embodiments of terminals  200  comprise a port width density of at least one connection port  236  per each 20 millimeters of width W of the terminal  200 . Other port width densities are possible such as at least one connection port  236  per each 15 millimeters of width W of the terminal  200 . 
     Likewise, embodiments of terminal  200  may comprise a given density per volume of the shell  210  as desired such as a volume of 800 cubic centimeters or less with at least one connection port  236  per each 20 millimeters of width W of the terminal  200 . 
     As best depicted in  FIG.  5   , a portion of actuator  260  is disposed within a portion of the securing feature passageway  245  and cooperates with the flexible tab  250  of the associated connection port  260 . Consequently, a portion of actuator  260  is capable of translating within a portion of the securing feature passageway  245 . Actuator  260  comprises a finger  260 F for cooperating with a portion of a flexible tab  250 . As depicted, a sealing feature  260 S may be disposed on the actuator  260 . Sealing feature  260 S provides a seal between a portion of the actuator  260  and the securing feature passageway  245  to inhibit dirt, dust and debris from entering the device. As shown, the sealing feature  260 S is disposed within a groove of actuator  260 . 
       FIGS.  6 - 9    depict views of the flexible tab  250  associated with the respective connection ports  236  of terminal  200 . As shown in  FIG.  4   , the flexible tab  250  is shaped with a bowed-portion to create the desired shape for the normally-open position and is formed so that it is flexible and able to spring-back to the normally-open position after being deformed for releasing the external connector. Flexible tab  250  has a geometry (e.g., shape and thickness) that comprises a bowed-shape (e.g., curved upward) in the normally-open position that may be deformed or flexed to a release position by the actuator using a suitable force. As shown in  FIG.  6   , the bowed portion of the flexible tab  250  may also comprises a cutout portion (not numbered), thereby tailoring the force required for deformation and allowing easier spring-back of the flexible tab  250  once the deforming force is removed. By way of example, the flexible tab  250  may be formed from any suitable material such as a suitable polymer or spring steel as desired. 
     The terminal may use a plurality of individual flexible tabs  250  or the flexible tabs  250  may be ganged together for ease of assembly and reducing the number of components used. Flexible tabs  250  may have one or more alignment features for placing and registering the position of the flexible tabs within the shell  210  of the multiport. Moreover, the flexible tabs  250  may have features such as that inhibit the movement of the same when being deflected. 
     In this embodiment, a plurality of flexible tabs  250  associated with the respective connection ports  236  of terminal  200  are formed on a common flexible tab component  251  as shown. In this specific embodiment, the flexible tab component  251  is configured for the terminal  200  having four connection ports  236  using four flexible tabs  250  that are formed on a common substrate, but the concepts may be scaled for any suitable number of connection ports  236  as desired. 
     Although the features for securing and aligning the flexible tabs  250  are disclosed with respect to the common flexible tab  251 , the concepts may be used with individual flexible tabs  250  as well. As depicted, common flexible tab  251  has a front end  251 F and a rear end  251 R and the flexible tabs  250  are disposed between the front end  251 F and the rear end  251 R and bow upward toward the actuator  260  when assembled. As best shown in  FIG.  9   , the flexible tabs  250  may be bowed or protrude upward by a distance  250 P at the top of the bow in a relaxed state (e.g., not deflected). 
     Common flexible tab  251  comprises a ridge  253  as best shown in  FIG.  7    that cooperates with the shell  210  and inhibits movement of the component in the Z-direction. Specifically, the ridge  253  fits into a groove of the first portion  210 A of shell  210  as best shown in  FIG.  5   . Other features of the flexible tab  250  or common flexible tab  251  may cooperate with the shell or other components of the terminal  200  as desired. 
     Common flexible tab  251  or flexible tab  250  may have other features for alignment or securing as well. For instance, common flexible tab  251  or flexible tab may also include one or more holes  257  for cooperating and aligning the component with the adapter interface insert  220 . More specifically, the holes  257  may cooperate with complimentary pins  227  disposed on the adapter interface insert  220 , thereby registering the common flexible tab  215  with the adapter interface insert  200 . Common flexible tab  251  may also have one or more notches  259  at the end portions for cooperating with the adapter interface insert  220  or shell  210 . More specifically, the notches  259  may cooperate with complimentary protrusions  229  disposed on the adapter interface insert  220  when assembled. 
       FIGS.  10 - 12    are perspective views of the adapter interface insert  220  of terminal  200 . As depicted, adapter interface insert  220  has a front end  220 F and a rear end  220 R for forming a portions of the respective connection ports  236  of the terminal. Specifically, this adapter interface insert  220  comprises a plurality of passageways  236  from the front end  220 F to the rear end  220 R sized for receiving a portion of the respective external connectors (EC) for the terminal  200 , but other suitable inserts are possible using the concepts disclosed. The respective passageways are sized for the desired external connector (EC) as desired such as a LC type or SC type of connector. 
     Each of the connection port  236  portions of the adapter interface insert  220  also has an open side formed with a groove  236 G for permitting the latch (ECL) and latching trigger (ECT) of the respective external connectors (EC) to pass through when inserting the same into the connection port  236 . 
     As best shown in  FIG.  12   , the adapter interface insert  200  may also have geometry for aligning and securing the same into a portion of the shell  210  when assembled. As best shown in  FIG.  4   , the adapter interface insert comprises a lug  225  that cooperates with a second portion  210 B of shell  210  for registering the component in position relative to the shell  210 . Thereafter, the adapter  230  may have cooperating geometry for aligning and securing the adapter  230  to adapter interface insert  220 , and the common flexible tab  251  can cooperate with the adapter interface insert  220  and adapter  230  as depicted. Consequently, when the components are assembled within the shell  210  they have a proper registration for the connection ports  236  and actuator  260  and are held securing in place for proper operation. 
       FIG.  14    is a perspective view of the explanatory terminal  200  having a plurality of dust plugs  290  disposed within respective connection ports  236  of the terminal  200 . The dust plugs  290  inhibit dirt, dust and debris from entering the respective connection ports  236 . Dust plugs  290  may be removed from the respective connection ports for inserting a suitable external connector and making an optical connection with the terminal  200 .  FIG.  15    is a sectional view of terminal  200  showing dust plug  290  disposed within the connection port  236  of terminal  200 . As depicted, the actuator  260  may cooperate with the flexible tab  250  for deflecting a latching arm  290 L of the dust plug  290  for releasing the same from the adapter  230  releasing the dust plug  290  from the respective connection port  236 . Thereafter, the dust plug may be removed from the connection port  236 . The latching arm  290 L engages with the adapter  230  once fully-inserted into the connection port  236  due to the spring action of the latching arm  290 L. This cooperation of the flexible tab  250  and actuator  260  with the latching arm  290 L of the dust plug  290  is similar to the cooperation of the flexible tab  250  and actuator  260  with latching trigger (ECT) and latch (EC) of the external connector (EC).  FIGS.  16  and  17    are respective sectional and perspective views of the dust plug  290  having a front end  293  and a rear end  291  with a body  295  and a shoulder  297  disposed therebetween. The latching arm  290 L is flexible and may spring back to a retain position for securing the same in the adapter  230 . The rear end  291  of the dust plug  290  may comprise a grip for aiding the removal or insertion of the dust plug  290  from the connection port  236 . 
     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. 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.