Abstract: A retention and protection device holds one or more envelope attachments to a connector core. The envelope attachment may be removed from the device and installed upon the connector core to convert the connector core into a different type of connector to mate with or within a different style of connector or port. The device is a combination of features including a clasp for attachment to the connector core, such as by residing within a recessed valley of a strain relief boot of the connector core. One or more lanyards may be provided. Each lanyard has a first end attached to the clasp and a second end with a fitting. The fitting is structurally dimensioned to removably hold an envelope attachment and prevent dust from entering one end of the envelope attachment. Once removed from the fitting, the envelope attachment is structurally compatible to attach to the connector core.

Abstract: A multi-fiber fiber optic connector is provided having features that allow for changeability with respect to gender. A pin holder is configured to releasably retain a pair of alignment pins and includes top and bottom plates having both ramps and front tabs. Opposing distal ends of the front top and bottom tabs are movable relative to each other between a pin retaining position and a pin release position. When the front top and bottom tabs are in the pin retaining position, the distal ends are engaged at least partially within a circumferential groove of a corresponding alignment pin, and when the front top and bottom tabs are in the pin release position, at least a portion of corresponding top and bottom ramps are spread apart from one another flexing the top and the bottom plates away from each other and disengaging the distal ends from the alignment pin.