Hermaphroditic fiber optic connectors for deployable fiber optic communication requirements. These economical connectors are designed to be the industry's most rugged connector providing easy maintenance and superior optical performance. 109 series hermaphroditic connectors offers the ultimate in flexibility and is a direct replacement for the TAC4. The 109 connectors can function as either a plug or a receptacle to fit any system design. With these connectors, cable assemblies can be daisy-chained to provide the required distance for each specific deployment condition. The 109 connector line meets or exceeds the pertinent requirements of SMPTE standard 358M on harsh environment multi-channel fiber optic connectors suitable for deployment in demanding outdoor broadcast applications, including high definition television (HDTV) signal transmission.