Method of converting a mechanical interface of a fiber optic connector

The present disclosure relates to a backward compatibility converter including a converter housing having a first end positioned opposite from a first second end. The first end of the converter housing includes an end wall defining a first opening. The second end of the converter housing defines a second opening. The converter housing defines an internal passage that extends through the converter housing from the first opening to the second opening. The first end of the converter housing includes two paddles that project outwardly from the end wall. The paddles are positioned at opposite sides of the first opening and include inner surfaces that oppose each other. The converter housing defines internal threads located within the internal passage. The backward compatibility converter also includes a coupling nut rotatably mounted about an exterior of the converter housing adjacent the second end of the converter housing. The backward compatibility converter further includes a sealing member mounted about the exterior of the converter housing at al location between the coupling nut and the first end of the converter housing.