FIBER OPTIC BACKPLANE CONNECTOR WITH SPACER

A backplane connector kit configured for mounting on a backplane and comprising: (a) an insert; (b) a retainer defining a retainer length, and being configured to receive at least one ferrule of a cable assembly and to couple with the insert, thereby securing the cable assembly to the insert; (c) an outer shell; and (d) at least one spacer configured to allow a first end of the spacer to seat with a front side of the backplane, and a second end of the spacer to seat with the outer shell; wherein the length of the spacer is sufficiently long such that the spacer receives at least a portion of retainer such that no more than 50% of the retainer length extends beyond the back side of the backplane.