A factory-prepared preterminated and pre-connectorized fiber optic
distribution cable having at least one mid-span access location for
providing access to a plurality of preterminated optical fibers
pre-connectorized with a multi-fiber connector is provided. Also provided
is a method of forming a pre-connectorized fiber optic distribution cable
by terminating and pre-connectorizing a predetermined number of the
plurality of optical fibers of the cable to create a pre-connectorized
mid-span access location. The fiber optic distribution cable provides a
low profile mid-span access location that is sufficiently flexible to be
installed through relatively small-diameter buried conduits and over
aerial installation sheave wheels and pulleys without violating the
minimum bend radius of the cable or the optical fibers. A protective
encapsulant protects and seals the mid-span access location during cable
reeling, unreeling, installation and until the access location is needed
for interconnecting a connectorized fiber optic drop or branch cable.