an array of optical fibers each having a first uncoated segment that has a first diameter and that has a first outer surface;

a multi-fiber ferrule comprising a medial portion defining an array of grooves that are recessed relative to an upper surface of the medial portion of the multi-fiber ferrule, wherein each groove of the array of grooves has a first maximum depth that is greater than the first diameter;

wherein the array of optical fibers is received within the array of grooves, with the first uncoated segment of each optical fiber positioned in a corresponding groove of the array of grooves; and

wherein, when the multi-fiber ferrule is oriented with the upper surface facing upward, each optical fiber comprises a non-contacting portion of the first outer surface that is devoid of contact with the array of grooves, and the non-contacting portion comprises an arc of at least 120 degrees and that is centered at a horizontal tangent of a lowermost boundary of the first outer surface;

wherein:

each optical fiber of the array of optical fibers has a second coated segment that has a second diameter;

the medial portion of the multi-fiber ferrule further defines an array of groove extensions that are recessed relative to the upper surface, wherein each groove extension of the array of groove extensions embodies an extension of a corresponding groove of the array of grooves; and

each second coated segment is received within a respective groove extension of the array of groove extensions.