Abstract: A communication system for communication with a downhole tool comprising: a first communication transceiver in a first tool for measurement while drilling and a second communication transceiver in at least one of the first tool, a second tool for measurement while drilling, and an external instrumentation interface. The communication system also includes a bus system comprising a first conductive connection and a second conductive connection in each of the first tool and at least one of the first tool, a second tool and an external instrumentation interface, said first conductive connection and the second conductive connection of the first tool in operable communication with the first communication transceiver and the first conductive connection and the second conductive connection of the at least one of the first tool, a second tool and an external instrumentation interface also in operable communication with the second communication transceiver.

Abstract: A multiple contact connector which can be used to protect live circuits including power and signal line, during connection and disconnection in wet environments, includes a male probe adapted to removably seat in a female receptacle. The male probe and the female receptacle are constructed to attach to equipment which includes downhole tools. The probe includes at least three uniquely spaced contacts on an outer surface. The receptacle has at least three contacts on an inner surface spaced so as to mate with the probe contacts when the probe is seated in the receptacle. The contacts are spaced such that no more than one of the at least three probe contacts may be aligned with and contacting any of the at least three receptacle contacts, unless said probe is seated within said receptacle. This prevents cross coupling of the live power and signal lines thereby preventing damage to the associated circuits.