Abstract: An electronic lock system includes a key having a memory for storing a first parameter defined by a plurality of fields and a second parameter indicative of a number of the fields. A lock has a receptacle for reading the first and second parameters from the key's memory and compare circuitry for comparing respective fields of the first parameter with a third parameter stored in the lock, with the number of fields compared based on the second parameter. Access to the lock is provided responsive to the compare circuitry, such that a single key may access a predetermined set of locks. The electronic lock is capable of performing a plurality of functions. Control is provided such that permission to access the functions is configurable for each key.

Abstract: In a representative embodiment of the invention described herein, a well logging system for investigating subsurface formations is controlled by a general purpose computer programmed for real-time operation. The system is cooperatively arranged to provide for all aspects of a well logging operation, such as data acquisition and processing, tool control, information or data storage, and data presentation as a well logging tool is moved through a wellbore. The computer controlling the system is programmed to provide for data acquisition and tool control commands in direct response to asynchronous real-time external events. Such real-time external events may occur, for example, as a result of movement of the logging tool over a selected depth interval, or in response to requests or commands directed to the system by the well logging engineer by means of keyboard input.