Abstract: Communication with a measuring-while-drilling equipment sub, when the sub is at the surface, is established by placing a transmitter-receiver within transmitting range of the electrode/antenna array of the sub. The transmitter-receiver must be compatible with the sub equipment and be capable of transmitting to the sub instructions to dump the sub memory and/or add data to the sub memory.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for actuating a valve. The present invention is particularly useful with a valve for imparting pressure pulses in a pressure pulse telemetry system. The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for actuating a valve from a first to a second position wherein the actuating force is adjusted in response to a measured value characteristic of the minimum force necessary to actuate the valve. The apparatus and method of the present invention advantageously and beneficially reduces the power requirement for actuating the valve, prolonging battery life, and minimizes the deleterious affects of excess mechanical and electrical energy on the valve and circuit components, prolonging valve and circuit life.