US Patent 7777644 Method and conduit for transmitting signals

A wired drill pipe for a drill string of a downhole tool positioned in a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation is provided. The wired drill pipe includes a drill pipe, a cable and a wire retainer. The drill pipe has a slot at each end thereof. The slots are adapted to receive at least one transformer. The drill pipe has an inner surface defining a passage for the flow of mud therethrough. The cable extends from the transformer into the passage of the drill pipe. The wire retainer is positioned on the inner surface of the drill pipe. The wire retainer is adapted to secure the cable therein.