An annular coupler for transmitting data across a tool joint may include a first coupler segment spanning a first portion of the circumference of the annular coupler. Upon authentication of a user of the mobile device, the server generates the payment key, encodes the key in an image, such as a bar code, and transmits the image to the mobile device. The message is not stored in intermediary memory, such as operating system buffer memory, during the transfer. Each stop device receives the initial start message and any subsequent start messages, using the elapsed time in the start message to synchronize a local timer. A method includes: allocating resources to a user equipment for a data flow over a plurality of time intervals with a single signaling event at a wireless network radio network layer; and informing the user equipment of the allocated resources.