A cable link may include a first link connector in signal communication with at least one sensor in a drill string and coupled to the drill string, a second link connector spaced apart from the first link connector and in signal communication with a telemetry system, the second connector link coupled to the drill string, and a linking cable having signal connectors at each end thereof, the linking cable having at least one of an electrical conductor and an optical fiber therein, the signal connectors each configured to latch proximate a respective one of the first and second link connector.