Abstract: A remote communications node unit (86) determines radio frequency (RF) dynamic spectrum utilization for use in a RF communications network (154) and includes a measuring module (46) for measuring radio frequency (RF) interference at a location of the communications node unit (86). A processing module (62) receives RF measurement data from the measuring module (46) for determining RF interference in a local environment of the remote communications node (86) based upon selected factors of the type including mission priority parameters, channel availability statistics, link dynamic information, and the waveform dependent susceptibility data. The processing module (62) controls communications frequency and characteristics used by the remote communications module (86) for exchange of information with other remote communications nodes (86).

Abstract: An artificial ramping waveform profile is applied to a burst transmission power amplifier in order to reduce transients. A profile source is supplied with a plurality of pre-determined artificial ramping profiles. At the beginning of the burst transmission ramping period, one of the artificial ramping profiles is selected and fed to the power amplifier. The selection of the artificial ramping profile is based at least in part on the first message symbol of the message to be burst transmitted. Preferably, each different possible first message symbol has its own unique corresponding artificial ramping profile, and the corresponding waveform is used to artificially ramp the power amplifier when that message symbol is the first message symbol. At the end of the ramping period, the inputs to the power amplifier are switched to the traditional signal source, such as the FIR filters, etc., for receipt of the message symbols.

Abstract: A signal strength for a received signal such as a radio signal transmitted over a communication network is determined. The signal strength measurement is compensated for non-linear characteristics of the receiver. The compensation is provided by taking two signal strength readings with the receiver set at two different, known, gain levels. The difference between the expected change in the signal strength and the change actually measured by the receiver is used to generate a compensated signal strength measurement A table of compensation factors is generated for each signal strength which is also utilized in generating the compensated signal strength measurement. The compensated signal strength measurement reading is transmitted to the communication network for use in mobile assisted handover.