Abstract: Method and processor for determining loading of a communications system shared by a plurality of user-terminals are provided. The method allows a respective terminal for monitoring a control channel including logical messages therein. The monitoring of the messages in the control channel is performed regardless of whether or not the logical messages therein are specifically addressed to that terminal. The method further allows for estimating a parameter indicative of system loading based on information in the monitored logical messages.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for sending parasitic digital packets over a trunked radio system network during the time that a trunking channel is unoccupied. The parasitic digital packets are received by one or more parasitic receivers, which are not a part of the conventional trunked radio system. To ensure the integrity and reliability of the trunked radio system, the transmission of these parasitic data packets is preempted when the system is required to transmit signals between users of the trunked radio system.