Abstract: A unique method and apparatus for allowing a wireless communication system to offer increased IMSI number functionality and corresponding global roaming capability by converting an identification number received from a particular mobile station in the wireless communication system in a first format to a second format which allows for use of more information included in the identification number is disclosed. A variable length IMSI number in TIA/EIA/IS-95 format is received at a base station in encoded form. The base station decodes the parameters included in the IMSI number into their original decimal values, and, if all parameters have not been sent in accordance with the IMSI type, will add the proper values for the unsent parameters. The MCC, IMSI_S, and IMSI_11_12 parameters of the IMSI number are then stored in a 15-digit IMSI array. The contents of each location of the 15-digit array are associated with a specific location in an 8-octet structure which is required by ANSI/TIA/EIA-41.

Abstract: A unique method and apparatus for allowing a wireless communication system to offer increased IMSI number functionality and corresponding global roaming capability by converting an identification number received from a particular mobile station in the wireless communication system in a first format to a second format which allows for use of more information included in the identification number is disclosed. A variable length IMSI number in TIA/EIA/IS-95 format is received at a base station in encoded form. The base station decodes the parameters included in the IMSI number into their original decimal values, and, if all parameters have not been sent in accordance with the IMSI type, will add the proper values for the unsent parameters. The MCC, IMSI_S, and IMSI_11_12 parameters of the IMSI number are then stored in a 15-digit IMSI array. The contents of each location of the 15-digit array are associated with a specific location in an 8-octet structure which is required by ANSI/TIA/EIA-41.