Abstract: Several testing methods and apparatus for wireless communications, such as a cellular telephone communications, are described. One method for use in troubleshooting a problematic call in a wireless communication system by a computer test station includes the steps of receiving a telephone call from a wireless telephone unit while the wireless telephone unit is simultaneously connected in a call; receiving, during the telephone call, first information which identifies the wireless telephone unit and second information which identifies a wireless switch utilized in the call; sending, during the telephone call, a trace command having the caller ID information to an address associated with the wireless switch; and receiving, in response to sending the trace command, call trace information including information that identifies a plurality of devices of the wireless switch utilized in the call.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided wherein call-blocking probability of a telecommunications system is calculated based on consideration of over flow paths and alternate routes. Once the routes and overflow pathways are identified, the total number of call attempts and calls failed, due to congestion, is determined from statistical route data. Dividing the number of failed calls due to congestion by the number of attempted calls results in the blocking proportion for each route that is used by the methods disclosed herein to calculate the probability of blocking for that route.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are disclosed for communicating with wireless peripheral devices. One method receives a communication for the wireless peripheral device. Wireless signals, such as activation, initialization, or registration signals/messages, are communicated to the wireless peripheral device utilizing more than one wireless technology standard. When the wireless peripheral device responds, the communication is forwarded to the wireless peripheral device using a single wireless technology standard.