Abstract: A frequency hopping transceiver having a protocol for selecting a clear channel for exchanging QAM payload data signals. An energy level in a current channel is sounded by to determine whether it is clear or busy. When the current channel is clear an outgoing frequency shift key (FSK) handshake signal is transmitted. When the current channel is busy or an incoming handshake signal is not received, the transceiver hops to the next channel without waiting until the dwell time has elapsed for the current channel. When a channel is clear and the FSK handshake signal is received the transceiver uses a differential synchronization time for exchanging QAM acquisition signals and payload data in unison.