Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus and method for recovering a communication link between a Mobile Station (MS) and a Base Station System (BSS) in a mobile communication system when the communication link is disconnected while a communication service is in progress. When detecting the disconnection, the MS stores information of the communication link. If the MS acquires synchronization with the BSS within a predetermined time period from the detection, it resumes the communication service through the communication link. Upon the disconnection, the BSS stores resource and other information of the MS. If the BSS detects that the MS has acquired synchronization with the BSS within the predetermined time period from the disconnection, the BSS resumes the communication service through the communication link. This ensures a stable communication service in a mobile communication system that has many radio dead zones where the MS cannot normally receive services.

Abstract: Methods and base stations for controlling downlink power, especially in systems employing virtual cells, are described. By providing attenuators in each transmit signal processing chain, e.g., after upconverting to intermediate frequencies, downlink power control can be more finely tuned to different antenna elements.