Abstract: A method and apparatus for transferring session information from a source access node to a target access node reduces the delay in the delivery of packets for delay intolerant applications such as voice over IP. A protocol data table is stored in the target access node. The source access node sends the target access node a session configuration token that can be used to lookup session information in the protocol data table.

Abstract: A cell switching method reduces the time to setup a connection between a target access node and a packet data serving node when a mobile station switches between a source access node and the target access node. A source access node receives sector selection from a mobile station indicating that the mobile station is about to switch to a target access node. The source access node sends a signaling message to a packet data serving node responsive to receipt of said sector selection indication that identifies the target access node selected by the mobile station. The packet data serving node can then begin bi-casting packet data for the mobile station to both the source access node and the target access node for a predetermined period of time, after which the packet data serving node stops sending packet data to the source access node.