Abstract: A communications circuit can operate with a data channel and a control channel. A changeable portion of the circuit can be reconfigurable between a first mode associated with activity on the control channel only and a second mode associated with activity on both the data channel and the control channel. The first mode can be selected to reduce power consumption compared to the second mode. Controller circuitry is provided to sense signals associated with the control channel and to switch the changeable portion between the first and second modes.

Abstract: A communications circuit can operate in a first mode, such as a diversity mode including space time transmit diversity (STTD). In this mode, a number of equalizer filter portions connected to a number of post-equalizer processors are employed. When the diversity mode is not required, the extra equalizer filter portions would represent a waste of power consumption and/or chip space. A combining circuit and suitable control circuitry are provided to allow use of the additional equalizer filter portions to be made in other operating modes. Appropriate trade-offs can be made based on power consumption and performance.