Abstract: A method for communicating a packet of digital information including at least a preamble with a synchronization pattern, and a data field. The method includes the steps of including at least a plurality of test words at different respective locations in the data field; transmitting the packet as a whole including the test words from a transmitting device to a receiving device; receiving the packet with the receiving device; evaluating each of the plurality of test words in the received packet based on a comparison with a predefined criteria; and analyzing data reception properties associated with receiving the packet based on the evaluating step.

Abstract: A cellular communication device for a cellular communication network which includes a radio-frequency (RF) transmitter for transmitting an RF signal at an output power level to one or more other devices in the cellular communication network; an RF receiver for receiving an RF signal from one or more other devices in the cellular communication network; and a gain control circuit for sampling the output power level to obtain a sampled output power level signal, digitizing the sampled output power level signal, and adjusting a gain of the RF transmitter based on the digitized sampled output power level signal in order that the output power level of the RF transmitter approaches a predefined output power level. The gain may also be adjusted in response to the Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) in order to conserve battery power.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a peripheral apparatus which enables users to communicate with a mobile device via radio as well as optical transmission substantially simultaneously. The peripheral apparatus includes a radio card which includes circuitry for conducting RF communication; and an antenna apparatus that is selectively detachable from the radio card, the antenna apparatus includes an optical device for conducting optical communications. When the antenna apparatus is attached to the radio card, the radio card is capable of radio and optical communications. The peripheral apparatus is particularly useful in that an available com port does not have to be solely dedicated for optical communications. Furthermore, the peripheral apparatus avoids the problems associated with employing external wires to connect an optical transceiver to the mobile device.