Abstract: An antenna assembly for a communications network is disclosed, the assembly comprising an antenna which is operable in different modes of operation; wherein, in a first mode, the antenna is operable as a scanning antenna to scan and thereby determine a communications link with a selected one of a plurality of base stations and in a second mode is operable as a communications antenna to communicate with the selected one of the plurality of base stations. Control means are provided which are operable to receive data from the antenna when operating in a scanning mode, to determine which base station should be used for future data communication and can move the orientation of the antenna such that it is operable to communicate with selected one of the base stations. A method of operation is also disclosed.

Abstract: Multichannel communications method and system wherein transmit power is controlled for each channel to achieve progressive approach towards a preset or given minimum of signal (or carrier) to noise plus interference ratio (SNIR) for any active channel concerned. Progression is by steps from frame to frame of transmissions according to signals as received in the previous frame and scaling of difference between reciprocals of previous frame actual and preset or given minimum SNIRs.