Abstract: Adaptive thresholding techniques provide adaptive equalization by making the calculation of the error feedback signal adaptive. Typically, the error feedback signal is based on a comparison of the filter output with a set of thresholds. The largest tap weight is defined as unity and the other tap weights are confined to values less than unity. The invention provides several advantages. A multiply is removed, the dynamic range of the system is increased and the overall performance of the system is improved. Moreover, the teachings of the invention may be applied to virtually any method of performing adaptive equalization without a known desired signal.