Abstract: For a method for searching synchronization patterns in serial, packet-oriented and multiplexed data streams, the m bits of a synchronization pattern are continuously inserted into each nth packet of a data stream. One bit of bits of the serial data stream that is acquired and comprises n packets is respectively stored in a memory cell of allocated memories that are m memory cells wide, said memory cell representing a bit position within n packets. The number of memories is determined by n×number of bits per packet. Upon recognition of a bit pattern in one of the memories, the bit position of the bit pattern in the serial data stream is defined.