Abstract: A D-AMPS+ cellular communications air interface is presented wherein a packet data control channel and packet data traffic channel is supported in addition to the conventional digital control channel and digital traffic channel. In particular, the packet data control channel, packet data traffic channel and digital traffic channel support multiple modulation level operation (high versus low). Procedures are provided for intracell and intercell modulation transition of mobile station communications carried by a traffic channel. In particular, these procedures facilitate intracell and intercell modulation transition to a traffic channel using the same level of modulation, as well as intracell and intercell (fall-forward and fall-backward) modulation transition to a traffic channel using a different level of modulation.

Abstract: A system for enabling network convergence and interworking between multiple communications networks is disclosed. A subscriber is associated with a plurality of communications networks each utilizing its own schemes, protocols, and standards for effectuating communication therein. A main centralized database storing subscription, network, service, and location data associated with each of the communications networks is provided. A main administrative node for defining and providing new subscription, subscriber preference, and parameters is further provided. The main centralized database and the administrative node then communicate with corresponding functions within each of the communications networks to provide centralized information sharing, data control, and network resource management across the plurality of associated communications networks.

Abstract: During a "make before you break" handoff performed within a CDMA communications system, duplicate downlink communications are generated and routed through different base stations for delivery to the mobile station. At the mobile station, the duplicate signals are received and the frame sequence numbers of the substantially simultaneously received frames therein are compared. If the sequence numbers do not match, the duplicate signals are identified as not being synchronously received by the mobile station. In response thereto, the mobile station signals the communications network on the uplink with a timing adjustment message, and appropriate timing modifications are made with respect to the transmission of the duplicate signals in order to provide for substantially synchronous reception. Diversity combination and decoding are then performed on the received signals.