Abstract: An apparatus for acquiring a pseudo-random (PN) sequence timing for a code division multiple access (CDMA) radiotelephone. A buffer stores samples of representations of at least one pilot signal. A correlator coupled to the buffer is operable to correlate at least a portion of the samples with a PN sequence at each of a plurality of different PN offsets to produce corresponding correlation energies. A controller coupled to the correlator interrupts the correlator as soon as the PN sequence at a particular PN offset produces a correlation energy at least equal to an energy threshold.

Abstract: A method of activating a radiotelephone operable in a spread-spectrum multiple access radiotelephone system. A searcher receiver (114) is activated, and the searcher receiver (114) acquires a PN sequence timing of a pilot signal. At least one demodulation branch (122) is activated after activation of the searcher receiver (114), and the demodulation branch synchronizes to the PN sequence timing of the selected pilot signal after the searcher receiver (114) has acquired the PN sequence timing.