Abstract: A method for synchronizing base stations (104, 106, 108, 110) or radio ports in a communication system (100) such as a cordless or cellular telephone system uses a mobile station (114) or handset for synchronizing unsynchronized base stations. The mobile station (114) is first synchronized to a reference base station. The mobile station (114) then initiates communication with the unsynchronized base station and calculates a synchronization adjustment. The mobile station (114) transmits the synchronization adjustment to the unsynchronized base station which uses the synchronization adjustment to adjust its time base.

Abstract: A radiotelephone handset (120) includes an antenna (122) and receiver (124) for receiving a control channel from a plurality of base stations (102, 104, 106). A time division multiple access controller circuit (126) coupled to the receiver stores all received control channel information in a captured data buffer (134). Under control of a processor (128), the handset identifies as candidate suitable base stations those base stations having acceptable received signal strength, acceptable identity or system capability. From the candidates, the handset (120) chooses a suitable base station having acceptable signal quality, access rights and system capability and synchronizes communication with the suitable base station.