Patent ID: 6038223
Filing Date: 2000-03-14
Classification: H04W

Abstract:
A method for providing a packet data access scheme in a digital cellular communications network which comprises:providing a broadcast control channel (BCCH) over which the network broadcasts control information to mobile stations in the network;providing a random access channel (ACH) over which the network communicates only control signaling and short data messages between mobile stations and the network;providing at least one polling data channel (PDCH) over which the network communicates larger quantities of packet data between a mobile station and the network, said at least one PDCH providing dedicated access between said mobile station and the network;broadcasting messages over said broadcast control channel (BCCH) which indicate the presence and operative parameters of said random access and polling channels to said mobile stations, at least one of said messages including a channel restriction information parameter limiting access of said at least one PDCH to a subset of said mobile stations;receiving a data registration signal from a mobile station of said subset of said mobile stations on the ACH channel to indicate that said mobile station has data to send to the network over said at least one PDCH, said mobile station recognizing from said channel restriction information parameter that said mobile station is allowed access to said at least one PDCH; andallocating within the network said at least one PDCH to said mobile station to allow said mobile station to send its data to the network.