Patent ID: 6240073
Filing Date: 2001-05-29
Classification: H04B

Abstract:
A multiple access communications system for use in a satellite communication network, comprising:a plurality of user terminals for generating data to be transmitted over said multiple access communication system;at least one hub for receiving data over said multiple access communication system from said plurality of user terminals;transmitter means within each user terminal for receiving data to be transmitted from said user terminal to said hub, said transmitter means including first communication means for transmitting short bursty data in combination with second communication means for continuous transmission of data;switching means coupled to said transmitter means for switching transmission between said first communication means and said second communication means in accordance with predefined criteria, andreceiver means within said at least one hub adapted to receive data transmitted by said plurality of terminals utilizing either said first communication means or said second communication means;wherein said receiver means comprises:means for receiving data transmitted by said plurality of user terminals using said first communication means, said first communication means utilizing non synchronous frequency hopping code division multiple access communications;means for receiving data transmitted by said plurality of user terminals using said second communication means, said second communication means utilizing frequency division multiple access communications; andmeans for receiving preamble and synchronization message data transmitted by said plurality of user terminals precedent to transmissions utilizing said first communication means.