Method to optimize forward link capacity from a mixed population of single- and dual-diversity mobile stations

Abstract

A method for optimizing the capacity of a forward link in a cellular telecommunications network involves dynamically setting the minimum gain level on the forward link for each mobile station, based each mobile station's individual performance. The cellular network has one or more base stations and a mixed population of single-diversity mobile stations and dual-diversity mobile stations. In communicating with a particular mobile station, the gain level of the transmission over the forward link is monitored at the base station. The base station also monitors the reverse link for a power measurement report message (“PMRM”) sent by the mobile station. If the gain level stays at or close to a minimum gain level for a certain time period, and if no PMRM″s are received during that time period, then the base station reduces the minimum gain level by a set amount. The reduction in the minimum gain level can be triggered based on other factors, such as the forward link frame error rate.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.