Communication device with primitive synchronization signal

A communications system, comprising:

• a first modem adapted to modulate and demodulate data in accordance with a set of operating parameters and transmit a request to change one of the operating parameters;
• and
• a second modem coupled to the first modem and being adapted to modulate and demodulate data in accordance with the set of operating parameters, receive the request to change one of the operating parameters, and send an acknowledgement message to the first modem,
• wherein the first modem is further adapted to send a primitive synchronization signal in response to receiving the acknowledgement message, and second modem is further adapted to implement the change in the set of operating parameters at a first time instant determined based on receipt of the primitive synchronization signal.

A method for communicating messages requiring synchronization, comprising:

• receiving symbols in a modem;
• analyzing the symbols to identify a primitive synchronization signal;
• and
• modifying a physical layer operating parameter of the modem at a first time instant determined based on identification of the primitive synchronization signal.

An apparatus for communicating messages requiring synchronization, comprising:

• means for receiving symbols in a modem;
• means for analyzing the symbols to identify a primitive synchronization signal;
• and
• means for modifying a physical layer operating parameter of the modem at a first time instant determined based on identification of the primitive synchronization signal.