Patent US2136541A successfully refreshed from Google Patents.
US6782259B2
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Method for selecting a preferable wireless communication service provider in a multi-service provider environment
Assignee: AT&T Mobility II LLC
•
Filing: 2002-03-19
•
Granted: 2004-08-24
•
Expires: 2022-03-19
Abstract
Abstract A communication device locates a preferable wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a frequency or frequency band search schedule. Initially, the communication device registers with a less preferred service provider in a first frequency. While remaining registered with the less preferred service provider, the device examines several frequencies in the order specified by the frequency search schedule. The device determines whether the last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider. If the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, the device examines each of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order in the search schedule. The examination continues until another frequency band having a more preferred service provider is located. The communication device then registers with the more preferred service provider.
Inventors
- 👤 Michael D. Bamburak
- 👤 John J. Daly
- 👤 Christopher Gregory Lawrence
- 👤 Michael Edward Prise
- 👤 Michael Allen Raffel
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-11-08 06:51
CPC Classifications
H; H04; H04W; H04W36/00; H04W36/0005; H04W36/0083; H04W36/0085; H04W48/00; H04W48/16; H04W48/18
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 74
Claim 1
Independent Claim
186 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequency bands, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in one frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 3) determining whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting a code from the wireless service provider to the communication device, the code enabling identification of the wireless service provider as a wireless service provider permitted to transmit modification information; and transmitting modification information from the permitted wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the frequency band search schedule.
Claim 2
Independent Claim
186 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequency bands, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in one frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 3) determining whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting a code from the wireless service provider to the communication device, the code enabling identification of the wireless service provider as a wireless service provider permitted to transmit modification information; and transmitting modification information from the permitted wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the frequency band search schedule.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
40 words
The method of claim 1 , wherein the examination is conducted by dividing each frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands into a plurality of sub-bands and locating a strongest signal above a threshold within the sub-bands being examined.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
42 words
The method of claim 1 , wherein the communication device retunes to the one frequency band with the less preferred service provider after each examination of a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands not having the more preferred service provider.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
22 words
The method of claim 1 , wherein the communication device further modifies the frequency band search schedule using information from a keypad.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
40 words
The method of claim 1 , wherein the communication device identifies the more preferred service provider by comparing identities of service providers specified by an identifier received from each frequency band being examined with a prioritized list of service providers.
Claim 7
Independent Claim
172 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequency bands, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in one frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 3) determining whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting modification information from the wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the frequency band search schedule, receiving confirmation information from the communication device at the wireless service provider that that modification information has been transmitted.
Claim 8
Independent Claim
172 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequency bands, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in one frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 3) determining whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting modification information from the wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the frequency band search schedule, receiving confirmation information from the communication device at the wireless service provider that that modification information has been transmitted.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
42 words
The method of claim 6 , wherein the communication device retunes to the one frequency band with the less preferred service provider after each examination of a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands not having the more preferred service provider.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
22 words
The method of claim 6 , wherein the communication device further modifies the frequency band search schedule using information from a keyboard.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
40 words
The method of claim 6 , wherein the communication device identifies the more preferred service provider by comparing identities of service providers specified by an identifier received from each frequency band being examined with a prioritized list of service providers.
Claim 12
Independent Claim
242 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequency bands, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 3) determining whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequency bands without reference to the other stored frequency bands and determining whether the one of the frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, and if not then examining each of the frequency bands until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting a code from the wireless service provider to the communication device, the code identifying the wireless service provider as a wireless service provider permitted to transmit modification information; and transmitting modification information from the permitted wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the frequency band search schedule.
Claim 13
Independent Claim
242 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequency bands, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 3) determining whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequency bands without reference to the other stored frequency bands and determining whether the one of the frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, and if not then examining each of the frequency bands until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting a code from the wireless service provider to the communication device, the code identifying the wireless service provider as a wireless service provider permitted to transmit modification information; and transmitting modification information from the permitted wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the frequency band search schedule.
Claim 14
Independent Claim
277 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequency bands, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 3) determining whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequency bands to determine whether the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, then associating the wireless communication device with the more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequency bands does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequency bands until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting a code from the wireless service provider to the communication device, the code identifying the wireless service provider as a wireless service provider permitted to transmit modification information; and transmitting modification information from the permitted wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the frequency band search schedule.
Claim 15
Independent Claim
277 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequency bands, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 3) determining whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequency bands to determine whether the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, then associating the wireless communication device with the more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequency bands does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequency bands until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting a code from the wireless service provider to the communication device, the code identifying the wireless service provider as a wireless service provider permitted to transmit modification information; and transmitting modification information from the permitted wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the frequency band search schedule.
Claim 16
Independent Claim
275 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequency bands, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 3) determining whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequency bands to determine whether the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, then no longer performing examination for other preferred service providers, and if the one of the stored frequency bands does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequency bands until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting a code from the wireless service provider to the communication device, the code identifying the wireless service provider as a wireless service provider permitted to transmit modification information; and transmitting modification information from the permitted wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the frequency band search schedule.
Claim 17
Independent Claim
275 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequency bands, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 3) determining whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequency bands to determine whether the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, then no longer performing examination for other preferred service providers, and if the one of the stored frequency bands does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequency bands until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting a code from the wireless service provider to the communication device, the code identifying the wireless service provider as a wireless service provider permitted to transmit modification information; and transmitting modification information from the permitted wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the frequency band search schedule.
Claim 18
Independent Claim
249 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequency bands, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 3) determining whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by a) examining a first frequency band to determine whether the first frequency band has a more preferred service provider; and if not, then b) examining a second frequency band to determine whether the second frequency band has a more preferred service provider; and c) repeating step (b) until a frequency band having a more preferred service provider is located, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting a code from the wireless service provider to the communication device, the code identifying the wireless service provider as a wireless service provider permitted to transmit modification information; and transmitting modification information from the permitted wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the frequency band search schedule.
Claim 19
Independent Claim
249 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequency bands, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 3) determining whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by a) examining a first frequency band to determine whether the first frequency band has a more preferred service provider; and if not, then b) examining a second frequency band to determine whether the second frequency band has a more preferred service provider; and c) repeating step (b) until a frequency band having a more preferred service provider is located, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting a code from the wireless service provider to the communication device, the code identifying the wireless service provider as a wireless service provider permitted to transmit modification information; and transmitting modification information from the permitted wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the frequency band search schedule.
Claim 20
Independent Claim
230 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequency bands, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 3) determining whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequency bands without reference to the other stored frequency bands and determining whether the one of the frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, and if not then examining each of the frequency bands until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting modification information from the wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the frequency band search schedule, the wireless service provider receiving confirmation information from the communication device that the modification information has been transmitted.
Claim 21
Independent Claim
230 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequency bands, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 3) determining whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequency bands without reference to the other stored frequency bands and determining whether the one of the frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, and if not then examining each of the frequency bands until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting modification information from the wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the frequency band search schedule, the wireless service provider receiving confirmation information from the communication device that the modification information has been transmitted.
Claim 22
Independent Claim
264 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequency bands, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 3) determining whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequency bands to determine whether the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, then associating the wireless communication device with the more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequency bands does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequency bands until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting modification information from the wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the frequency band search schedule, the wireless service provider receiving confirmation information from the communication device that the modification information has been transmitted.
Claim 23
Independent Claim
264 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequency bands, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 3) determining whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequency bands to determine whether the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, then associating the wireless communication device with the more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequency bands does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequency bands until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting modification information from the wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the frequency band search schedule, the wireless service provider receiving confirmation information from the communication device that the modification information has been transmitted.
Claim 24
Independent Claim
262 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequency bands, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 3) determining whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequency bands to determine whether the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, then no longer performing examination for other preferred service providers, and if the one of the stored frequency bands does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequency bands until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting modification information from the wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the frequency band search schedule, the wireless service provider receiving confirmation information from the communication device that the modification information has been transmitted.
Claim 25
Independent Claim
262 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequency bands, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 3) determining whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequency bands to determine whether the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, then no longer performing examination for other preferred service providers, and if the one of the stored frequency bands does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequency bands until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting modification information from the wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the frequency band search schedule, the wireless service provider receiving confirmation information from the communication device that the modification information has been transmitted.
Claim 26
Independent Claim
236 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequency bands, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 3) determining whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by a) examining a first frequency band to determine whether the first frequency band has a more preferred service provider; and if not, then b) examining a second frequency band to determine whether the second frequency band has a more preferred service provider; and c) repeating step (b) until a frequency band having a more preferred service provider is located, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting modification information from the wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the frequency band search schedule, the wireless service provider receiving confirmation information from the communication device that the modification information has been transmitted.
Claim 27
Independent Claim
236 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequency bands, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 3) determining whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by a) examining a first frequency band to determine whether the first frequency band has a more preferred service provider; and if not, then b) examining a second frequency band to determine whether the second frequency band has a more preferred service provider; and c) repeating step (b) until a frequency band having a more preferred service provider is located, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting modification information from the wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the frequency band search schedule, the wireless service provider receiving confirmation information from the communication device that the modification information has been transmitted.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
193 words
A communication device that locates a preferable wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device comprising: a transceiver that receives a plurality of frequency bands; and a controller that: 1) associates with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 2) determines whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examines each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequency bands without reference to the other stored frequency bands and determining whether the one of the frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, and if not then examining each of the frequency bands until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 3) registers with the more preferred service provider.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
193 words
A communication device that locates a preferable wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device comprising: a transceiver that receives a plurality of frequency bands; and a controller that: 1) associates with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 2) determines whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examines each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequency bands without reference to the other stored frequency bands and determining whether the one of the frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, and if not then examining each of the frequency bands until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 3) registers with the more preferred service provider.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
228 words
A communication device that locates a preferable wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device comprising: a transceiver that receives a plurality of frequency bands; and a controller that: 1) associates with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 2) determines whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examines each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequency bands to determine whether the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, then associating the wireless communication device with the more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequency bands does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequency bands until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 3) registers with the more preferred service provider.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
228 words
A communication device that locates a preferable wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device comprising: a transceiver that receives a plurality of frequency bands; and a controller that: 1) associates with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 2) determines whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examines each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequency bands to determine whether the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, then associating the wireless communication device with the more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequency bands does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequency bands until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 3) registers with the more preferred service provider.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
226 words
A communication device that locates a preferable wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device comprising: a transceiver that receives a plurality of frequency bands; and a controller that: 1) associates with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 2) determines whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examines each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequency bands to determine whether the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, then no longer performing examination for other preferred service providers, and if the one of the stored frequency bands does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequency bands until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 3) registers with the more preferred service provider.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
226 words
A communication device that locates a preferable wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device comprising: a transceiver that receives a plurality of frequency bands; and a controller that: 1) associates with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 2) determines whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examines each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequency bands to determine whether the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequency bands has a more preferred service provider, then no longer performing examination for other preferred service providers, and if the one of the stored frequency bands does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequency bands until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 3) registers with the more preferred service provider.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
201 words
A communication device that locates a preferable wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device comprising: a transceiver that receives a plurality of frequency bands; and a controller that: 1) associates with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 2) determines whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examines each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by a) examining a first frequency band to determine whether the first frequency band has a more preferred service provider; and if not, then b) examining a second frequency band to determine whether the second frequency band has a more preferred service provider; and c) repeating step (b) until a frequency band having a more preferred service provider is located, and 3) registers with the located more preferred service provider.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
201 words
A communication device that locates a preferable wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device comprising: a transceiver that receives a plurality of frequency bands; and a controller that: 1) associates with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 2) determines whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examines each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by a) examining a first frequency band to determine whether the first frequency band has a more preferred service provider; and if not, then b) examining a second frequency band to determine whether the second frequency band has a more preferred service provider; and c) repeating step (b) until a frequency band having a more preferred service provider is located, and 3) registers with the located more preferred service provider.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
135 words
A communication device that locates a preferable wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device comprising: a transceiver that receives a plurality of frequency bands; and a controller that: 1) associates with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 2) determines whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examines each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 3) registers with the more preferred service provider.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
135 words
A communication device that locates a preferable wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored frequency band search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequency bands, the communication device comprising: a transceiver that receives a plurality of frequency bands; and a controller that: 1) associates with a less preferred service provider in a frequency band of the plurality of frequency bands, 2) determines whether a last frequency band used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency band used does not have a more preferred service provider, examines each of the frequency bands of the plurality of frequency bands in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 3) registers with the more preferred service provider.
Claim 38
Independent Claim
174 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequencies, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in one frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 3) determining whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting a code from the wireless service provider to the communication device, the code enabling identification of the wireless service provider as a wireless service provider permitted to transmit modification information; and transmitting modification information from the permitted wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the search schedule.
Claim 39
Independent Claim
174 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequencies, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in one frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 3) determining whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting a code from the wireless service provider to the communication device, the code enabling identification of the wireless service provider as a wireless service provider permitted to transmit modification information; and transmitting modification information from the permitted wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the search schedule.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
19 words
The method of claim 23 , wherein the examination is conducted by locating a strongest signal above a threshold.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
39 words
The method of claim 23 , wherein the communication device retunes to the one frequency with the less preferred service provider after each examination of a frequency of the plurality of frequencies not having the more preferred service provider.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
20 words
The method of claim 23 , wherein the communication device further modifies the search schedule using information from a keypad.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
39 words
The method of claim 23 , wherein the communication device identifies the more preferred service provider by comparing identities of service providers specified by an identifier received from each frequency being examined with a prioritized list of service providers.
Claim 44
Independent Claim
159 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequencies, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in one frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 3) determining whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting modification information from the wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the search schedule, receiving confirmation information from the communication device at the wireless service provider that the modification information has been transmitted.
Claim 45
Independent Claim
159 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequencies, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in one frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 3) determining whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting modification information from the wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the search schedule, receiving confirmation information from the communication device at the wireless service provider that the modification information has been transmitted.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
39 words
The method of claim 28 , wherein the communication device retunes to the one frequency with the less preferred service provider after each examination of a frequency of the plurality of frequencies not having the more preferred service provider.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
20 words
The method of claim 28 , wherein the communication device further modifies the search schedule using information from a keyboard.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
39 words
The method of claim 28 , wherein the communication device identifies the more preferred service provider by comparing identities of service providers specified by an identifier received from each frequency being examined with a prioritized list of service providers.
Claim 49
Independent Claim
224 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequencies, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 3) determining whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequencies without reference to the other stored frequencies and determining whether the one of the frequencies has a more preferred service provider, and if not, then examining each of the frequencies until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting a code from the wireless service provider to the communication device, the code identifying the wireless service provider as a wireless service provider permitted to transmit modification information; and transmitting modification information from the permitted wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the search schedule.
Claim 50
Independent Claim
224 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequencies, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 3) determining whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequencies without reference to the other stored frequencies and determining whether the one of the frequencies has a more preferred service provider, and if not, then examining each of the frequencies until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting a code from the wireless service provider to the communication device, the code identifying the wireless service provider as a wireless service provider permitted to transmit modification information; and transmitting modification information from the permitted wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the search schedule.
Claim 51
Independent Claim
259 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequencies, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 3) determining whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequencies to determine whether the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, then associating the wireless communication device with the more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequencies does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequencies until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting a code from the wireless service provider to the communication device, the code identifying the wireless service provider as a wireless service provider permitted to transmit modification information; and transmitting modification information from the permitted wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the search schedule.
Claim 52
Independent Claim
259 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequencies, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 3) determining whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequencies to determine whether the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, then associating the wireless communication device with the more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequencies does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequencies until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting a code from the wireless service provider to the communication device, the code identifying the wireless service provider as a wireless service provider permitted to transmit modification information; and transmitting modification information from the permitted wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the search schedule.
Claim 53
Independent Claim
256 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequencies, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 3) determining whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequencies to determine whether the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, then no longer performing examination for other preferred service providers, and if the one of the stored frequencies does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequencies until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting a code form the wireless service provider to the communication device, the code identifying the wireless service provider as a wireless service provider permitted to transmit modification information; and transmitting modification information from the permitted wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the search schedule.
Claim 54
Independent Claim
256 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequencies, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 3) determining whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequencies to determine whether the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, then no longer performing examination for other preferred service providers, and if the one of the stored frequencies does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequencies until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting a code form the wireless service provider to the communication device, the code identifying the wireless service provider as a wireless service provider permitted to transmit modification information; and transmitting modification information from the permitted wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the search schedule.
Claim 55
Independent Claim
231 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequencies, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 3) determining whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by a) examining a first frequency to determine whether the first frequency has a more preferred service provider; and if not, then b) examining a second frequency to determine whether the second frequency has a more preferred service provider; and c) repeating step (b) until a frequency having a more preferred service provider is located, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting a code from the wireless service provider to the communication device, the code identifying the wireless service provider as a wireless service provider permitted to transmit modification information; and transmitting modification information from the permitted wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the search schedule.
Claim 56
Independent Claim
231 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequencies, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 3) determining whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by a) examining a first frequency to determine whether the first frequency has a more preferred service provider; and if not, then b) examining a second frequency to determine whether the second frequency has a more preferred service provider; and c) repeating step (b) until a frequency having a more preferred service provider is located, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting a code from the wireless service provider to the communication device, the code identifying the wireless service provider as a wireless service provider permitted to transmit modification information; and transmitting modification information from the permitted wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the search schedule.
Claim 57
Independent Claim
211 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequencies, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 3) determining whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequencies without reference to the other stored frequencies and determining whether the one of the frequencies has a more preferred service provider, and if not, then examining each of the frequencies until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting modification information from the wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the search schedule, the wireless service provider receiving confirmation information from the communication device that the modification information has been transmitted.
Claim 58
Independent Claim
211 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequencies, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 3) determining whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequencies without reference to the other stored frequencies and determining whether the one of the frequencies has a more preferred service provider, and if not, then examining each of the frequencies until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting modification information from the wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the search schedule, the wireless service provider receiving confirmation information from the communication device that the modification information has been transmitted.
Claim 59
Independent Claim
237 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequencies, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 3) determining whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining each of the frequencies until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequencies to determine whether the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, associating the wireless communication device with the more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequencies does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequencies until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting modification information from the wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the search schedule, the wireless service provider receiving confirmation information from the communication device that the modification information has been transmitted.
Claim 60
Independent Claim
237 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequencies, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 3) determining whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining each of the frequencies until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequencies to determine whether the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, associating the wireless communication device with the more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequencies does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequencies until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting modification information from the wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the search schedule, the wireless service provider receiving confirmation information from the communication device that the modification information has been transmitted.
Claim 61
Independent Claim
243 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequencies, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 3) determining whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequencies to determine whether the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, then no longer performing examination for other preferred service providers, and if the one of the stored frequencies does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequencies until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting modification information from the wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the search schedule, the wireless service provider receiving confirmation information from the communication device that the modification information has been transmitted.
Claim 62
Independent Claim
243 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequencies, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 3) determining whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequencies to determine whether the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, then no longer performing examination for other preferred service providers, and if the one of the stored frequencies does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequencies until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting modification information from the wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the search schedule, the wireless service provider receiving confirmation information from the communication device that the modification information has been transmitted.
Claim 63
Independent Claim
218 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequencies, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 3) determining whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by a) examining a first frequency to determine whether the first frequency has a more preferred service provider; and if not, then b) examining a second frequency to determine whether the second frequency has a more preferred service provider; and c) repeating step (b) until a frequency having a more preferred service provider is located, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting modification information from the wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the search schedule, the wireless service provider receiving confirmation information from the communication device that the modification information has been transmitted.
Claim 64
Independent Claim
218 words
A method of communicating between a communication device and a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device: 1) receiving a plurality of frequencies, 2) associating with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 3) determining whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examining each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by a) examining a first frequency to determine whether the first frequency has a more preferred service provider; and if not, then b) examining a second frequency to determine whether the second frequency has a more preferred service provider; and c) repeating step (b) until a frequency having a more preferred service provider is located, and 4) registering with the more preferred service provider, the method comprising: transmitting modification information from the wireless service provider to the communication device for modifying the search schedule, the wireless service provider receiving confirmation information from the communication device that the modification information has been transmitted.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
177 words
A communication device that locates a preferable wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device comprising: a transceiver that receives a plurality of frequencies; and a controller that: 1) associates with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 2) determines whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examines each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequencies without reference to the other stored frequencies and determining whether the one of the frequencies has a more preferred service provider, and if not, then examining each of the frequencies until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider and 3) registers with the more preferred service provider.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
177 words
A communication device that locates a preferable wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device comprising: a transceiver that receives a plurality of frequencies; and a controller that: 1) associates with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 2) determines whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examines each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequencies without reference to the other stored frequencies and determining whether the one of the frequencies has a more preferred service provider, and if not, then examining each of the frequencies until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider and 3) registers with the more preferred service provider.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
212 words
A communication device that locates a preferable wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device comprising: a transceiver that receives a plurality of frequencies; and a controller that: 1) associates with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 2) determines whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examines each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequencies to determine whether the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, then associating the wireless communication device with the more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequencies does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequencies until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 3) registers with the more preferred service provider.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
212 words
A communication device that locates a preferable wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device comprising: a transceiver that receives a plurality of frequencies; and a controller that: 1) associates with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 2) determines whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examines each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequencies to determine whether the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, then associating the wireless communication device with the more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequencies does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequencies until a frequency band is located having a more preferred service provider, and 3) registers with the more preferred service provider.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
209 words
A communication device that locates a preferable wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device comprising: a transceiver that receives a plurality of frequencies; and a controller that: 1) associates with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 2) determines whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examines each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequencies to determine whether the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, then no longer performing examination for other preferred service providers, and if the one of the stored frequencies does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequencies until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, and 3) registers with the more preferred service provider.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
209 words
A communication device that locates a preferable wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device comprising: a transceiver that receives a plurality of frequencies; and a controller that: 1) associates with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 2) determines whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examines each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by examining one of the stored frequencies to determine whether the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, and if the one of the stored frequencies has a more preferred service provider, then no longer performing examination for other preferred service providers, and if the one of the stored frequencies does not have a more preferred service provider, then examining other ones of the frequencies until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, and 3) registers with the more preferred service provider.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
185 words
A communication device that locates a preferable wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device comprising: a transceiver that receives a plurality of frequencies; and a controller that: 1) associates with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 2) determines whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examines each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by a) examining a first frequency to determine whether the first frequency has a more preferred service provider; and if not, then b) examining a second frequency to determine whether the second frequency has a more preferred service provider; and c) repeating step (b) until a frequency having a more preferred service provider is located, and 3) registers with the located more preferred service provider.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
185 words
A communication device that locates a preferable wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device comprising: a transceiver that receives a plurality of frequencies; and a controller that: 1) associates with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 2) determines whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examines each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, the examination being further conducted by a) examining a first frequency to determine whether the first frequency has a more preferred service provider; and if not, then b) examining a second frequency to determine whether the second frequency has a more preferred service provider; and c) repeating step (b) until a frequency having a more preferred service provider is located, and 3) registers with the located more preferred service provider.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
129 words
A communication device that locates a preferable wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule stored in the communication device that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device comprising: a transceiver that receives a plurality of frequencies; and a controller that: 1) associates with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 2) determines whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examines each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, and 3) registers with the more preferred service provider.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
129 words
A communication device that locates a preferable wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment using a stored search schedule stored in the communication device that specifies a predetermined order of frequencies, the communication device comprising: a transceiver that receives a plurality of frequencies; and a controller that: 1) associates with a less preferred service provider in a frequency of the plurality of frequencies, 2) determines whether a last frequency used by the communication device has a more preferred service provider and if the last frequency used does not have a more preferred service provider, examines each of the frequencies of the plurality of frequencies in the predetermined order until a frequency is located having a more preferred service provider, and 3) registers with the more preferred service provider.
References Cited (Backward Citations)
US5261117A
Cited
US4788543A
Cited
US4903320A
Cited
US5101500A
Cited
US4916728A
Cited
US5276905A
Cited
US5040237A
Cited
US5020091A
Cited
US5203015A
Cited
EP0459344A1
Cited
US5159625A
Cited
EP0510322A2
Cited
GB2257334A
Cited
US5463675A
Cited
US5504803A
Cited
US5711001A
Cited
US5404355A
Cited
US6374106B2
Cited
US5406643A
Cited
US5550397A
Cited
US5541977A
Cited
US5420908A
Cited
US5754952A
Cited
CA2115877A1
Cited
US5517677A
Cited
US5442806A
Cited
US5412375A
Cited
US5524135A
Cited
US5483684A
Cited
US5509052A
Cited
US5479484A
Cited
US5513247A
Cited
US5513242A
Cited
US5613208A
Cited
US5586338A
Cited
US5761618A
Cited
US5613204A
Cited
US5734980A
Cited
US5603084A
Cited
US5603084C1
Cited
US5768380A
Cited
US5790952A
Cited
US6282420B1
Cited
US5734542A
Cited
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 2007-08-24 | 2008-02-23 | 2008-08-24 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2011-08-24 | 2012-02-23 | 2012-08-24 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2015-08-24 | 2016-02-23 | 2016-08-24 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |