Method and apparatus for effecting channel acquisition

摘要

Methods of and corresponding apparatus for scheduling messages on an operating channel (223) in a selective messaging system (200) for a messaging unit (235) include scheduling a first message, including a channel priority indication (511), addressed to the selective messaging unit on a first channel, and then scheduling a second message for the selective messaging unit on a second channel (225) selected as an alternative operating channel. Analogously at the selective messaging unit a method of selecting an operating channel includes monitoring the first channel for a message addressed to the selective messaging unit; detecting as part of the message the indication; and responsive thereto discontinuing monitoring the first channel and then scan for the second channel.