An apparatus, method and system are illustrated which provide a media
access control polling protocol, using two types of polls, for packet data
transmission in the uplink direction, in fixed wireless communication
systems. The preferred system embodiment includes a plurality of
subscriber units having transceivers for wireless communication, a base
station having a transceiver for wireless communication with the plurality
of subscriber units, and a data interface unit (DIU) operatively coupled
to the base station through a network access controller. The DIU transmits
a first poll, which authorizes transmission of a first predetermined
amount of data, referred to as a standard allocation, for prompt
throughput of small messages, such as acknowledgements. For subscriber
units having additional data for transmission, the DIU transmits a second
poll on a distinct or separate subchannel, which authorizes transmission
of a second predetermined amount of data, referred to as an extended
allocation, for transmission of larger blocks of data which are less
delay-sensitive. In addition, power measurement is performed on all poll
responses, to allow for transmission power level changes prior to and
during data transmission, for greater data throughput.
