Abstract:
A site controller (102) instructs a transcoder (121) to operate in a partial transcoding mode (401). While in the partial transcoding mode, the transcoder continuously monitors for a synchronization pattern. If the synchronisation pattern is detected within a predetermined period of time, the transcoder switches operation to a transparent mode (402). While in the transparent mode, the transcoder transparently passes compressed digital voice. If the synchronization pattern is not detected within the predetermined period of time, the transcoder switches operation to a full transcoding mode (400). Regardless of the operating mode, the transcoder continues to monitor for the synchronization pattern. Additionally, the transcoder transmits the synchronization pattern in either the partial transcoding mode or transparent mode. By detecting the synchronization pattern generated by the transcoder, other transcoders (122-123) can also switch to the transparent mode, thereby avoiding multiple format conversions.