Variable encoding of in-band control messages in wireless telecommunication systems

An apparatus, method and system provide for variable encoding levels for encoding of in-band control messages in wireless telecommunication systems. In the various embodiments, ANSI-136 handoff and geolocation messages may be encoded utilizing different code rates, and are then transmitted in lieu of voice data in a fast associated control channel (FACCH). The preferred system embodiment includes a transceiver (base station) and a mobile switching center. The mobile switching center includes instructions to create a message for transmission during a communication session. When the message is necessary for continuation of the communication session, such as a hand off message, the mobile switching center includes further instructions to select a first encoding level from a plurality of encoding levels, such as a robust ¼ convolutional code, and to encode the message using the first encoding level to form the encoded message for transmission. When the message is not necessary for continuation of the communication session, such as a geolocation message, the mobile switching center includes instructions to select a second encoding level from the plurality of encoding levels, such as a less robust ½ convolutional code, and to encode the message using the second encoding level to form the encoded message for transmission. Variable encoding levels are also provided for corresponding variable channel conditions and message length.