Packet switched connections using dedicated channels

A temporary (temp) dedicated channel (DCH) is used to support communications. The temp-DCH channel is a channel that is assigned to a user having a set duration. After the duration expires, the channel is automatically released to the user. Embodiments of the invention relate to establishing the temp-DCH channel, determining the data rate and duration of the channel. Other embodiments relate to establishing back-to-back temp-DCH channels and the implementation details of these embodiments. Additionally, one embodiment relates to adding a start/stop function to the medium access controller which can be used in conjunction with temp-DCH as well as other applications.