The present invention provides for a method of network acquisition for a
cellular radio communications device arranged to operate on a plurality
of radio technologies and comprising determining the most suitable cell
based on a characteristic of signals received from a plurality of cells,
the signals from each cell being provided over a band of frequencies, and
the method being arranged for taking a series of measurements of the said
characteristic for one radio technology and for each frequency, wherein
prior to the final measurement in the said series, the said
characteristic of at least one measured signal for each frequency is
compared with a predetermined value and if the comparison indicates that
the radio technology is unlikely to produce a suitable cell, the step of
switching to an alternative radio technology prior to the said final
measurement in the series being taken and searching signals associated
with the alternative radio technology to search for a suitable cell.