Optimum usage of time diversity and significantly higher data rates are achieved by utilizing an adaptive Ultra-wideband impulse radio (UWB IR) transmission scheme based upon information about the channel state at a particular time instant. Through the use of channel state information, the transmission scheme is adjusted for the particular channel state. In particular, the system is adapted dynamically for each user by varying the number of pulses transmitted per bit in response to the channel state. The channel state is a dynamic parameter of the transmission system that is typically measured or estimated by the receiver. An adaptation element responds to the channel state information to determine a desired number of pulses per bit to be utilized in a transmission channel for subsequent UWB IR communication. This desired number of pulses per bit is then supplied to and used by an adaptive transmitter for subsequent transmission by a particular mobile station.