(57) Summary A set of individually gain-adjusted subscriber channels (A, B, C, pilot) is composed of a set of orthogonal sub-channel codes (Walsh +-, Walsh ++-). Data transmitted over one of the transmission channels is modulated with one of the sub-channel codes, gain-adjusted, and summed with data modulated using the other sub-channel code before a low code rate error. Correction encoding and sequence repetition. The resulting sum data (316) is modulated using a user long code and a pseudo-random spreading code (PN code) and up-converted for transmission. The use of short orthogonal codes provides interference suppression while enabling extended error correction coding and repetition for time diversity that overcomes the Rayleigh fading typically experienced in terrestrial wireless systems. A set of sub-channel codes may include four Walsh codes, each orthogonal to the rest of the set of codes. The use of four subchannels is preferred because it allows the use of shorter orthogonal codes, but the use of a larger number of channels and therefore longer codes is acceptable. Preferably, the pilot data and control data are combined on one channel. The remaining two transmission channels are used to transmit undesignated digital data including user data and / or signaling data.