An OCDMA spread spectrum communication system is provided with a PN encoded acquisition channel signal which is free of Radamacher functions. This provides a technique for very rapid acquisition of the PN code and data symbol timing; enables accurate PN chip time tracking with a minimum of power; enables accurate frequency tracking with a minimum of power; provides a technique for accurate signal power measurement at the receiver; enables the receiver to maintain code lock during deep fades; and penetrates into areas of high attenuation for paging or to alert user that he has a call waiting.