A method is disclosed for operating a fixed wireless system having a radio base unit (RBU) that uses a code division multiple access (CDMA) airlink for communicating with a plurality of subscriber units (SUs). The method includes steps of (a) estimating a signal to noise ratio (SNR) of the FWS; (b) comparing the estimated SNR to a threshold SNR value; and (c) one of allowing service to another SU or not allowing service to another SU based on the result of the step of comparing. The step of estimating preferably uses a normalized SNR, and further employs the use of a null PN code detection technique. More particularly, the step of estimating determines a normalized signal to noise ratio given by Eb/No=20 log (SUT/MUT)-xdB, wherein SUT represents a single user test measurement, wherein MUT represents a multiple user test measurement, and wherein xdB is an adjustment factor. Other types of CDMA systems may also use this technique.