A first EbIo estimator calculates EbIo using samples corresponding to data symbols and samples corresponding to pilot symbols. A diversity combined signal, which is obtained by coherent maximal ratio combining of paths signals is provided for the data symbol hard decisions. The data symbol hard decisions are used in EbIo measurement. The calculation for signal power uses re-modulation. The re-modulation is based on provided carrier signals. The carrier signal is derived using interpolated pilot symbols. The calculation for interference power uses a difference between a received signal and a re-modulated signal. A second EbIo estimator calculates EbIo using only samples corresponding to the pilot symbols. A rough error rate estimation uses the hard decisions for pilot samples and their comparison with known pilot symbols. If an estimated error rate is less than a predetermined threshold, the EbIo measured by first EbIo estimator is used for power control. When the estimated error rate is larger than the threshold, the EbIo measured by second EbIo estimator is used to control the power. The selection between the first and second EbIo estimator is for each slot EbIo measurement. The measured EbIo is compared with the preset EbIo threshold level, and as a result of this comparison, a command to lower or raise power is sent to the mobile station using the return channel.