In order to transmit variable length encoded data in low signal to noise ratio environments, a first data pattern is added to a beginning portion of encoded data to signify a beginning of the encoded data. Further, a second data pattern is added to end portion of the encoded data to signify and end of the encoded data. Additionally, since the encoded data may naturally include the second data pattern and thereby mistakenly indicate an end of the encoded data, the encoded data is first checked for such a pattern. If the pattern is found within the encoded data, a new pattern is substituted therefore. In order to counter errors, patterns similar to the first data pattern are also substituted with new patterns. As such, a variable length encoded data can be transmitted in a low signal to noise ratio environment, and can thereafter be easily decoded.