A method and system for decoding SACCH control channels in GSM-based systems with partial combining using weighted SNR may comprise combining least one weighted bit of a GSM slow associated control channel frame with at least one weighted bit of a subsequent GSM SACCH block based on burst signal to noise ratios of the GSM SACCH block and the subsequent GSM SACCH block. Power drawn from the energy converter is changed when a supply voltage of the energy converter meets a criterion. Other embodiments have been claimed and described.