In some embodiments of this invention, idle devices keep track of multiple measurement RSs based on a sync reference, that are often transmitted by different TPs. When the device needs to send uplink data, it performs the random access procedure according to various embodiments of this invention, e.g. based on the measurement results and random access mapping to a set of allowed random access resources. With appropriate random access mapping, e.g. based on highest RSRP, a device directs the random access towards a suitable TP or sets of TP, according to various embodiments above, without the use of traditional cells. Avoiding the use of cells provides the benefit of reduced interference and increased energy efficiency in various embodiments. Note that the various embodiments of this invention also work in systems where traditional cells are used, or in systems where traditional cells are used to a lesser extent, for example where a single cell covers a larger area served by multiple TPs, but where different such larger areas may be covered by different cells.