1. A method for processing data samples, the method comprising: partitioning the data samples in a first set of data bits and a second set of data bits; utilizing at least a portion of said first set of data bits and at least a portion of said second set of data bits while operating under a first condition, wherein said first condition is a higher performance operating condition; and utilizing only at least a portion of said first set of data bits while operating under a second condition, wherein said second condition is a lower performance operating condition.