The common types of radio equipment used are:

  • portable radios — an all-in-one radio with antenna, speaker, microphone and battery. Portable radios may be carried by hand, clipped on to clothing, or secured in a waterproof pouch or harness. Portable radios are often low power transmissions and have less coverage than a mobile radio.

  • mobile radios — usually mounted in a radio room or a vehicle. They are capable of sending more powerful transmissions and have larger external antennas. They may work in areas where a portable radio does not work and are often referred to as ‘base sets’.