Which type of fire service radio is mounted in a vehicle and powered by the vehicle's electrical system?

A mobile radio is specifically designed to be mounted in a vehicle, making it a crucial piece of equipment for fire service communication during emergencies. These radios are connected to the vehicle's electrical system, allowing them to operate continuously without the need for battery changes or recharges typical with handheld devices.

Mobile radios provide clear, reliable communication over a range suitable for fireground operations, which can include communicating with dispatch, coordinating with other firefighters, and responding to incident updates. Their installation within the vehicle allows for more powerful transmitters and antennas, enhancing range and clarity compared to handheld radios.

In contrast, handheld radios are portable devices carried by firefighters, base station radios are fixed units typically located in stations or offices, and repeater radios are used to extend the range of communication by receiving and retransmitting signals, rather than being mounted to a vehicle.