Which type of radio system relies on fixed equipment costs but lesser efficiency?

The type of radio system that relies on fixed equipment costs but offers lesser efficiency is the conventional radio system. Conventional radio systems operate on a series of dedicated frequencies assigned to specific users or organizations. This allocation means that each channel has a set capacity, and once that capacity is reached, additional communications cannot occur until a channel is free.

The key characteristic of conventional radio is that it is generally simpler and more straightforward to set up, involving fewer complexities in terms of managing channels and handling multiple users. However, this also leads to limitations in efficiency because it does not allow for dynamic reallocation of channels, as seen in more advanced systems like trunked radio systems, which can automatically assign communication channels based on current demand.

In contrast, trunked and digital systems can optimize channel use and improve efficiency by assigning frequencies dynamically and utilizing advanced digital encoding techniques, respectively. Simulcast radio systems, while capable of broadcasting on multiple channels simultaneously, also tend to have higher operational complexities and cost implications.

Overall, the conventional radio system's reliance on fixed equipment costs and its operational structure inherently contribute to its effectiveness being less efficient compared to more modern and dynamic radio systems.