What is Meshtastic®?
Meshtastic® is a popular software package that runs on a LoRa node.
What is LoRa?
LoRa means Long Range wireless. LoRa technology allows for long range decentralized communication using very low power.
Think walkie talkies for texting but super long range.
Typical LoRa devices use about 100mW of power and can transmit hundreds of miles if given line of site.
Meshtastic® vs other software?
You could use a different software package with your LoRa device and some people do. The reason you want the popular software is that it will allow you to communicate with the most people.
Meshtastic® is far ahead of the other options in terms of user adoption, developer updates, and features. Many devices come with Meshtastic® pre-installed.
How do I send messages?
If you purchase a device without a keyboard you can use your phone or an old tablet as a bluetooth interface to send and receive messages over the Meshtastic® LoRa network. This is how most people use their devices.
If you have a T-deck or other device with a screen and keyboard then you text directly from the device.
Just select the channel you want to text to and type your message then hit 'send'.
Most people are on a channel called "LongFast" which is a good place to start.
So what? Why would I want this?
Some reasons you may want a Meshtastic® device:
- You want off-grid communications for emergencies.
- You like the idea of an anonymous mesh communications network not centrally controlled.
- Low power, autonomous solar powered repeaters sound interesting to you.
- As a free texting solution for someone who can't afford a phone/plan.
- You like gadgets
- You liked CB radio in the 70's
What are the devices?
The devices are typically low cost ESP32 microcontrollers with a LoRa chip added onto it. Sometimes they have a screen but a screen is not necessary.
You do not need to know any programming to use Meshtastic. Meshtastic® is usally pre-installed and you can always update your device through the simple interface on their website.
Just add power (USB or battery) an antenna (usually included) and you are ready to go!
Device summary
Comparison of Meshtastic® compatible devices:
| Device | Lora chip | MCU | GPS | USB driver |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heltec V3 | SX1262 | ESP32-S3 | No | CP2104 |
| Wisblock | SX1262 | nRF52840 | Opt | - |
| LilyGo T-Beam V1.2 | SX1276 | ESP32 | Yes | CH9102 |
| LilyGo T-Echo | SX1262 | nRF52840 | Yes | - |
| LilyGo T-Deck | SX1262 | ESP32-S3 | Opt | CH9102F |
*nRF52840 uses much less power that ESP32 based devices.
*USB driver will be needed if Windows does not recognize your device.
*SX1262 has slightly higher TX power.
Device links
Heltec V3 w/case
The best option for beginners. They just work. This version includes the case.
Heltec V3 w/case 2-pack
You may want 2 for testing. Includes cases.
Heltec V3 no case
Save $ if you don't need a case.
Heltec V3 2-pack no case
2-pack without cases. Best value.
Wisblock starter kit
The best device for DIY. A bit more expensive but uses much less power and is modular. Includes the LoRa module. GPS and sensors can be added later if desired.
LilyGo T-Beam
Version 1.2 with improved antenna connector. Includes GPS and 18650 battery compartment.
LilyGo T-Echo
Out of stock
Pre-assembled with E-ink screen. Low power usage and high performance. Includes GPS.
LilyGo T-Deck
All in one device shaped like a Blackberry. Includes keyboard and large screen.
Antennas
An upgraded antenna will increase distance
915MHz mobile antenna
3dBi omnidirectional gain. Bendable. Get the SMA version.
Small 3dBi antenna
Includes SMA to Ipex pigtail. 4-pack.
12dBi gain base antenna
Having trouble seeing other nodes? This may be the cure.
9dBi directional yagi
If you need extended range in a particular direction you need a yagi!
Solar panels
Create an autonomous node with solar power
10 Watt USB Solar panel
Easier than soldering yourself. More than enough for all above devices. Probably overkill for Wisblock. 5 volts
6 Watt USB Solar panel
Smaller panel for Wisblock or sunny locations. 5 volts
Unregulated bare panels
Dirt cheap if you don't mind soldering. Requires solar charging regulator(below).
Wisblock all-in-one
No time? No tools? No solder skills?
Wisblock has you covered with this complete solar node. Includes GPS module.
Other items
Cables/connectors/PCB's
Lithium battery charger
This board is suitable for the USB solar panels or direct 5v charging.
Solar LiPo charger
If you're soldering bare solar panels to your node you need a regulating charger like this one.
Ipex to SMA female
For connecting mobile external antennas to Heltec or Wisblock. Make sure to choose IPEX to SMA female. Not RP-SMA.
Waterproof cable pass-through
Watertight seal for any cables entering your project box. Perfect for solar panel connection.
N-type to SMA bulkhead
If you want to connect a larger, base-station style antenna to your project use this (and an Ipex to SMA connector). Example in how-to section.
Waterproof hinged enclosures
Waterproof project box with hinges.
Waterproof screw-tight enclosures
Waterproof project box. With screws.
How-to
Always connect the antenna before powering any device.
Basic setup of Heltec V3
- Connect the antenna to the ipex jack
- Put it in the case if you have one
- Give it power by USB or LiPo battery
- Update the firmware if you want to(see next section)
- Pair it to your phone or tablet with Bluetooth. No internet or SIM needed.
- Join Longfast channel and say hi.
- No response? Take it for a drive or get the antenna higher. Get a better antenna.
Software
Your device may come with Meshtastic® pre-instlled but eventually you may want to update the software.
To update your device to the latest software:
- Connect your device to your computer using the USB cable
- Go to the offical Meshtastic® web based flasher
- Select your device from the dropdown list
- Choose the software version (latest stable one should be good)
- Click "Flash"
Basic Solar Node
Build a simple, solar powered, autonomous repeater.
Parts list
- Heltec V3
- 100mmx68mmx50mm waterproof box
- 18650 battery holder or JST style Lithium battery
- 6W 5V USB solar panel
- LiPo charger PCB
- N-type to SMA bulkhead for base station antenna or SMA to SMA bulkhead for smaller mobile antenna
- Ipex to SMA female pigtail
- Waterproof cable gland (or just use silicone to seal the USB cable pass-through)
All put together
Put it in a tree or on a pole and extend the world-wide Meshtastic® network.
Overview of the connections
Everything connected and ready to go into the box. leave battery out until antenna is installed.
Charge board wiring
Solar comes in to the charge board on one side. The other side of the board goes out to the battery and the device on separate connections.
Lots of room for all the components
I put some masking tape around the charge board to keep components separated but there are better ways to mount things.
Waterproof the holes
Holes need to be drilled for antenna bulkhead and USB pass-through.
Use silicon or cable glands to make everything water-tight.