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We connect people and things, without using the internet

MeshCore is a cross-platform system that enables text communications using common LoRa radio equipment. It's a system that offers 100% off-grid communication and is ideal for emergency response, outdoor activities, or simply for those who want to have an alternative means of communication when traditional networks fail.
Resilience

What makes MeshCore special?

MeshCore operates exclusively with radio frequency (RF), making it a practical and effective solution for communications. By using RF, you eliminate the dependency on internet networks or mobile phones, enabling communication in remote areas or during emergency situations. This makes MeshCore a truly off-grid system, as it doesn't require traditional infrastructure, such as telecommunications towers or internet providers.

Equipment

What hardware do I need to get started?

MeshCore is available on a variety of LoRa devices, each device can run different types of firmware depending on the intended function in the network. For an updated list of supported devices, visit https://flasher.meshcore.dev/.
The radios are available in various bands (433MHz, 868MHz and 915MHz), and it is important to use only the band for which you purchased the equipment. In Portugal, the 433 MHz band currently has greater coverage, while the 868 MHz band is rapidly expanding. Before making a decision, it is recommended to check our coverage map and look for repeaters in your area. In case of doubt, it is suggested to purchase equipment in the 433 MHz band.
Solar Repeater
This repeater is 100% autonomous using solar power, as such, the radio used by this repeater needs to be very energy efficient.
Radio

Heltec T114 with or without screen. Uses the MCU nRF52840 paired with the LoRa Node Chip SX1262 (max. TX power 21±1dBm). Has a power in connector for a solar panel and a power in/out connector for a lithium battery. Has two versions v1 and v2, if building an 868 MHz repeater it is mandatory to buy the v2 version. For a solar repeater it is advised to buy the version without screen.

Heltec T114:
Option 1Option 2Option 3Option 4
Power
9W Solar Panel18650 Lithium Battery
Pigtail

It is very important to use a better quality pigtail than the one shipped originally with the radio. Our recommendation is to buy exactly 10cm of cable length.

IPX to SMA-KIPX to N-Type Female
Antenna

A good antenna is key for the performance of the repeater, proper outdoor antennas should be used. Ziisor seems to be a very consistent brand in terms of frequency tuning for the antenna.

Ziisor 433 MHz 4.5 dBi 40cmZiisor 868 MHz 4.5 dBi 40cm
Optional
JST 1.25 2P ConnectorCN3065 Lithium Battery Charger18650 Battery HolderBME280/BMP280
Battery Repeater
This repeater has battery backup. Since we are connected to the electrical grid, the energy requirements for this type of repeater allow the use of cheaper ESP32-based radios.
Radio

Heltec Wireless Stick Lite v3 without screen. Uses the MCU ESP32-S3FN8 paired with the LoRa Node Chip SX1262 (max. TX power 21±1dBm). Has a power in connector for a lithium battery.

Heltec Wireless Stick Lite v3:
Option 1Option 2Option 3Option 4
Heltec T114:
Option 1Option 2Option 3Option 4
Power
18650 Lithium BatteryCN3065 Lithium Battery Charger
Pigtail

It is very important to use a better quality pigtail than the one shipped originally with the radio. Our recommendation is to buy exactly 10cm of cable length.

IPX to SMA-KIPX to N-Type Female
Antenna

A good antenna is key for the performance of the repeater, proper outdoor antennas should be used. Ziisor seems to be a very consistent brand in terms of frequency tuning for the antenna.

Ziisor 433 MHz 4.5 dBi 40cmZiisor 868 MHz 4.5 dBi 40cm
Optional
JST 1.25 2P Connector18650 Battery HolderBME280/BMP280LM2596S Adjustable Buck Converter12V to 5V Buck Converter
Firmware

What firmware do I need to get started?

MeshCore offers four unique types of firmware.

BLE Companion

Connects via Bluetooth to Android or iOS devices with the MeshCore application

Wireless connection
Mobile application
Easy setup

USB Serial Companion

Connects via USB Serial to computers or mobile devices with web client

USB connection
Web client
Multiplatform

Repeater

Extends the range of the MeshCore network by intelligently routing packets to the destination device. Unlike other LoRa mesh systems, it does not retransmit all packets it receives. Can be administered remotely through a T-Deck with unlocked administration functionalities or from a BLE Companion client connected to a smartphone.

Range extension
Intelligent routing
Remote administration

Room Server

Simple BBS server for message sharing with history. Stores messages and sends them to users, allowing mobile users to return later to retrieve history. When a client connects, it receives the last 32 unseen messages. Works like an email server where you can come back later to get your messages.

Message storage
Message history
While a room server can also function as a repeater (command "set repeat on"), it is not recommended nor encouraged. A room server with repetition enabled lacks the complete set of repeater and remote administration features that are only available in the repeater firmware. The recommendation is to run repeaters and room servers on separate devices for the best experience.
Process

How to configure your MeshCore equipment

The configuration process is simple and straightforward, following three main steps.

Web Flasher

Use the official Web Flasher to install firmware on your device. Choose the correct model and desired firmware type (Client, Repeater or Room Server).

Useful links:

Web FlasherFirmware Downloads
Chrome

Mobile Application

Configure the final parameters through the MeshCore application. Available for Android on Google Play Store and for iOS on App Store.

Useful links:

Web ApplicationsGoogle Play StoreApp Store
Android & iOS

LoRa Parameters

Enter the specific parameters for Portugal according to the chosen frequency band. Check the coverage map to choose the best band for your area.

Useful links:

Coverage MapCompatible Equipment
433 MHz
868 MHz
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