Meshtastic® is a project that enables you to use inexpensive LoRa radios as a long-range off-grid communication platform in areas without existing or reliable communications infrastructure. This project is 100% community-driven and open-source!
See how wide the Mesh network is spreading: https://meshmap.net/
Features
- Long range (254km record by kboxlabs)
- No phone is required for mesh communication
- Decentralized communication – no dedicated router required
- Encrypted communication
- Excellent battery life
- Send and receive text messages between members of the mesh
- Optional GPS-based location features
- And more!
How it works
Meshtastic utilizes LoRa, a long-range radio protocol, which is widely accessible in most regions without the need for additional licenses or certifications, unlike HAM radio operations.
These radios are designed to rebroadcast messages they receive, forming a mesh network. This setup ensures that every group member, including those at the furthest distance, can receive messages. Depending on the settings employed, the Meshtastic mesh network can support up to 100 devices concurrently.
Additionally, Meshtastic radios can be paired with a single phone, allowing friends and family to send messages directly to your specific radio. It’s important to note that each device is capable of supporting a connection from only one user at a time.”
You can read and learn more about Meshtastic here https://meshtastic.org/docs/introduction/
Get started with the hardware
You’ll need a compatible Meshtastic device like this Heltec v3 low-cost, low-powered development board:
Then you will need to upgrade the supplied antenna to a tuned 868Mhz (UK) antenna:
Or for maximum range, get this external 868Mhz 8dBi Omni-Directional antenna:
You will need a pigtail adapter to connect your new aerial to the Heltec v3 board:
Add a Lithium Polymer battery to keep your Meshtastic node powered on and use the built-in USB-C charge port on the Heltec board to recharge:
Lastly, you’ll want a case to enclose all the parts. There are plenty of good community 3D-printed cases available to suit your needs. I’d highly recommend you research what cases for Heltec v3 boards are available. For example, there are plenty of cases to choose from on eBay: https://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2332490.m570.l1313&_nkw=heltec+v3+case&_sacat=0
Buy the hardware here:
Links are to buy from Amazon using my affiliate link.
Heltec v3 board: https://amzn.to/4bsLF7S
868Mhz antenna: https://amzn.to/3Kh4VZO
External 868Mhz antenna: https://amzn.to/4au1r12
Pigtail SMA to IPX antenna adapter: https://amzn.to/3K8uDQt
3.7v 2000mAh battery: https://amzn.to/4bItsmg
Cases for Heltec v3 board: https://www.google.com/search?q=Cases+for+Heltec+v3&rlz=1C5CHFA_enGB1094GB1094&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
Get set up
When you have all your parts, you’ll want to head to https://meshtastic.org/docs/getting-started/ to get your device flashed with the latest firmware and get connected to the Mesh network! It is simple to set up and get started. Have fun!