JadeNode Build (~$50)
JadeNode Build (~$50)
The JadeNode is CascadiaMesh’'s most cost-effective DIY repeater design, purpose-built for the Pacific Northwest’Northwest's 910.525 MHz band. At roughly $50 in parts, it’it's an accessible entry point for community members who want to extend network coverage without a large investment.
Parts List
| Component | Approx. Cost | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Seeed XIAO nRF52840 + Wio SX1262 module | $14 | Seeed Studio |
| Linx ANT-916-CW-HW-SMA antenna | $10 | Digi-Key |
| RAKwireless 5.5×3.5" solar panel (3-pack) | $11 | Rokland |
| PeakMesh solar charging board | ~$7 | Etsy ( |
| IP65 ABS enclosure 158×90×60 mm | $7 | Amazon |
| Total | ~$50 | |
Key Design Choices
- nRF52840 + Wio SX1262: The nRF52840 microcontroller paired with the Wio SX1262 LoRa module provides excellent power efficiency. nRF52-based devices have significantly longer battery life than ESP32-based alternatives, making this design well-suited for solar-powered deployments with limited panel size.
- PeakMesh charging board: Sourced from David on Etsy, this charging board is recommended by the CascadiaMesh community for better winter solar performance compared to generic MPPT modules.
- IP65 enclosure: The 158×90×60 mm ABS box provides weather protection suitable for outdoor permanent deployment.
- Linx ANT-916-CW-HW-SMA: A tuned antenna at 916 MHz, close enough to 910.525 MHz for good performance. Available from Digi-Key with reliable stock.
Firmware
Flash with MeshCore Repeater firmware using the MeshCore Web Flasher. After flashing, configure via the MeshCore Repeater USB Setup tool:
- Frequency: 910.525 MHz
- Bandwidth: 62.5 kHz
- Spreading Factor: SF7
- Coding Rate: 4/5
- Zero Hop Interval: 0
- Flood Advert Interval: 48 hours
Do not include “Repeater”"Repeater" in the node name —- it wastes airtime on every advertisement.
Notes
- This build does not use a bandpass filter. For most residential and semi-rural locations, interference is not a significant issue with the nRF52/SX1262 combination.
- If deploying in a high-RF-noise urban environment, consider upgrading to the Raccoon Tree Node or Ikoka Box designs which include filter options.