Portable Go-Kit: Field-Deployable Mesh Node
A go-kit is a self-contained, rapidly deployable mesh node in a single weather-resistant case. It powers up in under 2 minutes and operates for 12-48 hours without external power.
Go-Kit Design Philosophy
The go-kit must satisfy three constraints:
- One-bag portability: Everything fits in a carry-on-sized case. Target weight under 10 lbs including battery.
- Rapid deployment: Someone with basic training should be able to set it up correctly in under 5 minutes.
- 12+ hour autonomous operation: Sufficient for most emergency activations without resupply.
Go-Kit Bill of Materials
| Component | Choice | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Case | Pelican 1510 or Nanuk 910 | Carry-on size, weatherproof |
| LoRa node | RAK4631 WisBlock | Lowest power; best for battery runtime |
| Battery | 20Ah LiFePO4 12V (Dakota Lithium or Battle Born) | ~200Wh; 48+ hrs for RAK4631 |
| Charge controller | Victron MPPT 75/10 | Also charges from included solar panel |
| Solar panel | 25W foldable | For extended deployments |
| Antenna | 915 MHz telescoping whip (BNC base) | Collapses for transport; extends 40cm for deployment |
| Antenna cable | SMA to BNC, 3m | Allows antenna placement away from case |
| Display | OLED on RAK1921 module | Shows node status without phone |
Power Budget
RAK4631 in ROUTER mode:
- Avg current: ~12-15 mA (LoRa RX + occasional TX)
- 20Ah at 3.7V = ~74 Wh
- 74 Wh / (15 mA * 3.7V) = 1,333 hours theoretical
- Real-world with self-discharge and TX: ~500-700 hours
For a 24-hour deployment:
- Need: 24h * 15mA = 360 mAh
- 20Ah battery = 55x your daily need
- Even a 2Ah 18650 bank lasts 5+ days for a repeater nodeDeployment Checklist
- Place case on stable surface or tripod
- Extend or mount antenna (highest practical point — window, pole, rooftop)
- Connect antenna cable to node SMA connector
- Connect battery to charge controller, then to node
- Verify node powers on and OLED shows status
- Connect phone via Bluetooth and verify node joins network
- Send test message to confirm operation
- Note power level (if solar available, deploy panel south-facing)
Labeling and Documentation
Every component should be labeled inside the kit:
- Node ID and short name (on a label inside the lid)
- Channel key (in a sealed envelope or QR code sticker)
- Quick-start laminated card with 7 deployment steps
- Contact info for the kit owner
- Inventory list with last-check date