Go-Bag and Field Kit Setup
A mesh communications go-bag is a pre-configured kit that can be grabbed and deployed within minutes. For emergency communicators, this preparation is as important as the hardware itself.
Individual go-bag (personal responder)
Minimum kit for a personal mesh communicator:
| Item | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| T-Echo or T1000-E | Personal mesh node | Pre-configured with correct channel & preset; fully charged |
| USB charging cable (device-specific) | Field recharge | Tape/label with device name; easy to grab wrong cable |
| 10,000 mAh power bank | Extended operation without grid | Keeps T-Echo charged for 10+ additional days |
| Printed config card | Quick reference | Channel name, PSK, preset, net control contact |
| Spare SMA antenna | Backup if stock antenna damaged | 915 MHz, 2–3 dBi, same connector type as device |
Net control go-bag
Expanded kit for net control operators or team leaders:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| T-Deck Plus (running MeshOS) | Primary net control station; standalone, no phone needed; QWERTY keyboard; map view |
| OR: Raspberry Pi Zero 2W + RAK4631 USB | Room server + radio gateway; provides message persistence and network visibility |
| 5W foldable solar panel + MPPT charge controller | Recharge power bank and devices from any outdoor location |
| 12,000 mAh LiFePO4 power bank (e.g., Jackery 240) | Powers Pi room server for 8+ hours; recharges via solar |
| Laptop (optional) | Python API access, MQTT monitoring, additional visibility |
| Printed participant roster | All mesh participants, device names, and contact info |
| Printed frequency/channel card | Config for all channels in use; can hand to new arrivals |
Portable repeater kit
A portable repeater that can be deployed at any elevated location within 30 minutes:
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| RAK4631 WisBlock (configured as repeater) in IP65 case | Pre-flashed with repeater firmware; USA/Canada preset; flood advertisements |
| 5–10W foldable solar panel with cigarette lighter connector | Mount using clamps or hook-and-loop straps |
| LiFePO4 18650 cells (4×, in battery holder) | ~3 day autonomy at 6 mA; LiFePO4 for temperature range |
| 5 dBi fiberglass antenna with 30cm LMR-200 pigtail | Better range than stock; coax already assembled to length |
| Pole mount clamp (adjustable) | Mounts to chain-link fence, sign post, vehicle roof rack, or trekking pole |
| All contained in a clear 12" × 8" zip-lock bag | Waterproof; visible inventory check without opening |
Pre-event deployment checklist
Run this checklist before any exercise or real deployment:
- □ All devices fully charged
- □ Power banks fully charged
- □ Solar panel functional (brief outdoor test)
- □ All devices verified on correct channel and preset
- □ Device names are current (verify in app)
- □ Printed config cards included and current
- □ Contact list current (who has which device)
- □ Portable repeater tested (connect, verify advertisement)
- □ Go-bag weight and bulk acceptable for intended deployment