Hardware and Setup

What hardware do I need?

You need a LoRa radio device compatible with either MeshCore or Meshtastic firmware, operating on 915 MHz for the US/Canada. Devices start around $25-50 for basic models and go up to $100-150 for devices with built-in screens, keyboards, or GPS.

Do I need a smartphone?

For basic setup and use, yes — a smartphone makes the experience much easier and is required for Bluetooth-based devices. However, some devices have built-in screens and keyboards that allow completely standalone operation without a phone.

Can I run both MeshCore and Meshtastic on the same device?

Not simultaneously. Each device runs one firmware at a time. You can reflash the device to switch platforms, but you will need to reconfigure it from scratch after flashing.

How long does setup take?

Most people complete initial setup in 10-20 minutes, not including charging time. If firmware needs to be flashed first, add another 5-10 minutes.

What if I cannot see other users after setup?

Check these in order:

1. Are you using the correct preset/region for your platform? (USA/Canada for MeshCore; US region for Meshtastic)
2. Are you testing outdoors? LoRa signals are significantly reduced indoors.
3. Are there other nodes near you? Check the network map for your platform.

Can I permanently damage my device with wrong settings?

No. Wrong settings will not cause hardware damage. A factory reset will restore defaults on either platform.