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LoRa mesh networking lets people communicate over radio without any internet connection, cell towers, or central infrastructure. It works by linking together a collection of small, affordable radio devices — each one can receive a message and pass it along to ...

Two open-source protocols dominate the LoRa mesh networking space: MeshCore and Meshtastic. Both run on similar hardware, both are free, and both accomplish the same basic goal — but they make different design choices that affect performance, battery life, and...

LoRa mesh networking runs on compact radio devices — sometimes called "nodes" — that broadcast and receive radio signals in the 915 MHz band (US/Canada). All you need is a compatible device, a smartphone, and the appropriate app for your chosen platform. ...

MeshCore is an open-source mesh networking protocol built on LoRa radio hardware. It was designed as a next-generation alternative to flooding-based mesh protocols, prioritizing efficient routing, battery life, and reliable message delivery. The core idea: pa...

MeshCore provides several firmware variants, each optimized for a different role in the network. You choose the firmware type based on how you intend to use the device. BLE Companion Best for: personal use Pairs with your smartphone via Bluetooth. The phone r...

From unboxing to sending your first message. Most people complete this in under 15 minutes (not counting initial charge time). What you need before starting A MeshCore-compatible LoRa device, fully charged A smartphone (Android or iOS) The MeshCore app...

A repeater is a MeshCore device configured to run headlessly — no phone attached — whose sole job is to receive and forward messages. Repeaters are the backbone of good network coverage. Why deploy a repeater? Direct device-to-device range at ground level...

Meshtastic is an open-source mesh networking project built on LoRa radio hardware. It has a large, active global community and is one of the most widely deployed LoRa mesh platforms available. How Meshtastic routes messages Meshtastic uses a flooding approach...

Getting started with Meshtastic is straightforward. The project has extensive documentation and a large community, making it one of the easiest LoRa platforms to get up and running. What you need A Meshtastic-compatible LoRa device, fully charged A smart...

General Questions Answers to the most common general questions about LoRa mesh networking, MeshCore, and Meshtastic. Do I need a license to use Meshtastic or MeshCore? No. Both protocols operate in the 915 MHz ISM (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical) band ...

Hardware and Setup Answers to common questions about choosing hardware, flashing firmware, and configuring your first LoRa mesh node. What is the difference between MeshCore and Meshtastic? Both are LoRa mesh networking protocols that run on similar hardwar...

Battery and Power Answers to common questions about battery life, power management, battery chemistry, solar sizing, and long-term deployments. How long does the battery last? Battery life varies significantly by device type, display type, messaging activit...

A MeshCore repeater is a device configured to run headlessly — without a connected phone or computer — whose sole job is to receive messages and forward them automatically. Repeaters form the backbone of any robust MeshCore network. How a repeater works Every...

The case for community repeater infrastructure A LoRa mesh network is only as strong as its infrastructure. Personal nodes carried in pockets or sitting in homes have limited range and go offline when their owners do. A well-placed repeater is always on, alway...

Location is the single most important factor in a repeater's effectiveness. A mediocre antenna on a perfect hilltop will outperform an excellent antenna at ground level every time. Elevation is everything Radio waves travel in straight lines. The higher your ...

The antenna matters more than the radio For a fixed repeater, the antenna is often the most impactful upgrade available. Moving from a 2 dBi stock antenna to a 6 dBi vertical on a rooftop pole can add 4 dB of gain while simultaneously improving line-of-sight. ...

A MeshCore repeater needs three things: a LoRa radio running repeater firmware, an antenna, and reliable power. How you combine these depends on your deployment location and budget. The LoRa radio Any MeshCore-compatible LoRa device can be flashed with repeat...

A repeater that runs out of power disappears from the network. Power system design is as critical as radio configuration for a reliable long-term deployment. Why solar works for repeaters MeshCore repeater firmware is designed for low power consumption. A rep...