Meshtastic is an open source mesh network project utilizing cheap LoRa radio hardware. It can be used license free to communicate relatively long distances via radio. Its primary use is and Android or Apple app based text messaging via a bluetooth to a radio that is connected to a larger mesh radio network. The text messages can be to either friends or a group and can be fully encrypted. Position data can also be automatically sent on a periodic basis to update your group on your location.
This messaging is done entirely off-grid and relies only on the bluetooth connection to your personal radio and from that radio to the rest of the mesh. Standalone devices are available such that an Android or Apple device is not necessary for communication.
Some of the charactaristics about this project are:
- Text and Data only
- Low Bandwidth
- Open Source
- Long Range
- Low Power
- Encrypted
- No License Required
- Off Grid or On Grid
- Actively being developed
There are several potential use cases for Meshtastic:
- Communication with family or friends when outside of cell service
- Position tracking of people in a group in remote areas
- Backup communication for emergencies
- Remote data monitoring for sensors
- Can be connected to the internet as a gateway for larger network
- Remote control for automation
Meshtastic is a radio mesh network that utilizes nodes to transport data from one endpoint to another. This is done by “hopping” data packets to the next node in order to form a chain of information.
By hopping, communication can be established without a direct line of sight from one radio to another. Obstacles such as mountians, distance, or buildings can be overcome by having several other nodes relaying the message.
To get started using the network I suggest watching the following Youtube series:
Hardware
There are various manufacturers for the nodes. Most require some assembly and cases but there are some Ready-to-go models available. These run in cost from about $20 to $80 depending on the features.
I can provide some recomendations for hardware based on my experience. In the USA they must be the 915MHZ lora radios.
I have chosen the following two models for portability. All that is included is the board and a basic antenna. Case can be 3d printed. Both have the option for Bluetooth/Wifi connectivity. Battery life for a 3000mAh Lithium Ion battery is about one day.
LILYGO T-Beam Supreme
Features USB 3.0, 18650 Lion battery holder, built-in GPS, display, environmental sensor
LILYGO TLora T3-S3 V1.0
Features USB 3.0, Powered from phone or PC, uses phone GPS Data, Very Small
For a ready-to-go unit I can recommend the Lillygo T-Echo
How to use the network
Routers, are a key component (though not strictly necessary) for larger networks can be fully solar powered, are small, and easily deployed at hilltops, building, or other high locations for wide areas of coverage (several square miles.)
Once you have a node and are within range you will be able to use the currently deployed repeaters in this area. The default channel “LongFast” with the default encryption will allow you to broadcast to everyone else with that channel. You are also able to set up your own channels with an encryption key with members of your family or group and these routers will rebroadcast the encrypted traffic. Only people with the same channel name and key will be able to see the messages.
The following map is a view of the current (red) and future (yellow) routers in the county. The actual range to the repeaters for reliable communication varies with terrain and obstructions but ranges from 2-10 miles. Ideally, you would want the node to be located on your top floor or in a window facing the nearest router. If you are trying to reach a router please let me know so I can prioritize new router locations.
I have several more nodes ready for deployment. If you have access to a location in Greene County that is at a high elevation or with a large area of view please contact me about deploying a router.
Thanks and have fun!
RESOURCES and LINKS
Greene County Meshtastic Discord Link: https://discord.com/invite/KAC8jDZhRf
East Tennessee Meshtastic Router Map: https://canvis.app/CdPWf5
If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to me at: k4mbd.ham@gmail.com
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