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radio:meshtastic [2025/11/17 09:35] – [Encryption] cocoradio:meshtastic [2025/11/18 16:00] (current) – [LILYGO T-Deck & T-Pager] Humphrey Boa-Gart
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-====== Meshtastic ======+====== Meshtastic Devices ======
  
-**Meshtastic** is an open-source, off-grid [[radio:mesh|mesh communication]] platform that turns inexpensive [[radio:mesh#lora|LoRa]] and [[tools:esp32|ESP32-based]] devices into long-range text messaging and GPS location-sharing nodes. Devices automatically form a decentralized, self-healing mesh network where each device repeats messages for others. Using Meshtastic, communication is possible over long distances //(2-10 miles or 5–15 kilometers per hop)// without any cellular towers, wifi, or internet access. The current range record is [[https://meshtastic.org/docs/overview/range-tests/|over 200 miles]]. Devices can run for weeks or months on small batteries or solar power.+**Meshtastic** is an open-source, off-grid [[radio:mesh|mesh communication]] platform that turns inexpensive [[radio:mesh#lora|LoRa]] and [[tools:esp32|ESP32-based]] devices into long-range text messaging and GPS location-sharing nodes. Devices automatically form a decentralized, self-healing mesh network where each device repeats messages for others. Using Meshtastic, communication is possible over long distances //(2-10 miles or 5–15 kilometers per hop)// without any cellular towers, wifi, or internet access. The current range record is [[https://meshtastic.org/docs/overview/range-tests/|over 200 miles]]. Devices can run for weeks or months on small batteries or solar power, and they can run in both encrypted & unencrypted modes.
  
-Every device on the network is a node, but nodes come in many forms. Some nodes have keyboards for direct message transmission. Other nodes have no keyboard, but are controlled via a smartphone app connected by Bluetooth or USB. Some nodes are just simple repeaters. It’s especially popular with hikers, preppers, disaster-response teams, and communities in remote areas.+Every device on the network is a node, but nodes come in many forms. Some nodes have keyboards for direct message transmission. Other nodes have no keyboard, but are controlled via a smartphone app connected by Bluetooth or USB. Some nodes are just simple repeaters. It’s especially popular with hikers, preppers, activists, disaster-response teams, and communities in remote areas.
  
 If you are new to mesh networking, Mestastic is one of the easier ones to grasp. If you are looking to DIY your own Arduino-esque off-grid texting device with a 3D printed case, this is the network most hobbyists are doing that on. //(see below: [[radio:meshtastic#diy-nodes|DIY Nodes]])// If you are new to mesh networking, Mestastic is one of the easier ones to grasp. If you are looking to DIY your own Arduino-esque off-grid texting device with a 3D printed case, this is the network most hobbyists are doing that on. //(see below: [[radio:meshtastic#diy-nodes|DIY Nodes]])//
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 Meshtastic is a type of LoRa network where every node will //(by default, unless configured otherwise)// **rebroadcast** every message it overhears from nearby nodes. It does this by listening to **standard frequencies** in the license-free ISM //(Industrial, Scientific & Medical)// bands: **915MHz** in America, **433MHz/868MHz** in Europe. Meshtastic is a type of LoRa network where every node will //(by default, unless configured otherwise)// **rebroadcast** every message it overhears from nearby nodes. It does this by listening to **standard frequencies** in the license-free ISM //(Industrial, Scientific & Medical)// bands: **915MHz** in America, **433MHz/868MHz** in Europe.
  
-There are legal restrictions on how powerful your transmissions can be in these bands //(around 1 watt in N/A)//, but Meshtastic works around this by passing messages down a long chain of nodes. Each time a message jumps to another node is called a **hop**.+There are legal restrictions on how powerful your transmissions can be in these bands //(around 1 watt in N/A)//, but Meshtastic works around this by passing messages down a long chain of nodes. Each time a message jumps to another node is called a **hop**. When a message hits the **hop limit** //(default 3, max 7 - adjustable for congested networks)// other nodes will stop rebroadcasting it.
  
 Some nodes feature USB, Bluetooth or Wifi connection options, so you can send messages through them from your PC or smartphone. Other nodes have built-in keyboards for direct use. Refer to the following diagram for an example of a small Meshtastic network: Some nodes feature USB, Bluetooth or Wifi connection options, so you can send messages through them from your PC or smartphone. Other nodes have built-in keyboards for direct use. Refer to the following diagram for an example of a small Meshtastic network:
  
 [{{ :radio:meshtastic-diagram.png |Pictured: Different possible devices on a Meshtastic network and how they communicate with each other.}}] [{{ :radio:meshtastic-diagram.png |Pictured: Different possible devices on a Meshtastic network and how they communicate with each other.}}]
 +
 +For a technical outline of how Meshtastic communicates with other nodes, read about the [[https://meshtastic.org/docs/overview/mesh-algo/|mesh broadcast algorithm]] in the official docs.
  
  
 ==== Extendability ==== ==== Extendability ====
  
-Meshtastic can be used "off-network" on the **70cm** & **30cm** amateur radio bands with other configured-alike nodes, as long as you have an amateur radio license. The amateur bands offer the freedom of high-powered devices, longer transmission distances and more deployment flexibility.+Meshtastic can be used "off-network" on the amateur radio bands with other configured-alike nodes, as long as you have an amateur radio license. There is a lot of Meshtastic activity on the **70cm** & **30cm** bands, and it's not unusual to see it pop up on the other amateur bands either. Meshtastic over amateur radio offers the freedom of high-powered devices, longer transmission distances & more flexibility in deployments.
  
 Everything about Meshtastic is designed for infinite customization by the user. If you have a lot of knowledge about how IoT devices work //(especially ESP32)// then you could literally build you own node from individual electronic components & microcontrollers. Lots of Meshtastic-optimized hardware is sold as incomplete kits, where you have to source your own battery and case. Don't like the stock antenna? Buy //(or build)// a bigger one! The firmware is even open-source, so you can fork it for your own custom mesh technology, if for some reason you actually need to. Everything about Meshtastic is designed for infinite customization by the user. If you have a lot of knowledge about how IoT devices work //(especially ESP32)// then you could literally build you own node from individual electronic components & microcontrollers. Lots of Meshtastic-optimized hardware is sold as incomplete kits, where you have to source your own battery and case. Don't like the stock antenna? Buy //(or build)// a bigger one! The firmware is even open-source, so you can fork it for your own custom mesh technology, if for some reason you actually need to.
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 ==== Encryption ==== ==== Encryption ====
  
-While illegal on amateur radio, Meshtastic can legally send **encrypted transmissions** on the stock ISM frequencies, using simple **AES256**-based key exchanges. This makes Meshtastic an ideal choice for local communications during power outages and times when a [[hazards:stingray|Stingray]] might be deployed.+While illegal on amateur radio bands, Meshtastic can legally send **encrypted transmissions** on the stock ISM frequencies, using simple **AES256**-based key exchanges. This makes Meshtastic an ideal choice for secure local wireless communications and times when a [[hazards:stingray|Stingray]] might be deployed.
  
-Read the official [[https://meshtastic.org/docs/overview/encryption/|encryption doc]] for technical information on how this works.+Read the [[https://meshtastic.org/docs/overview/encryption/|encryption doc]] for more information on how this works.
  
  
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 //**Important Note:** Meshtastic devices & antennas are calibrated to specific frequencies! The frequency you use will depend on if you are using it **encrypted** on the low-power ISM bands (915MHz in America, 433MHz/868MHz in Europe) or **unencrypted** on the high-power amateur radio bands (70cm and 33cm). **Make sure you have the right device & antenna for your region & use case, or you will not be able to communicate with the people around you!**// //**Important Note:** Meshtastic devices & antennas are calibrated to specific frequencies! The frequency you use will depend on if you are using it **encrypted** on the low-power ISM bands (915MHz in America, 433MHz/868MHz in Europe) or **unencrypted** on the high-power amateur radio bands (70cm and 33cm). **Make sure you have the right device & antenna for your region & use case, or you will not be able to communicate with the people around you!**//
 +
 +These devices are not limited to Meshtastic, but can be used on other LoRa platforms like [[github>meshcore-dev/MeshCore|MeshCore]]. You can usually order these devices with Meshtastic preinstalled. However, if you ended up with different firmware, use the official [[https://flasher.meshtastic.org/|Web Flasher]] to remedy the issue. Read [[https://meshtastic.org/docs/getting-started/flashing-firmware/|Flashing Instructions]] for more info.
  
  
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 [{{ :radio:meshnology.jpeg?200|Heltec boards are often sold in kits like this. Pictured: Meshnology N32.}}] [{{ :radio:meshnology.jpeg?200|Heltec boards are often sold in kits like this. Pictured: Meshnology N32.}}]
  
-Heltec Automation's **LoRa 32** is Heltec's standard ESP32-based offering. It is a feature-rich board, offering wifi & Bluetooth connectivity options. You can get these as bare-bones circuit boards for which you can 3D print your own case, but one of Meshnology's [[https://www.amazon.com/Heltec-32-Development-Meshtastic-Compatible/dp/B0FJXW21CC|N32]] or [[https://www.amazon.com/Meshnology-ESP32-LoRa-V3-Development/dp/B0F4DN2M2T/|N33]] kits is a quicker way to get started. The [[https://muzi.works/products/h1-complete-device-with-upgraded-whip-antenna-heltec-v3-running-meshtastic|Muzi Works H1]] is another preassembled offering. All of these kits come with 3000mah batteries.+Heltec Automation's **LoRa 32** is Heltec's standard ESP32-based offering. It is a feature-rich board, offering wifi & Bluetooth connectivity options. You can get these as bare-bones circuit boards for which you can 3D print your own case, but one of Meshnology's [[amazon>4r42oGI|N32]] or [[amazon>4oLFDFR|N33]] kits is a quicker way to get started. The [[https://muzi.works/products/h1-complete-device-with-upgraded-whip-antenna-heltec-v3-running-meshtastic|Muzi Works H1]] is another preassembled offering. All of these kits come with 3000mah batteries. 
 + 
 +Heltec's [[https://heltec.org/project/mesh-node-t114/|T114]] is a LoRa device based on the **nRF52840 Bluetooth SoC**, rather than the ESP32. It draws far less power than the LoRa 32, but the drawback is no wifi. You can get these as bare boards, but if you want a T114 that's ready to go, get one of these [[amazon>484dhj0|compact kits]] with an 800mah battery, or the larger [[amazon>47T6A3a|Meshnology N36]] kit with the 3000mah battery. The [[https://muzi.works/products/h2t-complete-device-heltec-t114-with-gps-running-meshtastic|Muzi Works H2T]] is another popular T114-based option. 
  
-Heltec's [[https://heltec.org/project/mesh-node-t114/|T114]] is a LoRa device based on the **nRF52840 Bluetooth SoC**, rather than the ESP32. It draws far less power than the LoRa 32, but the drawback is no wifi. You can get these as bare boards, but if you want a T114 that's ready to go, get one of these [[https://www.amazon.com/Heltec-Meshtastic-T114-Crabiner-Bluetooth/dp/B0F3X3WNJP|compact kits]] with an 800mah battery, or the larger [[https://www.amazon.com/Mesh-Node-T114-3000mAh-nRF52840/dp/B0FCM5RT66/|Meshnology N36]] kit with the 3000mah battery. The [[https://muzi.works/products/h2t-complete-device-heltec-t114-with-gps-running-meshtastic|Muzi Works H2T]] is another popular T114-based option. 
 === LILYGO T-Echo === === LILYGO T-Echo ===
  
-The [[https://lilygo.cc/products/t-echo-meshtastic|T-Echo]] //(also on [[https://www.amazon.com/LILYGO-Wireless-Meshtastic-Development-NRF52840/dp/B0B659536P/|Amazon]] in [[https://www.amazon.com/LILYGO-Wireless-Development-NRF52840-Arduino/dp/B0DDT6Z3N9|multiple colors]])// is a highly-configurable Meshtastic node based on the nRF52840. You control it on your smartphone with Bluetooth, but there are other more arcane ways //(UART, SPI, TWI, PDM, 12S, QSPI, 802.15.4)// to tap into it as well. Comes with 850mah battery and GPS module.+The [[https://lilygo.cc/products/t-echo-meshtastic|T-Echo]] //(also on [[amazon>487Z7NX|Amazon]] in [[amazon>3WZwtcP|multiple colors]])// is a highly-configurable Meshtastic node based on the nRF52840. You control it on your smartphone with Bluetooth, but there are other more arcane ways //(UART, SPI, TWI, PDM, 12S, QSPI, 802.15.4)// to tap into it as well. Comes with 850mah battery and GPS module, and some of them even come with atmospheric pressure sensors.
  
  
 === ThinkNode === === ThinkNode ===
  
-Elecrow's **ThinkNode** series is another set of Meshtastic-compatible LoRa nodes. The [[https://www.elecrow.com/thinknode-m2-meshtastic-lora-signal-transceiver-powered-by-esp32-s3-with-1-3-oled-display.html|M2]] //(also at [[https://muzi.works/products/elecrow-thinknode-m2|Muzi Works]])// and [[https://www.elecrow.com/thinknode-m5-meshtastic-lora-signal-transceiver-esp32-s3-1-54-screen-gps-function.html|M5]] are full-featured ESP32-based units, while the [[https://www.elecrow.com/thinknode-m1-meshtastic-lora-signal-transceiver-powered-by-nrf52840-with-154-screen-support-gps.html|M1]] //(also at [[https://muzi.works/products/elecrow-thinknode-m1|Muzi Works]] & [[https://www.amazon.com/ELECROW-LoRa-Meshtastic-Transceiver-nRF52840/dp/B0FPLWYB8R/|Amazon]])// is the low-power nRF52840 option.+Elecrow's **ThinkNode** series is another set of Meshtastic-compatible LoRa nodes. The [[https://www.elecrow.com/thinknode-m2-meshtastic-lora-signal-transceiver-powered-by-esp32-s3-with-1-3-oled-display.html|M2]] //(also at [[https://muzi.works/products/elecrow-thinknode-m2|Muzi Works]])// and [[https://www.elecrow.com/thinknode-m5-meshtastic-lora-signal-transceiver-esp32-s3-1-54-screen-gps-function.html|M5]] are full-featured ESP32-based units, while the [[https://www.elecrow.com/thinknode-m1-meshtastic-lora-signal-transceiver-powered-by-nrf52840-with-154-screen-support-gps.html|M1]] //(also at [[https://muzi.works/products/elecrow-thinknode-m1|Muzi Works]] & [[amazon>3LOlLDt|Amazon]])// is the low-power nRF52840 option. 
 + 
 ==== Standalone Nodes ==== ==== Standalone Nodes ====
  
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 The **LILYGO T-Deck** is a robust LoRa device capable of running Meshtastic firmware. The [[https://lilygo.cc/products/t-deck-meshtastic|base version]] comes with a full minature QWERTY keyboard and LCD touchscreen display. The **LILYGO T-Deck** is a robust LoRa device capable of running Meshtastic firmware. The [[https://lilygo.cc/products/t-deck-meshtastic|base version]] comes with a full minature QWERTY keyboard and LCD touchscreen display.
  
-The [[https://lilygo.cc/products/t-deck-plus-meshtastic?variant=51953085448373|T-Deck Plus]] //(also on [[https://www.amazon.com/LILYGO-ESP32-S3-2-8-inch-Development-Keyboard/dp/B0FBGTYQH3|Amazon]])// goes a step further, adding a 2000mah battery & GPS module and tying it all together in a sleek factory case.+The [[https://lilygo.cc/products/t-deck-plus-meshtastic?variant=51953085448373|T-Deck Plus]] //(also on [[amazon>3M79JVS|Amazon]])// goes a step further, adding a 2000mah battery & GPS module and tying it all together in a sleek factory case.
  
-If you want batteries larger than 2000mah, don't be dismayed: You can 3D print all sorts of [[https://www.printables.com/search/models?q=lilygo+tdeck|fancy cases]] that accommodate different battery sizes. The GPS  module isn't necessary, but you will want it if you are going to be using the T-Deck for off-grid hiking emergencies.+If you want batteries larger than 2000mah, don't be dismayed: You can 3D print all sorts of [[https://www.printables.com/search/models?q=lilygo+tdeck|fancy cases]] that accommodate different battery sizes. The GPS module isn't necessary, but you will want it if you are going to be using the T-Deck for off-grid hiking emergencies. And the biggest plus side of printing a case yourself: It makes the T-Deck a lot cheaper!
  
-If you don't mind trading off some DIY expansion potential, LILYGO also makes the [[https://lilygo.cc/products/t-lora-pager-meshtastic|T-Lora Pager]] //([[https://www.amazon.com/LILYGO-T-Lora-915Mhz-Development-Firmware/dp/B0FZKGBR8R/|Amazon]])// which is a similar device.+If you don't mind trading off some DIY expansion potential, LILYGO also makes the [[https://lilygo.cc/products/t-lora-pager-meshtastic|T-Lora Pager]] //([[amazon>4oRMduE|Amazon]])// which is a similar device.
  
  
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 ==== Software-Defined Radio ==== ==== Software-Defined Radio ====
  
-{{wst>expand}}+If you have an [[radio:sdr|SDR]] you can receive & decode Meshtastic data using your PC with [[https://gitlab.com/crankylinuxuser/meshtastic_sdr|Meshtastic_SDR]] and [[radio:sdr#gnu-radio|GNU Radio]]. This is useful for recon work and debugging nodes. If you have an advanced enough SDR unit, you can use this software to transmit directly on Meshtastic networks - effectively turning your PC & SDR into a Meshtastic node. 
 + 
 +For more information, read the articles on [[https://www.rtl-sdr.com/decoding-meshtastic-in-realtime-with-an-rtl-sdr-and-gnu-radio/|RTL-SDR Blog]] and [[https://www.jeffgeerling.com/blog/2025/decoding-meshtastic-gnuradio-on-raspberry-pi|Jeff Geerling's]] blog. Use an antenna tuned for standard Meshtastic frequencies for best performance.
  
  
 ==== Reading Encrypted Messages ==== ==== Reading Encrypted Messages ====
  
-Some messages on Meshtastic are encrypted, which complicates evesdropping. If the source device is left unattended //(such as one hanging in a tree, a common deployment)// then you can simply pull the encryption key from the device. If not, well, just gather copies of all the encrypted messages as they are broadcast so you can at least try to break the encryption at your leisure later.+Some messages on Meshtastic are encrypted, which complicates evesdropping. If the source device is left unattended //(such as one hanging in a tree, a common deployment)// then you can simply pull the encryption key from the device. If not, well, just gather copies of all the encrypted messages as they are broadcast so you can at least try to break the encryption at your leisure [[tactics:hndl|later]].
  
  
 ===== DIY Nodes ===== ===== DIY Nodes =====
  
-{{wst>expand}}+Much like Windows shell replacement communities of the 00's //(here's looking at you Litestep)// Meshtastic is a gateway to an endless rabbit hole of riced-out LoRa devices with custom 3D printed cases. The sky is truly the limit to how you can deploy Meshtastic. As long as you are using [[https://meshtastic.org/docs/hardware/devices/|compatible hardware]], installing the firmware is a breeze with the [[https://flasher.meshtastic.org/|Web Flasher]]. 
 + 
 +If you follow up on the companies we recommended above, you will find they have plentiful offerings of bare-bones LoRa hardware in addition to finished products. If you have access to a 3D printer, you can make these chips fit in all sorts of things. Want a Meshtastic node tucked away into your car trim? Need a waterproof node, or a node that mounts on a [[https://www.amazon.com/Supreme-Support-Screws-Meshtastic-Compatible/dp/B0F8MWGNRF|plate carrier]]? Need a node that comes neatly integrated with a car battery and solar panel? If you can assemble it, you can put it on the network. 
 + 
 +If your hardware is not on the list, you are not out of luck. If your hardware uses the same chips as the ones on the list //(like the ESP32)// the firmware can be ported. There are all sorts of wild Meshtastic projects we've seen in the wild: 
 + 
 +  * People have taken to putting Meshtastic on the [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2LOTEgcXF1w|M5Stack Cardputer]], and they have an [[https://docs.m5stack.com/en/guide/lora/meshtastic/cardputer_adv|official writeup]] on the subject. Other M5Stack products such as the [[https://shop.m5stack.com/blogs/news/how-to-build-your-own-meshtastic-device|Core series]] are popular for Meshtastic use too.
  
 +  * An add-on SDR board for the **Clockwork Pi uConsole** turns it into a [[https://www.hackster.io/news/deng-dazhong-s-uconsole-add-on-board-turns-the-gadget-into-a-multi-radio-meshtastic-powerhouse-23faae952ba9|full Meshtastic node]].
  
 +  * Pelican, Apache //(Harbor Freight)// and similar clamshell cases are popular in the amateur radio community for homemade repeater boxes, and the Meshtastic community uses them the same way. The most impressive one we've seen is the [[https://www.hackster.io/news/the-meshdeck-is-a-clever-all-in-one-meshtastic-administration-toolbox-very-literally-8f3327190e59|Meshdeck]], which is not only a node with full screen & keyboard, but has a toolbox for common Meshtastic & SDR diagnostic tools.
 ===== External Links ===== ===== External Links =====
  
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-{{tag>Communications}}+{{tag>Gear Communications}}
radio/meshtastic.1763372101.txt.gz · Last modified: by coco

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