MeshCore

We’re experimenting with off-grid text messaging at the workshop. MeshCore uses low-power LoRa radios to send messages without Wi-Fi or cell service. A companion radio connects to a phone or computer for messaging, and a repeater can relay messages between radios that are out of direct range. MeshCore project

Hardware we’re testing

• RAKwireless WisBlock starter kit (US915). This kit pairs a RAK19007 base board with a RAK4631 radio module. Amazon listing
• ESP32 LoRa V3 development boards (N30, 915 MHz). This two-pack includes SX1262-based boards, antennas, batteries, and cases. The exact MeshCore firmware target still needs to be confirmed for this board revision. Amazon listing
• Seeed Studio SenseCAP Solar Node P1 Pro. We’re looking at this solar-powered unit as a repeater. Seeed’s linked listing is for the Meshtastic version, and MeshCore lists repeater firmware for the P1 Pro. Seeed Studio listing · MeshCore hardware list

Software we’re trying

Supply Drop BBS is a bulletin board system for LoRa networks. It supports MeshCore and Meshtastic and can run on a Raspberry Pi. We’re exploring what it takes to make a shared message board available over the workshop mesh. Supply Drop BBS

What we want to find out

• How reliably can two companion radios exchange messages around the workshop?
• Where would a solar repeater extend coverage, and how does it hold up through cloudy weather?
• Can someone on a companion radio reach Supply Drop and leave a message?

For setup, see the MeshCore documentation and the MeshCore web flasher.