Getting Started with MeshCore

Welcome! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get your first MeshCore node up and running. Don't worry if you're not technical - we'll take it step by step.

What You'll Need

Hardware

You'll need a LoRa device that's compatible with MeshCore. These are small, affordable radio devices that typically cost $25-60.

Recommended devices for beginners:

  • Heltec WiFi LoRa 32 V3 - Great screen, good battery, easy to use (~$35)
  • RAK WisBlock Meshtastic Starter Kit - Modular, expandable (~$50)
  • TTGO T-Beam - Built-in GPS, popular choice (~$40)

All of these can run both MeshCore and Meshtastic firmware - you're not locked into one system.

Computer Requirements

You'll need a computer with:

  • A web browser (Chrome, Edge, or Opera recommended)
  • A USB port to connect your device

That's it! The firmware flasher runs entirely in your browser.

Step 1: Choose Your Role

Companion Radio

Best for: Personal use, mobile communication

A companion radio pairs with your phone via Bluetooth. You can send messages, share your location, and communicate with others on the mesh. Companion radios don't relay messages for other users - they just send and receive your own messages.

Choose this if: You want to use the mesh for yourself while hiking, camping, or in your neighborhood.

Repeater Node

Best for: Extending network coverage

A repeater node operates independently and relays messages for everyone. These are typically placed in high locations (rooftop, hilltop) to maximize range and coverage.

Choose this if: You want to help build infrastructure and have a good location for a permanent installation.

Start with a Companion Radio if you're unsure. You can always reflash it as a repeater later!

Step 2: Flash the Firmware

1

Open the Flasher

Visit flasher.meshcore.co.uk in your web browser.

2

Connect Your Device

Plug your LoRa device into your computer using a USB cable. The device should power on (you might see lights or a screen turn on).

3

Select Device Type

In the flasher, select your specific device model from the dropdown menu. If you're not sure which model you have, check the label on your device or the packaging.

4

Choose Your Role

Select either "Companion Radio" or "Repeater" based on what you chose in Step 1.

5

Enter DFU Mode (if needed)

Some devices need to be put into firmware update mode. The flasher will tell you if this is required. Usually this involves holding a button while connecting USB.

6

Erase and Flash

Click "Erase Device" to clear any old firmware, then click "Flash" to install MeshCore. This takes about 1-2 minutes. Don't unplug your device during this process!

7

Success!

When flashing completes, your device will reboot with MeshCore firmware. You should see the MeshCore logo or interface on the device screen.

Step 3: Configure Your Node

For Companion Radios:

  1. Download the App: Get the MeshCore phone app for Android or iOS
  2. Pair via Bluetooth: Open the app and it should detect your device. Tap to connect.
  3. Set Your Region: Choose "US Recommended" for optimal performance in the United States.
  4. Announce Yourself: Send a flood routed advertisement to let other nodes know you're on the network. This is usually a button in the app.
  5. Start Messaging: You're ready! Try sending a message to test it out.

For Repeater Nodes:

  1. Configure in Flasher: Before deployment, use the flasher's configuration tool to set:
    • Admin password (keep this secure!)
    • GPS coordinates of where you'll place it
    • Node name/identifier
  2. Sync the Clock: Use a companion node to sync the time - accurate time helps with network coordination.
  3. Deploy Your Repeater: Place it in your chosen location. Higher is better - rooftops, hills, tall buildings all work great.
  4. Power Considerations: Repeaters need continuous power. Options include:
    • USB power bank (recharged regularly)
    • Solar panel with battery
    • Permanent USB power connection

Step 4: Join the Network

Be Patient with Node Discovery

Unlike some mesh systems, MeshCore discovers nodes on-demand when they send messages. You won't see all nearby nodes immediately. As people send messages and advertisements, your node will gradually learn about the network.

Test Your Setup

  • Send a test message to yourself
  • Try messaging another user if you know someone else on the mesh
  • Check your signal strength and battery level
  • Experiment with different locations to see how range changes

Connect with the Community

Join our community chat to:

  • Get help troubleshooting
  • Find other local mesh users
  • Learn about upcoming events and installations
  • Share your experiences and help newcomers

Community Links: [Add your chat/forum links here]

Troubleshooting

Device Won't Connect to Computer

  • Try a different USB cable (some cables are charge-only and don't transfer data)
  • Try a different USB port on your computer
  • Make sure the device is powered on
  • Check if you need to install drivers (usually not required, but sometimes needed for older devices)

Flashing Failed or Stuck

  • Don't panic! Unplug the device and try again
  • Make sure you selected the correct device model
  • Try a different browser (Chrome or Edge work best)
  • Check that your USB cable supports data transfer

Can't Find Any Other Nodes

  • Remember: nodes only appear when they send messages
  • Check if others are active in your area (ask in the community chat)
  • Try sending a message yourself to announce your presence
  • Consider your location - LoRa works best with line-of-sight

Still Need Help?

Reach out to the community! We're here to help:

  • Community chat: [Add link]
  • Email: [Add email]
  • Attend a workshop or meetup

Next Steps

Optimize Your Range

Learn about antenna upgrades, ideal placement, and how to get the most distance from your node.

View Technical Info →

Help Expand the Network

Consider deploying a repeater node or helping others get set up. Every node makes the network stronger!

Learn More →

Learn the Technology

Dive deeper into how LoRa mesh networks work and what makes MeshCore special.

Learn About LoRa →