Technical Information

What is MeshCore?

MeshCore is an open-source C++ library and firmware that enables multi-hop packet routing over LoRa radios. It's designed as an alternative to Meshtastic with a focus on simplified routing and battery efficiency.

• Language: C/C++ (64.1% C, 34.8% C++)
• License: MIT License
• Development: PlatformIO build system
• Repository: github.com/meshcore-dev/MeshCore

Node Roles

MeshCore uses fixed roles to optimize network performance:

• Companion Nodes: Do not repeat messages from other users. This prevents adverse routing paths and conserves battery for mobile/personal devices.
• Repeater Nodes: Relay messages for all users. Typically deployed in fixed, high locations with permanent power or solar.

This role-based architecture balances network coverage with power efficiency and routing simplicity.

Multi-Hop Routing

Messages automatically route through intermediate nodes to reach distant destinations. MeshCore implements multi-hop packet forwarding with configurable hop limits to prevent infinite loops and network flooding.

Node Discovery

Unlike Meshtastic's automatic discovery, MeshCore uses on-demand discovery: nodes only appear when they send advertisements. This reduces radio chatter and power consumption but requires patience when joining the network.

Radio Specifications

• Frequency: 915 MHz (US), unlicensed ISM band
• Modulation: LoRa (Chirp Spread Spectrum)
• Bandwidth: Configurable (125 kHz, 250 kHz, 500 kHz)
• Spreading Factor: SF7-SF12 (trade-off between range and data rate)
• Coding Rate: 4/5, 4/6, 4/7, 4/8 (forward error correction)
• Output Power: Typically 20-22 dBm (100-158 mW)

Range Considerations

LoRa range depends on many factors:

• Line-of-Sight: 5-15+ miles possible in ideal conditions
• Urban/Suburban: 0.5-3 miles typical with buildings and obstacles
• Elevation: Higher placement dramatically improves range (Fresnel zone clearance)
• Antenna: Quality and placement matter more than transmit power
• Terrain: Hills, trees, and buildings block or reflect signals
• Weather: Rain and humidity can reduce range slightly

Data Rate & Airtime

LoRa is optimized for range, not speed:

• Typical data rate: 0.3 - 5.5 kbps (varies with spreading factor)
• Good for: Text messages, location data, sensor readings
• Not suitable for: Voice, video, large file transfers
• Duty cycle limits: FCC regulations limit transmit time to manage interference

Power Consumption

• Sleep mode: ~100 μA (microamps)
• Receive mode: ~10-15 mA
• Transmit mode: ~120-140 mA at full power
• Battery life: Days to months depending on message frequency and battery size

Compatible Devices

MeshCore works with almost all Meshtastic-compatible hardware:

• Heltec: WiFi LoRa 32 V3, Wireless Stick, Wireless Stick Lite
• RAK Wireless: RAK4631 (nRF52 + SX1262), RAK11200 (ESP32)
• TTGO/LilyGO: T-Beam, T-Echo, T-Deck
• DIY: Custom ESP32 + SX126x/SX127x boards

Check the official flasher for the complete compatibility list.

Recommended Hardware Features

• Screen: Helpful for monitoring without phone (OLED or E-ink)
• GPS: Enables location sharing and repeater positioning
• Battery connector: For portable/mobile use
• External antenna connector: Allows antenna upgrades for better range
• Enclosure compatibility: Consider weatherproofing for outdoor deployment

US Recommended Settings

The "US Recommended" preset optimizes for US regulations and typical use cases:

• 915 MHz frequency band (ISM)
• Appropriate spreading factor for range/battery balance
• FCC-compliant transmit power and duty cycle
• Channel hopping within allowed frequencies

Key Differences

When to Choose MeshCore

• You prefer simplified routing and role-based architecture
• Battery life is a top priority
• You want to experiment with an alternative approach
• You're building a planned network with designated repeaters

When to Choose Meshtastic

• You want automatic node discovery
• You need more advanced routing features
• You want access to a larger community and more documentation
• You prefer more frequent updates and feature additions

Building from Source

If you want to modify MeshCore or build custom firmware:

1. Clone the repository: git clone https://github.com/meshcore-dev/MeshCore
2. Install PlatformIO IDE or CLI
3. Select your target board in platformio.ini
4. Build: pio run
5. Upload: pio run --target upload

See the repository README for detailed build instructions.

Example Applications

The MeshCore repository includes several example implementations:

• Companion Radio: Bluetooth-connected personal node
• Simple Repeater: Standalone relay node
• Room Server: Hub for local services
• Secure Chat: Encrypted messaging implementation

Optimal Repeater Placement

• Elevation: Higher is almost always better (rooftops, hills, towers)
• Line-of-Sight: Visual line-of-sight to other repeaters improves reliability
• Coverage Gaps: Identify areas with no coverage and place repeaters accordingly
• Redundancy: Multiple paths between areas improve network resilience
• Power Access: Consider solar + battery for remote locations
• Weather Protection: Outdoor repeaters need weatherproof enclosures

Antenna Considerations

• Stock antennas: Usually adequate for testing and short range
• Upgraded antennas: 5-8 dBi gain antennas can double effective range
• Directional antennas: Yagi or patch antennas for point-to-point links
• Omnidirectional: Better for general coverage and mobile use
• Antenna height: Every meter of height significantly improves range

• MeshCore GitHub Repository
• Official Firmware Flasher
• Austin Mesh Getting Started Guide
• Meshtastic Project (compatible alternative)
• The Things Network (broader LoRa community)
• LoRa Alliance (protocol specifications)