Meshtastic
Meshtastic® is a project that enables you to use inexpensive LoRa radios as a long range off-grid communication platform in areas without existing or reliable communications infrastructure. This project is 100% community driven and open source!
For more information, here is a link to Wikipedia
Meshtastic utilizes LoRa, a long-range radio protocol, which is widely accessible in most regions without the need for additional licenses or certifications, unlike ham radio operations.
These radios are designed to rebroadcast messages they receive, forming a mesh network. This setup ensures that every group member, including those at the furthest distance, can receive messages.
Additionally, Meshtastic radios can be paired with a single phone, allowing friends and family to send messages directly to your specific radio. It's important to note that each device is capable of supporting a connection from only one user at a time.
Channel Role: Your set up role for your unit can cater for a differing number of uses. | |
Client | Default role-Lets you interface with meshtastic client apps over WiFi,Bluetooth & USB |
Client - Mute | Similar to Client but does not re-broadcast or contribute to the mesh |
Router | Best for nodes at locations with best coverage. Takes higher priorities and packets will prefer to go to these devices. Uses more power. |
Router - Client | Similar to Router role but Bluetooth/WiFi screens stay on so it can be used as a client still. |
Repeater | Similar to Router role where packets will prefer to go through devices with this role. Will not broadcast unecessary packets eg. Node infor, device telemetry, etc. |
Tracker | Devices used being used just for GPS tracking. |
Sensor | Devices just used for sensor data. |
TAK | For TAK plug-ins |