FROM THE BOX TO THE FIRST MESSAGE
Build it. Pair it.
Try a real conversation.
A “node” is simply one radio in the network. Set yours up, connect your phone, and send a short message to another participant.
A SMALL, PRACTICAL PROJECT
Parts on the desk.
A connection in your hand.
Some radios arrive in a case; others need a little assembly. Both need the right software and local settings. Choose your kit first, then work through the checklist below.
Prepare the radio
Check the parts and attach its antenna.
Connect your phone
Install MeshCore, pair, and match local settings.
Try a reply
Ask another participant for a short two-way test.
The setup checklist
For builders · Parts, software, pairing and first test
1. Check the parts before powering up
Use the complete list in your starter plan. Confirm the correct frequency-capable hardware and antenna, and connect the antenna before powering the radio. Keep boards on a nonconductive surface. For RAK kits, the LoRa and Bluetooth connectors are different connections; match the labels.
Use a data-capable USB cable for setup. Charging-only cables can power the device without allowing the computer to find it. Do not connect a loose lithium battery until the connector, polarity and charging requirements have been checked.
2. Install MeshCore for your exact device
Meshtastic and MeshCore are different radio networks. Several recommended devices arrive with Meshtastic installed. They need MeshCore firmware, not just new frequency settings.
- Open the official MeshCore flasher ↗ on a supported desktop browser.
- Select the exact board/device and its supported firmware. Use Bluetooth Companion for Plans A–C. Use the supported Repeater build for a repeater.
- Follow the device-specific connection and bootloader instructions shown by the flasher. Don’t select a similar-looking board.
- Finish the installation and reboot. If a new ESP32 installation asks for a complete/merged firmware image, follow that instruction so settings survive a power cycle.
3. Pair your phone and set the local profile
Install a supported MeshCore app using the official MeshCore site ↗. Allow Bluetooth access and connect to your companion from inside the app. Follow the pairing code shown or documented for your device.
Choose a recognizable alias without adding your home address. Enter the ATW radio settings, save, reconnect, and verify them. Review location sharing before sending an advertisement. Add only channels and keys you have permission to use.
4. Prove the connection
- Arrange a test with another participant, initially at a nearby accessible location.
- Send one short message and ask for a reply. A sent indication alone is not proof of delivery.
- Record whether a reply or acknowledgement arrived, and whether the path was direct or repeated.
- Power-cycle the node, confirm the settings survived, and repeat the test.
No reply? Check power, antenna connections, matching radio/channel settings and a known reachable peer. Try a window or a safe outdoor position before buying a bigger antenna.
Learn how we document field tests →Before an outdoor installation
Use a weather-appropriate enclosure, strain relief and safe mounting. Confirm charging-temperature limits, winter power needs and access for service. An indoor companion case is not an outdoor enclosure. Rooftop or tower work belongs with qualified installers and the site owner.
Repeaters need a unique admin password and coordinated configuration. Store credentials privately; don’t put them in a label photo or public build log.