What is a Meshtastic?

Meshtastic is a network of low power radios that all act as repeaters. These radios then form a ‘mesh’, this mesh allows long range communication that otherwise would not be possible.

How Does Meshtastic Operate?

Meshtastic utilizes a system called roles, wherein each radio is assigned a function to the mesh. The default role is called client and acts as both a radio and a repeater, this is a common role that can help extend the mesh as well as a tool to access the mesh.

Another common role is the router role which functions more closely to a repeater, but what differentiates it is the fact it acts more as a beacon for mesh messages to follow. “Routing” the messages to its intended target.

These chats are, by default, encrypted and allow for a private form of communication between radio operators.

The opposite of this is group chats, they, as the name implies, allow for communication simultaneously between groups of radio operators.

Any meshtastic radio will, by default, come with a “long-fast” channel with the passkey of AQ==. This is a general group chat for anyone to speak on regardless of who they are.

A Crude Example of Meshtastic Communication

This diagram showcases the ability meshtastic has to, in the correct conditions, circumvent difficult terrain and extend communication abilities.

Node 1 is able to speak to not only Node 2 but also Node 3. This only works due to Meshtastic’s ability to mesh radios with one another.

How is the Bledsoe County Mesh?

At the current point in time the Bledsoe County Mesh is far improved from its previous status, which was non-existant. Currently Pikeville is well covered and in most areas with minimal obstructions are able to connect to the BCARC Meshtastic Router.

Notable exceptions to this are areas that may be obscured by Trees, Tall Buildings, and/or other obstructions. At the moment minimal changes can be made to these conditions but with time, more nodes may pop up in the county. Promoting a far healthier mesh.

A reminder that these are extremely low powered devices operating at high frequncies. Line of sight is reccomended for connection between nodes.

What Kind of Radio Should I buy?

• Heltec-V3 - By far the most common meshtastic radio. This radio is an affordable entryway into meshtastic, the radio itself is comprised of pcb, a screen, and an antenna. By far one of the simplest examples of a meshtastic radio.

• Lilygo-Techo - A more expensive option that provides a case, gps functionality, and weather readings. A personel favorite of mine due to its extensive battery life and pocketability.

• Lilygo-Tdeck - One of the few examples of a fully self-contained meshtastic radio. No phone is required for typing as the radio itself has a keyboard. Akin to a blackberry the Tdeck offers a usecase most simliar to texting on a phone.

Written by, KR4EHX

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