MeshCore

A LoRa mesh system built around smart routing. Fixed repeaters carry traffic across the network, while your pocket device simply sends and receives.

Join our MeshCore channelWeb flasher

How it works

MeshCore uses the same kind of LoRa radio hardware as Meshtastic but a different approach. Devices play roles:

Companion

What you carry. Pairs with a phone app over Bluetooth (or USB/Wi-Fi on some builds). Sends and receives your messages but does not relay for others.

Repeater

Usually fixed and elevated. Relays traffic and extends coverage across the venue.

Room server

A shared "room" that stores messages so people can catch up after being out of range.

Because only repeaters relay, the network stays efficient as more people join, which suits large crowds. The tradeoff: coverage depends on repeaters being placed well.

What to buy

Many boards that run Meshtastic also run MeshCore: Heltec V3/V4, LilyGO T-Echo and T-Deck, RAK WisBlock, Seeed T1000-E and others. Choose the 915 MHz version in the US. Check the flasher's supported-device list for your board.

Get set up

  1. Flash Companion firmware. Open the web flasher in Chrome or Edge, select your device, and choose the Companion (Bluetooth) build. Some boards need the BOOT button held while connecting.
  2. Install the MeshCore app for Android or iOS (or use the web client).
  3. Connect over Bluetooth and set your node name.
  4. Match the radio settings. All nodes on a network must use the same frequency profile. Pick the preset for your region and match what the local community uses.
  5. Join our private channel. In the app, use Add Channel > Scan QR Code and scan from the channels page.
MeshCore moves quickly, and menu names and presets can change between app versions. If something looks different, check the official docs or the MeshCore Discord.

Using it at the festival