Getting Started

Choose Your Device

In order to use Meshtastic or join in the Iowa Mesh, you will need a device capable of running the Meshtastic firmware. You should make sure your device includes at least an antenna, a battery if you want to operate portable, and a GPS if you want to share your position. Some of our favorite starter devices are:

• Ready to go devices:
• Low cost devices: Heltec v3 from Amazon or Rokland
• Development kits:

If you would like to explore other options check out our hardware recommendations. Some things to be aware of:

• Some devices are available for multiple frequency bands. The United States requires the 915 MHz band.
• nRF52 based devices are more power efficient than ESP32 based devices so they are better for portable use.
• Most devices do not have a built in GPS. If you are connected to the device with your phone, it can still use your phone’s GPS if you want to track position.

Flash the Firmware

After selecting your device, use the Meshtastic web flasher to install the software. It’s quick, straightforward, and backed by excellent documentation.

Configure Your Device

1. Connect to your device

   Install and open the Meshtastic app on your phone. From the main screen click on the connect button to pair with a new device. You will need to follow the pairing instructions for your specific device. Generally devices without a screen will have a fixed pin like “123456” and devices with a screen will present a pairing code on the screen.

   

2. Set your Lora Region to United States

   

3. Name Your Device

   Be Found Easily by naming your device! If you are already a licensed Amateur Radio Operator you can opt to put in your call sign

   

   

4. LoRa Settings

   Currently in Iowa it’s a bit sparse for coverage. It might be worth turning up for the recommended 3 hops

   Information on Meshtastic’s docs.

   If you plan on participating in the meshmap you’ll need to turn on Ok to MQTT. More information here.

   

   

5. Add Channels for Private configuration

   Use These QR Codes to Add the additional IROMesh Channel to your node. The Public Channel is available to everyone, but the IROMesh Channel will give us a little better place to communicate among the group.

   

Have Fun

You’re now ready to have fun with Meshtastic and the Iowa Mesh!

Join the Community

Have questions or want to connect? Find us on Discord and join the conversation with Iowa Radio Operators!