Repeaters¶
Repeaters form the stable backbone of the Ottawa MeshCore network.
You can choose between pre-built repeaters or DIY builds, and both are great options.
Pre-built units have improved a lot in reliability and price, while DIY builds remain popular for those who like full control over their hardware.
Important Note for RAK-Based Repeaters¶
If you plan to use a RAK board for a repeater, you must update it to the OTAFIX bootloader firmware.
Without this fix, if an OTA update fails over BLE, the repeater will enter an unusable state and require physical access to recover.
Download the OTAFIX firmware:
OTAFIX Bootloader UF2 File
Build Your Own¶
A robust build using a purpose-built weatherproof enclosure.
Recommended Parts List¶
| Item | Product Name | Cost (CAD) | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enclosure | WisMesh Unify Enclosure 910422 | $72.50 | AliExpress |
| LoRa Board (Small) | RAK WisBlock RAK19003/RAK4631 (Type 6) | $36.38 | AliExpress |
| Antenna | ALFA AOA-915-5ACM | $34.99 | Amazon |
| Antenna Coax Cable | N Female to IPX | $6.79 | AliExpress |
| Battery | 3000mAh Li-ion | $16.00 | Amazon |
| Battery Protection | VoltaicEnclosures Li-ion PCM | $7.50 | Etsy |
| Vent | Waterproof Vent Plug (M12X1.5-10) | $6.12 | AliExpress |
Approximate total cost: $180 CAD
Build Instructions: 300mW Solar Repeater Build Guide
Pre-Built¶
These options come fully assembled; simply flash MeshCore and mount them in a high location to expand the mesh.
We recommend upgrading the antenna for best performance. Ideally, use an N-Type connector and upgrade to at least the ALFA AOA-915-5ACM.
Note: These pre-built repeaters have not been thoroughly tested by the Ottawa community, though we have seen other communities report good results.
Pre-Built Repeater Options¶
Important SenseCAP Solar Node P1 Pro Note
Make sure to order an RP-SMA → N-Type coax cable with the device.
Do not accidentally buy SMA — you specifically need RP-SMA.
Seeed uses RP-SMA for the P1 for some reason, and the wrong connector will not fit.
With the correct cable, you can upgrade to a proper Alfa antenna, which performs significantly better than the included one.
| Product | Notes | Link |
|---|---|---|
| SenseCAP Solar Node P1 Pro | Solar-powered communication node using the XIAO nRF52840 Plus + Wio-SX1262 LoRa module. Includes a 5W solar panel, IPX5 waterproofing, four 18650 cells (3350 mAh each), and a 2 dBi rubber antenna. Includes GPS (XIAO L76K). ⚠️ Note: The included antenna performs poorly; upgrade to the ALFA 5.8dBi. |
SeeedStudio |
| WisMesh Solar Repeater Mini | Compact outdoor repeater built around the RAK4631 (nRF52840 + SX1262) with a WisBlock mini base. Housed in an IP67 Unify enclosure with integrated solar panel, 3200 mAh Li-ion battery, and a WisMesh blade antenna (902–928 MHz). | RAK Store |