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= Getting Started with Meshtastic = | = Getting Started with Meshtastic = | ||
Meshtastic is a peer-to-peer LoRa mesh where every node can forward packets. This guide will help you flash Meshtastic firmware onto your device and configure it for use in the local mesh. | Meshtastic is a peer-to-peer LoRa mesh where every node can forward packets. | ||
This guide will help you flash Meshtastic firmware onto your device and configure it for use in the local Ottawa mesh. | |||
== Before You Start == | |||
To set up your first node, you’ll need: | |||
* A supported LoRa device (see [[Meshtastic/Recommended Hardware (Canada)]]) | |||
* A USB cable for flashing | |||
* Google Chrome browser (required for the Web Flasher) | |||
* (Optional) The Meshtastic mobile app for iOS or Android | |||
== Flashing a Node == | == Flashing a Node == | ||
| Line 13: | Line 21: | ||
Only '''Google Chrome''' supports the serial connection required for flashing. | Only '''Google Chrome''' supports the serial connection required for flashing. | ||
For | For step-by-step instructions, see: | ||
[https://meshtastic.org/docs/getting-started/flashing-firmware/ | [https://meshtastic.org/docs/getting-started/flashing-firmware/ Flashing Firmware Guide] | ||
== Configuring | == Configuring Your Node == | ||
After flashing, | After flashing, configure your device for local use. | ||
Follow the official guides here: | Follow the official guides here: | ||
* [https://meshtastic.org/docs/getting-started/initial-config/ Initial Configuration | * [https://meshtastic.org/docs/getting-started/initial-config/ Initial Configuration] | ||
* [https://meshtastic.org/docs/configuration/ General Configuration Reference] | * [https://meshtastic.org/docs/configuration/ General Configuration Reference] | ||
When configuring your node, ensure you set the Ottawa frequency preset: | When configuring your node, ensure you set the Ottawa frequency preset: | ||
'''US/LongFast – 906.875 MHz''' | ; Preset : '''US/LongFast – 906.875 MHz''' | ||
== Building a Repeater (Optional) == | |||
Meshtastic does not require special repeater nodes. | |||
Any stationary node left powered on will forward packets between users. | |||
To build a reliable repeater-like node: | |||
# Place a node | # Place a node high up with clear line-of-sight. | ||
# Power it continuously (mains or solar recommended). | # Power it continuously (mains or solar recommended). | ||
# Disable Bluetooth to save power and reduce interference (optional). | # Disable Bluetooth to save power and reduce interference (optional). | ||
''Tip:'' Do ''not'' change the device role from "Client" unless you’ve consulted the community. | |||
See: [https://meshtastic.org/blog/choosing-the-right-device-role/ Choosing the Right Device Role] | |||
[https://meshtastic.org/blog/choosing-the-right-device-role/ Choosing the Right Device Role] | |||
== Next Steps == | |||
Once your node is running: | |||
* Join the local community channel → [[Meshtastic/Join the Ottawa Channel]] | |||
* Explore local coverage → [[Meshtastic/Local Nodes and Coverage]] | |||
* Troubleshoot problems → [[Meshtastic/Common Issues and Fixes]] | |||
Latest revision as of 19:30, 25 August 2025
Getting Started with Meshtastic
Meshtastic is a peer-to-peer LoRa mesh where every node can forward packets. This guide will help you flash Meshtastic firmware onto your device and configure it for use in the local Ottawa mesh.
Before You Start
To set up your first node, you’ll need:
- A supported LoRa device (see Meshtastic/Recommended Hardware (Canada))
- A USB cable for flashing
- Google Chrome browser (required for the Web Flasher)
- (Optional) The Meshtastic mobile app for iOS or Android
Flashing a Node
The easiest way to flash a Meshtastic node is by using the official web flasher tool in Google Chrome:
Only Google Chrome supports the serial connection required for flashing.
For step-by-step instructions, see: Flashing Firmware Guide
Configuring Your Node
After flashing, configure your device for local use.
Follow the official guides here:
When configuring your node, ensure you set the Ottawa frequency preset:
- Preset
- US/LongFast – 906.875 MHz
Building a Repeater (Optional)
Meshtastic does not require special repeater nodes. Any stationary node left powered on will forward packets between users.
To build a reliable repeater-like node:
- Place a node high up with clear line-of-sight.
- Power it continuously (mains or solar recommended).
- Disable Bluetooth to save power and reduce interference (optional).
Tip: Do not change the device role from "Client" unless you’ve consulted the community. See: Choosing the Right Device Role
Next Steps
Once your node is running:
- Join the local community channel → Meshtastic/Join the Ottawa Channel
- Explore local coverage → Meshtastic/Local Nodes and Coverage
- Troubleshoot problems → Meshtastic/Common Issues and Fixes