This is the SA:MUG starting page for MeshCore. It gives new users the short path through the main concepts, setup choices, and local wiki pages.
MeshCore is a LoRa-based messaging and routing system for off-grid text communication. It is separate from Meshtastic and uses different firmware and protocol behaviour.
Useful upstream links:
Current South Australian MeshCore radio settings are:
| Setting | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency | 923.125 MHz |
| Bandwidth | 62.5 kHz |
| Spreading factor | 8 |
| Coding rate | 8 |
Western Australia and Queensland use the same settings.
| I want to... | Start with |
|---|---|
| Send and receive messages with a phone or web app | Companion firmware |
| Extend coverage from a fixed location | Repeater firmware |
| Run a mailbox/BBS-style shared message point | Room server firmware |
| Use a standalone handheld without a phone | T-Deck / Ultra-style firmware |
| Understand common terms and problems | MeshCore FAQ, Troubleshooting, and Glossary |
If you are new, start with a companion node. Add a repeater only when there is a real coverage need and you can test it properly.
A companion node is a LoRa radio that connects to your phone or computer. It handles the radio side while the app handles the user interface.
Basic flow:
Use companion firmware unless you specifically know the device is meant to be a repeater or room server.
A repeater helps extend coverage. It should usually be a fixed, powered, tested site with a useful antenna position.
Before deploying a repeater, ask:
For repeater configuration guidance, see:
A room server is a shared message store. It is useful when users may not all be online or in range at the same time.
A room server is not the same thing as a repeater. For best results, treat repeater and room server as separate roles and usually run them on separate devices.
A normal user/client radio that connects to an app over BLE or USB serial.
A node that forwards MeshCore packets to help traffic reach further nodes.
A mailbox/BBS-style server that stores messages for later retrieval.
A node announcement. It helps other MeshCore users discover your node, name, position, and public key.
Traffic that may be forwarded more broadly through repeaters.
Traffic that uses known path information to reach a destination more directly.
Timing controls used by repeaters:
rxdelay affects when weak received flood packets are processed.txdelay affects when flood packets are retransmitted.direct.txdelay affects direct/routed retransmits.See rxdelay and txdelay calculations before tuning them.
Avoid these common mistakes:
rxdelay values between 0 and 1.If something does not work:
Start with these:
Planned pages:
If you are setting up your first device, flash companion firmware and get a basic message test working before changing advanced settings or planning a repeater.