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Meshtastic
Meshtastic is an open-source, decentralized, off-grid mesh network. It’s made up of small communicators that can form a mesh network. These communicators can be linked to a phone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Meshtastic uses inexpensive LoRa radios as a long-range communication platform.
Meshtastic is a new an emerging technology, so it's constantly changing.
Meshtastic operates in the 915 MHz/33 cm band (902-928 MHz) under part 15 rules; with a good portion of operators being hams. There is a large amount of information on the official Meshtastic website.
We also have a large amount of information on the following local community sites:
How to join the mesh at Pacificon
How to join the mesh at Pacificon
We're running special settings while at the event to help keep the local LongFast and MediumSlow meshes free of local traffic.
To Join the mesh do the following:
Make sure your device is updated to the latest 2.6.x software (2.6.11 for 2025)
Get the latest here https://flasher.meshtastic.org/Export your existing configurations so you can restore it after pacificon
Open Meshtastic App -> Goto Radio Settings -> Scroll to the bottom and ExportScan the QR code to the right (or located around pacificon) and accept the configuration.
Note: your node will reboot.
What is this QR Code thing?
This QR is a pre-made configuration that contains the radio configuration, Channel and telemetry settings.
If you want to configure these manually, here's the settings:
Channel/Key
Name: Pacificon
Key: FFKJ9v4l1B889fugIibYbAMWozKX6KxpnIeEUVbz1Vc=
Checkboxes:
All off. You can enable Position if you have a GPS.
DO NOT enable Uplink/Downlink.
Device
Role: CLIENT_MUTE
DO NOT use any other role. If a router is needed, we'll add one.
Rebroadcast Mode: CORE_PORTNUMS_ONLY
Node Broadcast Interval: 10800
Position
Position Broadcast Interval: 1800
Smart Position Enabled: ON
GPS Mode: Enabled
LoRA
Preset: SHORT_TURBO
Hop Limit 3
Frequency Slot: 18
Checkboxes:
Ignore MQTT: ON
OK to MQTT: User Discretion. Allows messages to be sent to logger.
All other settings are set to default, you can adjust setting as you need. If you run into problems, we suggest you reset and use the above QR Code.
How to join the BayArea/Sacramento/Central Valley/Monterrey Mesh after Pacificon
How to join the BayArea/Sacramento/Central Valley/Monterrey Mesh after Pacificon
If you live in the Bay, Sacramento Central Valley and Monterrey we're all connected on MediumSlow. We've built out this mesh with the help of multiple volunteers around the areas, and have adopted a set of configurations to keep the mesh healthy.
If you want to join us, Stop by the BayMe.sh Getting started page and Join your local discord group. You can find links to their discods below:
Which meshtastic devices can you recommended to get started?
Which meshtastic devices can you recommended to get started?
SeeedStudio Tracker T1000-E - Great starter device, Does not have an external antenna so coverage can be a problem at times.
WizMesh Pocket - This is a similar to the wizblock below with a antenna, battery and a case.
Wizblock Meshtastic Starter kit - Requires a case, you can 3d print one, make one or buy a printed one:
Pacificon 2025 Talk
Slides are available here
For questions contact UCSC student Ben KO6CNT.
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