in search of viable mesh communications

it is sort of a HAM radio for introverts (HumanReputationFalse)

backstory

I ran a FidoNet BBS back in the day. I was interested in packet radio but got my ham ticket too late; by then packet BBSes were basically extinct.

I keep hoping that smartphone-based mesh would take off because the devices are so prevalent, but no go. Briar, serval mesh, etc failed to thrive.

a wild viable (?) mesh appears

In the last year or so LoRa-based Meshtastic seems to have achieved critical mass. The devices are inexpensive and are not tied to Meshtastic. Fine, I’ll bite.

planned implementation

Based on my understanding of Meshtastic roles

• client_base - a solar powered, magnet mounted node built by etsy/eBay seller PeakMesh
  • RAK 4630 (NRF52) powered by an 18650 and ~1w of panel on an allegedly-MPPT control module. It’s not clear to me what happens to charging at freezing temps, although having a replaceable 18650 makes it a simple swap if it gets wrecked. Might end up wiring in a NO thermal switch into one leg of the solar input that only closes at ≥4°C.
• client - portable nodes to carry on boondocking walks and in public. In areas with a well-developed mesh this might be changed to client_mute
  • hiking: a Heltec T114-based kit with case and 3Ah battery. The provided antenna replaced with one from Muzi. IMO the N36 case is an ugly duckling but it gets good reviews for feel and durability.
  • urban settings: Rak Wishmesh Tag
• client_mute - non-routing nodes
  • a two-pack of Heltec V3 with the Lego-looking L-shaped cases and internal antennas. They will be used in the camper for experiments¹ so they don’t need external ants or batteries of any kind. If I decide later to use them outside I can pick up some of those tiny 800mAh batts for them.

1. Could be used for MQTT since they have wifi. Or could be flashed to Meshcore, or left on Meshtastic but changed to MediumFast to see how much of that is out there. ↩