First-Time Setup
You've flashed MeshCore firmware. Now let's get your device connected to the mwmesh network and ready to communicate.
What You'll Need
Before You Begin
- A device flashed with MeshCore firmware (need to flash?)
- A smartphone (Android or iOS) or computer (Windows, Mac, or Linux)
- Bluetooth enabled on your phone or computer
- The MeshCore companion app installed (download links below)
- Your device powered on and within Bluetooth range (~10m / 30ft)
How It Works
Your phone connects to your radio via Bluetooth. The radio communicates with the mesh over LoRa.
The MeshCore companion app is the primary way you interact with the mesh. Your phone connects to your radio via Bluetooth, and the radio handles all LoRa communication. You don't need Wi-Fi or cellular service — the mesh is completely independent.
Step 1: Download the Companion App
Step 2: Power On & Connect
Power On Your Device
Turn on your freshly flashed device. If it has a display, you'll see:
- The MeshCore splash screen (briefly)
- The main status screen showing firmware version
- A Bluetooth icon indicating it's ready to pair
If your device has no display (like some RAK boards), it's ready as soon as the LED stops flashing.
Open the MeshCore App
Launch the companion app on your phone. Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone.
On Android: You may need to grant Location permission — this is required by Android for Bluetooth scanning, but the app does not track your location.
On iOS: Allow Bluetooth access when prompted.
Pair via Bluetooth
Tap the Connect button in the app. Your device should appear in the list as MC_xxxx (where xxxx is a random identifier).
Tap your device to connect. The first connection may take a few seconds. Once paired, you'll see:
- Device status (battery, firmware version)
- Current radio settings
- Any nearby nodes already discovered
Verify the Connection
Once connected, the app will display your device's status dashboard. You should see the firmware version, battery level (if applicable), and radio parameters.
If the connection drops, try moving your phone closer to the device and reconnecting. Bluetooth range is typically 10-30 feet.
- Make sure the device is powered on and not connected to another phone
- Toggle Bluetooth off and on again on your phone
- Restart the MeshCore app
- Try resetting the device (press the reset button)
- On Android, ensure Location Services are enabled (required for BLE scanning)
Step 3: Configure Your Node
Set Your Node Name
Go to Settings in the app and set your node name. This is your identity on the mesh — other users will see this name when you send messages.
Keep it short (max ~12 characters), recognizable, and unique. Examples: KC7XXX, SLCMike, ProvoBase
Set Your Location (Optional)
If your device has GPS, it will automatically share your location on the mesh. You can enable or disable this in settings.
For fixed nodes without GPS (like a home base station), you can manually set your latitude and longitude in the app settings. This helps other users see your node on the mesh map.
Apply mwmesh Network Settings
To communicate with other nodes on the mwmesh network, your radio settings must match. Apply the recommended settings below:
mwmesh Recommended Settings
These settings ensure compatibility with all nodes on the mwmesh network:
| Setting | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency | 910.525 MHz |
| Bandwidth | 62.5 kHz |
| Spreading Factor | SF7 |
| Coding Rate | CR5 (4/5) |
| TX Power | 22 dBm |
For the full list of parameters, visit the recommended settings page.
Step 4: Join the Mesh
Discover Nearby Nodes
Once configured, your device will automatically begin scanning for other nodes. Depending on your location, you may see:
- Repeaters — Relay nodes that extend network coverage
- Room Servers — Chat room hosts you can join
- Other Users — People with companion radios nearby
Nodes may take a few minutes to appear as they're discovered through periodic advertisements.
Send a Test Message
The best way to verify your setup is to join the hashtag #test channel:
- Join the
#testchannel - Send a message — if it goes through, you're on the mesh!
You can also send a Direct Message by tapping any node and selecting Message. DMs are end-to-end encrypted — only you and the recipient can read them.
Check the Map
Visit the mwmesh map to see if your node appears. If you have GPS enabled or manually set your coordinates, your node will show up on the map within a few minutes.
You can also check the coverage map to see network coverage in your area.
Register Your Repeater (If Applicable)
If you're running a repeater node, register it at our repeater registry so the community knows about your coverage contribution.
Tips for Best Performance
📡 Antenna Placement
LoRa range is heavily affected by antenna placement. Higher is always better. Even moving your device to a windowsill or balcony can dramatically improve range.
For outdoor antennas, mount as high as possible with a clear view of the horizon. Avoid placing antennas near metal objects.
👁️ Line of Sight
LoRa signals work best with clear line of sight. Buildings, hills, and dense vegetation reduce range significantly.
For repeaters, rooftop or high-elevation placement is ideal. Mountaintop repeaters can cover hundreds of square miles.
🔋 Battery Life
To maximize battery life on portable nodes:
- Reduce TX power if you're close to repeaters
- Turn off GPS when not needed
- Reduce display brightness or timeout
Repeaters should be on permanent power (USB or solar).
📶 Range Expectations
Typical ranges you can expect:
- Urban: 1-5 km with stock antenna
- Suburban: 5-15 km with good placement
- Rural/Mountain: 20-100+ km line of sight
- External antenna: 2-5x improvement
Common Questions
Can I use my node without the app?
Devices with built-in displays and keyboards (like the LilyGo T-Deck) can send and receive messages directly. For most other devices, you'll need the companion app.
Do I need internet or cell service?
No. The mesh network is completely independent of the internet and cellular networks. Your phone only uses Bluetooth to connect to your radio — no Wi-Fi or data required.
How many nodes can be on the network?
MeshCore is designed to handle hundreds of nodes efficiently. The network uses smart routing to minimize congestion and maximize throughput.
Can I run multiple node types?
Yes! Many community members run a companion radio for messaging and a separate repeater to help extend coverage. Each device needs its own radio hardware.
My device can't find any nodes. What do I do?
If you don't see any nodes after several minutes:
- Double-check your radio settings match the mwmesh network
- Move to a higher location or near a window
- Check the coverage map — you may be outside current coverage
- Try an external antenna if available
- Ask on Discord — someone nearby may be able to help test