Meshtastic - MeshCore

What is that Meshstuff anyway?

MeshTechnology is a portable, long‑range digital networking system built on LoRa radios. Each device acts as a node, automatically relaying messages for others. The result is a resilient, decentralized communication network ideal for field operations, public‑service events, and emergency scenarios.

Key Features

  • Self‑healing mesh: Every node extends coverage and fills gaps automatically.

  • Long‑range LoRa links: Multi‑mile communication with very low power usage.

  • Offline operation: Works without cell towers, Wi‑Fi, or internet.

  • GPS & mapping: Nodes can share location for team tracking and coordination.

  • Telemetry & sensors: Weather, battery, movement, and custom data modules.

  • Cross‑platform apps: Easy configuration via phone or desktop tools.

Why It Matters for Amateur Radio

MeshTechnology gives ham radio operators a hands‑on digital networking platform that complements traditional RF operations. It’s excellent for:

  • Field Day coordination

  • Public‑service events

  • Emergency communication exercises

  • Portable and backpack‑friendly deployments

  • Experimentation with digital protocols and sensors

Meshtastic and Meshcore are open‑source digital communications platforms that uses LoRa (Long Range) modulation to create low‑power, long‑distance, multi‑hop self healing mesh networks. Nodes operate in the ISM bands (typically 915 MHz in the U.S.) and exchange structured packets containing text messages, GPS data, telemetry, and sensor information. It is like packet radio on steroids.

Operation of these devices is license free and limited to 1W output. But with the use of meshed repeaters you can cover a larger area.

It can be another tool in your toolbox for emergency communication without any standard infrastructure.

What is the difference between Meshtstic and MeshCore?

Both Meshtastic and MeshCore are mature, widely used, and actively developed. The choice between them really does depend on where you are, how dense your local mesh is, and what kind of network you’re trying to build.

If you are out in a rural area and just want to communicate with a couple of friends Meshtastic is your network. In the Chicago land area with a denser population MeshCore would be the better solution.

Main differences between Meshtastic and MeshCore:

The North Shore Radio Club will have an activity to help you build your own LoRa repeater.

A special meeting will be held on October 20th in the Mount Prospect library, at 6.30pm.

Mount Prospect Public Library

10 S Emerson St.

Mount Prospect, Il  600560

The library has ample free parking in the parking garage which is accessible for Emerson Street. When you enter turn right and park on the ground and then enter the library and go up to the first floor to the main entrance. We are in meeting room C.

At that day we will introduce LoRa mesh technology in general and the different device options we will offer.

To reserve your space please use the form below to register.

Additional to a repeater you will need a Companion Device linked to your cellphone by Bluetooth to send and receive messages. There are two Companion Device kits offered. Both can be assembled without soldering. They are described here —>

The four different Repeater kits are described here —>

Please select all the kits you want. We will contact you about delivery and payments.