Meshtastic is an open-source, off-grid communication project that uses LoRa (Long Range) radio technology to enable secure, long-distance messaging without the internet or cellular networks. It leverages point-to-point(P2P) and mesh communication in areas with no internet or cellular access by forming a self-sufficient network of devices. Utilizing ultra-low power hardware and license-free frequency bands, it enables long-range message transmission, making it ideal for outdoor adventures, emergency rescue, rural connectivity, and low-power IoT applications.
In this guide, we'll walk you through building your very own Meshtastic LoRa node using Module LoRa868 and ESP32-based M5Stack Core series controllers.
What You’ll Need
- M5Stack Core series main controllers, such as Basic (Core1) v2.7 / Core2 v1.1
- Module LoRa868 v1.2
- Smartphone with Android or iOS system
- Computer with Windows, macOS, or Linux system
Step 1: Flashing the Meshtastic Firmware
The easiest way to install Meshtastic firmware on your M5Stack device is with M5Burner, a simple and free intuitive firmware flashing tool developed by M5Stack.
1. Locate the Meshtastic Firmware
Open M5Burner > Select ALL from the list in the left column > Input "Meshtastic" into the search bar and choose the firmware that match your device > Click Download.
If you haven’t installed M5Burner, click here and follow the installation steps to download it to your computer.
2. Connect Your Device and Start Flashing
– Connect the main controller to your computer via USB data cable > Click Burn > Select the correct USB port and set baud rate to 1500000 > Click Start to begin flashing.
– Wait for the message "Burn successfully" > Click "Click here to return" > When the Meshtastic logo "//\" appears on the screen, disconnect the device from your computer.
Note: if flashing fails, try installing the USB driver on your computer or long-press the reset button on the main controller to enter download mode. For more information, refer to your device’s documentation page.
Step 2: Configure the Module LoRa868 v1.2 and Connect Antenna
After the firmware successfully downloaded on the device:
– Check M5Burner firmware for pin info and set DIP switches by following Module LoRa868 v1.2 DIP Switch Guide (for Core1/Core2: long pins 2,5,7 and short pin 1 ON).
– Remove red dust cap > Install antenna > Connect the module to the device.
– Power on the device, then the Meshtastic logo "//\" will appear.
Safety Warning
Do NOT connect or power on the device without installing the antenna, as this may cause permanent hardware damage!
Step 3: Install the Meshtastic App on your iOS or Android device
1. Install the Meshtastic app on Your Phone
Download the Meshtastic app from the Google Play or Download APK from GitHub(for Android) or App Store(for IOS).
2. Pair the Device
Open the Meshtastic app and follow the on-screen instructions to pair your device via Bluetooth—nearby devices will be detected automatically. The iOS and Android Meshtastic apps offer similar features but have different interfaces, so setup steps and screenshots are shown separately for each platform.
3. Configure Device Settings
After pairing, you could set the Lora region, select the appropriate region (e.g., EU 868MHz), username in the app.
When running Meshtastic, the ESP32 can't use Wi-Fi and Bluetooth simultaneously. Bluetooth is enabled by default. If you turn on Wi-Fi, Bluetooth will be disabled. To re-enable it, connect the device to your computer via USB and use the Meshtastic Web Client in Chrome to disable Wi-Fi.
Step 4: Add GPS To Your Meshtastic Node
Core1/Core2 with LoRa868 v1.2 doesn’t have built-in GPS, but you can share your smartphone’s GPS location with the device. It's useful for team members to track each other during outdoor activities.
Step 5: Send and Receive Message
With other nodes show up in the list, you're connected to the mesh and can start messaging via the Meshtastic app.
Is Meshtastic Legal?
Yes, it’s legal. Meshtastic operates on license-free frequency bands such as 433 / 470 / 868 / 915 MHz which is in full compliance with FCC regulations.
How far does Meshtastic work?
The estimated range of this Meshtastic setup is around 4 km (2.49 miles). But the range between two Meshtastic nodes varies based on antenna setup, and environmental conditions. You may try moving the device around to test the range, check the signal to ensure stable connectivity.