Meshtastic runs on LoRa radio hardware to create a mesh network that works without internet or cell service — ideal for the farm’s 93 acres and off-grid scenarios. Nodes relay messages hop-by-hop across the mesh.
| Device | Role | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| (add your nodes) |
Common hardware: Heltec V3, LILYGO T-Beam, RAK WisBlock, Seeed SenseCAP. Solar-powered nodes with 18650 batteries for permanent outdoor deployment.
Key settings per node:
- Region: US (required for legal frequency use)
- Channel: Set a custom channel name and PSK so only your nodes communicate
- Role: Router for fixed/elevated nodes, Client for carried devices
- GPS: Enable on mobile nodes, disable or set fixed position on stationary ones
Recommended router placement: High elevation, line-of-sight to maximize range. A node on the highest point of the farm can cover the entire property.
The Meshtastic iOS app connects to a node via Bluetooth to send messages, view the mesh map, and configure settings.
- Connect via Bluetooth to the nearest node
- Map view shows all nodes the mesh can see
- Messages relay through any available path to the destination
Meshtastic nodes can bridge to MQTT, feeding position data, telemetry, and messages into Home Assistant or other services.
In HA: Add Meshtastic MQTT integration — nodes report GPS position, battery level, and temperature if sensors are configured. Useful for tracking which areas of the farm have been visited.
Permanent outdoor nodes use solar panels with LoRa-capable microcontrollers in weatherproof enclosures. A small 6–10W panel + 18650 cell bank powers a Heltec V3 indefinitely in southwestern Pennsylvania’s sun conditions.
Enclosure: IP67-rated project box with cable glands. Mount the solar panel south-facing at 30–40° tilt.