MESHTASTIC GUIDE

Introduction

This guide is designed for LoRa devices purchased from our store and is based around Android devices. However, it is also applicable to any other devices that use the same hardware configuration. For a broader, more general guide covering all Meshtastic devices and features, you can visit Meshtastic's official documentation.

Meshtastic is an open-source, long-range communication system that allows devices to send text messages, GPS locations and sensor data without relying on mobile networks, Wi-Fi, or the internet.

It works by using LoRa (Long Range) radio technology, which enables messages to travel several kilometers (sometimes tens of kilometers) between devices.

Meshtastic creates a mesh network - each device acts as a repeater, forwarding messages to extend coverage. This means that even if two nodes are far apart, messages can hop through other nodes in between to reach their destination.

It can be used for:

  • Hiking, camping and other activities
  • Off-grid communication during emergencies
  • Tactical coordination for teams
  • Tracking and location sharing

Initial Setup

For a quick and easy start with your Expeditus Systems node, we provide a quick start manual with your order. While good for initial setup, read the detailed settings guide below to ensure you understand the basic settings and what they do.

Hardware

In our LoRa radios, we use the RAK Wireless RAK4631 module as the core nRF52-based chip. The nRF52 chip is power-efficient and the setup is modular.

Data Cable - Ensure your cable supports data transfer, not just charging. Test by connecting phone to another device (e.g. laptop) and see if phone prompts you to select file transfer option or try copying a file - if it works, you're good to proceed.

Flashing Software

Your LoRa radio comes with the latest Meshtastic firmware installed but you will have to install new updates by yourself in the future.

Flashing methods:

DRAG & DROP

  • Download and unzip the latest firmware from Meshtastic Downloads.
  • Connect your device to your computer with a USB data cable.
  • Double click the reset button on your device (this will put it into bootloader mode).
  • Notice a new drive will be mounted on your computer (Windows, Mac, Linux, or Android).
  • Open this drive and you should see three files: CURRENT.UF2, INDEX.HTM, and INFO_UF2.TXT.
  • Copy the appropriate firmware file (firmware-DEVICE_NAME-X.X.X-xxxxxxx.uf2) from the release onto this drive.
  • Once the file has finished copying onto the drive, the device will reboot and install the Meshtastic firmware.

OTA (Over The Air)

OTA firmware updates are available for Android using an older release of the more advanced nRF Connect App version 4.24.3 which is available for download from the Nordic Semiconductor GitHub page.

  1. Download the firmware release you wish to install from the Meshtastic Download Page or Meshtastic GitHub (Caution: Prerelease/Beta vesions).
  2. Unzip the firmware folder
  3. Open the nRF Connect App and select CONNECT on your device from the SCANNER tab
  4. If the top right corner of the interface that is shown says DISCONNECT, proceed to step 5, if it says CONNECT, select CONNECT
  5. Select the DFU icon from the top-right of the screen
  6. Select OK after verifying that "Distribution Packet (ZIP)" is selected
  7. Select the correct device firmware file (will end with -ota.zip)
  8. The update will start automatically (this will be slow)
  9. Once the update is complete, the device will reboot automatically

Over-the-air (OTA) updates are especially useful for nodes that are difficult to access, such as repeaters mounted on poles or rooftops, or when you want to avoid opening the device.

+ No need to physically access the node to press the reset button.

  • OTA updates can be slower and occasionally less reliable compared to using the Drag & Drop method.

Bluetooth Settings

These settings control how your device connects wirelessly to your Android phone or Web interface.

  • Enabled – Turns Bluetooth on or off. Note: Connecting via USB cable automatically disables Bluetooth, which improves security and conserves battery.
  • Pairing Mode – Determines how new devices connect:
  • RANDOM_PIN – One-time PIN for each pairing.
  • FIXED_PIN – Permanent 6-digit PIN (default 123456; change for security).
  • NO_PIN – Pair without a PIN (least secure).

Fixed PIN Value – Used when FIXED_PIN is selected; set a unique PIN to prevent unauthorized access.

Proper configuration ensures secure, reliable wireless access while conserving battery when Bluetooth isn't needed.

Regional Settings

Before your Meshtastic devices can communicate over the mesh, you need to set the correct frequency for your region. Devices must be configured to 868 MHz for Europe/UK or 915 MHz for the USA and Canada to comply with local regulations and ensure proper operation.

After confirming your regional frequency:

  1. Open Meshtastic Android app and connect to your device via USB Serial or Bluetooth in the Connection tab.
  2. Click the preset above the devices name and set it to appropriate region.

Note: You can access the LoRa region settings via Settings > LoRa > Region.

Setting the correct region ensures your device transmits on the legal frequency range and can communicate reliably with other nodes in the mesh.

Channel Settings

A channel is like a private "chat group" where your devices exchange messages. Every device must be set to the exact same channel name and PSK (pre-shared key) to talk to each other.

  • Primary channel – The main communication path your device listens to and sends on. It's set to public by default and is the only one that sends occasional telemetry data.
  • Secondary channels – Optional extra channels for special uses, such as different teams, events, or experiments. Your device can listen to multiple channels at once but will only send to the one you choose as default.
  • Disabled – Turns a channel off completely. The device won't listen or send on it.

You can make a channel public or private:

  • Public – Anyone with default Meshtastic settings can hear and send messages.
  • Private – Only devices with the same PSK can decrypt and understand messages.

About the PSK (Pre-Shared Key)

The PSK is an encryption key that secures your communication. If you change the PSK on one device, update it on all devices in your group.

For more detailed information on configuring channels via the Meshtastic Android app, you can visit the official documentation here:

Application Usage (Official Documentation)

Device Roles

In Meshtastic, each device can be assigned a role that determines how it behaves within the mesh network. Roles control whether a device primarily sends messages, forwards packets for others, broadcasts GPS or sensor data, or integrates with systems like ATAK. Choosing the right role ensures efficient network operation and meets the specific needs of your deployment.

  • CLIENT – Standard messaging device, either app-connected or standalone. Rebroadcasts packets if no other node has done so. Ideal for individuals communicating over the mesh with client apps. This is the role most users use.
  • CLIENT_MUTE – Participates in the network but does not forward packets from other devices. Useful for reducing network load.
  • CLIENT_HIDDEN – Broadcasts only when necessary to save power or remain discreet. Best for stealth deployments or minimizing airtime while still participating.
  • TRACKER – Prioritizes sending GPS location updates. Perfect for tracking people or assets where timely location reporting is important.
  • LOST_AND_FOUND – Regularly broadcasts its location to the default channel to aid device recovery. Ideal for locating lost devices.
  • SENSOR – Prioritizes sending telemetry data. Suitable for gathering environmental or sensor information efficiently.
  • TAK – Optimized for use with ATAK systems, reducing routine broadcasts. Best for tactical or coordinated operations using the Meshtastic ATAK Plugin.
  • TAK_TRACKER – Sends automatic PLI (position location information) for ATAK, while minimizing routine broadcasts. Ideal for standalone PLI integration in tactical setups.
  • REPEATER – Extends mesh coverage by always rebroadcasting packets once, with minimal overhead. Not visible in the node list. Placed strategically to maximize network reach. To keep mesh network as healthy as possible, communities should place repeaters sparingly and in elevated key positions.
  • ROUTER – Similar to a repeater but visible in the node list. Rebroadcasts packets once to extend coverage; best for key locations in the network.
  • ROUTER_LATE – Rebroadcasts packets after all other modes, helping cover dead spots or local clusters. Visible in the node list. Perfect for ensuring reliable communication where other nodes don't fully cover the area.

GPS Positioning

These settings control how your Meshtastic node handles GPS positioning and how often location data is broadcast on the mesh network.

GPS Mode
Determines whether GPS is active on the device.

  • ENABLED, DISABLED, NOT_PRESENT
  • Most devices default to either ENABLED or NOT_PRESENT, depending on hardware and configuration.

GPS Update Interval
Specifies how often the device attempts to get a GPS fix (in seconds).

  • 0 = default of once every 2 minutes
  • Max value = update only once at boot

Fixed Position

  • Values: true or false (default: false)
  • If enabled, the node uses a fixed latitude/longitude/altitude for GPS updates. Updates still occur at the regular interval but report the saved position rather than a live GPS fix. Coordinates can be set via the device's GPS or through a connected mobile device.

Smart Broadcast

  • Values: true or false (default: true)
  • Sends position updates more frequently only if the device has moved enough to warrant an update.
  • Recommended to leave the broadcast interval at default when using this feature.
  • Works alongside the broadcast interval: increases frequency when moving and reduces it when stationary.

Smart Broadcast Minimum Distance

  • Default: 100 meters (if set to 0)
  • Minimum distance the device must move since the last broadcast before sending a new position when smart broadcast is enabled.

Smart Broadcast Minimum Interval

  • Default: 30 seconds (if set to 0)
  • Minimum time that must pass since the last broadcast before sending a new position when smart broadcast is enabled.

Broadcast Interval

  • Default: 15 minutes (if smart broadcast is off)
  • Determines how often GPS updates are sent to the mesh. Updates can contain the actual GPS location or be empty if no fix is available.

ATAK Plugin

The official Meshtastic ATAK Plugin integrates LoRa mesh communication with the Android Team Awareness Kit (ATAK).

It enables:

  • Position updates (PLI) and GeoChat messaging sent over the mesh network
  • Voice memos (recorded speech is converted to text and broadcast via Meshtastic)
  • External GPS support, allowing the Meshtastic device to serve as ATAK's GPS source
  • Relay of Cursor-on-Target (CoT) events, ensuring movement and messages can be forwarded between devices or even to TAK servers

Go to ATAK Plugin guide

Real World Applications

Local outages & disaster prep. When power or cellular service goes down, small groups can use Meshtastic to keep basic text and location updates flowing without infrastructure. It's low-bandwidth, but resilient, especially if a few always-on nodes are pre-positioned.

Backcountry coordination. Hikers, campers, and field teams share short messages and GPS positions over several kilometers - then extend coverage by adding more temporary nodes along the route (mesh hopping). This works best with some line-of-sight and simple relay nodes on high ground.

Search & rescue support. Teams can track responder locations and short status updates on a map; Meshtastic integrates with CalTopo and ATAK, so PLI/CoT events and GeoChat-style messages can flow through the mesh and into familiar tools. (Meshtastic can also serve as ATAK's external GPS source.)

Community meshes & events. Pop-up meshes at meetups or neighborhood hubs let participants exchange quick check-ins, waypoints, and notices without relying on Wi-Fi or cell coverage.

What to expect (and plan for). Meshtastic excels at short texts and location, not voice, images, or files. Reliable use depends on terrain, antenna and having a few nodes powered and deployed before you need them. Think "layered comms": pair Meshtastic for data exchange with other systems like handheld radios for voice communication.

References