Get started withMeshCore
Join the Colorado Mesh network — pick a radio, flash MeshCore, send your first message, and meet the operators behind the mesh.
MeshCore runs on LoRa devices with ESP32 or nRF52 chips. Here are our recommended options.
Seeed Studio T1000-E
Credit card sized, waterproof, long-life battery, high-performance antenna. Perfect for mobile use.
nRF52840, SX1262 LoRa, GPS, Waterproof, Built-in Battery
View productRAK WisBlock 4631
Modular system for custom builds. Excellent for repeaters and solar setups. Low power consumption.
nRF52840, SX1262 LoRa, Modular design, Low power
View productHeltec WiFi LoRa 32 V4
Latest Heltec with improved power output and built-in antennas. Budget-friendly option.
ESP32-S3, SX1262 LoRa, 28dBm output, Protected OLED, USB-C
View productLilyGO T-Deck+
Standalone device with keyboard and screen. No smartphone needed.
ESP32-S3, SX1262 LoRa, 2.8" LCD, Physical Keyboard, GPS
View productWhere to buy
Need help choosing? Ask in the Colorado Mesh Discord.
Three steps to first message.
Follow these steps to get your node up and running on the Colorado Mesh network.
Flash MeshCore Firmware
Flash the MeshCore firmware onto your device using the official web flasher. No software installation needed.
- Use Chrome or Edge browser (WebSerial required)
- Connect your device via USB before starting
- Select your exact device model and frequency (915MHz for USA)
- Some devices require holding BOOT button while connecting
Configure Your Node
Set up your node using the MeshCore Companion app (iOS/Android) or the web config tool.
- Download the MeshCore app from App Store or Google Play
- Connect to your node via Bluetooth
- Set a unique, memorable node name
- Use the web config tool for advanced settings
Join the Community
Connect with other Colorado MeshCore operators on Discord to get help, share experiences, and coordinate network improvements.
- Introduce yourself in the #introductions channel
- Ask questions in #support if you need help
- Share your node location to help map coverage
Front Range defaults that work.
Recommended settings for optimal performance across Denver and the Front Range.
Frequency & Region
- Select 915MHz firmware for USA operation
- MeshCore handles frequency configuration automatically
- Ensure antenna is connected before powering on
- Use the correct antenna for your frequency band
Device Roles
- Companion: Pairs with smartphone app via Bluetooth
- Repeater: Extends network coverage (no smartphone needed)
- Room Server: Creates chat rooms for group messaging
- Choose role based on your use case
Denver Area Tips
- Higher elevation = better range (line of sight)
- TX Power: Use maximum for best coverage
- Enable GPS for positioning on the network map
- Join the Colorado MeshCore Discord for local help
Keep learning, then act.
Now that your node is running, keep learning with the related guides — then jump to the operator tools.
Radio settings
View frequencies and channels.
Repeater setup
Set up a repeater node.
Naming standard
Name your node properly.
Apply it in the operator tools
Once your node is online, switch from learning to doing. These tools share the same live network data as the map.
See your node
Confirm freshness and coverage on the live network map.
Companion name
Build a personal MeshCore identity within the 23-char limit.
Repeater name
Compose a standards-aligned repeater identifier.
Prefix matrix
Pick a free public-key prefix before generating keys.
Flash, name, deploy.
Get your hardware, flash the firmware, and become part of Colorado's growing mesh community.