MeshCore questions and answers¶
Search this page with your browser's Find command, or choose a topic below. Settings can differ by place, so this page links to the current source instead of repeating values that may change.
Settings and range¶
Which radio settings should I use in Canada?¶
Use the repeater configurator for a repeater. It returns the current settings for the location you select.
For any role, first check the community directory. Follow a published local override when one exists.
What is path hash mode?¶
It controls the size of the identifiers used in advert paths. The Canadian region standard and configurator provide the current setting for a repeater. Use their output instead of copying an old command from a discussion or screenshot.
Do I need an amateur radio licence?¶
MeshCore Canada cannot decide which authorization applies to your station. You are responsible for legal frequency, power, antenna, and operating choices in your location.
Start with the Canadian regulatory links. If you are unsure, ask a qualified local operator before transmitting.
What range should I expect?¶
Range depends on antenna quality and placement, height, terrain, buildings, interference, and line of sight. Test against a nearby known-good node before assuming the device or firmware is faulty.
Hardware¶
Which devices work with MeshCore?¶
Use a device listed by the official MeshCore Flasher or by a MeshCore Canada guide for the role you need. Support depends on the board and firmware target.
Compare device roles, then open the hardware guide from the matching setup guide.
Can I reuse a device that currently runs Meshtastic?¶
Some supported boards can be reflashed with MeshCore firmware. A device still running Meshtastic firmware will not join a MeshCore network.
Confirm the exact board in the official flasher before changing it, and back up anything you need to keep.
Which board should I buy first?¶
Choose the role first. For a companion, prefer a supported device with nearby community experience. For a fixed service, reliable power, antenna placement, and maintainability matter more than screen features.
Joining or starting a mesh¶
How do I join a nearby mesh?¶
- Find the local community.
- Follow its published settings or use the Canadian baseline when no override is listed.
- Follow the setup guide for your device role.
- Send an advert and ask a nearby user to confirm it.
How do I start a mesh where none is listed?¶
Begin with companions so people can test locally. Add fixed infrastructure only after checking placement, power, local coordination, and the region standard.
When the group is ready, add the community so others can find its status, contact information, and any reviewed local settings.
Observers and troubleshooting¶
Why does my observer show no packets?¶
A connection to the data service does not prove the radio is hearing nearby traffic. Check the selected radio settings, packet publishing, device activity, and the final verification result.
Use Check your observer, then follow observer troubleshooting for the symptom you see.
Where can I ask another question?¶
Use Get help for the shortest support route. Remove passwords, private keys, precise private locations, and other sensitive values before sharing screenshots or logs.