Getting Started With MeshCore
IdahoMesh Quick Start Guide
Welcome to MeshCore! If you have any questions or run into problems, we highly suggest you join our Discord server. It's a welcoming community passionate about Mesh technology and off-grid text messaging.
MeshCore is fundamentally different. Meshtastic nodes constantly broadcast telemetry and advertisements, while MeshCore reserves the limited bandwidth for actual text messages. Most repeaters only advertise every 24-48 hours, so when you're starting fresh, your node map may look empty even with excellent mesh coverage. Be patient—the best way to test your coverage is to send a message.
1. Get a device
Any LoRa radio sold as "Meshtastic compatible" works with MeshCore — just make sure it supports 915 MHz (the US band). Most pair with an app on your phone; some have a built-in screen and keyboard so you don't need one. You'll find options at every price point on Amazon, AliExpress, or Rokland. Not sure what to buy? Ask in Discord and we'll point you at something for your budget and use case.
2. Flash MeshCore
- Go to flasher.meshcore.io
- Connect your device by USB and select it
- Choose BLE Companion firmware
- Click Erase, then Flash
That's it — your device is now running MeshCore.
3. Connect your phone
Install the MeshCore app (Android · iOS), open it, and pair with your device over Bluetooth. The default PIN is 123456 — you can change it in the app once you're connected.
4. Configure
Give your node a name, then pick the USA/Canada (Recommended) region preset. Save, reboot, and you're set.
5. Say hello
- Tap the signal icon (top-right) and choose Advert – Flood Routed. This announces your node to the mesh, flooding out to every repeater in range (up to 64 hops).
- Open the Public channel and send a quick "hi" — feel free to mention you're new or testing. If a number appears under your message, that's how many repeaters heard you. One or more means you're on the mesh!
Next steps
Our main chat lives on the #idahomesh channel — add it via Add channel → Hashtag channel → #idahomesh, and come say hi. If coverage at home is weak, especially indoors, consider adding a repeater. More guides are on our MeshCore resources page.
Member discussion