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Getting started on IdahoMesh

Pick a radio, install the app, set it up for Idaho.

IdahoMesh is Idaho's community-built text messaging network. It runs on MeshCore. You pair a small LoRa radio with your phone, and your messages hop across repeaters to reach people miles away. No cell service or internet needed.

Questions along the way? Ask on Discord. We're happy to help.

1. Get a radio

You need a 915 MHz LoRa radio that MeshCore supports. The MeshCore flasher lists every supported device. Common choices include the Heltec V3, RAK4631, Seeed T1000-E and LilyGO T-Deck. Avoid radios sold for Europe (868 MHz) and unbranded clones. Not sure what to buy? Ask on Discord and tell us your budget.

2. Flash MeshCore

  1. On a computer, open flasher.meshcore.io in Chrome or Edge.
  2. Plug in your radio with a USB data cable and select it.
  3. Choose the Bluetooth firmware, labeled BLE Companion.
  4. On a new radio, click Erase, then Flash. When you update later, skip Erase so you keep your identity and contacts.

3. Install the app and pair

Install the MeshCore app for Android, iOS or the web at app.meshcore.nz. Pair it with your radio over Bluetooth. The default PIN is 123456. Change it once you're connected. On iOS we recommend the MeshCore One app.

4. Set it up for Idaho

  • Give your radio a name.
  • Choose the USA/Canada (Recommended) radio preset.
  • Set the path hash size to 2.
  • Save, and reboot if the app asks.

5. Say hello

  • Tap the signal icon at the top right and choose Advert, Flood Routed. That tells the network you're here.
  • Add our chat channel: Add channel, then Hashtag channel, then #idahomesh. Say hi and mention you're new.
  • A number under your message shows how many repeaters heard it. One or more means you're on the network.

6. Check your reach

Add the #id-test channel the same way and send health. In about 30 seconds the IdahoMesh bot replies with a grade and a link that shows which repeaters heard you. More on the Health check page.

Coming from Meshtastic?

MeshCore works differently. Radios don't broadcast telemetry all the time, so the network saves its airtime for messages. Repeaters announce themselves about every two days, so your contact list and the map can look empty at first, even with good coverage. Send a message to test. Our Meshtastic page covers Meshtastic in Idaho.

Next steps