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links:meshcore:part1 [2026/10/25 08:43] – created va7filinks:meshcore:part1 [2026/10/25 20:34] (current) – [To Do] va7fi
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 <WRAP half column> <WRAP half column>
 <WRAP rightalign> <WRAP rightalign>
-**[[mpdf>|Download as PDF]]**+<wrap download>**[[mpdf>|Download as PDF]]**</wrap>
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
 +This is the first part of the guide.  [[part2 |The second part]] is about repeaters and other more advanced setups.
 ---- ----
 +
  
 ====== Introduction ====== ====== Introduction ======
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 <WRAP centeralign> <WRAP centeralign>
 <WRAP half column> <WRAP half column>
-{{:links:meshcore:mqsg-0.png?0x160|}} \\ MeshCore devices used as //companion//.+{{:links:meshcore:mqsg-0.png?0x150|}} \\ MeshCore devices used as //companion//.
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
 <WRAP half column> <WRAP half column>
-{{:links:meshcore:mqsg-1.png?0x160|}} \\ A MeshCore device setup as a //repeater//.+{{:links:meshcore:mqsg-1.png?0x150|}} \\ A MeshCore device setup as a //repeater//.
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
  
-<pagebreak>+<WRAP pagebreak />
  
-<WRAP group> 
  
-<WRAP twothirds column> 
 ====== Companions  ====== ====== Companions  ======
-</WRAP> 
-<WRAP third column> 
-<WRAP rightalign> 
-((The [[#getting_started:_companions|Getting Started]] section used Liam Cottle's [[https://files.liamcottle.net/MeshCore/Documentation/MeshCore_Quick_Start_Guide.pdf |MeshCore Quick Start Guide]] from November 2025 (CC-BY-SA) as a starting point.  We then updated and expended his guide with regional settings used on the South West Coast of BC.)) 
-</WRAP> 
-</WRAP> 
-</WRAP> 
  
 ===== What is needed to use MeshCore? ===== ===== What is needed to use MeshCore? =====
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   * Alternatively, supported devices listed on [[https://meshcore.io/flasher]] can be purchased online from overseas suppliers such as [[https://aliexpress.com |AliExpress]] or [[https://www.seeedstudio.com/Wio-Tracker-L1-Pro-p-6454.html |Seeed Studio]], or in Canada from [[https://ca.robotshop.com/products/seeedstudio-wio-tracker-l1-pro-w-oled-3d-printed-casing |Robot Shop]].   * Alternatively, supported devices listed on [[https://meshcore.io/flasher]] can be purchased online from overseas suppliers such as [[https://aliexpress.com |AliExpress]] or [[https://www.seeedstudio.com/Wio-Tracker-L1-Pro-p-6454.html |Seeed Studio]], or in Canada from [[https://ca.robotshop.com/products/seeedstudio-wio-tracker-l1-pro-w-oled-3d-printed-casing |Robot Shop]].
  
-<pagebreak>+<WRAP pagebreak />
  
 ===== Flash the Firmware ===== ===== Flash the Firmware =====
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   * Connect the companion device to your computer via USB.   * Connect the companion device to your computer via USB.
   * Go to https://meshcore.io/flasher (using a **Chromium Browser**).   * Go to https://meshcore.io/flasher (using a **Chromium Browser**).
-  * Select your device +  * Select your device. 
-  * Select Companion Bluetooth +  * Select Companion Bluetooth. 
-  * Select Enter DFU Mode +  * Select Enter DFU Mode. 
-  * Select Erase Flash (for **brand new** devices only.) +  * Select Erase Flash (for **brand new** devices only). 
-  * Select Flash+  * Select Flash.
  
 To reload your previous config file (required only if you lost your configuration for some reason). To reload your previous config file (required only if you lost your configuration for some reason).
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   * "''Select All''" and click the check mark in the top right corner.   * "''Select All''" and click the check mark in the top right corner.
  
-<pagebreak>+<WRAP pagebreak /> 
  
 ===== Connect to your MeshCore Device ===== ===== Connect to your MeshCore Device =====
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 </WRAP> </WRAP>
 <WRAP third column> <WRAP third column>
-{{:links:meshcore:mqsg-5.png?0x400|}} \\ Tap "''MeshCore-XXXX''" which matches the name on your MeshCore device.+{{:links:meshcore:mqsg-5.png?0x400|}} \\ Tap "''MeshCore-XXXX''", which matches the name on your MeshCore device.
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
 <WRAP third column> <WRAP third column>
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 If you’re having trouble pairing with Bluetooth, try rebooting your phone. If you’re having trouble pairing with Bluetooth, try rebooting your phone.
  
-<pagebreak>+<WRAP pagebreak /> 
  
 <WRAP group> <WRAP group>
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   * [[#contact_settings |Disable Auto Add of Contacts]]   * [[#contact_settings |Disable Auto Add of Contacts]]
   * [[#position_settings |Disable GPS Mode]]   * [[#position_settings |Disable GPS Mode]]
-  * [[#advertdiscover |Send a flooded advert]]+  * [[#advertdiscover |Send a Flood Advert]]
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
 +
 ==== Public Info ==== ==== Public Info ====
 <WRAP group> <WRAP group>
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 </WRAP> </WRAP>
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
- 
  
 ==== Network Settings ==== ==== Network Settings ====
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 ^  1-byte          |  256  (16<sup>2</sup>)          |  64        |  <wrap alert>Avoid</wrap>  | ^  1-byte          |  256  (16<sup>2</sup>)          |  64        |  <wrap alert>Avoid</wrap>  |
 ^  2-byte          |  65536  (16<sup>4</sup>)        |  32        |  Companions                | ^  2-byte          |  65536  (16<sup>4</sup>)        |  32        |  Companions                |
-^  3-byte          |  16 millions  (16<sup>6</sup>)  |  21        |  Repeaters                 |+^  3-byte          |  16 million  (16<sup>6</sup>)   |  21        |  Repeaters                 |
  
 [[https://ridgeline.ve7kod.ca/identity |This page]] shows nodes with duplicate addresses, which can be fixed by increasing the path hash size. [[https://ridgeline.ve7kod.ca/identity |This page]] shows nodes with duplicate addresses, which can be fixed by increasing the path hash size.
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   * Tap the "''Default Path Hash Size''" and select "''2-byte''" for companions, or "''3-byte''" for repeaters.   * Tap the "''Default Path Hash Size''" and select "''2-byte''" for companions, or "''3-byte''" for repeaters.
   * Tap the <key>✔</key> icon in the top right corner to save the settings.   * Tap the <key>✔</key> icon in the top right corner to save the settings.
- 
  
 ==== Other Settings ==== ==== Other Settings ====
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 </WRAP> </WRAP>
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
-<pagebreak>+<WRAP pagebreak />
  
 === Contact Settings === === Contact Settings ===
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 </WRAP> </WRAP>
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
- 
  
 === Position Settings === === Position Settings ===
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 </WRAP> </WRAP>
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
- 
  
 ==== Extra Tools ==== ==== Extra Tools ====
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 Finally, let's tap the <key>✔</key> icon in the top right corner one last time to save the settings before exiting. Finally, let's tap the <key>✔</key> icon in the top right corner one last time to save the settings before exiting.
-<pagebreak>+<WRAP pagebreak /> 
  
 ===== Contacts ===== ===== Contacts =====
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 <WRAP third column> <WRAP third column>
 Four ways to share contact information: Four ways to share contact information:
-  - [[#advertdiscover |Advert / Discover]]+  - [[#advertdiscover |Advert/Discover]]
   - [[#qr_code |QR Code]]   - [[#qr_code |QR Code]]
   - [[#link_to_clipboard|Link to Clipboard]]   - [[#link_to_clipboard|Link to Clipboard]]
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 </WRAP> </WRAP>
  
 +==== 1. Advert/Discover ====
  
- +=== Advert ===
- +
-==== 1. Advert / Discover ====+
 <WRAP group> <WRAP group>
 <WRAP twothirds column> <WRAP twothirds column>
-=== Advert === 
 An advert is an unencrypted packet transmitted by your MeshCore node. It includes your node name, location and type, public identity key and a cryptographic signature to prevent anyone from tampering with the information as it’s sent across the mesh. An advert is an unencrypted packet transmitted by your MeshCore node. It includes your node name, location and type, public identity key and a cryptographic signature to prevent anyone from tampering with the information as it’s sent across the mesh.
  
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 </WRAP> </WRAP>
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
- 
  
 There was a deliberate decision made to [[https://github.com/meshcore-dev/MeshCore/issues/974 |prevent auto advert for companions]] (but not for repeaters).  As such, you should <wrap important>flood advert at least once a week</wrap> so that new users can find and add you to their contact list. There was a deliberate decision made to [[https://github.com/meshcore-dev/MeshCore/issues/974 |prevent auto advert for companions]] (but not for repeaters).  As such, you should <wrap important>flood advert at least once a week</wrap> so that new users can find and add you to their contact list.
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     * Tap "Advert • Flood Routed"     * Tap "Advert • Flood Routed"
  
-<pagebreak>+<WRAP pagebreak /> 
 === Discover === === Discover ===
 The easiest way to add nodes that are in your neighbourhood to your contact list is to use the map feature.  However, there are three different kinds of maps in MeshCore: The easiest way to add nodes that are in your neighbourhood to your contact list is to use the map feature.  However, there are three different kinds of maps in MeshCore:
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 {{:links:meshcore:contactlist04.png?200|}} \\ {{:links:meshcore:contactlist04.png?200|}} \\
 1) The map at the bottom of the main page only shows nodes in your contact list. 1) The map at the bottom of the main page only shows nodes in your contact list.
- 
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
 <WRAP third column> <WRAP third column>
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 {{:links:meshcore:contactlist06.png?200|}} \\ {{:links:meshcore:contactlist06.png?200|}} \\
 2) The map under "Discover Contacts" shows all the nodes that your companion has heard so far. 2) The map under "Discover Contacts" shows all the nodes that your companion has heard so far.
- 
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
 <WRAP third column> <WRAP third column>
 {{:links:meshcore:contactlist07.png?200|}} \\ {{:links:meshcore:contactlist07.png?200|}} \\
 3) The "Internet Map" shows a map of all the nodes heard by "observers" that are shared to the [[https://meshcore.io/map |Internet]]. 3) The "Internet Map" shows a map of all the nodes heard by "observers" that are shared to the [[https://meshcore.io/map |Internet]].
- 
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
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 The map will only show users that have not been added yet.  To add them: The map will only show users that have not been added yet.  To add them:
- 
   * Tap on a node   * Tap on a node
   * Under the node's name, tap on "''Add''"   * Under the node's name, tap on "''Add''"
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 The maps only show nodes that have [[#public_info |shared their Position in Advert]].  Nodes that have not shared their location will still show in the list, but you won't be able to tell where they are located.  That's why it's <wrap important>important to share your approximate location</wrap>: so others in your neighbourhood can add you to their contact list. The maps only show nodes that have [[#public_info |shared their Position in Advert]].  Nodes that have not shared their location will still show in the list, but you won't be able to tell where they are located.  That's why it's <wrap important>important to share your approximate location</wrap>: so others in your neighbourhood can add you to their contact list.
  
- +<WRAP pagebreak />
-<pagebreak> +
  
 ==== 2. QR Code ==== ==== 2. QR Code ====
-The fastest way to share your contact information with someone who's next to you is to use QR Codes.  However, don't text or email these out; for that, there's a better way...+The fastest way to share your contact information with someone next to you is to use QR Codes.  However, don't text or email these out; for that, there's a better way...
  
 === Share === === Share ===
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   * Point the device’s camera at the QR Code.   * Point the device’s camera at the QR Code.
   * The contact details will be automatically added to your contacts list.   * The contact details will be automatically added to your contacts list.
-  * Tap the <key>**✔**</key> to add.+  * Tap the <key>**✔**</key> icon to add.
  
 You may need to accept a permissions request for the MeshCore app to access your camera. This permission must be granted to be able to scan the QR Code. You may need to accept a permissions request for the MeshCore app to access your camera. This permission must be granted to be able to scan the QR Code.
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 </WRAP> </WRAP>
  
-<pagebreak>+<WRAP pagebreak />
  
 ==== 3. Link to Clipboard ==== ==== 3. Link to Clipboard ====
 The easiest way to share your contacts via email or SMS is to use a contact link. The easiest way to share your contacts via email or SMS is to use a contact link.
 +
 +=== Share ===
 <WRAP group> <WRAP group>
 <WRAP twothirds column> <WRAP twothirds column>
-=== Share === 
 To share your contact link: To share your contact link:
   * Tap on this <key>**⋮**</key> in the top right.   * Tap on this <key>**⋮**</key> in the top right.
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 </WRAP> </WRAP>
  
 +=== Add ===
 <WRAP group> <WRAP group>
 <WRAP twothirds column> <WRAP twothirds column>
-=== Add === 
 To add a contact link: To add a contact link:
   * Copy the contact link you were sent to your phone's clipboard.   * Copy the contact link you were sent to your phone's clipboard.
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   * Tap on "''Add Contact''"   * Tap on "''Add Contact''"
   * Tap on "''Import from Clipboard Link''"   * Tap on "''Import from Clipboard Link''"
-  * Tap the <key>**✔**</key> to add. +  * Tap the <key>**✔**</key> icon to add.
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
  
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 </WRAP> </WRAP>
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
-<pagebreak>+ 
 +<WRAP pagebreak /> 
 ==== 4. In a Channel ==== ==== 4. In a Channel ====
-We haven't discussed Channels yet so feel free to come back to this section later.  +We haven't discussed Channels yet, so feel free to come back to this section later.  
  
 === Share === === Share ===
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 To add a contact shared in a channel: To add a contact shared in a channel:
   * Simply tap the "''Add Contact''" button.  This will populate the name and public key in the ''Add Contact'' window.   * Simply tap the "''Add Contact''" button.  This will populate the name and public key in the ''Add Contact'' window.
-  * Tap <key>**✔**</key> to add.+  * Tap <key>**✔**</key> icon to add.
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
  
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 </WRAP> </WRAP>
  
-<pagebreak> +<WRAP pagebreak />
- +
- +
  
  
 ===== Public-key Cryptography ===== ===== Public-key Cryptography =====
-This section is **optional**.  It's interesting background on how MeshCore operates, but doesn't show how to do anything new. Feel free to skip it.+<WRAP center round info 80%> 
 +This section is **optional**.  It'll help you understand how channels and private messages work, but it won't show you how to do anything new. Feel free to skip it. 
 +</WRAP>
  
 There are basically two different strategies for encrypting a message: There are basically two different strategies for encrypting a message:
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 ==== MeshCore and Public-key Cryptography ==== ==== MeshCore and Public-key Cryptography ====
- 
 MeshCore uses Public Key Cryptography to: MeshCore uses Public Key Cryptography to:
   * Identify you uniquely: your public key is your unique ID.  It's listed in [[#public_info |System -> Public Info]], and it's part of the [[#qr_code |Contact Info]] that you share with others for them to add you to their contact list.  Your private key can be [[#extra_tools |exported]] for backup purposes or in case you upgrade your device and want to keep the same ID.  But <wrap alert>don't share your private key with anyone.</wrap>   * Identify you uniquely: your public key is your unique ID.  It's listed in [[#public_info |System -> Public Info]], and it's part of the [[#qr_code |Contact Info]] that you share with others for them to add you to their contact list.  Your private key can be [[#extra_tools |exported]] for backup purposes or in case you upgrade your device and want to keep the same ID.  But <wrap alert>don't share your private key with anyone.</wrap>
   * A private message is encrypted with the recipient's public key.  So even though it's transmitted over RF and everyone is receiving the message, only the recipient's private key can decrypt it.   * A private message is encrypted with the recipient's public key.  So even though it's transmitted over RF and everyone is receiving the message, only the recipient's private key can decrypt it.
-  * Different types of channels use public / private key pairs in different ways to make the channel either public or private (more on that in the next section).+  * Different types of channels use public/private key pairs in different ways to make the channel either public or private (more on that in the next section).
  
-<pagebreak>+<WRAP pagebreak />
  
-===== Direct, Private Messages ===== 
  
 +===== Direct, Private Messages =====
 To send a direct, private message to someone, <wrap important>you **both** need to be in each other's contact lists.</wrap> To send a direct, private message to someone, <wrap important>you **both** need to be in each other's contact lists.</wrap>
   * Use one of the four methods for [[#contacts |sharing contact info]].   * Use one of the four methods for [[#contacts |sharing contact info]].
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 </WRAP> </WRAP>
  
- +<WRAP pagebreak />
-<pagebreak> +
- +
- +
  
  
 ===== Channels ===== ===== Channels =====
-Channels are "places" for people to share messages with large groups of people.  It's not possible to know who did and did not receive messages posted in channels.  There is also no "storing" capability, so if someone's node is out of reach, they will miss these messages.+Channels are "places" for people to share messages with groups of people.  It's not possible to know who did and did not receive messages posted in channels.  There is also no "storing" capability, so if someone's node is out of reach, they will miss these messages.
  
 There are three types of channels: There are three types of channels:
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 ^The Public channel | has a known public/private key pair so every device can send messages to and read messages from that channel.| ^The Public channel | has a known public/private key pair so every device can send messages to and read messages from that channel.|
 ^Hashtag channels | can be created and joined by anyone.  The public/private key pair is derived from the hashtag name so anyone who knows the hashtag can join.  These are public channels based on different topics or regions.| ^Hashtag channels | can be created and joined by anyone.  The public/private key pair is derived from the hashtag name so anyone who knows the hashtag can join.  These are public channels based on different topics or regions.|
-^Private channels | have a randomly generated keys.  So only those who know the private key can join the channel.  Messages there are private in-so-far as the private key is not distributed outside the intended circle.|+^Private channels | have randomly generated keys.  So only those who know the private key can join the channel.  Messages there are private insofar as the private key is not distributed outside the intended circle.|
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
  
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   * Tap on "''Add Channel''"   * Tap on "''Add Channel''"
   * Tap on "''Join the Public Channel''"   * Tap on "''Join the Public Channel''"
-  * Leave the Channel Name to "''Public''" and tap "''Join Channel''"+  * Leave the Channel Name as "''Public''" and tap "''Join Channel''"
  
-<pagebreak>+<WRAP pagebreak />
  
 ==== Hashtag Channel ==== ==== Hashtag Channel ====
 Hashtag channels are public channels based on topics or regions.  Here are a few channels used in the South West region of BC: Hashtag channels are public channels based on topics or regions.  Here are a few channels used in the South West region of BC:
 <WRAP indent> <WRAP indent>
 +|<100%>|
 ^''#bc''      |Public channel for BC | ^''#bc''      |Public channel for BC |
 ^''#salishmesh'' |Public channel for the Salish area | ^''#salishmesh'' |Public channel for the Salish area |
 ^''#ssi''     |Public channel for Salt-Spring Island | ^''#ssi''     |Public channel for Salt-Spring Island |
-^''#news''    |News related items |+^''#news''    |News-related items |
 ^''#drivebc'' |A bot that posts Drive BC notifications | ^''#drivebc'' |A bot that posts Drive BC notifications |
 ^''#kod-bot'' |A bot maintained by VE7KOD for testing.  Common commands: ''test'' (or ''t''), ''Path'' (or ''p'').  [[https://agessaman.github.io/meshcore-bot/command-reference/ |Full list here.]] | ^''#kod-bot'' |A bot maintained by VE7KOD for testing.  Common commands: ''test'' (or ''t''), ''Path'' (or ''p'').  [[https://agessaman.github.io/meshcore-bot/command-reference/ |Full list here.]] |
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   * Type the channel name after the ''#'' symbol and tap "''Join Channel''"   * Type the channel name after the ''#'' symbol and tap "''Join Channel''"
  
 +==== Private Channel ===
 +Private channels create their key pairs randomly and independently of the channel name.  As such, a private channel can be renamed without affecting its "identity".  Here are a list of some private channels used in the South West region of BC.
  
-<pagebreak>+<WRAP indent> 
 +|<100% 11em ->| 
 +^''Sunshine Coast''      |Private channel for the Sunshine Coast | 
 +^''VanIsle'' |Private channel for Vancouver Island | 
 +</WRAP>
  
-====== Under Construction ======+There may be more that we are not aware of, and we will not list the private keys for these channels here.
  
-<WRAP center round todo 90%> +To join an existing private channel: 
-I'm still editing the rest of this document.   --- //[[[email protected]|Patrick, VA7FI]] 2026/10/22 16:28// +  * Obtain the private key from someone in that channel. 
-</WRAP>+  * Tap on <key>**⋮**</key> in the top right. 
 +  * Tap on "''Add Channel''" 
 +  * Tap on "''Join a Private Channel''" 
 +  * Type the channel name, the secret key (private key), and tap "''Join Channel''"
  
-If you notice typos or anything that needs to be fixed in the pages above, please [[[email protected] |email me directly]].  The rest of this document is still being reviewed and edited heavily.+To create a new private channel: 
 +  * Obtain the private key from someone in that channel. 
 +  * Tap on <key>**⋮**</key> in the top right. 
 +  * Tap on "''Add Channel''" 
 +  * Tap on "''Create a Private Channel''" 
 +  * Type the channel name and copy the secret key (you can do this later).
  
- +<WRAP pagebreak />
-==== Private Channel ===+
  
 ==== Notifications ==== ==== Notifications ====
 Each channel can be configured with one of three different notification levels: Each channel can be configured with one of three different notification levels:
 +<WRAP indent>
 +|<100% 11em ->|
 +^All Messages |A notification will show for all received messages.|
 +^Mentions Only |A notification will show if someone mentions you. |
 +^None |Notifications will not be shown. |
 +</WRAP>
  
 +To change a channel's default notification settings:
 +  * Tap on <key>**⋮**</key> beside the channel you want to change.
 +  * Tap on "''Notifications''"
 +  * Select the notification level you want
 +  * Tap the <key>**✔**</key> icon to save the settings.
  
-<pagebreak>+There are two ways to mention someone in a channel: 
 +  * Long-press on one of their messages. 
 +  * Tap  "''Reply''" 
 +  * Type your message after the string that's automatically added.
  
 +or
 +  * In the message window, type: "''@[TheirMeshCoreName]''" somewhere in the message (it doesn't have to be at the beginning).
 + 
 +
 +<WRAP pagebreak />
  
  
 ===== Ping a Repeater ===== ===== Ping a Repeater =====
-To check the signal strength to and from a nearby repeater, you can run a ping test.+To check the signal strength to and from a nearby repeater, you can run a ping test:
   * Tap on this <key>**⋮**</key> icon next to a repeater contact.   * Tap on this <key>**⋮**</key> icon next to a repeater contact.
-  * Tap the "Ping (Zero Hop)" menu item.+  * Tap the "''Ping (Zero Hop)''" menu item.
   * A green pop-up will show signal strengths if successful.   * A green pop-up will show signal strengths if successful.
   * A red pop-up will show "Timeout" if your companion didn’t hear the repeater.   * A red pop-up will show "Timeout" if your companion didn’t hear the repeater.
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 </WRAP> </WRAP>
  
-<WRAP center round info 70%> 
 Ping tests do not hop through multiple repeaters. You must be in range of the specific repeater you are ping testing. For a ping test to be successful, the repeater must hear your companion signal directly, and your companion must hear the repeater signal directly. If you’re not in range of the repeater, the ping test will fail with a timeout error. Ping tests do not hop through multiple repeaters. You must be in range of the specific repeater you are ping testing. For a ping test to be successful, the repeater must hear your companion signal directly, and your companion must hear the repeater signal directly. If you’re not in range of the repeater, the ping test will fail with a timeout error.
-</WRAP> 
  
-<pagebreak>+<WRAP pagebreak />
  
-====== Repeaters ====== 
-  * Install a repeater like the //SenseCAP Solar Node P1-Pro// from [[https://www.seeedstudio.com/SenseCAP-Solar-Node-P1-Pro-for-Meshtastic-LoRa-p-6412.html|seeed studio]] or [[https://ca.robotshop.com/products/sensecap-solar-node-p1-pro-for-meshtastic-w-gps-battery |RobotShop]] 
-  * Use an antenna like: 
-    * [[https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B08H8J6ZV6 |ALFA Network AOA-915-5ACM 5 dBi]] 
-    * [[https://www.amazon.ca/Waterproof-Fiberglass-SenseCAP-EasyLinkIn-SyncroB/dp/B09N2H166D/|5.8dBi Meshtastic Lora 915MHz Fiberglass Antenna]] 
-    * [[https://mappingnetwork.ca/products/rakwireless-8dbi-fiberglass-antenna?|RAKwireless 8dBi Fiberglass]] 
-    * [[https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005005132142342.html |one of these from AliExpress]]. 
-  * Use the shortest cable possible like: 
-    * [[https://www.amazon.ca/Bingfu-Bulkhead-Compatible-Wireless-Amplifier/dp/B084VB68H4|Bingfu SMA Male to N Female Bulkhead Mount RG58 Coaxial Cable 1 ft]] 
-    * [[https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0FDB2BN1R/ |Superbat N Type Female to SMA Male RG316 Coaxial Cable 15cm]] 
  
-===== Installing the Bootloader for the First Time. ===== +====== Resources ======
-This step is required to be able to perform future updates over-the-air (OTA) via Bluetooth, but is **not** required (or compatible) with ESP32 devices like the Heltec V or T beam.+
  
-If you already have MeshCore installed (but not the bootloader), download your current settings: +===== Online Tools and Maps ===== 
-  * Go to https://config.meshcore.io/ +|[[https://app.meshcore.nz]]|The browser version of the MeshCore app| 
-  * Connect your device to your computer with a USB cable. +|[[https://map.meshcore.dev/?zoom=10&lat=49.5127&lon=-123.5797| https://map.meshcore.io]] |Official MeshCore Node map| 
-  * Click on ''Connect'' +|[[https://swbc.meshmapper.net]] |Community-generated map | 
-  * Click on ''Export'' +|[[https://ridgeline.ve7kod.ca]] |MeshCore Observatory by VE7KOD| 
-  * Click on ''Disconnect'' +|[[https://analyzer.letsmesh.net/map?lat=44.46703&long=-99.43156&zoom=2 |https://analyzer.letsmesh.net]] |MeshCore Analyser | 
-  * Locate the ''.json'' file (probably in your Downloads folder).+|[[https://heywhatsthat.com/profiler.html |https://heywhatsthat.com]] |Path Profiler |
  
-Download the bootloader: 
-  * Go to https://meshcore.io/flasher 
-  * Select your device 
-  * Select ''Repeater'' (or ''Room Server'') 
-  * Click on ''Download'' 
-  * Select the ''*bootloader-x.x.x-OTAFIXx.x.uf2'' file 
-  * Locate the ''.uf2'' file (probably in your Downloads folder). 
  
-Copy the bootloader over to your device: +===== More Information ===== 
-  * Connect your device to your computer with a USB cable. +|[[https://meshcore.io]] |Official MeshCore website| 
-  * Double-click on the reset button. +|[[https://github.com/meshcore-dev/MeshCore]] |Official MeshCore Github| 
-  * Open the drive that just mounted on your computer +|[[https://youtu.be/OwmkVkZQTf4]] |Youtube Presentation by Liam Cottle| 
-  * Copy the ''.uf2'' file to the drive. +|[[https://scottbaker.ca/meshcore]] |Scott Baker's website| 
-  * The drive may close on its own right away.  This is normal.+|[[https://ve7lee.tedlee.ca/mesh.html]] |VE7LEE's MeshCore website| 
 +|[[https://salishmesh.net]] |Salish Mesh Website| 
 +|[[https://www.austinmesh.org/learn/meshcore-vs-meshtastic]] |MeshCore vs Meshtastic| 
 +|[[https://idahomesh.org/meshcore-channels-rooms-and-dms]] |Channels vs Rooms vs DMs| 
 +|[[https://discord.gg/vHUqyBSTPe]] |Vancouver Island Amateur Radio Discord Server |
  
-<pagebreak> 
-Flash the MeshCore Firmware: 
-  * Go to https://meshcore.io/flasher 
-  * Select your device 
-  * Select ''Repeater'' (or ''Room Server'') 
-  * Select ''Enter DFU Mode'' 
-  * Select ''Erase Flash'' 
-  * Select ''Flash'' 
  
-Re-upload your settings: +===== To Do ===== 
-  * Select ''Configure via USB'' from the previous page, or navigate to https://config.meshcore.io/ +<WRAP round todo 30em> 
-  * Select ''Connect'' +  * Add screenshots to the [[#channels]] section 
-  * Select ''Import'' +  * Edit the [[part2 |second part]] of this guide. 
-  * Select your ''.json'' file + --- //[[va7fi@rbox.me|Patrick, VA7FI]] 2026/10/25 20:34// 
-  * Scroll down to the ''Access'' section and retype your ''New Admin password'' (it doesn't remember it) +</WRAP>
-  * Scroll down and select ''Save settings'' +
-  * Select ''Disconnect'' +
- +
-<pagebreak> +
- +
-===== Updating the Firmware OTA ===== +
-Set up the Over the Air (OTA) update app (first time only): +
-  * Download the "nRF Device Firmware Update" app by "Nordic Semiconductor ASA" ([[https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=no.nordicsemi.android.dfu |Android]], [[https://apps.apple.com/sa/app/nrf-device-firmware-update/id1624454660 |Apple]]) +
-  * Open the ''DFU'' app +
-  * In the settings, check ''Packet receipt notification'' +
- +
-Perform an OTA update: +
-  * Using your phone's browser, navigate to https://meshcore.io/flasher +
-    * Select your device +
-    * Select ''Repeater'' (or ''Room Server'') +
-    * Select ''Download'' +
-    * Select the firmware ''zip'' file (**not** the bootloader file) +
-  * Using the MeshCore app, log in to your repeater (or room server) using the admin password. +
-    * For Room Servers: go to ''Remote Management'' +
-    * Go to the ''Command Line'' +
-    * Type ''start ota'', you should get a message that says: ''OK - mac: xx:xx:xx:xx:xx:xx'' +
-  * Open the ''DFU'' app +
-    * Under ''File'' click ''Select'' to choose the firmware ''.zip'' file +
-    * Under ''Device'' click ''Select'' and choose the device that has ''DFU'' in the name.  If there are no devices with "''DFU''" in the name, select the device with ''OTA'' in the name. +
-    * Under ''Progress'' click ''Start'' +
-    * If you selected a device with ''OTA'' in the name, the process will fail at ''DFU initialization''.  choose "''Abort''" the process and go back to the previous step, and now you should be able to select a device with ''DFU'' in the name. +
- +
-See [[https://scottbaker.ca/meshcore/repeater-setup |Scott Baker's article]] for more information. +
- +
-<pagebreak> +
- +
-====== More Advanced: Sensors  ====== +
-  * Install [[https://www.localmesh.nl/en/meshcore-telemetry-functions/|sensors]]. +
- +
-====== Maps ====== +
-  * [[https://map.meshcore.dev/?zoom=10&lat=49.5127&lon=-123.5797| Official MeshCore Node map]] +
-  * [[https://swbc.meshmapper.net/ |Community generated map]] +
-  * [[https://ridgeline.ve7kod.ca/live |SWBC Map with links]] by VE7KOD +
- +
-<hidden Repeater Project> +
-{{  :links:meshcore:meshcore_repeaters.jpg?500  }} +
-Here's how to use MeshCore's Antenna Coverage tool to model line of sight coverage: +
-  * Navigate to the [[https://app.meshcore.nz/ |web version of the MeshCore App]] +
-  * You don't need to connect to an actual MeshCore device. +
-  * Click on <key>**⋮**</key>  on the top right corner and then select ''Tools'' +
-  * Enter the ''Antenna Coverage'' tool +
-  * Where it says ''0 Coverage Layers'' click on <key>**⋮**</key> and select ''Import JSON'' +
-  * Import {{ :links:meshcore:coverage_layers_2026-03-27-221828.json |this file}} +
-</hidden> +
-\\ +
- +
-====== Tools ====== +
-  * [[https://analyzer.letsmesh.net/map?lat=44.46703&long=-99.43156&zoom=2 |MeshCore Analyser]] +
-  * [[https://heywhatsthat.com/profiler.html |Path Profiler]] +
- +
-<pagebreak> +
-====== Resources ======+
  
-  * Official MeshCore [[https://meshcore.io |Website]] and  [[https://github.com/meshcore-dev/MeshCore| Github]] 
-  * [[https://youtu.be/OwmkVkZQTf4 |Youtube Presentation by Liam Cottle]] 
-  * [[https://scottbaker.ca/meshcore |Scott Baker's Website]] 
-  * {{:links:meshcore:mc_viard_document.pdf |Vancouver Island Amateur Radio Discord MeshCore tips & Tricks}} <wrap hi>NEW</wrap> 
-  * [[https://salishmesh.net/ |Salish Mesh Website]] 
-  * [[https://forum.letsmesh.net/ |Forum]] 
-  * [[https://www.austinmesh.org/learn/meshcore-vs-meshtastic/ |MeshCore vs Meshtastic]] 
-  * [[https://idahomesh.org/meshcore-channels-rooms-and-dms/ |Channels vs Rooms vs DMs]] 
  
 +===== Copyright and Attribution =====
 +This document is licensed under [[https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ |CC BY-SA 4.0 International]].  The original can be found at https://scarcs/links/meshcore/home
  
 +A big part of this document used Liam Cottle's [[https://files.liamcottle.net/MeshCore/Documentation/MeshCore_Quick_Start_Guide.pdf |MeshCore Quick Start Guide]] from November 2025 (CC-BY-SA) as a starting point.  We then updated and expanded his guide with regional settings used on the South West Coast of BC.
links/meshcore/part1.1792943002.txt.gz · Last modified: by va7fi