NOMAD & BASENODE Device | Getting Started Guide
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Meshtastic® is a project that enables you to use inexpensive LoRa radios as a long range, off-grid communication platform in areas without existing or reliable communications infrastructure. This project is 100% community driven and open source.
Things To Keep In Mind
- Make sure to always connect the antenna securely before powering on the device.
- The NOMAD & BASENODE devices come with the latest version of the Meshtastic® firmware already installed. You can always update your device by using the Meshtastic® Flasher web app.
How It Works
Meshtastic® utilizes LoRa, a long-range radio protocol, which is widely accessible in most regions without the need for additional licenses or certifications, unlike HAM radio operations.
These radios are designed to rebroadcast messages they receive, forming a mesh network. This setup ensures that every group member, including those at the furthest distance, can receive messages. Depending on the settings employed, the Meshtastic® mesh network can support up to 100 devices concurrently.
Additionally, Meshtastic® radios can be paired with a single phone, allowing friends and family to send messages directly to your specific radio. It's important to note that each device is capable of supporting a connection from only one user at a time.
Connecting To NOMAD & BASENODE
In order to connect to your NOMAD/BASENODE device, download the Meshtastic application available on the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store. Once downloaded, you can connect to your NOMAD/BASENODE device and configure it in the app.
For more information: https://meshtastic.org/docs/software/
Calibrating The Battery
In order to get an accurate reading on the remaining battery percentage, you need to adjust the ADC Multiplier setting in the Meshtastic® app. I would recommend setting this to a value of 5.0 to start and adjust it from there in increments of 0.1 or less.
- Charge the device completely until the amber charge light is off near the USB-C port.
- Turn the device on by pressing either button and give it a minute to let the battery percentage calibrate. If the percentage is lower than 98-100%, increase the ADC Multiplier value in the Meshtastic® App. If the device shows a charging symbol, it is overcompensating for the voltage reading and you should decrease your ADC Multiplier value in the Meshtastic® app.
- Repeat this process until your battery percentage is accurate enough for your needs.
For more information: https://meshtastic.org/docs/configuration/radio/power/#adc-multiplier-override
Flashing Meshtastic Firmware
The easiest way to flash your device with the latest firmware from Meshtastic is via the Meshtastic Flasher web application available at flasher.meshtastic.org. Simply connect your device, toggle the erase and flash option, and click the flash button.
Make sure you have Heltec V3 selected when flashing firmware to your device.