Meshcore Default Configuration Guide
Start with Defaults!
Important: Always start with default Meshcore settings. The defaults are carefully chosen to work well in most situations and ensure compatibility with the wider network.
Only adjust settings if you have a specific technical reason and understand the implications.
Why Use Default Settings?
- Proven Compatibility: Default settings ensure your device works with the existing network infrastructure
- Optimized Performance: Defaults balance range, speed, and battery life for typical use cases
- Easier Troubleshooting: When everyone uses standards, problems are easier to diagnose
- Network Efficiency: Mixed settings can cause congestion and reliability issues
Recommended Hardware
Get started with these MeshCore-certified devices. All can be flashed using the MeshCore Web Flasher.
| Device | Best For | Price Range | Purchase Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lilygo T-Deck+ | Standalone use with keyboard, GPS, and all-day battery | ~$80 | Buy from Lilygo |
| Heltec V3 LoRa32 | Budget option, works with smartphone app | ~$30 | Buy from Heltec |
| Seeed T1000e | Credit card sized, waterproof, long battery life | ~$50 | Buy from Seeed |
| Heltec V3 Case | Protective case for Heltec V3 | ~$10 | Available from various retailers |
Official Store: Visit store.meshcore.co.uk for MeshCore-certified devices and software licenses.
Web Flasher: Use flasher.meshcore.co.uk to easily install MeshCore firmware on your device.
Video Tutorials
Watch these introduction videos to learn more about Meshcore:
"There's a newcomer to the Mesh world" - The Comms Channel
Excellent introduction to Meshcore covering the basics of LoRa mesh networking, how Meshcore differs from Meshtastic, and why it's perfect for off-grid communications.
"Testing New Message Scope Features in Meshcore" - MeshCore Official
Official MeshCore channel demonstrating the superior messaging performance and new features that enable whole countries to connect via cheap LoRa hardware.
Default Configuration Settings
Region Settings
| Setting | Default Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Region | US (902-928 MHz) | Required for North America |
| Frequency Slot | Default (automatic) | Do not change unless coordinating repeaters |
LoRa Radio Settings
| Setting | Default Value | What It Does |
|---|---|---|
| Spreading Factor | SF10 | Balances range and data rate. Use the default. |
| Bandwidth | 250 kHz | Signal bandwidth - use default |
| Coding Rate | 4/8 | Error correction - use default |
| Transmit Power | 22 dBm (maximum) | Keep at maximum for best range |
Channel Configuration
Configure this channel to join the Eureka Mesh network. The channel uses default encryption settings (PSK: AQ==).
| Channel Name | Purpose | PSK/Key |
|---|---|---|
| #general | General chat and discussion | Default (AQ==) |
Device Setup with Defaults
Device Name
Choose a clear, identifiable name:
- Fixed Repeaters: "Eureka-[Location]-RPT" (e.g., "Eureka-Downtown-RPT")
- Mobile Nodes: "Eureka-Mobile-[YourName]"
- Personal Nodes: "Eureka-[YourName]"
Position Configuration
Always configure your position! This helps with network planning and emergency coordination.
- With GPS: Enable GPS and set update interval (2-5 min for mobile, 15-30 min for fixed)
- Without GPS: Manually set your fixed position using coordinates from Google Maps
Client vs Router Mode
Client Mode (Default): Use this for personal devices. Devices send and receive messages but don't relay for others. Lower power consumption, perfect for mobile use.
Router Mode: Only for dedicated repeater installations. Device relays messages for the entire network. Requires permanent power (solar/mains).
Quick Start Checklist
- ✓ Set region to US
- ✓ Leave Spreading Factor at default (SF10)
- ✓ Leave Bandwidth at default (250 kHz)
- ✓ Leave Coding Rate at default (4/8)
- ✓ Keep Transmit Power at maximum (22 dBm)
- ✓ Configure device name (Eureka-[YourName])
- ✓ Set your position (GPS or manual)
- ✓ Add channels: #eureka and #general
- ✓ Use default PSK (AQ==)
- ✓ Test by sending a message
Testing Your Setup
- Join #eureka or #general channel and send a message like "Testing from [YourLocation]"
- Watch for responses from other nodes or the repeater
- Check signal quality - look for SNR (Signal-to-Noise Ratio) above 0 dB
- If successful, introduce yourself and start chatting!
- If no response, check your configuration matches this guide, ensure antenna is connected, try from an outdoor/elevated location
When NOT to Change Settings
Warning: Changing these settings can make your device incompatible with the network:
- ❌ Don't change Spreading Factor to SF11 or SF12 "for better range"
- ❌ Don't change Bandwidth
- ❌ Don't change Coding Rate
- ❌ Don't reduce Transmit Power unless you have a specific reason
- ❌ Don't enable Router mode on a personal device
If someone tells you to change these settings, ask why first! The defaults work for nearly everyone.
Advanced: When Changes ARE Appropriate
You might need non-default settings only in these specific situations:
- Coordinated Repeater Network: When setting up multiple repeaters, you may need different frequency slots to prevent interference (coordinate with network admin)
- Private Network: If creating a separate private network with custom encryption keys (not joining Eureka Mesh)
- Experimental Testing: When specifically testing range or performance differences (use #test channel, temporary only)
Even in these cases, coordinate with the community first!
Troubleshooting with Defaults
If you're having connectivity issues and using default settings:
- ✓ Verify region is set to US
- ✓ Confirm SF10, BW 250 kHz, CR 4/8
- ✓ Check antenna connection (common issue!)
- ✓ Ensure device time is synced (Settings → Device → Sync Time)
- ✓ Try from outdoors or elevated position
- ✓ Verify you're using correct channel names
- ✓ Check coverage map - are you in range of a repeater?
Still having issues? Ask for help on our Reddit community.