Getting started with MeshCore

MeshCore is the recommended first path for most SA Mesh users. Start with a companion node unless you are deliberately building fixed infrastructure with the community.

A companion node is a normal user device that talks to your phone or computer. It lets you learn the network, confirm local coverage and test settings without adding another always-on repeater to shared airtime.

First device recommendation

If this is your first SA Mesh device, build or buy one device that can run MeshCore companion firmware, then test it against known-good local coverage before planning repeaters or permanent installs.

First-device checklist

Before flashing or changing settings:

• confirm the exact board model;
• confirm the device is for the Australian LoRa band;
• use a data-capable USB cable;
• fit the correct antenna before transmitting;
• choose companion firmware unless you are deliberately building a repeater;
• record your starting settings before changing them;
• test with a nearby known-good user, repeater or dashboard/map observation.

Basic path

1. Choose a supported LoRa board for the Australian band.
2. Flash MeshCore companion firmware for that exact board.
3. Apply the local SA Mesh radio baseline from Frequency & Settings.
4. Set a clear node name that identifies you without pretending to be infrastructure.
5. Reboot after radio setting changes.
6. Confirm the node can send/receive with a known-good nearby user or repeater.
7. Use the dashboard/map as supporting evidence, not as the only proof that your node works.

Local SA Mesh radio baseline

South Australia, Western Australia and Queensland use:

Setting	Value
Frequency	923.125 MHz
Bandwidth	62.5 kHz
Spreading factor	8
Coding rate	8

See Frequency & Settings for the fuller local settings guidance.

What to read next

I want to...	Start here
Set up a normal user device	Companion overview
Understand local radio settings	Frequency & Settings
Place a fixed repeater or improve coverage	Repeater overview
Check a site before deployment	Deployment checklist
Troubleshoot an existing node	Troubleshooting
Learn MeshCore terms	Glossary

Before building a repeater

Do not make your first MeshCore device a repeater unless there is a clear coverage reason and the community has agreed it helps. Poorly placed repeaters can duplicate traffic, add noise and make the network harder to troubleshoot.

For repeaters, start with Repeater overview, then use the Deployment checklist.