While I spend a lot of time on HF and digital modes with my Yaesu rigs, I’ve recently been focusing on a project that hits much closer to home: Emergency Communications (EmComm). Specifically, I’ve been building out a home-based, off-grid mesh network to ensure my family can stay connected even if the grid goes down.
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The Backbone: MeshCore
For this project, I’ve moved into the MeshCore ecosystem. While many start with basic LoRa setups, I’m finding that MeshCore offers the reliability and routing I need for a permanent home installation.
My current network infrastructure includes:
• MeshCore 3 v4: My primary high-power nodes for maximum reach.
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• MeshCore 2v3: Smaller, efficient units used to fill in the gaps and ensure total coverage around the property.
The “Why” Behind the Mesh
Living in Bridgewater, we know that weather or infrastructure issues can occasionally knock out cell towers. By deploying these nodes, I’m creating a self-healing, “license-free” (but ham-improved) network. It allows for text-based messaging and GPS location sharing without needing a single cell tower or internet provider.
Integrating with the Shack
The beauty of this setup is how it complements my existing gear. Between the Yaesu FTM-310 in the truck and the MeshCore nodes at home, I’m building a layered approach to communications:
1. Local: MeshCore for instant family coordination.
2. Regional: VHF/UHF and digital modes (D-Star/DMR) via my openSPOT 4.
3. Long Range: HF via the FT-710.
What’s Next?
The next step is stress-testing the range between the 3 v4 and the 2v3 units in the wooded areas around my neighborhood. I’ll be posting those range test results soon!
Are you running MeshCore or Meshtastic? I’d love to hear about your node configurations in the comments.
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