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CCC · LoRa & meshCurated

Building your own LoRa mesh network

Summary

WillCrash leads from LoRa and ESP nodes through antenna choice and site planning to a robust mesh network that communicates independently of conventional infrastructure. Independent communication comes more from a good topology than from particularly expensive hardware. Low bandwidth forces economical protocols and clear priorities.

Ideas

  • LoRa trades a low data rate for range and low energy consumption.
  • Mesh nodes forward messages without central mobile or internet infrastructure.
  • Antenna height and clear Fresnel zones affect range more than additional transmit power.
  • Several well-placed nodes increase coverage and resilience.

Insights

  • Independent communication comes more from a good topology than from particularly expensive hardware.
  • Low bandwidth forces economical protocols and clear priorities.

Recommendations

  • Start with two nodes that can see each other and document the reception values.
  • Check the frequency plan, transmit power and duty cycle for your region.

References

Watch the talk

Search the Web Archive

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