Getting started on the YEG mesh

A 30-minute path from "I just got a board" to "I'm visible on the local mesh."

Edmonton runs MeshCore. If you're new and undecided, start with MeshCore — that's where the local nodes, rooms, and operators are.

1. Get hardware

You need a LoRa-capable board. Common choices that work for both MeshCore and Meshtastic:

• Heltec V3 — cheapest entry, OLED on board, widely available.
• LILYGO T-Beam — has GPS, good for mobile/static repeaters.
• LILYGO T-Echo — pocket-friendly with e-ink display.
• RAK Wisblock 4631 — modular, reliable, slightly more expensive.

Antenna matters more than the board. Spend $20 on a half-decent rubber duck before you spend $200 on hardware.

2. Flash MeshCore (recommended for YEG)

1. Use the web flasher at flasher.meshcore.io in Chrome/Edge — easiest path. Or grab firmware directly from github.com/meshcore-dev/meshcore.
2. Pick the Companion firmware mode unless you're building infrastructure.
3. Full step-by-step at docs.meshcore.io.

Or, if you want Meshtastic instead, use the Meshtastic web flasher in Chrome/Edge.

3. Set defaults

• MeshCore (primary): MeshCore Defaults — 910.525 MHz, 62.5 kHz, SF7, 4/5, 22 dBm
• Meshtastic: Meshtastic Defaults — Region US, LongFast preset

4. Pair with the app

• MeshCore: the official mobile app pairs over BLE. Or use the browser client in Chromium browsers.
• Meshtastic: the official Android/iOS app pairs over BLE.

5. Say hi on Discord

Drop into the Edmonton Mesh Discord (links on resources) and say "first node up."

6. Check coverage

Visit the coverage map. If you don't see yourself appearing within ~10 minutes outdoors, recheck step 3.

7. Get involved

• Add your node to the public map.
• Come to a coffee night when one's announced on the events page.
• If you have rooftop access and a power source, consider running a MeshCore Repeater or Room Server.