Meshtastic Network in Cumbria

Our Meshtastic Network is for Licensed or Unlicensed Amateur Radio Users. We mainly use the license free band on 868mhz on the factory default settings, connected to our own MQTT Message Server using the default LONGFAST – Details on how to connect to our MQTT Server at the bottom of the page.

We have regular meet ups at the Workington Radio Club & you are most welcome to attend, licensed or not. More information on our radio club here

Features of CumbriaCQ Meshtastic Network

The CumbriaCQ Meshtastic Network leverages the power of LoRa technology to create a robust, long-range, and low-power communication network. Here are some key features of our Meshtastic network:

  1. Long-Range Communication: Utilizing LoRa (Long Range) technology, our network can cover extensive distances, enabling communication across vast areas with minimal infrastructure.
  2. Low Power Consumption: LoRa boards are designed to consume minimal power, making them ideal for remote and off-grid applications where power resources are limited.
  3. Mesh Networking: The Meshtastic network employs mesh networking protocols, allowing each device to act as a node. This means if a device is out of direct range, the message can hop through other devices to reach its destination, ensuring reliable connectivity.
  4. Easy Setup and Configuration: With user-friendly interfaces and straightforward setup procedures, you can have your Meshtastic network operational in no time.
  5. Open Source and Customizable: Our network is built on open-source principles, providing you with the flexibility to customize and extend functionalities to meet specific needs.
  6. Secure Communication: LoRa technology inherently offers secure communication channels, and additional encryption can be applied to further enhance data security.
  7. Cost-Effective: The low-cost hardware and minimal maintenance requirements make the CumbriaCQ Meshtastic Network a highly cost-effective solution for long-range communication needs.
  8. Versatile Applications: Ideal for various applications, including emergency communications, remote monitoring, agricultural management, and outdoor activities such as hiking and camping.
  9. Support for License-Free 868 MHz Band: The majority of our network operates on the license-free 868 MHz band, providing a flexible and accessible platform for all users.

How It Works

The CumbriaCQ Meshtastic Network utilizes LoRa boards to facilitate long-range, low-power communication. Here’s how it works:

  1. LoRa Technology: At the core of the Meshtastic network are LoRa boards. LoRa stands for Long Range, and it’s a wireless communication technology that allows for sending and receiving data over long distances (up to several kilometers) with very low power consumption. This makes it perfect for remote and off-grid locations.
  2. Mesh Networking: The Meshtastic network employs mesh networking. In a mesh network, each device (or node) can communicate with any other node within its range. If a direct connection between two devices is not possible due to distance or obstacles, the message will hop through intermediate nodes until it reaches its destination. This ensures robust and reliable communication across the network.
  3. Support for Different Frequency Bands: The CumbriaCQ Meshtastic Network primarily operates on the license-free 868 MHz band. This allows a wide range of users to join the network without needing a radio license, making it highly accessible.
  4. Inclusive Community: We welcome anyone to join our network, licensed or not. Our goal is to create a comprehensive and inclusive communication network that can serve various communities and purposes.
  5. Setting Up Devices: To set up a device on the CumbriaCQ Meshtastic Network, you’ll need a LoRa board (such as those based on the popular ESP32 microcontroller), a power source (like a battery), and the Meshtastic firmware. Once the firmware is flashed onto the board, you can configure the device using the Meshtastic app or a web interface, specifying network settings and operational parameters.
  6. Communication: Once set up, devices can communicate with each other by sending messages through the network. These messages can include text, GPS coordinates, sensor data, or other types of information, depending on your specific application. The mesh network ensures that messages reach their intended destination even if direct line-of-sight communication is not possible.
  7. Integration and Customization: The open-source nature of Meshtastic allows for extensive customization and integration with other systems. You can connect sensors, create custom applications, and integrate the network with cloud services for remote monitoring and control.
  8. Maintenance and Expansion: Maintaining the network is straightforward, thanks to the low power requirements and robust nature of LoRa technology. Adding new devices to expand the network is as simple as configuring the new node and placing it within range of existing nodes.

The CumbriaCQ Meshtastic Network is an innovative solution for long-range, low-power communication needs, providing a flexible, reliable, and cost-effective platform for a wide range of applications. We welcome everyone, licensed or not, to join our network and benefit from this cutting-edge technology.

How to connect to cumbriaCQ MQTT Server

  1. Connect your meshtastics node to your wifi or hotspot internet connection.
    Load Meshtastics App up. Goto Radio Configuration > Network
  2. Connect your meshtastics node up to our MQTT Server.
    Load Meshtastics App ip. Goto Radio Configuration > MQTT
    Enable MQTT
    Address: mqtt.cumbriacq.com
    Username: cumbriacq
    Password: cumbria
    >>>>USERNAME AND PASSWORD MUST BE ALL LOWERCASE<<<<
    JSON output enabled
    Root Topic: msh/EU_868 (OR Keep at its default)
    Map Reporting Medium (if required)
    Rest of settings turned OFF
    (You can try the Encryption Enabled but all mine are off)
  3. Got back into the Radio Configurations Settings > LoRA
    Scroll to bottom. Turn OFF Ignore MQTT
  4. Load Meshtastics App ip. Goto Radio Configuration > Channels
    Click on the LongFast word
    Enable Uplink
    Enable Downlink

That it.

1. CONNECT YOUR NODE TO YOUR INTERNET CONNECTION
CONNECT TO THE CUMBRIACQ MQTT SERVER
DISABLE IGNORE MQTT
ENABLE UPLINK & DOWNLINK ON THE CHANNEL

I have Placed a node at the site of GB3MX 112M Above Sea Level near MARYPORT in Cumbria, Using a Heltec V3 and a 1 Meter Antenna

Troubleshooting

I recommend a fresh node. Update to the latest firmware. Erase and reinstall the firmware. Leave all settings default other than those above.