I'm hoping to fill a hole in my local #Meshtastic network. I'm looking at the T-Echo from Lilygo, as well as some of their handheld devices. #FediHiveMind, do you have thoughts about those devices, others you'd recommend more, and best practices on setting up an effective router node?
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@noracodes For an effective router node, you mean something bigger near the exterior of your home, yes?
Counterintuitively, the first and most important thing is don’t actually use router mode for it. Unless the node is *very* well placed (think mountaintop), putting it in router mode can actually make the mesh worse for everybody.
Client mode if you’re on 2.6.x firmware and (CORRECTION) client_base if you’re on 2.7.x.
@mkb I'm looking at the local network's node map and I'm right at the center of a big hole, and with a pretty decent elevation (5th floor, maybe even on the roof above me). seems ideal for a router. but it seems like i maybe misunderstand what the different roles do?
@noracodes client mode still relays packets just fine. Router mode goes ahead of client mode which is great for mountaintops or other *really* well placed nodes.
The new client_base mode will be ideal for home base stations like yours and mine. Set all your other units as favorites on the client_base.
I’ve been following discussion of this by the local hardcore mesheads and router mode is poorly named because it’s not for what you and I think of as a router.
The basic pattern of a small, handheld to keep with you and a base station placed toward the outside and hopefully up high is a good one though. Most people end up with that.
@mkb great! thanks a ton <3
@noracodes You’re welcome! I’m only a few weeks into #meshtastic but I’ve been in full-on ADHD fixation. :)
Your area might have a local Meshtastic group. They’re probably worth connecting with. Mine (#BayMesh) has been really helpful and welcoming.
@noracodes I have a T-Echo and don’t love it. To be fair, it seems better with updated firm ware.
For portable nodes, there’s no beating the T1000e. Mine lives in my pocket all day.
Two other handhelds I like are the Wio Tracker L1 Pro and the WisMesh Pocket v2.
@mkb What would you say is the best for a fixed base station?
@noracodes That depends in part on where you’ll put it. What location do you have in mind?
@mkb Let's merge this to one thread: https://tenforward.social/@noracodes/115356368815537077
@noracodes I have not played with the T-Echo yet, but do like their T-Deck and have a review of that device available, (though since it's not directly related to your inquiry no need in linking to that).
For base stations, I'm a big fan of Seeed Studio's P1 - https://www.seeedstudio.com/SenseCAP-Solar-Node-P1-for-Meshtastic-LoRa-p-6425.html
Comes out of the box with everything you need without having to fight with anything.
At the end of the day, any device will work just fine, (providing it has an external antenna and reliable power). Just remember that height is a top priority. The higher you can get your node the better visibility you'll have and better connectivity to other nodes.
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