As we all know, staying connected and informed can be crucial. This is why the UKSN launched its Project LoRa initiative, offering a robust communication solution tailored for its members. This guide aims to delve into Project LoRa/Meshtastic, detailing the components, applications, and recommended setups to empower UKSN members in optimising their communication capabilities.
Understanding Project LoRa
Project LoRa, championed by UKSN, leverages LoRaWAN (Long Range Wide Area Network) technology to enable long-range communication between devices. It operates on low power, making it ideal for scenarios where traditional mobile networks may be unreliable or unavailable, such as remote camping sites or during emergencies. The system consists of various components, each serving specific purposes tailored to different user needs within the UKSN community.
Node Options for Every Portable Use
When it comes to staying connected in the great outdoors, during an emergency, or taking part in Charter activities, portability is key. Portable nodes are designed to be lightweight, durable, and efficient, ensuring that users can maintain communication no matter where their adventures take them. Whether you're camping in a remote area, hiking through rugged terrain, or preparing for a survival scenario, these portable options are tailored to meet your needs without weighing you down.
The DIYer
For members keen on customising their setups, starting with a DIY approach can be extremely rewarding and offers considerable savings. With this said, you do need to be competent with a soldering iron if you plan to add upgrades. You will also require basic tools, a little electronics knowledge, and be relatively computer literate. Nothing super complex, so dont be put off!
The Project Lora Portable Node Case - UKSN X LayerFab serves as the foundation, offering you the ability to build your very own node utilising our custom UKSN node case designed in conjunction with our friends at LayerFab.
Top Tip
If you want to avoid soldering, simply opt for one of our Micro JST 1.25SH Female to JST-PH 2.0 Male Battery Adaptors. Just ensure you select the 'reversed' version of the cable which has been custom-modified by us, making it compatible with the Heltec V3 and the EMB battery we stock.
Already feeling a little over your head? Jump to the prebuilt section below!
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Other Items Required to Build the Node (Not Currently Sold by UKSN)
Heltec V3 868MHz LoRa Node (Available on Amazon)
Recommended Upgrades
To enhance your DIY setup, consider upgrading your node by adding additional hardware that unlocks functionality such as GPSÂ and Canned Messages. Just be aware, soldering is required!
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The Prebuilt: Option 1 - Standard
Designed for simplicity and ease of use, our standard node is perfect for everyday communication needs within the UKSN community. It provides reliable coverage within reasonable distances, making it suitable for general campsite communications or coordinating activities during UKSN events. This option is user-friendly, requiring minimal setup and maintenance, catering to members who prioritise practicality and functionality.
It comes ready to go, and is assembled, configured, and fully tested making it perfect for practically anyone who wants to dip their toes into Project LoRa and Meshtastic.
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Looking to Upgrade?
If you want to upgrade the Standard Node, essentially transforming it into a Premium, this can be done at a later date by installing the GPS, and Rotary Encoder (Canned Messages) kit.
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The Prebuilt: Option 2 - Premium
For those prioritising safety and advanced features, the Premium Node stands out. Equipped with built in GPS functionality, it enables precise location tracking, enhancing situational awareness during outdoor adventures or emergencies. Canned messages further streamline communication by allowing pre-set messages to be sent with a single click, crucial for relaying status updates or requesting assistance swiftly. The Premium Node ensures that even in challenging environments, UKSN members remain connected and informed.
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PreBuilt Node Recommended Upgrades
Looking to take things to the next level? Of course you are! Add our upgraded antenna to enhance your nodes range.
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Home/Static Installation: Router_Client
For stable, long-term communication coverage at home or a fixed base, the Router_Client setup offers reliability and extended reach. Installing a node with an N-type antenna in the loft (or elevated location outdoors) that optimises signal reception, ensuring consistent connectivity across the local area. This configuration is ideal for members who operate from a central location and require uninterrupted communication with family, friends, and UKSN Charter members.
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If you plan on mounting the antenna away from the node, you would need to exchange the N-Type Adaptor for the SMA to N-type Coax. We only stock the 2M version, but other lengths are available on request.
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UKSN Recommendation: Optimising Your Project LoRa Setup
To ensure optimal coverage and connectivity, UKSN strongly recommends that members invest in both personal nodes for individual family members and a Router_Client setup installed at home. Additionally, expanding the network by placing nodes at family and friends’ houses and strategic locations around your town can significantly enhance the system’s effectiveness.
Personal Nodes for Each Family Member
Providing every family member with their own personal node ensures that everyone stays connected during outdoor adventures or emergencies. Personal nodes allow seamless real-time communication, making it easy to relay information, share locations, and keep track of one another. This setup is particularly valuable for group/ UKSN Charter activities where members may be separated or navigating through different terrains.
Key benefits include:
Safety and Peace of Mind:Â Personal nodes enable each member to maintain communication and send distress signals if needed, ensuring safety in isolated or dangerous situations.
Long-Range Connectivity:Â LoRa technology allows communication over long distances, making it perfect for camping, hiking, or survival situations in areas without reliable mobile networks.
Quick Communication with Canned Messages and GPS:Â Premium nodes offer GPS tracking and canned message features, enabling quick updates or emergency alerts with pre-programmed messages. This simplifies communication, especially in stressful situations where typing a full message may not be feasible.
Router_Client Setup for the Home
Having a Router_Client setup installed at home ensures a stable communication hub, offering continuous coverage and extending the reach of your network. It acts as a central node, keeping the home connected even when other family members are in the field. By installing a node with an N-type antenna in your loft, you can significantly enhance the range and reliability of the network, making sure it covers a broader area and reaches family members far from the home base.
Advantages of a home Router_Client setup include:
Centralised Monitoring:Â Serving as a communication hub, the Router_Client enables real-time monitoring of family members, keeping those at home informed about the whereabouts and status of those out in the field.
Extended Range: The N-type antenna improves signal range and stability, reaching family members who are miles away from home—perfect for long-distance outdoor activities.
Continuous, Uninterrupted Operation:Â The home node, constantly powered, ensures round-the-clock connectivity, which is crucial during long-term camping trips, survival drills, or emergency situations.
Community Benefit: By adding a Router_Client setup to your home, you help contribute to UKSN’s wider network. Neighbours or nearby UKSN members can benefit from increased coverage, fostering a more resilient mutual support system within your local area.
Expanding the Network: Nodes at Family, Friends' Homes, and Strategic Locations
To further enhance the reliability and range of your LoRa network, UKSN also recommends placing additional nodes at the homes of trusted family members, friends, and strategic locations throughout your town or community. Doing so broadens your network’s coverage, ensuring better communication reach across a larger area.
Here’s how placing nodes in key locations can benefit your setup:
Extended Communication Range: By installing nodes at family or friends’ homes, particularly in different areas of your town or city, you can significantly extend the geographical coverage of the LoRa network. This allows you to maintain contact over long distances, making it easier to communicate across different locations, even when mobile signals are weak or unavailable.
Reliable Backup Locations: Having nodes at trusted family or friends’ houses creates additional fallback communication hubs. If your home network is down or you’re unable to reach a particular node, the additional nodes can provide critical links for ongoing communication. This is especially useful during emergencies or future large scale UKSN events where backup connections may be needed.
Strategic Locations for Optimised Coverage:Â Consider placing nodes in concealed or strategic locations across your town. These can be hidden in lofts, sheds, or other discreet areas to boost the network's reach without drawing attention. By carefully positioning these nodes, you can maximise coverage and improve signal reliability, ensuring consistent communication even in urban areas where interference might be higher.
The Ideal Combination for Full Coverage
The most effective way to ensure robust communication is by combining personal nodes for every family member, a home Router_Client setup, and strategically placed nodes around your local area. This approach ensures that whether you're at home, on an outdoor adventure, or managing a critical situation, you have a strong, far-reaching communication network in place.
Mobile Flexibility: Personal nodes provide portability, allowing family members to stay connected whether they’re hiking in remote areas, camping, or simply navigating different parts of town.
Home-Based Stability:Â The Router_Client setup ensures that your home remains a strong communication hub, covering a wide radius and enabling you to maintain contact with family members wherever they are.
Wider Community Connectivity: Expanding your network to include nodes at family or friends’ homes, as well as strategically positioned locations around your town, ensures comprehensive coverage. This also fosters a collaborative communication network within the wider UKSN community, providing assistance and coverage for others in your area.
Future-Proof Your Preparedness
By adopting both portable nodes and setting up a robust network at home with additional nodes in strategic locations, you’re future-proofing your family’s communication capabilities. As the UKSN community grows and embraces new technologies, this setup ensures you’re prepared for any scenario, from casual camping trips to critical emergencies.
Conclusion
Project LoRa represents a pioneering initiative by UKSN to foster resilient communication channels among its members. Whether for recreational outings, emergency preparedness, or community networking, LoRaWAN technology and Meshtastic offers versatile solutions tailored to diverse user needs. By understanding the distinct advantages of each node type and configuring setups accordingly, UKSN members can harness the full potential of Project LoRa to enhance their outdoor experiences and ensure safety and connectivity in any environment.
For more detailed information on Project LoRa and to explore purchasing options, visit UKSN's Project LoRa page. Stay connected, stay informed with UKSN and Project LoRa. Happy adventuring!
Please Note: Nodes are built to order and can take up to 30 days + build/program/testing time. Due to the custom nature of the product, do not expect rapid delivery.
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