How to connect to your meshtastic node

Meshtastic - Connect via Android App.md

Connecting to Meshtastic Device: Android App

Prerequisites

• Android Device: Running Android 5.0 or higher
• Meshtastic Device: Powered on with firmware flashed
• Bluetooth: Enabled on your Android device

Steps

1. Install Meshtastic App

   • Download and install the Meshtastic app from the Google Play Store.

2. Pair with Meshtastic Device

   • Open the Meshtastic app.
   • Tap the "+" icon to add a new device.
   • The app will scan for nearby Meshtastic devices via Bluetooth.
   • Select your device from the list.
   • If prompted, enter the pairing code displayed on your Meshtastic device.

3. Set Region

   • After pairing, tap "UNSET" next to the device name.
   • Select your regional location from the list to set the appropriate frequency range.

4. Configure Device (Optional)

   • Access "Radio Configuration" to adjust settings like channel names, encryption keys, and more.

Troubleshooting

• Ensure Bluetooth is enabled and the device is in range.
• If pairing fails, restart both devices and try again.
• For detailed instructions, refer to the Meshtastic Android Usage Guide.

Meshtastic - Connect via Python CLI.md

Connecting to Meshtastic Device: Python CLI

Prerequisites

• Python: Installed on your computer
• Pip: Installed for managing Python packages
• USB Cable: Appropriate for your device
• Meshtastic Device: Powered on with firmware flashed

Steps

1. Install the Meshtastic Python CLI

   • Open a terminal or command prompt.
   • Run the following command to install the Meshtastic CLI:

     pip install meshtastic
     

2. Connect the Meshtastic Device

   • Use a USB cable to connect your device to the computer.
   • Identify the serial port assigned to the device:
     • Windows: Check Device Manager under "Ports (COM & LPT)".
     • macOS/Linux: Run ls /dev/tty.* or ls /dev/serial/by-id/*.

3. Verify Connection

   • Run the following command, replacing [PORT] with your device’s port:

     meshtastic --info --port [PORT]
     

   • This should return device information if the connection is successful.

4. Send a Test Message

   • Use the following command to send a message:

     meshtastic --sendtext "Hello, Meshtastic!" --port [PORT]
     

5. List Available Nodes

   • Run the following command to see other nodes in the network:

     meshtastic --nodes --port [PORT]
     

Troubleshooting

• Ensure the device is powered on and properly connected.
• Try using a different USB port or cable if the device isn’t detected.
• Restart the computer and device if connection issues persist.
• For detailed instructions, refer to the Meshtastic Python CLI Guide.

Meshtastic - Connect via Web Client.md

Connecting to Meshtastic Device: Web Client

Prerequisites

• Web Browser: Chromium-based (e.g., Chrome, Edge)
• Meshtastic Device: Powered on with firmware flashed
• USB Cable: For direct connection (optional)

Steps

1. Access the Web Client

   • Open the Meshtastic Web Client in your browser.

2. Connect via USB (Recommended)

   • Connect your Meshtastic device to your computer using a USB cable.
   • Click on "New Connection" in the web client.
   • Select "Serial" and choose your device from the list.
   • Click "Connect".

3. Connect via Bluetooth (Alternative)

   • Ensure your computer's Bluetooth is enabled.
   • Click on "New Connection" in the web client.
   • Select "Bluetooth" and choose your device from the list.
   • Click "Pair" and follow any on-screen prompts.

4. Set Region

   • Once connected, navigate to "Settings" > "Radio" > "Region".
   • Select your regional location to set the appropriate frequency range.

5. Configure Device (Optional)

   • Use the web client's interface to adjust settings like channel names, encryption keys, and more.

Troubleshooting

• Ensure your browser supports Web Serial and Web Bluetooth APIs.
• If the device isn't recognized, try a different USB port or cable.
• For detailed instructions, refer to the Meshtastic Web Client Overview.