Join the mesh
Companion step by step: from tracker to the Belgian radio, then everyday use once connected. This page assumes you have already read Discover.
Getting started
Goal: be on the Belgian network (MeshCore firmware, radio preset, app connected). Adverts, channels and contacts come next.
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Order a tracker
To start, a BLE companion such as the SenseCAP T1000-E or MeshTracker X1 is enough. Detail, prices and shops: see Suggested hardware below (personal selection, not an exhaustive catalogue; see also Resources).
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Flash with MeshCore
Many trackers ship with Meshtastic: you need to install MeshCore firmware. Use the Web Flasher: USB cable, Chrome or Edge on a computer or Android phone, select the model and the Companion role.
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Minimal setup
When the app connects to a companion it does not know yet, a setup wizard appears. The only required setting for Brussels:
- Radio preset EU/UK (Narrow)
Once you are on the mesh
Real use first, then fine-tuning so tracker memory does not fill up.
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Send an advert
An advert broadcasts your public key and pseudonym. In the app, open the advert send menu:
- Zero-hop advert: direct range only; repeaters ignore this advert.
- Flood advert: picked up by repeaters (see flood).
- Copy advert to clipboard: share off-radio (Signal, WhatsApp…).
The Discover screen lists received adverts. If notifications explode or the contact list grows, see recommended settings below. Should you advert? Q&A.
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Join channels
Join the public channel
#brussels. Public channels are readable in plain text by anyone who catches the signal.For sensitive coordination, create or join a private channel: content is encrypted for members who hold the key. Share that key off the public channel (face to face, MeshCore DM, conventional messaging); see Protect.
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First contact and direct messages
Add people who have already advertised (Discover screen), or via QR / public key shared off-radio. Private messaging only starts after mutual add: each side must have added the other.
Direct messages are encrypted (see MeshCore: visible vs protected). LoRa radio is slow: wait for a read receipt or a reasonable delay before sending another. Unreachable contact: Q&A Clear Path.
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Recommended settings
Belgian community suggestions, not radio prerequisites. MeshCore remains usable without applying them.
Messages
- Auto retry
- Clear path (auto)
- DM read receipts 1
- Show hops (channel)
- Show path hash (channel)
- “Contact discovered” notifications
- Automatic node add
Network settings
- Path hash size 2 bytes
Why 2 bytes: Q&A. Summary: Latest changes.
Back up your radio identity (Export / Import): Protect. Related questions: Protect Q&A.
Suggested hardware
SenseCAP T1000-E
~35 €
Commercial-grade finish, unlike budget kits with a prototype-like feel. Best BLE companion for most users: card form factor, IP65 (rain-resistant, not immersion-proof), GPS, and ~3–4 days of battery life.
SenseCAP MeshTracker X1
~43 €
Similar to the T1000-E, slightly thicker, with better battery life (~5–6 days) and IP66 waterproofing (immersion). Same card-style companion approach with GPS.
XIAO ESP32S3 & Wio-SX1262 (3D case)
~16 €
Budget kit with a prototype-like enclosure (3D printed), yet very capable as a window repeater or wired companion. Requires permanent USB power.
Wio Tracker L1 Pro
~37 €
All-in-one standalone companion with OLED screen, battery, and GPS. About 8–12 days of battery life in everyday use. Antenna upgrade and Mishmesh custom firmware strongly recommended to get the most from the hardware.
LilyGo T-Deck Plus
~75 €
Premium standalone companion: the closest smartphone-like experience, with a physical keyboard (Blackberry-like form factor). About one day of battery life only. Choose the 868 MHz model.
SenseCAP Solar Node P1-Pro
~78 €
Commercial-grade finish and weatherproofing suited to a durable outdoor install. Self-powered solar repeater with built-in GPS and battery, designed for roof or façade mounting without wired power.
Promo code: CG2CN6RU
Indicative prices, excluding VAT and shipping.