Hardware

One of the nice things about MeshCore is that the hardware stays in the background. What matters is not which device you choose, but that it reliably does its job. MeshCore supports a wide range of compatible devices, all designed with the same purpose: exchanging messages over radio.

The right device for you depends mainly on how you want to use MeshCore.

Companion

Most people start with a Companion. These are small, portable radio devices that work together with the MeshCore Companion App on your smartphone.

The Companion provides the radio connection, while you write and read messages comfortably on your phone. It is compact, energy-efficient and easy to carry, whether you’re hiking in the Rhön or simply using it in everyday life.

For most users, a Companion is the ideal way to get started with MeshCore.

Repeater

Repeaters serve a different purpose. Rather than being used for personal communication, they form the infrastructure of the network.

Unlike a Companion, a Repeater is not operated for a single person’s benefit. It is available to everyone on the network, receiving and forwarding messages between participants.

Only a relatively small number of well-positioned Repeaters is needed to connect a large region. For that reason, operating your own Repeater is entirely optional. Most MeshCore users simply carry a Companion and make use of the existing infrastructure.

Those who do decide to operate a Repeater make an important contribution to the regional network. Repeaters are usually installed at favourable locations—such as attic spaces or elevated sites—where they help messages find their way across the network.

Choosing your first device

Getting started with MeshCore does not require expensive or particularly powerful hardware. Far more important is that your Companion is reliable and supported by the current MeshCore firmware.

Don’t be discouraged by long specification sheets or the large number of available circuit boards. For your first steps, a simple and well-supported device is all you need.

Our recommendation

If you’re new to MeshCore, start with a Companion.

It allows you to explore the network, make your first contacts and gain practical experience. Whether you later decide to operate a Repeater or explore more advanced aspects of the technology is entirely up to you.

For now, simply get started.

Choosing suitable hardware is usually much easier than it first appears.