Hackaday: Lessons Learned After Trying MeshCore For Off-grid Text Messaging. “[Michael Lynch] recently decided to delve into the world of off-grid, decentralized communications with MeshCore, because being able to communicate wirelessly with others in a way that does not depend on traditional communication infrastructure is pretty compelling. After getting his hands on a variety of hardware and […]
#MeshNetworks
11 #OffGridCommunication Methods: Staying Connected in Emergencies and Remote Areas
September 18, 2023
"In today's digital age, staying connected is often taken for granted. We rely heavily on our smartphones and the internet to keep in touch with loved ones and access vital information. However, in emergency situations or remote areas where traditional communication methods may become unreliable or fail, it is essential to have alternative means of staying connected. Off-grid communication techniques offer a lifeline for individuals to communicate with others and seek help when needed.
Here are five reliable and realistic off-grid communication methods that let you have a conversation like you would on a cell phone when your cell is down for the count:
1. Ham Radio: Making Connections, No Matter the Distance
When it comes to off-grid communication, few methods can match the power and versatility of ham radios, also known as amateur radios. Ham radios work by transmitting and receiving signals through antennas.
Their range of communication can vary depending on factors such as frequency, antenna height, atmospheric conditions, and obstacles like buildings or terrain. In optimal conditions, ham radios can communicate over hundreds of miles, potentially even globally. Ham radios are beneficial for emergency communication and can provide a means of staying in touch with others during natural disasters or in remote wilderness areas. It is important to note that obtaining a license and some technical knowledge is necessary to operate a ham radio legally and effectively.
When traditional infrastructure falters, or in off-grid scenarios where traditional cellular networks are inaccessible, ham radios prove their worth as a reliable means of communication.
2. CB Radio: Keeping Your Group Connected
For those looking for a simple and accessible option, CB radio comes to the rescue. Citizens Band radio, or CB radio, operates on a set of 40 channels and does not require a license to use. It is a simple and effective off-grid method that offers a reliable means of communication within a localized area. CB radios are commonly used by truck drivers, outdoor enthusiasts, and emergency responders. CB radios work by transmitting and receiving radio signals using handheld devices or mounted units in vehicles.
While their range is shorter compared to ham radios, typically reaching a few miles, CB radios still prove effective for staying connected with your group while exploring remote areas or during emergencies when cellular networks go down. With their simplicity and ease of use, CB radios ensure you'll be able to communicate when it matters most.
3. Satellite Phone: Communication Without Boundaries [Note: Will not work after #KesslerSyndrome events]
When you find yourself in areas without cellular coverage, satellite phones step in to bridge the gap. By connecting to orbiting satellites, these devices provide global coverage, allowing you to make calls and send messages from virtually anywhere on the planet.
Whether you're exploring remote regions or facing emergencies in areas lacking traditional infrastructure, satellite phones become invaluable tools for staying connected. It's worth noting that satellite phones may come with a higher price tag compared to other options, but their ability to keep you in touch with the world makes them well worth the investment.
4. Walkie Talkies: Portable and Practical Communication
If you're looking for a portable and practical off-grid communication solution, look no further than walkie talkies. These handheld devices provide short-range communication through radio waves. They are simple to use and do not require any licensing.
Walkie talkies work by transmitting and receiving radio signals between two or more devices. The range of communication for walkie talkies typically varies based on factors such as terrain, obstacles, and the power of the devices. In general, walkie talkies can provide effective communication in the range of a few miles, making them ideal for coordinating activities within a group or staying in touch during outdoor adventures. Walkie talkies are commonly used by hikers, campers, and event organizers, enabling quick and reliable communication in off-grid situations.
5. Mesh Networking Devices: Building Connections Without Infrastructure
When traditional infrastructure is unavailable, mesh networking devices step in to establish connections where none exist. Devices like goTenna or Sonnet create peer-to-peer networks, forming a web of interconnected devices. They create a decentralized network by linking multiple devices together, with each device acting as a "node" or connection point that can directly communicate with nearby devices.
It's important to note that the range of mesh networking devices depends on factors such as the number of devices in the network and the surrounding terrain. These devices excel in situations where communication becomes difficult due to the lack of infrastructure.
Two "One Way Street" Options
Sometimes, off-grid communication becomes a "one-way street" situation where you either need to receive or send critical information without engaging in a full-blown conversation. Two options that fit this scenario are shortwave radios and GPS messenger beacons.
Shortwave radios provide up-to-the-minute information during emergencies, even when cell phone towers fail. As seen in the case of the Maui fires, communication failures left people without a way to get in touch with loved ones, and critical cell phone alerts went undelivered. In such scenarios, shortwave radios can provide reliable and up-to-the-minute information, potentially saving lives.
GPS messenger beacons, on the other hand, allow users to send distress signals and their precise coordinates to rescue services. This enables quick and targeted assistance in emergency situations, even when direct communication is not possible.
Four Low-Tech Off-Grid Communications Techniques
Off-grid communication doesn't have to be high-tech to be effective. The classic survival movie scene of building a roaring fire on a deserted island/remote mountain/in a dense jungle to signal for rescue is a cliche for a reason and speaks volumes of the power of low-tech and no-tech methods to communicate the need for help. From #SmokeSignals to #flares to #mirrors to #whistles, resources as simple as these can help save the day. These low-tech visual and auditory signaling techniques can be highly effective in emergencies when you simply need to be spotted or heard.
Bottom Line: Off-Grid Communication Methods can be a Critical Lifeline
Mastering off-grid communication techniques is vital for increasing self-reliance and preparedness in emergency situations and remote areas. By understanding and utilizing these methods, individuals and their families can stay connected, seek help when needed, and increase their chances of survival. From a high-tech ham radio or satellite phone to a simple radio and whistle, having a range of off-grid communication tools is an essential part of any emergency preparedness plan."
#SolarPunkSunday #MeshNetworks #HamRadio #CBs #WalkieTalkies #OffGridCommunications #EmergencyCommunication #OffGridCommunication #StayingConnected
Like I mentioned, I don't know a lot about #MeshNetworks, but I'd love to know what others think of the #MeshTastic systems. This seems to be a pretty up-to-date guide on how to set up a Mesh network (there wasn't a date on the piece, but they referenced QR codes). Personally, I'd rather go the #HamRadio route, but there's a few hoops to jump through for that (like the Ham radio test and licensing).
How to Set Up Meshtastic: A Beginner-Friendly Guide You Need
"Meshtastic enables encrypted communications over distances of 11 kilometers with uninterrupted line of sight. Setting up this powerful technology is surprisingly simple.
"A LILYGO® TTGO Meshtastic T-Beam board costs just $30 and ships with pre-installed software. The devices are equipped with AES256 encryption to ensure secure communications between authorized radios. A single 18650 battery powers these units for days without charging, and solar cells can keep them running indefinitely.
"This piece covers the complete setup process for #TBeam, #HeltecV3, and #TDeck hardware. You’ll learn everything about antenna installation, firmware updates, and message configuration to optimize your device’s performance in #OffGrid conditions."
https://www.besthamradio.com/how-to-set-up-meshtastic/
#SolarPunkSunday #OffGridCommunication #EmergencyCommunication
Since I'm not familiar with #MeshNetworks, I can't vouch for #BearTooth #communication devices. I do know that the first model (which was a lot cheaper), was touted to have a range of 2 miles, but was a pain to pair up devices, and also had a bad reputation of not working. So, when I came across BearTooth MKII at a much higher cost, I wonder if they've improved on the bugs from the older versions. If anyone knows more about BearTooth or mesh networks in general, please feel free to chime in...
#SolarPunkSunday #OffGridCommunication #EmergencyCommunication #CommunicationDevices #MeshNetworks
Explore how blockchain mesh networks could make internet shutdowns nearly impossible, creating a freer, more resilient web. https://hackernoon.com/can-a-blockchain-mesh-finally-end-internet-shutdowns #meshnetworks
The experimental #NetworkCoding feature in @batadv is queued for removal (unless someone steps up to put a considerable amount of work into it?): https://lists.open-mesh.org/mailman3/hyperkitty/list/b.a.t.m.a.n@lists.open-mesh.org/thread/F7L4X2LHMWPTNPYLMZDWDSTSV5ILJ47E/
More details about its design can be found here:
https://www.open-mesh.org/projects/batman-adv/wiki/NetworkCoding
https://downloads.open-mesh.org/batman/papers/batman-adv_network_coding.pdf
https://vbn.aau.dk/da/publications/catwoman-implementation-and-performance-evaluation-of-ieee-80211-
Lol, what kind of gems you find on YouTube while searching other people's accounts for old @battlemesh videos. The Italian #Ninux wireless community in 2011 doing a 31km and the video is in a James Bond / spy movie trailer style:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6oM8dzWV1M
#MeshNetworks
Une capsule super intéressante sur des projets en réseaux maillés, dont le protocole #LORA, pour lequel une coque #PinePhone a été spécialement conçue en #OpenHardware.
gemini://unbon.cafe/dopidop/index.gmi
HT @bespacific ! Tagging for #SolarPunkSunday !
One more reason why I think #container support in #OpenWrt would be great (and I know it'd be a bit tricky with shared resources like WLAN): So that one could simultaneously install #AREDN, #Freifunk and #LibreMesh on the same device.
#MeshNetworks #Mesh
@Natanox @librecast @EU_Commission @dentangle on the other hand I think it would be great if public broadcasting institutes in the EU were deciding to move to #IPv6 #multicast in the long run, not DVB-T. Maybe even mixed with public, open IPv6 capable #MeshNetworks (similar to #Freifunk for instance). And tackling any technical issues along the way.
So that eventually we'd have a robust, decentral, bidirectional communication infrastructure at affordable costs. 2/2
During a walk I had the realization that we've already had an era where nearly everyone here was putting antennas on their roof or balconies, maintaining their own tech to connect to one big network. Unfortunately those were for unidirectional communication only.
#MeshNetworks arrived a bit too late for that show.
"Live Like the World is Dying" has an episode on #meshnetworks and radios, particularly @meshtastic and it's pretty good.
Episode webpage: https://live-like-the-world-is-dying.pinecast.co/episode/15f16c70/mesh-radios-with-chiya
Media file: https://pinecast.com/listen/15f16c70-f24a-4f13-a03e-c6d880b7d731.mp3?source=rss&ext=asset.mp3
#JackDorsey, CEO of #Block, created #Bitchat, a #decentralisedmessaging app that uses #Bluetooth #meshnetworks for communication without internet or central servers. The app prioritises #privacy and #censorshipresistance, enabling ephemeral, #encryptedmessages between #nearbydevices. https://www.cnbc.com/2025/07/07/jack-dorsey-whatsapp-bluetooth.html?eicker.news #tech #media #news
My evaluation of resilient and disturbed means of communication started today #meshnetworks. I received my #LoRa radio board and installed #meshcore. No contact to other nodes yet, but I’m also not sure what to expect. Let’s see how it goes…
The next step will be #reticulum, but it looks too advanced to be a good starting point for me.
#emergencypreparedness #disasterpreparedness #disasterrelief #solarpunk
[tbd] NOTACAMP 2025
Het Groene Veld, Amsterdam, Friday, July 4 at 12:00 PM GMT+2
(Nederlands onderaan)
4 July 2025 @ 12:00 - 6 July 2025 @ 23:42
[tbd] NOTACAMP Non Obvious Technological Approaches
[tbd] is a 3 day festival with talks, workshops, performances, parties and alternative approaches to technological realities.
There will be talks and discussions about topics related to society, hacking, technology, art, science and whatever else participants bring to share.
Dates:
Friday July 4: 12:00h - 04.00h
Saturday July 5: 12:00h - 04.00h
Sunday July 6: 12:00h - 23.42h
Entrance fee: on donation
[tbd] is a participatory event [tbd] is a participatory event organised by anyone who is interested in contributing. It is an open invitation to participate in co-creating an environment where knowledge is shared and infrastructure is decentralised.
There is space to organise workshops, debates, present your ideas or projects, and engage with other inhabitants of the event.
There will be talks and discussions about topics related to society, hacking, technology, art, science and whatever else participants bring to share.
In the afternoons and evenings we have beginner workshops planned where you can learn to solder and make some reactive led lights or build a portable synthesizer and learn the basics of synthesis with ardutouch.
There will also be mesh networking workshops, sessions on remixing electronic waste and lots more...
Come teach, learn and share with us in the afternoons and party through the night.
Read more (or submit a proposal) at: https://tbd.camp
----------------
4 juli 2025 @ 12:00 - 6 juli 2025 @ 23:42
[tbd] NOTACAMP Niet voor de hand liggende technologische benaderingen
[tbd] is een 3-daags festival met lezingen, workshops, optredens, feesten en alternatieve benaderingen van technologische realiteiten.
Er zullen gesprekken en discussies zijn over onderwerpen gerelateerd aan samenleving, hacken, technologie, kunst, wetenschap en alles wat deelnemers willen delen.
Data:
vrijdag 4 juli: 12:00u – 04.00u
zaterdag 5 juli: 12:00u – 04.00u
zondag 6 juli: 12:00u – 23.42u
Entree: donatie
[tbd] is een participatief evenement dat wordt georganiseerd door iedereen die geïnteresseerd is om een bijdrage te leveren. Het is een open uitnodiging deelnemen aan het co-creëren van een omgeving waarin kennis wordt gedeeld en infrastructuur is gedecentraliseerd.
Er is ruimte om workshops, debatten te organiseren, je ideeën of projecten te presenteren en in gesprek te gaan met andere bezoekers van het evenement.
Er zullen lezingen en discussies plaatsvinden over onderwerpen die verband houden met de samenleving, hacking, technologie, kunst, wetenschap en wat de deelnemers nog meer meebrengen om te delen.
In de middagen en avonden hebben we workshops voor beginners gepland: je kunt leren solderen en reactieve led-lampen maken of een draagbare synthesizer en leer de basisprincipes van synthese met ardutouch.
Er zal ook mesh netwerk workshops, sessies over remixen van elektronisch afval en nog veel meer…
Kom ’s middags lesgeven, leren en delen met ons en feest door de nacht in.
Lees meer (of dien een voorstel in) op: https://tbd.camp
![[tbd]
non obvious technological approaches
4-5-6 July 2025 @ Het Groene Veld, Amsterdam
tbd.camp - Entry On Donation](https://files.mastodon.social/cache/media_attachments/files/114/750/737/729/773/801/original/c9fd14cc7299282f.jpg)
@Dhmspector Geesh! Well, thanks for the update!
Activists are Designing #MeshNetworks to Deploy During Civil Unrest
By Ella Fassler
October 5, 2021
"Imagine waking up and checking your phone after several evenings of mass demonstrations. You try scrolling through your Twitter feed, but it won’t load. You turn your router off and on to no avail. You try texting a friend to complain, but the message fails to send. Frustrated, you walk outside. People scattered along the sidewalk look as disoriented and confused as you feel—except for police officers and the National Guard, who are forcefully telling everyone to immediately return to their homes over a loudspeaker.
Currently, most of us would have no choice but to retreat into isolation in such a situation. But organizers and programmers with the Mycelium Mesh Project are hoping to provide a solution by designing a decentralized, off-grid mesh network for text communications that could be deployed quickly during government-induced blackouts or natural disasters."
Read more:
https://www.vice.com/en/article/activists-are-designing-mesh-networks-to-deploy-during-civil-unrest/
And now I'm switching back to the livestream from the so called Studio for a talk about *Mesh Networks*.
📺️ https://video.publicspaces.net/w/ey7MKsALahj7hvrTagyabU
ℹ️ https://conference.publicspaces.net/session/mesh-networks-1
Working on something for Reticulum/NomadNet. It's a little script that takes CalDAV subscriptions and turns them into linked micron pages. If the internet ceased to function in your town tomorrow, what networked features would you like to see that could be supported by 1.07kbps?
#Reticulum #Meshtastic #MeshNetworks #Preparedness #DisasterResponse #MutualAid
Client Info
Server: https://mastodon.social
Version: 2025.07
Repository: https://github.com/cyevgeniy/lmst