A Meshtastic solar node build using the RAKwireless WisBlock Mestastic Starter Kit (RAK baseboard [19007] and core board [4631 w/4630 stamp]).
| README.md | ||
Meshtastic Solar Node
A Meshtastic solar node build using the RAKwireless WisBlock Mestastic Starter Kit (RAK baseboard [19007] and core board [4631 w/4630 stamp]).
Components
Below is a list of all the components needed for this build. You can swap parts, as needed. This list will provide Amazon links to most components, but they can be sourced elsewhere.
- Meshtastic device
- Weatherproof enclosure to hold components
- Solar
- Still deciding on the solar charger I want to buy for this node
- Battery
- 3.7V 10Ah Lithium Polymer Rechargable Battery Pack
- UL 94 rated LiPo fire bag
- NOTE: The battery I received had the JST connector in the reverse polarity of what is needed for the RAKwireless base board. Be sure to swap the wires in the connector before plugging in or it WILL DESTROY THE DEVICE.
- Antennas and connectors
- ALFA Network AOA-915-5ACM 5 dbi 915MHz Antenna
- U.FL (IPEX) to N Female pigtail
- Self fusing silicone tape
- Used to waterproof seal the antenna connection.
- Accessories
- Lexel sealant (clear)
- Used for sealing around all holes that are drilled into enclosure.
- Breather Vents
- Provides passive airflow for humidity/pressure control.
- 3D print - RAK19007 WisBlock Base Board Mount by @nano_487586
- This is not required, but recommended. This can be mounted to the grid rack inside the enclosure, and will provide a standoff in case you would like to add additional components (GPS, environment, etc) to the base board.
- Requires M2.5 screws to attach board to mount.
- I was able to use M3 screws to attach mount to the grid rack inside the enclosure.
- Lexel sealant (clear)
- Optional
- IP67 Waterproof USB-C Feed Thru Connector
- Allows you to provide USB-C access without having to open the enclosure.
- Short USB-C cable
- Used to connect board to feed thru connector.
- PMMA Optical fiber cable
- Used to direct board LEDs outside of enclosure.
- Acrylic dowel rods
- Used with optical fiber for rigid light outside enclosure.
- Super glue (any kind)
- Used to attach the optical fiber to the acrylic dowel rods.
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Used to attach the optical fiber to the LEDs on the board.
- IP67 Waterproof USB-C Feed Thru Connector
Build
WIP