Joining the Network #
Getting on FLX Mesh takes about 15 minutes and requires no technical background. Here’s what you need.
1. Get a Meshtastic Device #
Any Meshtastic-compatible LoRa radio will work. Popular options include:
- Seeed L1 Tracker Pro — Great battery life and versatile options for portable nodes - pro version comes assembled with a case and battery
- LILYGO T-Deck — Standalone option with built in keyboard
- RAK WisBlock — Modular, great for solar-powered infrastructure nodes
- Heltec V4 - Widley available, high transmit power, has wifi - but very power inefficient. Good for in home installations.
Devices are available from vendors like Rokland, Seeedstudio, Amazon, and AliExpress. Budget $25–$60 for a basic handheld node.
Consider getting a 3rd party antenna depending on your device. Many come with poorly tuned stubby antennas. There are many antennas out there, each with pros and cons, but if you just want one that works I recommend the Muzi Works Whip Antenna - also available on Amazon.
2. Install the Meshtastic App #
Download the free Meshtastic app for your phone:
The app connects to your device via Bluetooth and provides the messaging interface.
3. Configure Your Device #
Flash the latest Meshtastic firmware and configure these settings to join the FLXMesh network:
| Setting | Value |
|---|---|
| Region | US |
| Primary (first) Channel | Default (LongFast) - no channel name no encryption key |
| Role | Client |
Detailed configuration instructions are available on the Meshtastic documentation site.
4. Get On the Air #
Power on your device, open the Meshtastic app, and you’re on the network. Send a message to the default channel to say hello.
Tip: Elevation is everything for LoRa range. A node on a rooftop or with you on the top of a hill will perform dramatically better than one at ground level.
Setting Up a Fixed Node #
Want to help expand the network? Fixed nodes mounted at elevation — on rooftops, towers, or high terrain — are the backbone of the mesh. There are many DIY solar build plans online, or you can purchase a ready to deploy option such as the Seeed Sensecap P1 Solar, or Wismesh Solar Repeater Mini. Important - do not set your node to router just because it is higher than ground level. This can cause black holes for messages and cause issues with routing.
Check Network Coverage