Extend range with repeater
Expand the coverage of your mesh network with a repeater. Connect more users and strengthen the network in your area in the Netherlands
Why extending your range is important
A LoRa emergency radio has a direct range of about 1 kilometer in urban areas, and up to 10+ kilometers in open fields. But what if you want to reach further? What if you want to reach family on the other side of the city during an emergency?
This is where repeaters come in. A repeater is a device that automatically forwards messages to other devices. By strategically placing repeaters, you can enormously expand the MeshCore mesh network in the Netherlands – from a few hundred meters to many kilometers.
In this guide you'll learn everything about repeaters: what they are, why they're important, how to set them up, and where to place them best for maximum range.
What is a repeater?
A repeater is the backbone of every mesh network:
A repeater (also called "relay node") is a LoRa radio device that stays on continuously and automatically forwards messages to other nearby devices. It works as an intermediary that helps bring messages from A to B.
Imagine: you send a message, but the recipient is too far away to reach directly. A repeater in the middle catches your message and forwards it to the recipient. And if there are multiple repeaters between you and the recipient, the message can "hop" from repeater to repeater until it arrives.
The more repeaters in an area, the more reliable and far-reaching the network. This is the power of a mesh network: it becomes stronger as more people participate.
📡 Practical example
John lives in Amsterdam-West. Marie lives in Amsterdam-East. Direct range between them is impossible (too far). But there's a repeater on a apartment building in Amsterdam-Center:
- → John sends a message
- → Repeater in center catches the message and forwards it
- → Marie receives the message
Why would you place a repeater?
🌐 Expand network coverage
One repeater can double the range of dozens of users. Place your repeater strategically high, and you reach many more people.
🏘️ Connect your neighborhood
Help your neighbors stay reachable. A repeater in your neighborhood can ensure everyone can communicate during emergencies.
🔗 Connection between neighborhoods
Repeaters can serve as bridges between different neighborhoods or villages. This way the network grows organically.
📶 Strengthen signal
In areas with many obstacles (buildings, hills), repeaters help keep the signal strong.
🚀 Contribute to the community
By running a repeater, you help strengthen the LocalMesh network in the Netherlands. The more repeaters, the more reliable the network.
⚡ Always available in emergency
During a power outage or disaster, your repeater keeps working (with battery or solar panel), so others can depend on your link.
Setup a repeater in 5 steps
Setting up a repeater is surprisingly simple:
Choose a suitable device
Use a LoRa radio with external antenna connection for the best range. Models with a large screen are handy for monitoring, but not required.
Enable repeater mode
In the MeshCore app, go to settings and enable "Router Mode" or "Repeater Mode". The device will now automatically forward all messages.
Choose a good location
Place the repeater as high as possible: attic, roof, balcony. The higher, the further the range. Make sure the antenna has a clear view.
Ensure continuous power
Connect the device to a power outlet via USB, or use a large powerbank/solar panel. A repeater must be on 24/7 to be useful. See recommended devices.
Test and monitor
Check in the app how many messages your repeater forwards. More messages = more impact. Share your repeater location on the LocalMesh map.
The best locations for a repeater
High apartments or offices
Top floors have clear view over a large radius. Ideal for city coverage in the Netherlands.
Attic or roof
Your own attic is a great spot. Make sure the antenna points outside or is placed outside.
Hills or heights
In rural areas: place the repeater on natural heights. This can give range of 10+ kilometers.
Schools and churches
Public buildings with high towers or roofs are perfect. Ask permission from the owner.
Parks and open spaces
Centrally located parks with few obstacles provide good coverage in all directions.
Mobile repeaters
In your car or caravan? Also useful! Mobile repeaters help during travel or events.
Hardware requirements for a repeater
For an effective repeater you need:
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LoRa radio with external antenna: For maximum range. Models like T-Beam or Heltec v3 with RP-SMA connector.
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<strong>Continuous power supply:</strong> USB adapter, powerbank (10,000+ mAh), or solar panel with battery.
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<strong>Weather-resistant housing:</strong> If you place the repeater outside. IP65 rating is ideal.
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<strong>External antenna (optional):</strong> Significantly increases range. 3-5 dBi antenna is already sufficient.
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<strong>Mounting material:</strong> Cable ties, brackets, or adhesive strips to secure the repeater firmly.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a repeater cost?
From €50 for a basic device. With external antenna and housing you'll be at €80-120. You can also set up an existing device as a repeater.
How much power does a repeater consume?
About 0.5-1 watt continuously. That's less than €2 per month in electricity. With a solar panel it's completely free.
Can I use my own device as a repeater too?
Yes! Every MeshCore device can function as a repeater. Turn on "Router Mode" in the settings. You can also just leave it on when you're home.
How far does a repeater reach?
That depends on the location. On an apartment (10th floor) in the city: 2-5 km. On a hill in rural area: 10-20 km. In busy city neighborhoods: 1-3 km.
How do I know if my repeater works?
In the MeshCore app you see how many messages your device forwards. More traffic = more impact. You can also add your repeater to the LocalMesh map.
Can I read messages if I run a repeater?
Only public channel messages are visible. Private messages are end-to-end encrypted and cannot be read by repeaters.
Strengthen the network with your repeater
By placing a repeater, you make a difference in your area in the Netherlands. You not only expand your own range, but help dozens or hundreds of others stay connected during emergencies.
Start today and become an essential link in the LocalMesh network.