MeshCore channel configuration
Everything about channels, frequencies, spreading factors and modem presets for configuring your MeshCore network on 868 MHz
Configuring channels in MeshCore
MeshCore uses radio channels to separate different communication groups. Each channel has unique settings like frequency, spreading factor, and bandwidth. In Europe we operate on 868 MHz (not 915 MHz like in the US).
Your channel configuration determines the range, speed, and battery life of your node. A higher spreading factor gives more range but slower communication. Finding the right balance is essential for a well-functioning network.
In this guide we cover all channel parameters, spreading factors, modem presets, and best practices for configuring MeshCore channels in the Netherlands and the rest of Europe.
Types of channels
Primary channel
The main channel (slot 0) for general communication. All nodes in the network listen on this channel. Usually configured with long range settings.
Secondary channels
Extra channels (slot 1-7) for private groups or specific applications. Can use different presets for speed or range. Optionally encrypted.
Admin channel
Special channel for administrative commands and remote configuration. Always encrypted with a separate PSK. Only for trusted nodes.
Important channel parameters
Frequency
The radio frequency in MHz. For Europe: 868 MHz (868.0-869.0 MHz band). US uses 915 MHz but that is illegal in Europe! Netherlands: use 868.0-868.6 MHz.
Spreading factor (SF)
How the signal is encoded. SF7 = fast but short range, SF12 = slow but long range. Higher SF = more range but slower data transfer.
Bandwidth
The width of the signal in kHz. 125 kHz, 250 kHz or 500 kHz. Narrower bandwidth = more range but lower data rate. Usually 125 kHz for long distance.
Coding rate
Error correction ratio (4/5, 4/6, 4/7, 4/8). Higher values provide better error correction but slower data rate. Usually 4/5 or 4/8.
Tx power
Transmit power in dBm. Max 27 dBm (0.5W) in Europe. Higher power = more range but faster battery drain. Typically 17-22 dBm for mobile, 27 dBm for repeaters.
Preamble length
Number of symbols in preamble (typically 8-12). Longer preamble helps detection but increases overhead. Default 8 for speed, 12 for reliability.
Comparing spreading factors
| Spreading Factor | Range (estimate) | Data rate | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| SF7 | ~2 km open field | 5470 bps (fast) | Urban, fast communication, many nodes |
| SF9 | ~5 km open field | 1757 bps (medium) | Balance between speed and range |
| SF11 | ~10 km open field | 537 bps (slow) | Rural areas, long distance |
| SF12 | 15+ km open field | 293 bps (very slow) | Maximum range, repeaters, low traffic |
Benefits of good channel configuration
Optimal range
The right spreading factor and tx power provide maximum range without unnecessary battery drain. For rural areas: SF11-12, urban: SF7-9.
Battery life
Lower SF and tx power save energy. A node with SF7 and 17 dBm lasts 2-3x longer than SF12 with 27 dBm.
Multiple channels
Up to 8 channels per node. Different groups can communicate separately without interfering. Ideal for organizations.
Presets available
MeshCore has 8+ modem presets: LONG_FAST, LONG_SLOW, SHORT_FAST, etc. Easy to switch between range and speed.
Regional compliance
868 MHz configuration is fully legal in Europe. MeshCore has EU868 preset with correct frequencies and tx power limits.
Flexibly customizable
All parameters can be adjusted per channel. Experiment to find the best setup for your location.
Frequently asked questions
Which frequency should I use in the Netherlands?
Use 868 MHz (868.0-868.6 MHz band). This is the legal ISM band for Europe. 915 MHz is only allowed in the US and illegal in Europe! MeshCore has an EU868 preset that automatically sets the correct frequencies.
Which spreading factor is best?
That depends on your use case. SF9-10 is a good balance for most situations in the Netherlands. Use SF7-8 in dense urban areas for faster communication. Use SF11-12 in rural areas or for repeaters with maximum range.
How many channels can I use?
Up to 8 channels simultaneously (0-7). Channel 0 is always the primary channel. Channels 1-7 are secondary channels you can configure for private groups, sensors, or other purposes. Each channel can have different settings.
What is the difference between LONG_FAST and LONG_SLOW?
LONG_FAST uses SF11 for good range (~10 km) with reasonable speed. LONG_SLOW uses SF12 for maximum range (15+ km) but is much slower. Choose LONG_FAST unless you really need extreme range.
Can I encrypt channels?
Yes, each channel can have its own PSK (Pre-Shared Key) for AES-256 encryption. The primary channel is often public (no PSK) but secondary channels can be made private. Anyone with the PSK can listen in.
How much tx power should I set?
For mobile nodes: 17-20 dBm (balance between range and battery). For solar repeaters: 27 dBm (maximum allowed in EU). Higher power gives more range but consumes much more energy. Try lower power first and increase only if needed.
Configure your first MeshCore channel
Ready to set up your MeshCore node? Choose a device and start configuring your channels on 868 MHz.