Set up a repeater for MeshCore
Step-by-step guide to flash and configure your MeshCore repeater in the Netherlands. EU/UK (Narrow) preset settings.
Repeater settings
The key settings for a MeshCore repeater:
Settings for the Netherlands
In the Netherlands, you MUST choose the EU/UK (Narrow) preset. This is the only preset that works with the MeshCore network here. If you're outside the Netherlands, check which preset applies to your region.
Setting up a repeater: how to do it
A MeshCore repeater is a device that forwards messages to other nodes in the network. By placing a repeater, you expand the range of the entire network and help others stay connected.
In this guide you'll learn how to flash a repeater using the official MeshCore webflasher, choose the correct preset, and optimally configure your repeater.
Important: This guide shows the settings for the MeshCore network in the Netherlands. The EU/UK (Narrow) preset is required here. If you're located outside the Netherlands, different presets may apply for your region.
What do you need?
Make sure you have these items ready before starting:
A MeshCore-compatible device
A LoRa radio suitable as a repeater. Popular choices are the Heltec V3, RAK WisBlock, or LilyGo T-Beam.
See our devices page for recommendations.
A computer with Chrome browser
The webflasher only works in Chrome or Edge (Chromium-based browsers). Firefox and Safari are not supported.
No software installation needed, everything works via the browser.
A USB cable
A good USB cable to connect your device to the computer. Note: some cables are charging-only!
Preferably use the included cable or a data cable.
15-20 minutes of time
Flashing and configuring takes about 15-20 minutes. The first time might take a bit longer.
Take your time, rushing leads to mistakes.
Step-by-step: flash your repeater
Follow these steps to flash and configure your repeater:
Go to the webflasher
Open the official MeshCore webflasher in your Chrome browser. This is the only official way to flash MeshCore firmware.
- • Go to flasher.meshcore.co.uk
- • Use Chrome or Edge browser
- • Allow WebUSB access when prompted
Connect your device
Connect your LoRa device to the computer via USB. Make sure the device is turned on.
- • Use a data cable (not charging-only)
- • Turn on the device if it's off
- • Wait for the computer to recognize the device
Select your device type
Choose in the webflasher the exact type of device you have. This is important for the correct firmware.
- • Select your device from the list (e.g., Heltec V3, T-Beam)
- • Choose the firmware version (usually the latest)
- • Select "Repeater" as device role
Choose the correct preset
This is the most important step! Select the preset that works with the MeshCore network.
- • Go to "Choose Preset" or similar option
- • Choose: EU/UK (Narrow) - MANDATORY!
- • DO NOT choose: other presets like EU868 or US915
Flash the firmware
Click the flash button to write the firmware to your device. This takes 1-2 minutes.
- • Click "Flash" or "Install"
- • Do NOT disconnect the device during flashing
- • Wait until the progress bar shows 100%
Configure your repeater
After flashing you can configure additional settings like the name and location of your repeater.
- • Give your repeater a recognizable name (e.g., "Repeater Amsterdam-South")
- • Set GPS coordinates if your device doesn't have GPS
- • Verify the preset is still EU/UK (Narrow)
Tips for a good repeater
Location is everything
Place your repeater as high as possible. A repeater in the attic or on the roof reaches much further than one in the living room.
Stable power supply
Connect your repeater to a reliable power source. A powerbank with pass-through charging or direct USB power works best.
Antenna direction
Keep the antenna vertical for best range. Horizontal antennas have much less range.
Protect from weather
Place an outdoor repeater in a weatherproof enclosure. Electronics don't like moisture and extreme temperatures.
Solar option
Consider a solar-powered repeater for locations without power. The Seeed SenseCAP P1 Pro is perfect for this.
Share your location
Let the community know where your repeater is so others know there's coverage in your area.
Recommended network settings
To ensure optimal performance and minimize network congestion, we recommend the following settings for all nodes:
Auto Advert Interval (Flood)
Set to 12 hours or more (up to 48 hours).
12 hours or more (max 48 hours)
Auto Advert Interval (Zero Hop)
Set to 0 (disabled).
0 (disabled)
Why these settings? These settings reduce the number of automatic advertisement messages in the network, leaving more bandwidth for actual messages. A healthier network means better performance for everyone.
Common mistakes
Avoid these mistakes when setting up your repeater:
Choosing wrong preset
The #1 mistake! You MUST choose EU/UK (Narrow). Other presets don't work with the MeshCore network.
Using charging-only cable
Some USB cables are charging-only and can't transfer data. Use a real data cable.
Using wrong browser
The webflasher only works in Chrome or Edge. Firefox and Safari don't support WebUSB.
Disconnecting device during flashing
Never disconnect the device during flashing! This can corrupt the firmware.
Frequently asked questions
Which preset should I choose?
EU/UK (Narrow) - this is the only preset that works with the MeshCore network in the Netherlands. All other presets don't work!
Can I use any device as a repeater?
Not every device is supported. Before buying a device, always check <a href="https://flasher.meshcore.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener" class="text-alert-600 hover:text-alert-700 underline">flasher.meshcore.co.uk</a> to see which devices are supported. Popular choices are Heltec V3, T-Beam and RAK WisBlock.
Does my repeater need to be on all the time?
Yes, a repeater must be continuously on to forward messages. Ensure a stable power supply.
How much power does a repeater use?
A typical repeater uses 0.5-2 Watts, depending on the device and activity. A small powerbank or USB adapter is sufficient.
Can I also use my repeater as a regular node?
Yes, but it's not recommended. A repeater should send as few own messages as possible to optimally forward. Better use a separate device.
Where can I get help?
Join the MeshCore Telegram group for help from the community.
Ready to strengthen the network?
With this guide you have all the knowledge to flash and configure your MeshCore repeater. Don't forget: always choose EU/UK (Narrow) as preset!
Go to the webflasher and start expanding the network today.