Place repeaters in your neighborhood
Repeaters are the backbone of the mesh network. Learn how to strategically place repeaters to increase range and connect your neighborhood
What is a repeater?
A repeater is a MeshCore device that is on 24/7 and automatically forwards messages to other devices. It works as a link in the network: every message the repeater receives is forwarded to all devices nearby.
Repeaters are crucial for the mesh network. They bridge distances, connect neighborhoods, and ensure messages reach further than the direct ~1km distance between two mobile devices. One well-placed repeater can improve coverage for an entire neighborhood.
Why are repeaters so important?
Repeaters make the difference between a local network and a powerful mesh network:
📡 Increases range exponentially
Mobile devices reach ~1km. A repeater at a high point reaches 10+ km in open areas.
🔗 Connects neighborhoods
Repeaters form bridges between different areas, creating one large network.
🕐 Always available
24/7 on means the network works even when your mobile device is off.
🔄 Redundancy
Multiple repeaters mean multiple routes for messages. If one fails, the network continues.
💪 Strengthens community
Someone who places a repeater helps the entire neighborhood. This strengthens mutual connection.
🚨 Essential during crisis
During emergencies, you have no time to turn on devices. Repeaters always work.
💡 Impact of one repeater
One strategically placed repeater can improve coverage for tens of households. It's the best investment (€50-100) you can make for the local network. Every repeater makes the entire mesh network stronger.
How to place a repeater?
Follow these 5 steps to place a repeater:
Step 1: Choose a suitable location
The higher, the better. Find the highest point in your neighborhood: roof, attic, top floor of apartment building. Open view is ideal.
Step 2: Purchase repeater device
Buy a LoRa radio device (€50-100) suitable as a repeater. Some models have built-in battery + solar panel option.
Step 3: Configure as repeater
Set the device to repeater mode via the MeshCore app. This means it automatically forwards messages without you having to operate it.
Step 4: Install at location
Place the device weatherproof (IP67 housing). Arrange power supply: outlet, battery, or solar energy. Secure firmly against wind.
Step 5: Test and monitor
Test if the repeater is reachable from different points in the neighborhood. Monitor battery/power. Report the repeater in the community so others know it's there.
Ideal locations for repeaters
These are excellent places to place a repeater:
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House roofs: High, clear view, often outlet available in attic
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Apartment buildings: Top floor or roof. Reaches many people at once
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Church towers: Perfect for villages. Often willing to cooperate with local initiative
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School buildings: Central location in neighborhood, high, reaches many households
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Business buildings: Large buildings with high points. Ask owner for cooperation
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Hills and dikes: Natural height gives long range in rural areas
Benefits of placing repeaters
You help the entire neighborhood
One repeater helps tens or hundreds of people. You make the difference.
Increases your own range
You also benefit from greater coverage and more reliable network.
Pioneer status
You're recognized as someone who proactively contributes to community.
Educational experience
You learn about LoRa technology, networks, and practical installation.
One-time investment
Costs €50-100 one-time. No subscription, no monthly costs. Works for years.
Crucial during emergency
During crisis, your repeater is indispensable for neighborhood communication.
Frequently asked questions
What does a repeater cost?
A basic LoRa radio device suitable as repeater costs €50-100. Models with solar panel and larger battery cost €100-150. No subscription costs, works for years.
How much power does a repeater use?
Very little! LoRa technology is energy-efficient. A repeater on outlet uses ~1-2 watts (€5-10 per year). On battery + solar panel it can run for months to years.
Do I need to be technically skilled?
Basic installation is simple. Configuration as repeater is one setting in the app. For physical installation (climbing on roof) help can be useful, but technically it's simple. Community gladly helps.
What if the repeater fails?
Mesh networks are smart: messages automatically find an alternative route. Multiple repeaters mean redundancy. Check monthly if your repeater still works (via network map or app).
May I place a repeater on a municipal building?
Often yes! Municipalities usually respond positively to citizen initiatives for emergency communication. Write a letter explaining what MeshCore is and why it's useful for the neighborhood. LocalMesh has example letters.
How many repeaters does a neighborhood need?
That depends on size and buildings. Small village: 1-2 repeaters. Average neighborhood: 2-4 repeaters. Large city neighborhood: 4-8 repeaters. Start with one at the highest point, expand where needed.
Place a repeater, help the entire neighborhood
Repeaters are the difference between a small local network and a powerful mesh network. Your contribution helps tens or hundreds of people. It's an investment of €50-100 that provides value for years.
Become the hero of your neighborhood: place a repeater.