Setup emergency radio for beginners
Step-by-step guide to setup your MeshCore emergency radio. Ready in 15 minutes, no technical knowledge needed
Setting up your first emergency radio: easier than you think
Setting up an emergency radio might sound complicated, but it's actually quite easy. With this complete beginner guide, you'll have a working MeshCore emergency radio within 15 minutes. No technical knowledge needed, no complicated software, just follow step by step.
MeshCore works via LoRa radio technology and doesn't need internet. Perfect for emergency communication during power outages, disasters, or other crisis situations in the Netherlands. The device is compact, lasts days on one battery, and connects you with others nearby without internet or mobile network.
In this guide you'll learn everything you need: from unboxing your device to sending your first message. We also cover common mistakes, handy tips for beginners, and how to choose the best settings.
What do you need?
Before you start setting up, make sure you have these items ready:
📻 A LoRa radio device
The most important: a MeshCore-compatible LoRa radio device. This is a small transmitter about the size of a matchbox.
From €50 on Aliexpress or Amazon. See our devices page for recommendations.
📱 A smartphone
Android or iOS smartphone with Bluetooth. You don't need internet after installation, only Bluetooth.
Android works best, but iOS also works (with some limitations).
🔋 USB cable and charger
To charge your device. Usually a USB-C cable is included, but check this when purchasing.
A powerbank is handy for on the go or during power outages.
⏱️ 15 minutes of time
The installation is quick. 10-15 minutes is enough to set everything up and send your first message.
The first time might take a bit longer, but then you know the way.
Step-by-step: setup your emergency radio
Follow these 6 steps to setup your MeshCore emergency radio. We'll guide you:
Charge your device
Start by charging your LoRa radio. Connect it via USB cable to a charger or computer. Most devices have an LED light indicating it's charging.
- • Red light = charging
- • Green or blue light = fully charged
- • First charge takes 2-3 hours
Download the MeshCore app
Go to the app store on your smartphone and download the free MeshCore app. For Android that's the Google Play Store, for iOS the App Store.
- • Search for "MeshCore" in the app store
- • Download and install the app (free)
- • Open the app and grant Bluetooth permission
Turn on your device
Once your device is charged, turn it on with the power button. Most devices have a small screen that lights up. You might see a welcome screen or basic menu.
- • Hold the power button for 2-3 seconds
- • Wait for the screen to turn on
- • The device automatically starts Bluetooth mode
Connect via Bluetooth
Open the MeshCore app on your smartphone. The app automatically searches for available devices nearby. Select your device from the list.
- • Click on "Add Device" or the plus icon
- • Select your device (usually "Mesh_XXXX")
- • Wait until pairing is complete (10-20 seconds)
Configure basic settings
Now that your device is paired, set up some basics via the app. This is important for identification and range.
- • Choose a recognizable name (e.g., "John Amsterdam")
- • Select the region (Europe 868 MHz)
- • Save the default channel setting (LongFast)
Test your connection
Done! Now you can send your first test message. Check if you see other users nearby, and send a message to the general channel.
- • Open the general channel in the app
- • Send a test message like "Hello, first test!"
- • Check if you get a response from other users
Tips for beginners
Always fully charge
Always start with a fully charged device. The first time the battery might drain a bit faster.
Test outside
LoRa radio works best outdoors. Walls and metal significantly weaken the signal.
Check the map
View the LocalMesh map to see where other users and repeaters are in your area in the Netherlands.
Join the community
Join the Telegram group for help from other users in the Netherlands, tips, and to ask questions.
Use default settings
As a beginner, it's best to use the default settings. They work perfectly fine in 99% of cases.
Update regularly
Check occasionally if there's a firmware update available. Updates bring improvements and new features.
Common beginner mistakes
Avoid these common pitfalls:
❌ Choosing wrong frequency
In Europe you MUST use 868 MHz. Other frequencies are illegal or don't work well. Always check this in the settings.
❌ Testing only indoors
LoRa signals have difficulty penetrating walls. Always test outside first to see if your device works. Then you can experiment indoors.
❌ Not choosing a unique name
Use a recognizable name so others know who you are. "Node_1234" says little. Choose for example your first name + city.
❌ Too high expectations of range
Direct range is ~1km in urban areas. Via repeaters you can reach further, but don't expect 10km+ in the city. Open fields work much better.
Frequently asked questions
How long does setup take?
For a beginner 10-15 minutes. Once you've done it, it can be done in 5 minutes. Charging takes 2-3 hours, but you can do that simultaneously with other steps.
Do I need internet to set it up?
Only to download the app and possibly install firmware updates. After that everything works without internet via Bluetooth.
What if I don't see other users?
Then you're possibly too far from others. Check the map on our website, go outside (preferably high up), or place a repeater to extend the range.
Can I break something with wrong settings?
No, you can't break anything. In the worst case you reset the device to factory settings and start over. See the knowledge base for reset instructions.
Do I need to keep my device on always?
No, only if you want to receive messages or if you're running a repeater. For normal use you can turn it on/off whenever you want.
How much data does it use?
No data at all! MeshCore works without internet, so it doesn't use any mobile data from your phone. Only Bluetooth uses minimal battery.
Ready to start?
You now have all the knowledge to setup your first emergency radio. It's easier than you thought, right? Within fifteen minutes you're part of the growing mesh network in the Netherlands.
Don't have a device yet? View our recommendations and start today.