GearHack: Revision: What is a Meshtastic Radio

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What is a Meshtastic Radio?

Meshtastic is an open-source project that allows you to create a mesh network using inexpensive hardware. These devices communicate with each other to relay messages and location data. They work even in areas with no cell coverage because they don't utilize cell service at all. By connecting your smartphone to a Meshtastic device via Bluetooth, you can send text messages and track the location of other devices in the network.

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How It Works

Mesh Network: Each Meshtastic device automatically connects to other Meshtastic devices nearby (within miles), forming a mesh network. This network can cover large areas, making it perfect for music festivals.
Direction and Distance: If you have a Meshtastic radio with a display, it will display a digital directional compass with distance, pointing to another Meshtastic radio you select. The Meshtastic app--Android and iOS apps available--on your smartphone displays a map with all the devices in the mesh network. You'll need to download the map in the app before you go off-grid, though.
Affordable and DIY: Building this Meshtastic radio costs around $50. A completed Meshtastic radio can be purchased for $75 to $100.

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What's Next?

Ready to build one? Check out our "Find Your Friends at Music Festivals with a Digital Compass (Direction/Distance) that You Can Build for Around $50" article.

You just want to focus your time on your rave costume? No problem. You can purchase a completed Meshtastic radio off Amazon. See our "Related Links" section below to get your radio quick.

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