AmateurLogic.TV Episode 220 is now available for download.
Our latest experiments with Mesh Networking. Tommy builds a Solar Powered Mesh Node.
Emile talks about the rapidly growing Gulf Coast Mesh Network and demonstrates his equipment.
George unboxes an Elecrow Solar Powered M6 Thinknode.
And Mike opens up his new solar powered AM/FM/SW/BT radio to see what makes it tick.
Episode Summary:
This episode of AmateurLogic (episode 220) focuses heavily on Mesh Networking experiments, particularly Mesh Core and Meshtastic technology.
Key segments of the episode include:
Gulf Coast Mesh Network (5:37-21:42): Emil discusses the growing Gulf Coast Mesh Network, demonstrating his solar-powered Seed Studio WEO Tracker L1 Pro companion and a Heltec V4 based repeater setup. He explains the use of LoRa (Long Range) technology on the 900 MHz ISM band for robust, decentralized communications which can be used for emergency scenarios like hurricane response.
Tommy’s Solar-Powered Node (31:54-43:24): Tommy demonstrates his DIY project building a solar-powered mesh node using a Heltec V3 board. He details the construction of a custom 18650 battery pack, and solar charging circuitry.
Unboxing the ThinkNode M6 (44:00-57:12): George performs an unboxing of the Elecrow ThinkNode M6, an outdoor solar-powered LoRaWAN device. He discusses his plans to integrate it into the mesh network despite the initial challenge of transitioning it from Meshtastic to Mesh Core firmware.
Solar-Powered Radio Review (58:34-1:04:42): Mike opens up and evaluates the Prunus J750, an inexpensive solar-powered AM/FM/SW/BT radio, sharing his findings on its internal components and functionality.
Additional Updates:
The team discusses their upcoming attendance at the Huntsville Hamfest (0:35, 1:08:42).
Emil mentions researching a new HF digital mode called Mercury (1:07:23).