MeshCore repeater settings
Everything you need to know to properly configure your MeshCore repeater. From flashing firmware to the correct settings for the European network.
The essentials
These are the key settings for your repeater:
Important: choose the correct preset
In the UK and across Europe, we use the EU/UK (Narrow) preset. If you choose something else, you'll be on a different frequency and nobody will see your repeater. Do check this before flashing.
Configuring a repeater: how it works
A MeshCore repeater is a node that runs continuously and forwards messages between other nodes. By choosing the correct settings, you ensure your repeater works properly with the wider MeshCore network.
In this guide, we'll walk through all the steps: from flashing the firmware to configuring the key settings. The crucial setting is the EU/UK (Narrow) preset — without this, your repeater won't communicate with other nodes in Europe.
The setup takes roughly 15-20 minutes. You'll need a computer with Chrome or Edge, a USB data cable, and your LoRa board.
What you'll need
Gather these items before you begin:
A LoRa board
Popular choices include the Heltec V3, LilyGo T-Beam, RAK WisBlock, or a Seeed SenseCAP. Check the flasher website for all supported devices.
Tip: for a fixed repeater, a board without a display is perfectly fine — it uses less power.
Chrome or Edge browser
The MeshCore flasher is an online tool that uses WebUSB. This only works in Chrome or Edge. Firefox and Safari aren't supported, unfortunately.
No software to install — everything runs in the browser.
USB data cable
A USB-A to USB-C (or micro-USB, depending on your board) cable. Important: it must be a DATA cable, not just a charging cable.
Tip: if flashing doesn't work, 9 times out of 10 it's the cable. Try a different one.
About fifteen minutes
The whole process takes 15-20 minutes. The actual flashing is a minute or two; the rest is configuration.
First time? Allow a bit extra to read through everything properly.
Step by step: flashing the firmware
From new board to working repeater in six steps:
Open the web flasher
The MeshCore flasher runs entirely in your browser. No software to download or drivers to install.
- Go to flasher.meshcore.co.uk
- Make sure you're using Chrome or Edge
- Click "Allow" when the browser asks for USB access
Connect your board
Connect your LoRa board to your computer via USB. Most boards power on automatically when they receive power.
- Use a data cable (not just a charging cable)
- Some boards have an on/off switch — do check
- Your computer should recognise the device
Select your hardware
In the flasher, choose which board you have. This is important — wrong firmware means a non-working board.
- Click your board type in the list (e.g. Heltec V3, T-Beam)
- Choose the latest firmware version
- Select "Repeater" as the device role
Set the correct preset
This is the most important step. The preset determines which frequency and settings your repeater uses.
- Find the "Preset" or "Region" setting
- Choose: EU/UK (Narrow) — this is required for Europe
- Do NOT choose other presets like EU868 or US915
Flash the firmware
Now for the exciting bit — the firmware gets written to your board.
- Click the "Flash" or "Install" button
- Do NOT disconnect the USB cable during flashing
- Wait until you see "Success" or 100%
Configure your repeater
Your repeater now works. Give it a name and optionally set the location.
- Give your repeater a recognisable name (e.g. "Repeater Manchester-North")
- No GPS? Enter the coordinates manually
- Check the preset is still EU/UK (Narrow)
Tips from experienced builders
Height is your friend
Radio waves like a clear line of sight. The higher your repeater, the further the range. The loft is better than the living room. A flat on the tenth floor is ideal.
Stable power supply
A repeater needs to run round the clock. A USB adapter in the mains is simplest. A power bank with pass-through charging also works, but watch it doesn't switch off automatically.
Antenna upright
The standard antennas work best when vertical. Horizontal or at an angle gives considerably less range.
Outdoors? Protect your kit
Electronics and water don't mix. Use a weatherproof enclosure (IP65+) for outdoor installations.
Solar power option
No mains power at the location? With a solar panel, LiPo battery and charge controller, you can build a self-sufficient repeater. The RAK Meshtastic Starter Kit is popular for this.
Share your coverage
Let other MeshCore users know your repeater exists. Post on Telegram or add it to the community map.
Common mistakes
Avoid these beginner errors:
Wrong preset chosen
The number one cause of "my repeater isn't being seen". In Europe, you must choose EU/UK (Narrow). Other presets won't work with the European network.
Wrong cable used
That random USB cable from your drawer? Good chance it's a charging cable that can't transfer data. If flashing doesn't work, try a different cable.
Wrong browser
WebUSB only works in Chrome and Edge. Firefox users: switch browsers just for the flashing.
Cable disconnected during flashing
If you disconnect the cable whilst the firmware is being written, your board may be damaged. Patience is a virtue.
Network-friendly settings
A mesh network works best when everyone follows these guidelines:
Auto Advert Interval (Flood)
How often your node announces itself to the entire network.
Auto Advert Interval (Zero Hop)
Local announcements. Not needed for repeaters.
Why does this matter?
LoRa has limited bandwidth. If every node constantly sends messages, the network becomes congested. By setting these intervals higher, more capacity remains for actual messages.
Frequently asked questions
Which preset should I choose?
In the UK and Europe: EU/UK (Narrow). This is the only preset that works with the European MeshCore network.
Which boards are most popular for repeaters?
The Heltec V3 is popular due to its low price. RAK WisBlock for more expansion options. LilyGo T-Beam if you want GPS. For solar power: the Seeed SenseCAP series.
Can my repeater also send and receive messages?
Technically yes, but it's better to let a repeater only forward. Your own traffic means less capacity for forwarding others' messages. Better to use a separate device for chatting.
How much power does a repeater use?
On average 0.5-2 Watts continuously, depending on the board and activity. A simple 5W USB adapter is more than sufficient.
Do I need a licence to transmit?
No, not for the ISM band (868MHz in Europe). MeshCore uses frequencies that are free for low-power use. Do check the current regulations from Ofcom or your local regulator.
Where can I get help if I'm stuck?
The MeshCore Telegram group is very active and helpful. There are also users on Discord and Reddit.
Ready to get started?
You now have all the information to properly configure your MeshCore repeater. Don't forget: EU/UK (Narrow) preset, and a proper data cable.
Open the flasher and configure your repeater. Best of luck!