Building a Solar Powered Meshtastic Node

Materials You’ll Need

Here’s a list of materials and tools required for the project. We’ve included links to recommended products to make sourcing easier:

• Seeed Studio Wio Tracker 1110: This is the core of your Meshtastic node. It’s easy to use and allows for additional sensor integrations. Get it here.
• Generic Collinear Antenna: Reliable and efficient, this antenna ensures strong signal performance. Get it here.
• 7-Watt Solar Panel: This panel provides ample power to keep your node running. Get it here.
• Weatherproof Electrical Box: Protects your components from the elements. Get it here.
• N-Type Female to SMA Bulkhead Adapter: Essential for connecting the antenna to the enclosure. Get it here.

Tools Needed

• Drill with step bits
• 3mm bolts and locking nuts (or Loctite)
• Double-sided tape
• Zip ties

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Enclosure

Start by preparing the weatherproof electrical box. This will house your components, keeping them safe from dust, rain, and other environmental factors.

1. Drill a hole for the antenna adapter: Using a 9/16-inch step bit, drill a hole for the N-Type Female to SMA bulkhead adapter. Eyeball the placement for convenience, ensuring the antenna will mount securely.
2. Install the adapter: Secure it with 3mm bolts and locking nuts to prevent it from coming loose over time.

Step 2: Mount the Antenna

Attach the generic collinear antenna to the bulkhead adapter. This antenna is perfect for LoRa frequencies, offering reliable performance.

Step 3: Set Up the Solar Panel Connection

1. Drill another hole in the enclosure for the solar panel cable. Use a step bit to create a 5/8-inch hole.
2. Test-fit the solar panel connector to ensure it fits snugly.
3. Route the cable through the hole, leaving enough slack inside the box for connection to the module.

Step 4: Install the Meshtastic Module

The Seeed Studio Wio Tracker 1110 is the heart of your node. Learn more and buy it here.

1. Remove unnecessary components: Disconnect the GPS module and OLED screen to save power, as the node will operate in a fixed location.
2. Secure the module and battery: Use double-sided tape to stick the Wio Tracker and its battery to the inside of the enclosure. Ensure everything is firmly attached to avoid movement during operation.

Step 5: Final Assembly

1. Connect the antenna cable to the bulkhead adapter.
2. Plug the solar panel into the module.
3. Leave a small hole at the bottom of the enclosure to allow condensation to drain if needed.

Installing the Node

Mount the Enclosure

1. Choose a location with good sunlight exposure for the solar panel.
2. Use the included mounting tabs to secure the enclosure to a wall or pole. Ensure the box is stable and won’t move in strong winds.

Mount the Solar Panel

1. Position the panel at an angle that maximizes sunlight exposure. Use zip ties or brackets to secure it.
2. Connect the panel to the node and wrap any excess cable with zip ties. Avoid cutting the cable to retain flexibility for future installations.

Testing Your Node

Power up the node and check for proper operation:

• Ensure the solar panel is charging the battery.
• Confirm you can connect to the node with the app.

Once everything is working, you’ve successfully built and installed a solar-powered Meshtastic node!

Why Choose a Solar-Powered Node?

By integrating solar power, you’re making your communication network more resilient and sustainable. Whether for outdoor adventures, remote work, or emergency preparedness, this setup ensures your Meshtastic node is always ready to perform.

Ready to Build Yours?

Follow this guide, and you’ll have your own solar-powered Meshtastic node in no time. Share your build with us in the comments, and don’t forget to subscribe to Broken Signal for more RF projects and tutorials!