Dual node Meshtastic and MeshCore. I think both networks have their benefits, and now I don’t have to choose. We’ll see how two nodes does in the winter. But right now a single solar panel is plenty to keep the battery constantly topped up.
Dual node Meshtastic and MeshCore. I think both networks have their benefits, and now I don’t have to choose. We’ll see how two nodes does in the winter. But right now a single solar panel is plenty to keep the battery constantly topped up.
Those antennas might not be what you want. I’m on the 9th floor and used a plastic RAK dipole antenna with great reception catching nodes 15km away in urban environment. I then tried a couple of high gain antennas to see if I’d get better reception. The signal got worse. I was only able to connect to the closest, strongest nodes. Many of the further ones wouldn’t connect at all. It seems like the signal shape that the higher gain created made it more difficult to reach nodes that aren’t on the same height. If you haven’t thought of that, think about it, and either way test with regular 2dBi dipole.
That makes sense. My understanding is gain is expressed relative to a perfect omnidirectional antenna. So, higher gain means you’re making trade-offs in the area covered by the antenna. I’ve ordered some 2 dBi antennas to test with before deploying these.
Yeah, if you’re not too knowledgeable in RF, just try different antennas and see which ones get more nodes. I’m not so that’s what I did. :D
Little update. Tried out this 2 dbi antenna tonight, and got probably about a 50% improvement in range. About 4500 feet before, to 1.25-1.5 mile depending on direction. So, definitely appreciate the suggestion!
Damn. I wonder how many poor sods like you and me buy the bigger antennas and never know… 😅 It was pure luck for me that I decided to try both.