- Meshtastic
- Documented
- MeshCore
- Likely
- Role
- repeater
Manufacturer specs only Not yet available
Node power
Batteries and small solar panels for radios and repeaters that run unattended.
Read this first. Battery life depends on the radio's real average current and the weather. Measure, then size for cloudy weeks.
Related guides: Build a solar repeater for your neighborhood
Estimate how long a node runs on its battery
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Rather than list unnamed products, here is what to check when you shop for these.
Node batteries and charging
Most nodes run on lithium cells; the wrong cell or charger is a fire risk.
Check
- Chemistry and voltage the board's charger expects.
- Protected cells where the board lacks protection.
- Connector polarity: JST connectors are not standardized across makers.
Avoid
- Unbranded high-capacity claims.
Small solar panel for a node
Many node boards accept a roughly 5 V solar input. Panel output in the field is well below its rating in shade, winter and bad weather.
Check
- Panel voltage within the board's solar input range (Heltec V4 lists 4.7 to 6 V).
- Connector and polarity matched to the board.
- Battery sized to ride through several cloudy days; use the node battery calculator.
- Mount facing south (in the US) at an angle, clear of shade.
Avoid
- Panels with no voltage specification.
- Connecting a 12 V or 18 V panel to a 5 V input.