Build Your Own Blackout Comms
Getting Started with Lilygo Devices
You can get a private secure mesh cluster up and running with nothing more than a couple of Lilygo T-Deck devices! You can also experiment with more mesh communicators, links, antennas, LoRa amps, and more.
1. Get Some Devices
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You will need at 2 or more communicator devices, which can be any combination of T-Deck, T-Deck Plus, or Pager.
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T-Deck Plus is available on Amazon, AliExpress, or Rokland for ~$90. Pager is available on Rokland.
If you are not in the US, you may need to purchase the 868 version of devices. Check here to find out.
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Rokland also offers T-Deck Complete with upgraded antenna and battery for ~$100. That is a great option, offering longer range.
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You may purchase devices directly from Lilygo, but be aware that shipping may be slow and subject to high tariffs.
2. Add Compatible SD Cards
Not absolutely required, but highly recommended. A good option from Amazon is this PNY card.
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Blackout Comms uses SD cards for encrypted storage and also sort of like a SIM card
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If using SD cards, you can take the SD card out of one device, put it in another, and all your config/messages are instantly transferred
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Increase longevity of your device by saving wear and tear on flash memory
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Backup your device simply by copying the SD card
Each device in your cluster needs Blackout Comms firmware. After that, you’ll need to onboard them to your new cluster.
4. Add Links (Optional)
These can extend your cluster sort of like mini-cell towers. T-Beam Supreme is a good option and is available on Amazon, AliExpress, and Rokland for ~$50. You will also need to purchase an 18650 flat-ended rechargeable battery (Amazon, AliExpress).​
Just like T-Deck: add an SD card, install the Blackout Comms Link firmware, and the device should reboot and be ready to onboard immediately.
Enclosures are also available on Etsy, or print your own.
Many other options for links are available. Check the
firmware page for more options.
Building Your Own Devices
Lilygo is the easiest option, but you can also build your own devices with varying capabilities. Some of the devices you can build include heavily upgraded T-Decks, thermal cam integrated devices, motion/proximity sensors, and solar options. Visit the firmware page for complete DIY build instructions.
Supported Devices
There are some great and inexpensive options for building your own devices. However, be aware that we can't troubleshoot your hardware. If we build it, we test everything before it leaves our lab.
Communicator Hardware Options
Compatible SD cards are highly recommended for communicators, for easy backup and longevity.
Custom T-Deck
The absolute best, but quite a DIY project
Link / Node Hardware Options
Currently the T-Beam Supreme and Heltec e290 are the recommended options for DIY. T-Beam Supreme only requires adding a battery and enclosure, while the e290 has more options and a much better display (but requires additional components & soldering).
Heltec Vision Master e290
Excellent - top performer
Lilygo T3S3 ePaper
Nice screen - MQTT not supported
