Getting Started
You can get a private secure mesh cluster up and running with nothing more than a couple of Lilygo T-Deck devices!
At any time, you can add more mesh communicators, mesh nodes, experiment with antennas and LoRa amps, and much more.
Walkthrough of a Custom Build + Cluster Setup
Although this video shows soldering and 3D printing things, you don’t actually need to do all that if you’re using T-Deck+. This video also shows you you group devices into a private cluster.
Set Up a Simple Cluster
Purchase 2 (or more) T-Deck devices
T-Deck Plus is available on Amazon, AliExpress, or Rokland for ~$90. If you are not in the US, you may need to purchase the 868 version of T-Deck+. Check here to find out.
Rokland also offers T-Deck Complete with upgraded antenna and battery for ~$100. That is a great option, offering longer range.
You may purchase directly from Lilygo, but be aware that shipping may be slow and subject to duty tax.
Optional: Purchase Compatible SD Cards
SD cards are recommended to increase longevity of your T-Deck, but not required (as of v1.6.7). T-Deck is very picky about SD cards, so to be safe, purchase one from this list.
Using an SD card allows you to backup your cluster config, as well as save wear on the T-Deck’s flash memory.
A good option from Amazon is this PNY card.
Install ChatterBox T-Deck Firmware & Onboard Devices
Each device in your cluster needs to have the ChatterBox firmware. You can download the ChatterBox firmware for free.
With firmware installed on all devices, you’ll just need to onboard them to your new cluster. You can follow along with the instructions/video below:
Bonus: Add Node(s) to Extend Your Cluster!
Purchase T-Beam Supreme(s)
T-Beam Supreme is available on Amazon, AliExpress, and Rokland for ~$50. You will also need to purchase an 18650 flat-ended rechargeable battery (Amazon, AliExpress).
Enclosures are also available on Etsy, or print your own.
These can extend your cluster sort of like mini-cell towers.
(Optional) Purchase Compatible SD Cards
You can run without an SD card, but they are highly recommended. T-Beam is very picky about SD cards, so to be safe, purchase one from this list.
A good option from Amazon is this PNY card.
Install the ChatterBox T-Beam Firmware & Onboard the Node(s)
Install the ChatterBox Node firmware onto the T-Beam supreme.
When you first run the node (with firmware installed), it will go straight into onboard mode.
From that point, simply choose “Onboard Device” from the root communicator. Once onboarding is complete, other devices will automatically sense and begin to use the new node.
Having trouble reaching the firmware flash page?