Meshtastic

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Sal@mander.xyz

Best option for low cost reliable solar node (leaf.dance)

submitted 1 month ago by zerodawn@leaf.dance to c/meshtastic@mander.xyz

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I'm on a budget and i'm looking to mount a node on a pole in my back yard. I have access to a 3d printer, i have soldering skills, and i'm okay with buying individual components and assembling them myself. I'd like it to look nice but it doesn't have to if that keeps costs down.

The first goal is reliability, i won't be able to easily access it once it's up. The second goal is cheap, i'm on a fairly tight budget. It's possible the device might be in wifi range where it's mounted so that would be a nice bonus.

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[–] DScratch@sh.itjust.works 2 points 1 month ago (1 children)

I’ve started using this one:

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005010319546256.html

With 4 of these (from a pack of 6):

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005007911767867.html

And this RAK node (Type 6):

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005008285698839.html

So far it’s been working out well! Even when placed inside on the second floor looking out a north facing window, the battery has been kept above 90% and the reception seems pretty good!

[–] DScratch@sh.itjust.works 1 points 1 month ago

One thing; the power connector from the enclosure to the RAK node had its polarity inverted, a little lovin’ with a small screwdriver or similar lets you flip it.