Flash MeshCore firmware and join the Chicago Offline network. About five minutes, no coding required.
Plug your LoRa device into your computer with a USB cable. Most devices use USB-C.
The flasher will detect your device. Select it from the list and choose "Companion" as the firmware type — that's what you want for a phone-paired messenger node.
Click Flash and wait about 30 seconds. Done.
Download the free companion app for your phone or computer. This is how you'll send and receive messages.
The official app is by Liam Cottle. There's also MeshCore Open, a free open-source alternative that works on all platforms.
Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone.
The app will scan for nearby MeshCore devices. Your device should appear in the list — tap it to pair.
Once paired, you'll start seeing other nodes on the Chicago Offline mesh. Your device automatically discovers nearby nodes and relays messages through the network.
Try sending a message to the #public channel — if anyone's in range, they'll see it.
The stock antenna works, but a better antenna makes a big difference. If you want to reach more of the network:
Replace the stock stubby antenna with a tuned whip antenna. The Muzi Works 17cm Whip (~$12) is a great upgrade — 98% transmission efficiency (SWR 1.3) vs the stock stubby at 69% (SWR 3.5). SMA male connector, fits most boards directly.
LoRa loves altitude. A device in a window works okay. A device on a roof works great. Even moving from a first-floor desk to a third-floor window can make a noticeable difference.
Got an extra device? Flash it as a Repeater instead of Companion and put it somewhere high. You'll extend the network for everyone. Solar-powered repeaters are a popular build — a $30 board + small solar panel = permanent infrastructure.
Make sure you're using Chrome or Edge (not Firefox/Safari). Try a different USB cable — some cables are charge-only and don't carry data. For Heltec V3, try holding the BOOT button while plugging in.
Make sure Bluetooth is on and location permissions are granted (Android requires this for BLE scanning). Try power-cycling the device. If you just flashed it, give it a few seconds to boot up.
This is normal if there are no other MeshCore devices in range. Chicago Offline coverage is growing but not everywhere yet. Check the Network Scope to see where active nodes are. Try different locations — even moving to a window can help.
It takes a moment for the device to discover the mesh. Walk around, wait a few minutes, or try sending a broadcast to #public. Repeaters in range will relay your message even if you don't see them as contacts yet.
Companion = pairs with your phone for messaging (most people). Repeater = relays messages, no phone needed (put it somewhere high). Room Server = hosts chat rooms for the mesh (advanced).
That's it. You're on the mesh.
← Back to Chicago Offline