Philosophy: The first two radios are permanent nodes, not test equipment. Walk your property, watch signal quality in the Meshtastic app, and expand only if reality says so.
Before You Begin
- ✓ Charge both radios fully (4-6 hours)
- ✓ Download the Meshtastic app on your phone
- ✓ Have your property map or know your key locations
- ✓ Choose a clear morning or afternoon (better radio conditions)
Step 1: Base Setup
- Leave one radio at your main house/base
- Set it in a central, elevated spot (table by window works)
- Turn it on - green light means it's ready
- Connect to it with the Meshtastic app
Step 2: The Walk
Take the second radio to each place that matters:
- Gate/Entry: Can you send/receive messages clearly?
- Barn/Shop: Test from inside and outside the building
- Livestock Areas: Check from feeding/watering spots
- Property Lines: Walk to corners and boundaries
- Work Areas: Anywhere you spend time regularly
Step 3: Test & Note
At each location:
- Send a test message from the handheld
- Check if it appears on the app instantly
- Note signal strength (bars in the app)
- Mark any weak spots on your property map
Step 4: Reality Check
- Strong everywhere? You're done. Two radios cover your property.
- Weak spots found? Here's where you need a solar relay.
- Dead zones? That's normal - terrain and buildings block signals.
Next Steps (If Needed)
If you found weak spots during your walk:
- Solar Relay ($299): Bridges gaps, arrives with channel configuration by email
- Additional Handhelds ($89 each): For more family/workers
- Order through your original confirmation email for automatic channel configuration