This $45 gadget turns your Linux PC into an off-grid chat node
With this radio module, you can get directly onto the Meshtastic network without need to flash anything.
Atlanta-based Muzi Works got a fresh batch of NullHop MeshToad V3 radio modules this week. They're tiny devices designed to get your Linux computer connected to mesh networks that operate outside of conventional telecommunications.
Introducing the MeshToad V3
The NullHop MeshToad V3 is a tiny radio module built for LoRa-based communications that comes with a USB-C port and an antenna-ready connector. It's also sold with no case, so enclosing it and connecting an antenna is up to you.
Once you have an antenna attached and the USB port connected to your Linux PC, though, you can use a command line program called meshtasticd to connect to the local Meshtastic network and start chatting with other citizens of the mesh.
The specs: The MeshToad V3 marries the EBYTE E22P-915M30S module with the Semtech SX1262 LoRa transceiver for its connectivity. Its LNA with 915MHz SAW bandpass filters increases sensitivity, allowing your 1W-powered antenna to pick up more mesh nodes.
The background: For those not in the know, Meshtastic is a suite of free and open source software and firmware allowing the use of text-based long range (LoRa) communications over low-powered, license-free frequencies. It does not need an internet connection or even Bluetooth to operate (though its functionality can be extended with those protocols).
There are many Meshtastic-compatible radio devices out there, but the MeshToad series is unique in that's designed and pre-flashed to work with the Linux and macOS-exclusive meshtasticd tool.
Zooming out
Why this board matters: Meshtastic's independence from the grid and Linux's independence from big tech are two features that mesh well (sorry!). The ease with which the MeshToad V3 can make your Linux PC an off-grid chat node increases accessibility to a fully independent communication infrastructure.
My take: I'm a big Meshtastic (and MeshCore) fan, and to be frank, I've spent too much money recently on LoRa hardware to justify this purchase. If I hadn't, though, I'd definitely be investing in one of these.
Diving in
Go further: See the Meshtastic website to learn more about the protocol if you're curious, and see the documentation on meshtasticd to learn how the CLI works.
Get it now: You can buy the NullHop MeshToad V3 from Muzi Works for $45. Grab a 915MHz antenna if you don't have one already, and review the MeshToad flashing instructions when you have the module in hand.
