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Setting Up a Meshcore Companion Device

This guide details the steps to set up your Meshcore Companion device.

Prerequisites

  • WebFlash App: The WebFlash app for all units is available at: https://flasher.meshcore.co.uk.
  • Browser Requirement: This process requires a Chromium-based browser capable of accessing USB/Serial Devices.

Step 1 – Get Companion Ready

  1. Access the WebFlash App: Go to the WebFlash app link.
  2. Select Your Device: Search for and select your device from the list.
  3. Choose Role: Click on your device, then select COMPANION BLUETOOTH. Screenshot of device role selection, highlighting Companion Bluetooth

  4. Flash the Firmware:

    • Choose the desired firmware.
    • Click ENTER DFU MODE (labeled #1). > Troubleshooting DFU Mode: > * If you have issues getting into DFU mode, most devices can be manually entered by double-tapping the reset button. > * For Heltec v3 & v4 devices, hold down the usr button, press the reset button while still holding usr, release reset, then release usr.
    • Click ERASE FLASH.
    • Click FLASH (labeled #2). Screenshot of Companion Bluetooth flashing options, highlighting DFU mode, Erase, and Flash buttons

  5. Install the Mobile App: Go to your device’s app store, search for Meshcore, and install the App.

Step 2 – Connect to Your Radio

  1. Open the Meshcore App: After flashing, open the Meshcore app on your phone, tablet, etc..

  2. Connect via Bluetooth: Connect to your phone with Bluetooth.

  3. Default Bluetooth PIN Information:

    • If your radio has a screen: The current PIN will show on the screen of your companion, it is randomly generated each time you restart the device.
    • If your radio doesn’t have a display: The default is 123456. Change this PIN first.
    • If it is paired already, your previous session will remain linked.
    • You can still change to a custom PIN if you desire.

  4. Changing the Bluetooth PIN (Optional/Recommended):

    • Once in the app, click the GEAR in the upper right corner, and go to BLUETOOTH SETTINGS.
    • Click CUSTOM.
    • Enter your desired 6-digit PIN.
    • Click the CHECK MARK on the top right to save. Screenshot of Meshcore app Bluetooth Settings screen
    • Reboot the device and reconnect to the app with the new PIN.
    • Click on GEAR to get back to settings.

  5. Set Public Information and Radio Settings:

    • At the main screen, set your desired node name.
    • Set GPS coordinates, or click on the blue map icon to the right and click on location on map. > Note: Location is not required to be set and can be left blank.
    • Click CHOOSE PRESETS and choose your region, or enter custom settings if your local mesh has any. Screenshot of Meshcore app Settings screen with Public Info and Radio Settings

  6. Finalize and Reboot:

    • Once everything is set up, click the CHECK mark in upper right corner.
    • Scroll down and REBOOT.
    • Reconnect to app; Companion setup should be complete.

Acknowledgments

The following guide was created by Ferret from West Coast Mesh and rr from the Louisiana Mesh community. Thank you to these contributors for their work on this guide ^~^