Want to help build a stronger, more connected Capital Region?
Getting Started Is Easy
1️⃣ Set Up Your Node
Join the mesh with a Meshtastic-compatible LoRa device. This guide assumes you’re using the Meshtastic mobile app with a node that comes pre-flashed. For custom setups or flashing instructions, visit the official getting started guide.
- 🛒 Get a node: any compatible device works—recommended models make setup easier
- 📱 Install the Meshtastic app on your phone:
- 🔗 Pair your node to your phone: Follow the manufacturer’s pairing instructions—and just like that, you’re ready to send your first message.
2️⃣ Add Channels
To participate in Capital Region Mesh, we recommend a dual-channel setup that balances local coordination with broader interoperability.
🅰️ Brand New Nodes
If your node is fresh out of the box or recently reset, you can use the QR code or link below to add both channels automatically.
⚠️ Important Note for Existing Users:
Due to a bug in the current mobile apps, using a link or QR code to “Add” channels may overwrite your existing configuration, as if you had selected “Replace.” Until this is fixed in a future update, we recommend this method only for nodes still using the default channel setup.
Click here to open in Meshtastic
📡 Default Channel Configuration
The QR code and link above both configure two channels on your device: one public, one encrypted. Here’s how they work:
🌐 Channel 0 – LongFast (Primary)
The default public channel used by Meshtastic devices worldwide. Messages are unencrypted and visible to all.
- Enables passive listening and long-range relaying
- Maintains interoperability with other public nodes
- Useful when traveling or operating in other regions with active mesh networks
🔐 Channel 1 – CapitalMesh (Secondary)
Our main coordination channel for local mesh activity. Messages are encrypted using a shared key unique to this channel.
- Prioritizes local traffic: text, telemetry, and location updates
- Enables secure communication and community resilience
- Ideal for coordination, testing, and knowledge sharing
🅱️ Nodes with Existing Channels
If your node is already configured with other channels, manual setup is the safest option. It takes less than a minute and ensures your current configuration stays intact.
Manual Channel Setup
Channel Name
CapitalMesh
PSK (Pre-Shared Key)
Y2FwaXRhbG1lc2gubmV0IQ==
Whether automatic or manual, this setup provides a simple, secure way to join the mesh and start contributing. Keeping LongFast as the primary channel ensures broad compatibility and avoids potential frequency conflicts with other nodes. For infrastructure builds, outdoor deployments, and long-term kit setups, stay tuned for a future post.
3️⃣ Next Steps
Once you’re connected, you can:
- 🧭 Listen to local traffic and learn how messages flow
- 🤝 Connect with nearby users and help map the network
- 🛠️ Visit the Contribute page to find ways to support, build, and shape the mesh
⏰ Coming Soon
- Step-by-step setup guides
- Collaboration tools and contribution pathways
📬 Stay in the Loop
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Prefer direct contact? Email us at info@capitalmesh.net.