My Top Pick for LoRa Mesh Devices

[@Francois_Dupont]

the LoRa32 V2.1 1.6 is 20$ and works just as well, only thing is that it doesnt have a on-board GPS so you must use the phone GPS instead.

[@bragg2012]

Got a link or any info for the aftermarket antenna for the t-echo or will any lora antenna do the job? Great channel btw, love all these projects you are doing.

[@RavenwoodAcres]

These the antenna I have using with good results. www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/te-connectivity-linx/ANT-916-CW-HW-SMA/2694126 Also here is article from a guy that tested a bunch of antennas if you are interested: medium.com/home-wireless/testing-lora-antennas-at-915mhz-6d6b41ac8f1d

[@bragg2012]

@@RavenwoodAcres thank you!

[@1972Konaboy]

Thank you for the quick reply.

[@MitchOfCanada]

Definitely soft antennas and SMA Extensions so you dont jam the onboard SMA. Ive been playing around with the heltec wireless Trackers they seem to work pretty good, a bit power hungry though.

[@RavenwoodAcres]

I totally agree on the flexible antennas and SMA extensions. I have not tried the heltec yet.

[@1972Konaboy]

What antenna is that on the Lilygo t echo? I’m about to buy a t-echo and want an antenna upgrade?

[@RavenwoodAcres]

www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/te-connectivity-linx/ANT-916-CW-HW-SMA/2694126

[@RavenwoodAcres]

The antenna is made by TE Connectivity, and I purchase them from DigiKey.

[@Robert-cd5zr]

Are wisblocks and T-Beams basically equivalent as far as function goes (basically like coke and pepsi)? I hear more about the tbeams but apparently the wisblocks are much better on power consumption.

[@RavenwoodAcres]

The short answer is, yes. The wisblocks are better for build off-grid solar nodes and offer lots of add-ons. For example you can add a temperature and humidity sensor. The T-beams model are better suited for handheld use/mobile use.

[@MrSamuelpete]

Can you charge the T-Echo from a external battery pack?

[@RavenwoodAcres]

Yes, and if you want to use it as a stationary node, you can use a always on power pack.

[@MrSamuelpete]

I am in a search and rescue group and want to run a test. Next challenge is where to find them! @@RavenwoodAcres