Quick Start Guide: Heltec T114 Mesh Node

1. Powering On & Off (Hardware & Software)

Our Mobile Node uses an ultra-low-power "Deep Sleep" mode instead of a mechanical switch, to make it more robust for applications in the field.

• Hardware Shutdown: Long-press the Left Button (PRG) for about 5 seconds. The screen will display "Shutting Down" and go dark.

• Software Shutdown: In the Meshtastic App, navigate to Settings > Radio Configuration > Power and select Shutdown. This is ideal for nodes mounted in hard-to-reach places.

• To Power ON: Briefly press the Right Button (RST).

  • Note: The node can only be woken up via the Reset button, not the User button.

2. The Golden Rule: Antenna Safety

Never power on your node without the antenna securely attached. Broadcasting without a load can cause radio energy to reflect back into the LoRa transceiver. This can permanently burn out the radio chip, rendering the device unable to communicate.

3. Channel Selection: Finding the Community

To connect with others, your "Channel Preset" must match the local standard:

• Long-Fast: The most popular setting worldwide. It offers the best balance of range and reliability. Start here to find the most peers.

• Medium-Fast: Allows for faster data speeds but slightly reduces the effective range. Use this in areas with many nodes to prevent congestion.

4. Messaging Etiquette (Avoid Congestion)

LoRa is a "slow" network with limited bandwidth. To keep the network healthy for everyone:

• Don't Spam: Only send messages when necessary.

• Limit Telemetry: Set your Position Broadcast interval to 15–30 minutes (or longer) for stationary nodes. Broadcasting your location every 60 seconds clogs the mesh and drains batteries for everyone.

5. Maximising Range: Height & Line-of-Sight

LoRa performance is defined by physics, not just power:

• Elevation is King: A node on a roof or hilltop will perform 10x better than one at ground level.

• Clear View: Obstacles like buildings, hills, and dense wet trees block signals. For a 50km+ range, you need a clear "Line-of-Sight" to the horizon.

6. Battery Care & Long-Term Storage

The T114 is incredibly efficient, drawing only 11 µA in Deep Sleep. With a 3500mAh battery, the node is built for longevity and would take 36 years to completely drain.

• The 80% Storage Rule: For the best chemical health of your Lithium-Ion battery, store the node at roughly 80% charge. Avoid storing it at 100% or 0% (stresses the cells).

• Deep Sleep Storage: Always perform a proper "Shutdown" (via button or app) before storing.

• Maintenance: Thanks to the ultra-low 11 µA draw, you only need to check and top up the battery once per every 2-3 years.