ESP32 LoRa GPS Mesh Starter Guide

This guide is for an ESP32 LoRa GPS mesh starter kit. The important sequence is antenna first, region second, GPS third, packet test fourth. Do not transmit without a proper antenna attached.

Pre-flight checklist

• Confirm the LoRa frequency band is legal for your country or region.
• Attach the antenna before powering the radio.
• Keep GPS facing the sky or near a window for first fix.
• Record firmware version, board model, region setting, and channel name.

Bring-up order

1. Flash or verify firmware while the radio is not transmitting.
2. Set region and radio preset before field testing.
3. Wait for GPS fix and record satellite count if available.
4. Send one short packet indoors, then repeat outdoors.
5. Test range with two devices before adding routing assumptions.

Field test notes

Use short messages and a fixed route first. Note terrain, antenna position, weather, and distance. LoRa range depends heavily on line of sight and antenna setup, so the test log is part of the product trust asset.

Troubleshooting

• No GPS fix: move outdoors, wait longer, and check antenna placement.
• No packets: verify both devices use the same region, channel, and modem preset.
• Short range: raise antenna height and remove USB cable noise or enclosure shielding.

Related products and references

ESP32 LoRa GPS Mesh Starter Kit / Sensor dashboard guide

External reference: Meshtastic documentation.