"Solar Companion" für MeshCore / Meshtastic
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Description
The Solar Companion for MeshCore / Meshtastic was created from the desire to build a truly compact yet fully functional MeshCore or Meshtastic node for mobile use. The focus was on an easily readable display, integrated GPS, long runtime, and a power supply that operates as independently as possible in the field
The basis is the Wio Tracker L1 with its efficient nRF52840, integrated GPS, and large OLED display. In combination with a 3000mAh LiPo and a compact solar cell, this creates a setup that, despite its small size, operates with astonishing endurance and is well-suited for extended outdoor use
A special feature in the Meshtastic variant is the integrated compass: In conjunction with GPS data, it simplifies alignment with other nodes, as direction and distance are displayed directly on the screen
Technical Basis
- Wio Tracker L1 Platform
- nRF52840 Low-Power MCU
- Primarily designed for: MeshCore/Meshtastic
- Integrated OLED Display
- Integrated GPS Module
- 3000mAh LiPo Battery
- Integrated Solar Cell (45 × 80 mm / approx 75mA charging current)
- Additional Sensors: Compass / Thermometer
Casing & Design
- Dimensions: 100 × 55 × 30 mm
- Weight: 154 g
- Compact, robust outdoor design
- Significantly larger display than typical Heltec v3/v4-based devices
- Focus on energy-efficient continuous operation for mobile use
Power Consumption & Runtime
- Up to approx 2 weeks runtime without constantly active GPS
- Typically approx 4–7 days runtime with constantly active GPS
- Very low base consumption due to nRF52840 architecture
- In practice, the solar cell is sufficient to maintain the charge level
- Under good lighting conditions, even slow recharging during operation is possible
- This significantly reduces charging cycles during outdoor use
hardware kit
- 1x Wio Tracker L1 (Seeedstudio)
- 1x 80x45mm 5v 75mA Solar Cell (Aliexpress)
- 1x JST-PH 2.0 Connector (Amazon)
- 1x 868MHz LoRa Soft Whip Antenna with SMA Connector 19.5cm (Amazon)
- 1x 20mm Round Thermometer (Aliexpress)
- 1x Round Compass (Aliexpress)
- 1x 3.7V 3000mAh Lithium Battery 1S 1C LiPo Battery with Integrated Protection Circuit Board and Micro JST 1.25 Connector (Amazon)
- 6x M2 Stainless Steel Hex Head Button Screws (Amazon)
License
You may create derivative works based on this object, provided that all such derivative works are published exclusively on the MakerWorld platform and include proper attribution to the original creator. You may not share, upload, host, distribute, or publish this object—or any derivative work of this object—on any other digital platform, marketplace, or distribution channel. Commercial use of this object and any derivative works is strictly prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, selling, renting, sublicensing, or using the object in any context in which you receive monetary compensation or other financial benefits.
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