WisMesh Pocket V2 Quick Start Guide

info

WisMesh Pocket V2 is an updated version of the WisMesh Pocket. It has an improved voltage regulator and battery circuit to comply with the European CE requirements. To comply with FCC regulations, it uses an RP-SMA antenna connector.

WisMesh Pocket V2 is a go-to device for ready-to-use and long-lasting connectivity. Ideal for users seeking a hassle-free Meshtastic node.

This guide covers the basics for the RAKwireless Meshtastic devices that are not covered by the Meshtastic documentation.

To be sure to run the latest version of the Meshtastic firmware, we advice you to download the latest Meshtastic firmware and upload it to your RAKwireless device to make it compatible with the Meshtastic network.

For Firmware 1.3 and 2.0 (from November 1, 2022), the WisBlock Base board is autodetected. This device works with the stock firmware.

All the base boards with RAK4631/RAK4630 - firmware-rak4631-w.x.yy.zzzzzzz.uf2
For WisMesh Pocket V2 DO NOT USE - firmware-rak4631_eink-w.x.yy.zzzzzzz.uf2

Prerequisite

Before going through each and every step on using WisMesh Pocket V2, make sure to prepare the necessary items listed below:

Hardware

WisMesh Pocket V2
USB Cable

Software

The WisBlock Core module of the WisMesh Pocket V2 comes pre-flashed with the Meshtastic firmware.

However, to connect the device to the Meshtastic network, you will have to configure it. Listed below are several applications for the configuration:

NOTE

Make sure that you have installed one of these applications, as they are required for the configuration of the Meshtastic network.

Product Configuration

Hardware Setup

The WisMesh Pocket V2 comes fully assembled with an internal battery. However, it is recommended to fully recharge the battery before switching the device on. It supports Li-ion batteries, 5 V (e.g. from solar panel) supply, integrated user button, battery disconnect switch, and a dedicated connector for a 1.3-inch OLED display.

Additionally, the WisMesh Pocket V2 also includes all GPIOs on pin headers, two WisBlock Sensor Slots, one WisBlock IO slot, and an integrated GNSS location chip on the Base Board.

It is based on the WisMesh Base board version VC, which is specifically designed for the Meshtastic usage. Technical details of the WisMesh Base Board can be found in the WisMesh Base Board documentation.

Battery and Solar Panel / 5V Connection

The WisMesh Pocket V2 has an internal connector for a Li-ion battery. Make sure to double-check the battery cable polarity during replacement. The compatible connector for the battery wires depends on the board variant:

For EU/UK (CE & UKCA certification): JST PHR-3 2 mm pitch female.
For other markets: JST PHR-2 2 mm pitch female.

NOTE

To comply with CE regulations, the European board versions have a 3-pin battery connector and can only be used with Li-ion batteries that include an NTC temperature sensor and a 3-wire connector.

Other board versions are equipped with a 2-pin battery connector. An NTC temperature sensor is integrated on the main board.

WisMesh Pocket V2 also has an internal connector for 5 V supply or solar panel connection. When using this connector, double-check the polarity of the supply cable.

The matching connector for the solar panel wires is a JST ZHR-2 1.5 mm pitch female.

Figure 1: WisMesh Pocket V2 Battery and 5 V/Solar Panel

Recharge the Battery

To recharge the device, plug a USB-C cable into the device and connected it to a 5 V/2 A USB wall charger. Recharging the battery via a USB port on your computer is not recommended due to the potential low current output.

NOTE

Charge the WisMesh Pocket V2 faster by keeping it off with the ON/OFF switch in the off position.

Antenna

The LoRa antenna needs to be plugged into the RP-SMA connector of the WisMesh Pocket. Make sure the connector is properly screwed in and securely tightened.

NOTE

The BLE antenna and GNSS antenna are inside the enclosure and already connected.

Assembling and Disassembling of WisMesh Pocket

If you want to add additional WisBlock modules, you can do so by opening the device and plugging the modules into their sensor or IO slots.

Disassembling

Unscrew the four screws on the corners of the enclosure with a screwdriver.

Figure 1: Disassemble screws

Carefully open the enclosure, as there are battery cables between the top and bottom parts. Do not use force to pull the cables. Next, detach the three IPEX connectors from the PCBA.

Figure 1: Disconnect antenna cables

Unscrew the four screws that secure the Base Board in the enclosure, then take out the Base Board from the enclosure.

Figure 1: Detach base board

Separate the battery cable from the Base Board.

Figure 1: Disconnect battery

Assembling

Plug the battery cable into the Base Board.

Figure 1: Connect battery

Put the Base Board into the enclosure and fix it with four screws.

Figure 1: Mount base board

Plug the IPEX connectors on the sockets on the Base Board. Make sure to connect each antenna to the correct socket, and then close the enclosure.

Figure 1: Connect antennas

Put the four nuts into the slots on the bottom of the enclosure, then fix the screws.

Figure 1: Align enclosure and fix screws

Software Setup

NOTE

For Firmware 1.3 and 2.0 (from November 1, 2022), the WisBlock Base Board is autodetected. There's a special firmware if you have the RAK14000 WisBlock E-Ink Display connected. All other use cases are covered in the stock firmware.

All the base boards with RAK4631: firmware-rak4631-w.x.yy.zzzzzzz.uf2
For WisMesh Pocket V2 DO NOT USE - firmware-rak4631_eink-w.x.yy.zzzzzzz.uf2

Flashing the WisMesh Pocket V2 firmware:

The WisMesh Pocket V2 comes pre-flashed with the Meshtastic firmware. If you encounter problems, update the Meshtastic firmware to the latest version.

Guide to flash nRF52 devices. (link goes to Meshtastic.org)

For the setup of the WisMesh Pocket V2 for the Meshtastic network, follow the configuration guide in the Meshtastic documentation.