WisMesh Pocket V3 Quick Start Guide
WisMesh Pocket V3 is an updated version of the WisMesh Pocket. It has an improved voltage regulator and battery circuit to comply with the European CE requirements.
Other improvements of the WisMesh Pocket V3:
- New GNSS/GPS location module for faster location acquisition
- New enclosure with improved water tightness. Manufactured by injection molding.
- Integrated buzzer
- Combined power and reset button
WisMesh Pocket V3 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.
You can also check the Meshtastic Basic Device Setup Guide:.
To be sure to run the latest version of the Meshtastic firmware, download the latest Meshtastic firmware and upload it to your RAKwireless device to ensure compatibility 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 V3: DO NOT USE -
firmware-rak4631_eink-w.x.yy.zzzzzzz.uf2
Prerequisite
Before going through each and every step on using WisMesh Pocket V3, make sure to prepare the necessary items listed below:
Hardware
- WisMesh Pocket V3
- USB Cable
Software
The WisBlock Core module of the WisMesh Pocket V3 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:
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 V3 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
- integrated user button
- combined power and reset button
- a 1.3-inch OLED display.
- GNSS/GPS location module for fast location acquisition
- Enclosure with improved water tightness. Manufactured by injection molding.
- Integrated buzzer
Power and Reset button
The device has a single button to reset the device or to switch it off. The function of the button depends on the usage:
- single push ==> reset the device
- fast double push ==> force DFU (device firmware update) mode to flash a new firmware
- long press (5 seconds) ==> switch the device on or off.
Battery and Solar Panel / 5V Connection
The WisMesh Pocket V3 has an internal connector for a Li-ion battery. Make sure to double-check the battery cable polarity during replacement. The battery connector is a JST PHR-3 2 mm pitch female.
The device can only be used with Li-ion batteries that include an NTC temperature sensor and a 3-wire connector.
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.
Charge the WisMesh Pocket V3 faster by switching it off with the ON/OFF switch.
Antenna
The LoRa antenna needs to be plugged into the SMA connector of the WisMesh Pocket. Make sure the connector is properly screwed in and securely tightened.
The BLE antenna and GNSS antenna are inside the enclosure and already connected.
Software Setup
To be sure to run the latest version of the Meshtastic firmware, download the latest Meshtastic firmware and upload it to your RAKwireless device to ensure compatibility with the Meshtastic network.
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 V3: DO NOT USE -
firmware-rak4631_eink-w.x.yy.zzzzzzz.uf2
The WisMesh Pocket V3 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 V3 for the Meshtastic network, follow the configuration guide in the Meshtastic documentation.
