WisMesh Pod Quick Start Guide

The WisMesh Pod is your go-to device for ready-to-use and long-lasting connectivity, ideal for users seeking a hassle-free Meshtastic node. This device is powered by the efficient WisDuo module based on the nRF52840, a top performer on the Meshtastic Community Approval list.

Its integrated location tracking and acceleration sensors can provide accurate location data while hiking or traveling. The unique slim enclosure with a rubber-style protection makes it weatherproof.

Product Features

Robust 1000 mAh built-in battery
Antenna: Internal antennas for LoRa, BLE, and GNSS
Efficiency: Utilizes the most power-efficient solution in the Meshtastic community
Integrated acceleration sensor based on the ST LIS3DH
Integrated location sensor based on the u-blox ZOE M8Q
One button for on/off, reset, and boot mode functionality

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:

Meshtastic Basic Device Setup

To be sure to run the latest version of the Meshtastic firmware, it's recommended 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 WisMesh device is autodetected. This device works with the stock firmware.

For WisMesh Pod: - firmware-rak4631-w.x.yy.zzzzzzz.uf2

Prerequisite

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

Hardware

WisMesh Pod
USB Cable

Software

The WisDuo module of the WisMesh Pod 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 configuring the Meshtastic network.

Hardware Details

The WisMesh Pod comes fully assembled with an internal battery. However, it is recommended to fully recharge the battery before switching the device on. It is powered by its internal 1000 mAh battery and features a multi-function button, three LEDs and a USB-C connector for recharging.

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The enclosure cannot be opened without damaging the device.

LED Indicators

The device has 3 colored LEDs, each indicating a different status:

🔴 RED LED: The charging indicator. It lights up when the USB connector is plugged in.

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The device can be charged even if it is switched off.

🟢 GREEN LED: The heartbeat indicator. It lights up when the device is powered on and then will flash frequently to show that the device is powered on.
🔵 BLUE LED: The BLE connection indicator. It lights up when a mobile phone is connected to it (depends on the Meshtastic firmware version and settings).

Button

The side button on the device is multifunctional:

Long press (> 3 seconds): Powers the device on or off The green heartbeat LED indicates power status.
Short press to reset the device.
Double short press to switch into bootloader/DFU mode to enable firmware updates over the USB connector.

note

This button is not a user button. It is only for the above mentioned functions.

Figure 1: WisMesh Pod On/Off button

USB port

The USB port is a USB-C connector for recharging the battery, flashing, and debugging the Meshtastic firmware. It is recommended to use a 5 V 2 A USB charger to recharge the battery.