Seeed Studio Wio Tracker L1 Pro
A ready-to-use handheld option that Seeed offers with MeshCore Bluetooth Companion firmware pre-installed.
For a more complete portable deviceMena, Arkansas · Ouachita Mountains
Stay connected across the Ouachitas.
A community-supported wireless communications network for Mena and the surrounding Ouachita Mountains, designed to help neighbors stay connected even when cell service and internet access aren’t available.
Local people. Small radios. A network growing one connection at a time.
A local effort, growing together
Another way to
stay in touch.
Ouachita Link is a local effort to build a more resilient way for people to communicate throughout Mena and the surrounding Ouachita Mountains.
Small LoRa radios running MeshCore can exchange text directly or through repeaters, without depending on cell towers or traditional internet infrastructure. The community network is still growing; participation and well-placed repeaters can help improve coverage over time.
Ouachita Link is not a replacement for 911 or other emergency services. Coverage and delivery aren’t guaranteed.
New to MeshCore? Start here.
Four steps to get connected.
For most people, getting started means one companion radio, the right firmware, an app, and matching network settings.
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Get a companion radio
A companion is the personal radio that connects to your phone or computer so you can message. Most new participants need one companion radio—not a repeater. A repeater is separate infrastructure that relays messages to help extend coverage.
See the difference -
Install MeshCore Companion firmware
Use the official flasher and choose the entry that matches your exact radio. Most participants should select Companion firmware—not Repeater or Room Server. Don’t flash firmware for a different model.
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Connect your radio to the app
Open the MeshCore app and pair it with your companion radio using a connection the device supports, such as Bluetooth or USB. Connection options vary by model.
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Apply Ouachita Link settings
Set your radio to the provisional profile below. Participating radios need matching settings to communicate. Then look for nearby nodes and try messaging where coverage is available.
View and copy the settings
Choose a companion radio
A few places to begin.
These companion-capable devices are listed by MeshCore. Check the exact model and US frequency variant before buying.
RAK WisMesh Pocket
A portable RAK WisBlock-based device listed among MeshCore companion nodes. Check the exact hardware revision and firmware choice.
For a portable, self-contained styleElecrow ThinkNode M1
A compact companion option with a built-in display; choose its exact model in the official flasher before installing firmware.
For a handheld device with a displayHeltec WiFi LoRa 32 V3
A small development board supported by MeshCore; expect more hands-on setup for power, enclosure, and antenna than a finished handheld.
For hands-on makersTwo different jobs
Companion or repeater?
If you’re just getting started, you probably want a companion. A separate repeater isn’t needed just to send messages.
Companion radio
For everyday messaging. Connects to your phone or computer so you can send and receive messages.
Repeater
Infrastructure that relays messages to help extend coverage. Usually installed high and well-positioned.
A few helpful reminders
Good to know before your first message.
Match the hardware and firmware
Use Companion firmware for personal messaging. Choose the exact device model in the official flasher.
Use an antenna made for your radio
Attach a suitable antenna or approved RF load before transmitting. Follow the device maker’s instructions.
Give your radio a clear view
A window or higher placement may help. Hills, ridges, trees, and buildings can block signals.
Be patient with coverage
The network is still growing. A quiet scan from one location doesn’t automatically mean your radio is faulty.
Have a setup question? Ask the community in our Facebook group ↗
For Ouachita Link participants
Network settings
These are the current provisional Ouachita Link development settings. Compatible radios need matching settings to communicate.
The profile is being tested and may change as the network grows. It hasn’t been established as optimal for every location. Transmit power depends on your device, operating conditions, and applicable regulations.
PROVISIONAL PROFILE
Ouachita Link
- Frequency
- 915.000 MHz
- Bandwidth
- 500 kHz
- Spreading factor
- SF10
- Coding rate
- 4/5 (CR5)
- Path hash mode
- 1
Help strengthen local connections
Have a good location for a repeater?
Our ridges and valleys make the Ouachitas beautiful—and radio coverage challenging. We’re interested in hearing from people who may have access to an elevated location that could help connect neighbors or link communities.
A hilltop, ridgeline, or other elevated site could be worth exploring. Every location needs to be evaluated for terrain, antenna placement, power, permission, weather protection, safety, and ongoing maintenance. A promising spot still needs testing; coverage can’t be guaranteed.
Please don’t install equipment on a structure or property without permission, or share a private address without the owner’s consent.
Tell us about a possible site
Good locations, curious neighbors, and practical ideas all help the network grow.
Join the conversation
Find your people.
You don’t need to own a radio to join the discussion.