Join the community
Most local coordination happens in the Montana Mesh Discord. It is the best place to ask what people can hear, compare devices, and plan coverage tests.
Join DiscordFirst Radio / Local Mesh / Discord
Get on the mesh.
Start with a supported 915 MHz radio, pair it with the Meshtastic app, and use the MontanaMesh recommendations so your first node helps the network instead of adding noise.
Pick a radio
Match the device to the job: pocket carry, vehicle testing, window node, rooftop node, or solar relay.
- Beginner: ready-to-use pocket radio or tracker.
- Builder: Heltec, RAK, Seeed, or LILYGO board plus case, battery, and antenna.
- Coverage: outdoor-ready low-power node mounted high.
Install the app
Use the official Meshtastic app, then pair by Bluetooth or USB depending on your device.
Use clean settings
Set a useful node name, keep broadcast intervals reasonable, avoid unnecessary Router roles, and follow the local LongFast guidance.
Review recommended settingsFirst Test
Can anyone hear you?
Put the radio near a window or outside with a clear view of the sky and nearby terrain.
Send a short test message and watch for replies, traceroutes, or new nodes in the app.
Check the live map, then ask in Discord if you are not seeing local traffic yet.
Build From Here