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First Setup

This guide walks you through setting up a Meshtastic device for the first time. By the end, you will have your device paired with your phone and ready to send messages.

What you need​

Step 1: Charge your device​

Before anything else, charge your device fully. The T1000-E uses a magnetic charging cable. Connect it to any USB port or charger and wait until the indicator shows a full charge. This usually takes about 2 hours.

Step 2: Install the Meshtastic app​

Download the official Meshtastic app for your phone:

  • Android: Search for "Meshtastic" on Google Play Store
  • iPhone: Search for "Meshtastic" on the App Store

The app is free and does not require an account.

Step 3: Turn on your device​

Press and hold the power button on your device. The T1000-E has a small button on the side. Hold it for about 3 seconds until you see a light or feel a vibration.

Step 4: Connect via Bluetooth​

  1. Open the Meshtastic app on your phone
  2. Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone
  3. Tap the + button or Connect to scan for nearby devices
  4. Select your device from the list
  5. If prompted, confirm the Bluetooth pairing on both your phone and the device

Once connected, you will see your device's information in the app.

Step 5: Give your device a name​

A good name helps your team identify who is who on the mesh network.

  1. In the app, go to Settings or Radio Configuration
  2. Find the User section
  3. Set a Long Name and a Short Name
  4. Save the settings

The Short Name is limited to 4 characters (like "YUKI" or "TAR1"). The Long Name should also be kept short and clear (like "Yuki" or "Taro - Lead"). Your team will see these names on their devices and in the app, so make them easy to recognize at a glance.

Step 6: Check the frequency region​

Use the correct frequency region

In Japan, Meshtastic devices must use the Japan (JP) region on the 920 MHz band. Using a different region can make your device transmit on frequencies that are not legal in Japan.

In the app, go to Radio Configuration > LoRa and confirm the region is set to Japan (or JP). If it is already set correctly, you do not need to change anything. If it is set to a different region, change it to Japan and save.

Step 7: Send your first message​

  1. Go to the Messages tab in the app
  2. Select the default channel (usually channel 0)
  3. Type a short message and tap Send

If another Meshtastic device is nearby, they will receive your message. If you are alone, your message will still be sent. You can test with a second device or ask a friend to set up theirs.

What to do next​

  • Test your range: Walk around your area and see how far your messages reach. In open terrain, you can expect several hundred meters to a few kilometers depending on the device and conditions.
  • Set up channels: Create a private channel for your team so your messages stay within your group. You can do this in the app under channel settings.
  • Explore the map: The app shows GPS positions of everyone on your mesh network on a map view.

Your device is now set up and ready for the field. Take it outside and try it out.