Meet SenseCAP Solar Node: the Solar-Powered Meshtastic Device for Reliable Mesh Network Expansion
As reliable connectivity becomes essential in remote and off-grid environments, Seeed Studio introduces the SenseCAP Solar Node Series — P1 and P1-Pro — two highly integrated, solar-powered meshtastic nodes that are ideal for expanding the mesh network. These plug-and-play devices are engineered for off-grid, low-power, long-range networking, making them ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, Meshtastic developers, community responders.
Designed for extreme environments, both nodes offer rapid deployment, mesh auto-routing, and infrastructure-free networking with zero recurring costs.
The only hardware differences between the two models are that the P1-Pro includes a built-in GPS module (XIAO L76K) and four 18650 lithium batteries, enabling precise positioning and longer autonomous runtime.
Whether you are setting up a mobile network in a forest, managing data in remote fields, or deploying temporary emergency communication in a disaster zone, SenseCAP Solar Node gives you the freedom to communicate — without wires, Wi-Fi, or cell towers.
What is Meshtastic?
For those who are new to meshtastics , Meshtastic® is a project that enables you to use inexpensive LoRa radios as a long range off-grid communication platform in areas without existing or reliable communications infrastructure. This project is 100% community driven and open source!
Unlike traditional radio systems that require licenses (e.g., ham radio), Meshtastic operates license-free in most regions using the LoRa protocol — a low-power, long-range wireless technology designed for peer-to-peer messaging.
One of its core features is mesh networking: each device rebroadcasts messages it receives, ensuring coverage across multiple nodes. This allows communication to reach even the most remote participants in the group, with no central infrastructure required.
Whether you’re exploring remote terrain or building a resilient emergency network, Meshtastic offers a free, decentralized, and reliable communication solution.
Core Features & Technical Highlights：
- High-Performance Modules Integration
Powered by XIAO nRF52840 Plus, Wio-SX1262 LoRa module, and the XIAO L76K GPS module (in P1-Pro), the Solar Node offers reliable long-range communication, BLE connectivity, and real-time GNSS tracking — all in an ultra-compact, low-power design.
- Flexible Mounting Accessories
Comes with multi-part brackets and clamps that support pole or wall mounting, enabling quick deployment in diverse terrains such as forests, rooftops, or agricultural fields.
- Dual Power Supply: Solar + Battery
Equipped with a 5W solar panel and (in P1-Pro) 4×3350mAh 18650 batteries, the system operates autonomously, even during >2 weeks of no sunlight, eliminating reliance on the power grid.
- Native Meshtastic Protocol Support
Built for decentralized mesh networking, each device can automatically relay packets from neighboring nodes, enabling wide-area, cost-free communication with no base station required.
- Preloaded with Meshtastic Firmware
Ships with pre-installed firmware, allowing users to create a functional mesh network in under 5 minutes, no coding or technical background required.
- Optimized Antenna Compatibility
Includes a 2dBi rubber antenna for up to 5～8KM (LOS) range. Optional 5dBi fiberglass antennas can extend coverage to 10 km+, ideal for large-area deployments.
- Integrated GPS Positioning (P1-Pro)
The built-in XIAO L76K module enables ±2.5m precision tracking, making it suitable for personnel location, asset monitoring, and mobile deployments.
- Grove Ecosystem Expansion
Supports plug-and-play Grove modules, allowing seamless integration of environmental sensors (temperature, humidity, light, etc.) to build a lightweight, intelligent sensing network quickly.
Technical Specifications：
1.Meshtastic Router Modes：
The SenseCAP Solar Node is preconfigured to operate in Meshtastic Router Mode, enabling it to automatically forward data packets from other nodes.
No manual configuration is required — once deployed, it immediately acts as a relay, extending communication range and filling coverage gaps in the network.
2. Smart Routing & Packet Optimization：
To ensure efficient and resilient message delivery, the node supports dynamic routing — it selects the optimal relay path based on real-time signal strength, which helps to avoid single-point failures.
At the same time, it uses TLV (Type-Length-Value) encoding — a compact message format provided by Meshtastic — to reduce data payload size and improve transmission efficiency.
3. Ultra-Low Power Design for Continuous Operation
Designed for remote, power-scarce environments, the node is highly energy-efficient:
- In relay mode, it draws just 48mA @ 3.3V — allowing for 24/7 solar-powered operation.
- When idle, it enters deep sleep mode, consuming only 1.3μA, significantly prolonging battery life.
Combined with the built-in solar charging system and large battery (P1-Pro), the device can operate for more than 2 weeks without sunlight.
Application Scenarios：
case1：Complex terrain signal relay
Challenge: Dense forests, mountains, or urban blocks weaken LoRa Mesh signals.
Solution: Deploy P1/P1-Pro every 3–5km to form a relay corridor. Enables reliable data relay up to 30km with zero infrastructure.
case2: Emergency Mesh Networking
Challenge: Natural disasters disable traditional communication.
Solution: “Drop-and-go” deployment — simply place nodes at key points; they auto-connect via Meshtastic, creating a 50km² ad-hoc mesh, Supported 1,200+ life-detection data transmissions.
Selection & Deployment Guide:
Antenna Selection：
3dBi Fiberglass Antenna: Ideal for long-range, fixed setups. In field testing under favorable conditions, it has proven effective for near-10 km communication in suitable environments.
Frequency Planning：
Use 868/915 MHz in low-interference areas to improve signal penetration and reliability
Density Guidelines：
| Environment | Optimal Spacing | Notes |
| Open Fields | 8-10km | Line-of-sight transmission |
| Urban Areas | 3-5km | Requires signal reflection/penetration |
| Dense Forests | 2-3km | High-gain antenna recommended |
FAQs & Community Support
Will multiple repeaters slow down the data speed?
No. Meshtastic uses flood-routing, with <50ms delay per hop — nearly unnoticeable for sensor and text data.
Can it work on Rainy days?
Yes. The P1-Pro with 4×18650 cells stores enough power for up to 2 weeks without sunlight.
Is the network secure?
Absolutely. Uses AES-128 encryption with password protection via the mobile app.
Need more details about deployment? SenseCAP Solar Node | Seeed Studio Wiki
Need support or Have more questions? Seeed Aftersale Platform
Conclusion
The SenseCAP Solar Node series redefines what’s possible in off-grid connectivity. Whether for hikers, engineers, or emergency planners, it is the most efficient and versatile repeater in its class.
The SenseCAP Solar Node series redefines what’s possible in off-grid, infrastructure-free communication. Whether you’re a hiker seeking safety, an engineer prototyping in remote terrain, or an emergency planner building resilient backup networks — this is one of the most affordable, versatile, and ready-to-deploy solar nodes available today.
With a focus on ease of use, low total cost, and modular functionality, SenseCAP Solar Nodes offer unmatched value for communities and creators looking to build their own mesh networks.
Key Points:
Massive Savings: Replace expensive towers or satellite solutions — save 90%+ in cost.
Zero Maintenance: Solar-powered, self-networking, and built to run 24/7.
Multi-Role Device: Repeater, GPS tracker, environmental monitor — all in one compact kit.
Plug-and-Play: Pre-flashed with Meshtastic firmware and includes all mounting accessories — network-ready in 5 minutes.
Starting at just $69.90: One of the most affordable ready-to-deploy solar LoRa nodes on the market — get yours now and start building your mesh without spending hundreds on DIY setups.
🔗 Buy Now:
👉 Meshtastic Solar Powered Node / Repeater without built-in GPS and Battery
👉 Meshtastic Solar Powered Node / Repeater with built-in GPS and Battery
Whether you’re testing in the wild, building local networks, or just curious — feel free to share your thoughts, feedback, and use cases in the comments！More Meshtastic-compatible products are on the way, and we’d love to hear from you!
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