   _____  .____   ___.                  __    .____                   .____    .__        __    
  /  _  \ |    |  \_ |__   ____________/  |_  |    |    ____ _____    |    |   |__| ____ |  | __
 /  /_\  \|    |   | __ \_/ __ \_  __ \   __\ |    |  _/ __ \\__  \   |    |   |  |/    \|  |/ /
/    |    \    |___| \_\ \  ___/|  | \/|  |   |    |__\  ___/ / __ \_ |    |___|  |   |  \    < 
\____|__  /_______ \___  /\___  >__|   |__|   |_______ \___  >____  / |_______ \__|___|  /__|_ \
        \/        \/   \/     \/                      \/   \/     \/          \/       \/     \/

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Meshtastic

Albert Lea Link is a community-driven mesh network utilizing Meshtastic technology to provide off-grid communication across the Albert Lea, MN region. Our goal is to enhance connectivity in areas lacking reliable communication infrastructure while developing a better understanding of infrastructure needs.

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About Meshtastic

Meshtastic is an open-source project that enables long-range, off-grid communication using affordable LoRa devices. It allows users to create decentralized mesh networks without relying on existing infrastructure. Learn more at the official Meshtastic website.

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Setting Up Your Device

Download the Meshtastic App from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
Connect your device via Bluetooth or USB. See the Initial Configuration Guide.
Configure your region for local regulations. More in the Initial Config.
Set the device role to "CLIENT" for most users. See the Device Configuration Guide.
Start communicating using the app!

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How to Add Our Channel

Open the Meshtastic app and go to channel settings.
Enter:
Channel Name: Albert Lea Link
Channel URL: https://meshtastic.org/docs/software/web-client/
Save and restart your device.

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Best Practices

Recommended: Use Long Range / Slow mode as we build the network.

Radio Modes:

Short Range / Fast – 10.94 kbps (dense areas). Learn more.
Long Range / Fast – 1.07 kbps (balanced use). Learn more.
Long Range / Slow – 0.18 kbps (recommended). Learn more.

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Device Roles

CLIENT: Smart routing and rebroadcasting (best for most users). More info.
ROUTER: Stationary routing hubs. More info.
REPEATER: Broadcast-only nodes. More info.

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General Tips

Place devices up high for best signal.
Match channels across devices.
Keep firmware updated.
Coordinate role changes with your community.
Use default hop limit (3) to avoid congestion. Learn more.

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Resources

Visit Meshtastic