What Makes the Repeater Stand Out
According to the manufacturer, the device offers:
- Solar-powered repeater for Meshtastic networks with a 3,200 mAh Li-Ion battery
- IP67-certified, weatherproof housing
- WisBlock RAK4631 module with preinstalled Meshtastic firmware
- Easy setup via Bluetooth/app
The build quality is first-class, the housing robust, and the functionality solid under optimal conditions. All in all, a well-thought-out device – at least on paper.
Where the Problems Lie
In practice, however, it turns out that the repeater is not designed for the Central European winter. Here are the biggest weak points:
1. Weak Charging Electronics
After several rainy days with little sun, the battery was empty – understandable, but problematic.
The charging electronics appear incapable of efficiently utilizing low light amounts, and the panel is probably too small. Instead of slowly recharging, the device completely shuts off.
2. No Automatic Restart
Even more frustrating: once the sun returns, the repeater does not restart by itself.
You have to open the housing and perform a manual reset. For an outdoor device that should be maintenance-free, this is an absolute no-go.
3. Fixed Solar Panel Orientation
The permanently installed solar panel is stable but cannot be oriented toward the sun.
This may not be a problem in summer, but in winter, when the sun is low, valuable energy is lost.
What Now?
I wish I could recommend the perfect node that also withstands the German winter – unfortunately, I haven't found it yet.
Next, I will test the Sensecap P1 Pro Solar, but I fear it will also reach its limits in winter. If at least it would start automatically when sunlight is present, I could overlook some shortcomings. I'm curious.
The larger WisMesh Repeater might probably handle winter, but at €300, it's too expensive for me. I'd rather build something myself – solar cell, battery, and Meshtastic chip together cost at most half that. 🙂