Get Started with SenseCAP Solar Node

Get Started

Before formal deployment, please test and configure the node first.

Flash Firmware

Visit Meshtastic Web Flasher.

Select the target device to Seeed SenseCAP Solar Node and choose the latest firmware, then click Flash.

Click Enter DFU Mode, there will be a serial port named XIAO-xxx, click and connect it, and there should be a driver named XIAO-xxx display.

Drag the UF2 file to the DFU drive. Firmware should be flashed after the file is downloaded and the device reboots.

Install Battery and GPS Module(Optional)

tip

Recommended Battery: 18650 Lithium-ion Battery 3.6V (Button Top).

P1-Pro version has built-in battery and GPS module, for P1 version, user needs to install the battery and GPS module manually if needed.

• Step 1: Remove all the screws and the cover.

• Step 2: Install battery and the GPS module.

• Step 3: Assemble the shell.

note

Ensure that the shell is properly mounted and the screws are firmly tightened to maintain the device’s waterproof integrity.

Power on the device

Connect the USB cable to activate the device.

Connect via App

IOS App

• Select the target device on the Bluetooth panel.

• Enter the code(default code is 123456) and then click OK to connect the device.

Android App

• Click + and choose the target device.

• Enter the code(default code is 123456) and then click OK to connect the device.

Configure the Parameters

In order to start communicating over the mesh, you must set your region. This setting controls which frequency range your device uses and should be set according to your regional location.

IOS App

Android App

Region List

Region Code	Description	Frequency Range (MHz)	Duty Cycle (%)	Power Limit (dBm)
UNSET	Unset	N/A	N/A	N/A
US	United States	902.0 - 928.0	100	30
EU_868	European Union 868MHz	869.4 - 869.65	10	27

Refer to LoRa Region by Country for a more comprehensive list.

info

EU_868 has to adhere to an hourly duty cycle limitation of 10%, calculated every minute on a rolling 1-hour basis. Your device will stop transmitting if you reach it, until it is allowed again.

Now that you have set the LoRa region on your device, you can continue with configuring any LoRa Configs to suit your needs.

Installation

note

Since the device will be used outdoors for extended periods, please avoid installing the panel in a horizontal position. A tilted or diagonal installation is recommended to prevent water accumulation. Additionally, ensure that all screws are securely tightened and the cover is properly installed. For enhanced waterproof protection, you may also consider applying extra sealing measures.

• Part List

• Step1: Connect part 1 to the bottom of the device using washers and screws.

• Step2: Connect the universal joint(part 2) and the bracket(part 3) with screws.

• Step3: Connect the RF cable(part 4) and antenna(part 5) .

• Step3: Install the hoop ring in the appropriate position.

• Step4: Connect the universal joint bracket.

• Step5: Loosen the screws, adjust the universal joint to the appropriate position, and then tighten the screws.

• Step6: Connect the antenna to the device.

FAQ

Power Consumption

Power consumption primarily depends on factors such as the data transmission frequency and GPS update rate. The figures below are for reference only; actual consumption may vary based on real-world usage conditions.

• Shutdown Sleep Mode Power Consumption

Description	Consumption
GPS_LED working current	1.02 mA
Powered but not activated	56.195 μA
Powered and activated	611 μA

Example:

Battery capacity	Battery life
3350	136.8
12000	490.2

• Active Mode Power Consumption

Mode	Current
Static Current	10.65 mA
EU868 Transmission Current	157.74 mA
US915 Transmission Current	205.22 mA
GPS Operating Current	50 mA
GPS_LED Operating Current	1.02 mA

More details check Solar Node Battery Life Calculation Table