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Frequently Asked Questions

General​

What is Meshtastic?​

Meshtastic is a free, open source project that turns small, affordable radios into a mesh network. You can send text messages, share GPS positions, and exchange sensor data without cell coverage, internet, or subscriptions.

How does mesh networking work?​

When you send a message, your device transmits it over radio. If the recipient is out of range, other Meshtastic devices in between can relay the message automatically. Each device in the network acts as a potential relay, extending the total range of the network.

How far can Meshtastic reach?​

Range depends on terrain, antenna, and device placement. In open areas with line of sight, a single hop can reach several kilometers. In forests or hilly terrain, expect shorter range per hop. With multiple devices relaying, the network can cover much larger areas.

Is Meshtastic free to use?​

Yes. There are no subscriptions, no monthly fees, and no data charges. You buy the device once and use it as much as you want. The Meshtastic app is also free.

Can I send voice or photos?​

No. Meshtastic is designed for short text messages and GPS data. The LoRa radio technology it uses has limited bandwidth, so it cannot handle voice calls, photos, or video. Think of it as a walkie-talkie for text.

Using Meshtastic in Japan​

Yes, if you use a device with valid Giteki certification (技適マーク) that operates on the Japan 920 MHz band. All devices sold by Karida meet this requirement.

Do I need a radio license?​

No. Meshtastic devices on the 920 MHz band in Japan are classified as low-power radio stations and do not require a personal license. The device certification is sufficient.

Can I use a device I bought overseas?​

Only if it has a valid Giteki mark and supports the Japan 920 MHz band. Most Meshtastic devices sold internationally are designed for US (915 MHz) or EU (868 MHz) frequencies and are not certified for Japan. See Choosing a Device for more details.

What frequency does Meshtastic use in Japan?​

The 920 MHz band (920.6 - 923.4 MHz), which is allocated for low-power devices in Japan.

Why does the Japan frequency band matter?​

Meshtastic devices are sold in different regional versions: US (915 MHz), EU (868 MHz), and Japan (920 MHz). These are not interchangeable. A US or EU device cannot legally be used in Japan, and a Japan device cannot communicate with US or EU devices because they operate on different frequencies. When you buy a device from Karida, it is already configured for the JP region. If you buy from overseas, check that it supports the JP region and has Giteki certification before using it.

Devices and Setup​

Which device should I buy?​

For most people, we recommend the SenseCAP Card Tracker T1000-E. It is compact, has GPS, and is Giteki-certified for Japan. You can buy it in the Karida shop. See Choosing a Device for a full guide.

Do I need a phone to use Meshtastic?​

For devices like the T1000-E that do not have a screen, yes. You use the free Meshtastic app on your phone to send and read messages. The phone connects to the device via Bluetooth.

Some Meshtastic devices have built-in screens and can work without a phone, but these are less common in Japan-certified models.

How long does the battery last?​

It depends on the device and how often it sends data. The T1000-E lasts several days with GPS updates every few minutes. If you reduce the update frequency, it lasts longer.

Can I use Meshtastic without GPS?​

Yes. GPS is optional. You can use the device for messaging only and turn off position sharing if you prefer.

How many devices can be on one network?​

A single Meshtastic mesh network can support dozens of devices. For larger groups, you can use separate channels to organize communication.

Can I track my dog or pet with Meshtastic?​

Yes. You can attach a Meshtastic device to your dog's collar and see their GPS position on a map in the Meshtastic app. As long as the device is within range of another node you carry (or a relay in the area), you can track their location in real time. Battery life depends on how often the device updates its position. This works without cell coverage, which makes it useful for hunting dogs or hiking in remote areas. The T1000-E is a popular choice for this because of its small size and GPS accuracy.

Privacy and Security​

Are messages encrypted?​

Yes. Meshtastic encrypts all messages by default. Even when your message is relayed through other devices, those devices cannot read the content.

Can other people see my location?​

Only people on the same channel can see your GPS position. You can also disable position sharing entirely in the app settings.

Is my data stored anywhere?​

Meshtastic is a direct device-to-device network. Your messages and positions are not stored on any server. If you use Karida Cloud, your team's data is stored securely in your account, but this is optional.

What is Karida Cloud and do I need it?​

Karida Cloud is an optional service that adds a web dashboard on top of your Meshtastic network. It lets you view your team's live positions on a map, review message history, and monitor device status from any browser without keeping the Meshtastic app open. You do not need it to use Meshtastic. Your devices work perfectly without Karida Cloud. It is most useful for teams that want visibility across multiple users or need to monitor devices remotely.

Troubleshooting​

My device is not connecting to my phone​

  • Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone
  • Make sure your device is turned on and charged
  • Try restarting both your phone and the device
  • Remove the device from your phone's Bluetooth settings and pair again

My messages are not being received​

  • Check that both devices are on the same channel with the same encryption key
  • Make sure the devices are within range (try moving closer)
  • Verify that the devices are set to the same frequency region (Japan / JP)
  • Check battery levels on both devices

I changed a setting and now my device does not work​

If you accidentally changed the frequency region or other radio settings, the easiest fix is to reset the device to factory defaults and set it up again. See the Meshtastic documentation for reset instructions specific to your device.

For more help, visit our support page.