Hel-Txt v1.0 - Standalone Meshtastic communicator (Heltec ESP32 V3/V2)
Description
For those who need a reliable communication solution for off-grid scenarios. This compact unit is a standalone communication device that doesn't require a smartphone for operation. Ideal for preppers, emergency situations, outdoor adventures, or anyone looking to get started with Meshtastic with little technical knowledge, the HelTXT integrates seamlessly into the Meshtastic LoRa platform, enabling you to build a reliable mesh network with multiple devices. This is a case to build a stand alone Meshtastic communicator using the Heltec ESP32 V3 and the M5Stack CardKb. The aim for this project was to make it as compact and simple to print as possible but still being functional and sturdy. I also ensured the ability to add extra features like power switches, GPS, buzzer ,etc. I will be working on a another version that is more ergonomic and visually appealing in the future, as well as bigger battery capacity.(This is not the final look). For those who want to just buy one. I created a tindie store. Link bellow. https://www.tindie.com/products/33740/ List of Materials: Heltec ESP32 V3 - https://a.co/d/5d0xl5p M5Stack CardKB - https://www.digikey.com/short/v8wjcvb3 1100mAh Li-Ion battery - https://store.rokland.com/products/3-7v-1100mah-lithium-rechargeable-battery-1s-1c-lipo-battery-with-protection-board-with-micro-jst-1-25-plug 4000mAh Li-Ion battery - 12x50x54mm https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256803447969467.html 16mm m3 Hex Socket Head Cap screw - https://a.co/d/aFIBnWE Optional: GT-U7 GPS Module - https://a.co/d/iN4Jurx NPN 2N2222 Transistor for GPS - https://a.co/d/3a9ZOuc Power Switch - https://a.co/d/4niMcLk Passive Buzzer - https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256806074013807.html?channel=twinner Printing instructions: I designed all parts so that they do not need supports. They are on the position that will get you the best possible print. CardKB Instructions: 1. Make sure to remove the Groove port connector that cames built in to the CardKB, this is necessary to be able to cover the chip and cables that are on the board to prevent shorts. 2. Once the port is removed, solder the cables that come with the board in the colors corresponding to the original order they were on the connector. 3. Once all the cables are soldered. Pass those cables through the hole on the CardKB. 4. Connect the cables to the the Heltec ESP32 V3 board in the following positions. Yellow to GPIO 41, White to GPIO 42, Red to 3V and black to Ground. 5. Go to Radio Configuration>Module Configurations> Canned Messages and enable Canned messages. 6. Enter “CardKB” with no quotes on field called "Allow input Source" 7. The first time you boot the Heltec node, it will say "Canned Message Module Disable", just press the reset button and it will boot properly and should be able to start typing. Assembly: - Assemble all boards and components onto the frame first. - Place buttons on the Top Display - Attach the top display and push the 12mm M3 bolts to hold in place. - Push the nuts onto the bottom cover, they should fit exactly into place. - Put the bottom cover on the bottom of the frame with the nuts facing down. - Screw top cover first - Repeat steps for the keyboard holder piece. ****OPTIONAL SECTIONS***** Power Switch(Optional): 1. Cut the Black cable from the battery in half. 2. Solder one half to the middle pin of the power switch. 3. Solder the other half to one of the two remaining legs of the power switch. 4. Press power switch into slot designated for the switch. 5. Test. GPS Module Instructions(Optional): 1. Solder a cable from the TXD slot on the GPS module to GPIO 48 on Heltec board. 2. Solder a cable from the RXD slot on the GPS module to GPIO 47 on Heltec board. 3. Solder a cable from the GND slot on the GPS module to GND pin on Heltec board. 4. Solder a cable from left leg of NPN 2N2222 Transistor to VCC skit on GPS module. 5. Solder a cable from Right leg of NPN 2N2222 Transistor to 3V/5V pin on Heltec board. 6. Solder a cable from Middle leg of NPN 2N2222 Transistor to GPIO 48 of Heltec board. 7. Go to Meshtastic app > Radio Configurations > Position 8. Set GPS_RX_PIN to 48 (This will communicate to the TXD slot on the GPS) 9. Set GPS_TX_PIN to 47 (This will communicate to the RXD slot on the GPS) 10. Set PIN_GPS_EN to 46 (This will allow the meshtastic firmware to turn off the power on the GPS board with the user button of the Heltec Board by pressing it 3 times)
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