Meshtastic and Meshcore have been two technologies I have been following for quite some time. They seem to be the perfect mixture of fun and practicality I look for in projects. Recently, I decided to jump into the network head first, purchasing a Heltec V4 LoRa module and a N Type Alfa 915 MHz antenna. I combined these with two 18650 cells in battery holders and designed this case to house everything.

This case is designed to densely combine the hardware components while providing ample mounting and attachment options for the user. My plan is to use paracord for rapid deployments when I’m out adventuring.

Required Hardware

For this build, you will need the following components:

• (1x) Heltec v4 LoRa module
• (1x) IPEX to N Type Female Coaxial Cable
• (1x) N Type Antenna
• (2x) 18650 Battery Holder
• (2x) 18650 Cells
• (6x) M4 x 30mm Socket Head Cap Screws or print your own

Assembly Instructions

• Prepare the battery power assembly: Take the two 18650 battery holders and wire them together, connecting positive terminals to positive and negative terminals to negative to create a parallel configuration. Once wired, connect this battery assembly to the JST pigtails that are included with your Heltec V4 purchase to establish the power connection.
• Install the control buttons: Carefully insert the buttons into their designated recesses on the faceplate. These components are quite small and delicate, so use tweezers for precise placement and to avoid damaging the buttons during installation.
• Route the antenna cable: Thread the IPEX to N Type coaxial cable through the designated cable passage in the case, ensuring the N Type connector end is accessible from the exterior for antenna attachment.
• Connect and mount the Heltec V4 board: Plug the IPEX connector from the coaxial cable into the corresponding port on the Heltec V4 board. Once connected, carefully align and press the board into its designated recess within the case, ensuring all components are properly seated and the buttons align with their actuators.
• Final assembly: Using the six M4 x 30mm socket head cap screws, secure the grille, faceplate, and backplate together. Align the faceplate with the small positioning recess designed to guide proper placement, then tighten all screws evenly to ensure a secure and flush fit.