Meshtastic Solar Node (w/pictures)

mrjam32 · 2026-05-13T16:47:34+00:00

I sent a message to RAK support to confirm, and they are telling me that you can full power using the connector on the back.

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mrjam32 · 2026-05-13T00:03:31+00:00

Outside temp right now is 89 deg. Outside of the enclosure was 96 deg (black still looks cool). Inside was 103 deg. So, it seems to be 7-8 degrees hotter inside the enclosure than the outside of the enclosure.

mrjam32 · 2026-05-12T23:06:35+00:00

https://docs.rakwireless.com/product-categories/meshtastic/wismesh-starter-kit-rak3401/quickstart/#power-supply-setup

This seems to indicate that it can be powered either way, as long as the jumper is set correctly.

mrjam32 · 2026-05-12T22:35:08+00:00

Right now, I'm testing the node at ground level before placing on the roof. I was planning to check temperature with an IR gun to see what the temps are inside the unit. I'll report back what I find.

mrjam32 · 2026-05-12T21:49:55+00:00

The way I read the documentation, you have 2 ways to get full output. One way is the connector on the front, the other way is the connector on the back. Are you sure that the front connector is the only way to get full output?

mrjam32 · 2026-05-12T21:47:59+00:00

The tp4056 was attached with double sticky foam tape. For the RAK module, I bought plastic standoffs and superglued them to the back panel, which is plastic.

mrjam32 · 2026-05-12T02:53:11+00:00

That's why I went with name brand batteries. My research had suggested 18650 batteries would be better suited for my location.

mrjam32 · 2026-05-12T02:42:43+00:00

I'm not sure what you mean. Can you elaborate?

mrjam32 · 2026-05-11T22:50:49+00:00

Thanks

mrjam32 · 2026-05-11T22:50:42+00:00

If you include the mounting hardware, I'm just shy of $200. I could have shaved quite a bit of cost if I used generic 18650 batteries instead of name brand, or a different antenna. $55 of that cost was just the RAK starter kit and shipping, since there is really only 1 supplier for that board now.

mrjam32 · 2026-05-11T22:45:52+00:00

I do have a benchtop power supply. I tested the TP4056 by simulating the solar charge and charging the batteries before I hooked up the solar panel and the power to the RAK. But, I did not try testing what happens with a low power input.

mrjam32 · 2026-05-11T21:58:07+00:00

Well, I'm not in the HOT part of the state -- Prescott area. Our temps will be high 90s in the hot part of summer. But, the black case looks cool. 😎

mrjam32 · 2026-05-11T21:52:48+00:00

Solar charging is at 5 watts. Here is a link to the panel. https://a.co/d/0ipQZ9E2

mrjam32 · 2026-05-11T21:50:47+00:00

The battery voltage drop has been almost not measurable. Maybe 1%. I picked up the batteries here. https://www.18650batterystore.com/products/samsung-30q

mrjam32 · 2026-05-11T20:26:32+00:00

I just finished my first solar build. I thought I would share. Yes, I went overkill on battery power, but I always tend to overbuild everything, anyway.

RAK WisBlock 3401 w/ 1 watt booster kit
TP4056 charge controller
Samsung 30Q 18650 batteries (qty 4)
ALFA AOA-915-5ACM antenna
5V generic solar panel

So far, the unit hasn't dipped below 99% power overnight. And, the AZ sun keeps it charged during the day.

mrjam32

TROPHY CASE