This dude is hand making them one at a time like a Rolls Royce and sells them for $139.99. Im bummed I missed ordering this by a day but im excited for version 2.
Couple things I wanted to clarify after editing this video: The biggest reason I chose not to offer this as an empty enclosure was simply due to the attention to detail required to assemble. I think you can see in the video the amount of focus required to make sure everything is put together correctly. I'm hoping to solve that with the next iteration, so it's nearly foolproof to assemble. I'd be much more willing to sell international, because I could sell just the enclosure and not worry about shipping lithium batteries international, and having to stock different types of WisBlocks. Also, I noticed I kept calling the iPEX cable an antenna, lol. I know the difference, honestly, lol. Thanks to all my customers so far! Everyone's been so fantastic and supportive of what I put together. It's really cool.
Seconded. I think that would be an amazing option for getting friends and family to host a repeater if it was just "clip it on to the gutter and forget about it"
Amazing job, you built the solar node of my dreams. I tried the same and ran into this 'brown power state' issue you mentioned. If you could make the kit available in the UK, I think the Meshtastic UK Facebook group will be eternally thankful
Excellent work! the effort and the thoughtfulness you put into the design and manufacturing process are obvious. I would love to buy a DIY kit without the wisblock and batteries and assemble everything myself. That may save you time in building them yourself and save us a few dollars.
Thank you. Yeah, I think that's going to be an objective with the next version. I just felt this one was a little too tricky to assemble and felt it would be a frustrating experience for people. I want to make the assembly easier in the next version.
Ive built a few these using a heltec.. prior to you building a brand. one thing I've seen is an issue with the BMS killing power output to the device for no reason, while maintaining charge to the 18650's. I'm not sure what theactual issue was, but my remedy was to tap power off the battery rails versus the 5v out from the BMS. just thought id share.. goodluck.
For anyone that has ordered the solar unit without the circuit mod. On the pcb near the pads marked 5v and gnd there is a resistor marked 95B which is a 9.53k ohm resistor. If you change it to 12k ohm resistor your output will be 4.17v give or take. Which will make it safe for input in to the battery connector on the wisblock which has a max voltage of 4.3v.
@brettvk4bde are you using the 12v or 6v version? Which resistor block did you change? Mine are labeled R18, R17, and R14 near that point on the board.
Definitely interested in knowing when these or new version will be available again. Very clean solar node would like an option to use larger high gain antennas with this instead of the 90 deg antenna only.
Hey Matt, Can’t find the email list for the mk2 version. I know you want to do this on your own but maybe you could partner up with someone to build subassembly’s for you? Let’s talk.
You mentioned power saving setting that you install. What are they and will they prevent bluetooth from disconnecting or go to sleep and disconnect from iPhone app.
Congrats, are any of them waterproof? Great idea for camping. I live in Australia, so we have some places where cell coverage is spotty or non instant.
For the handheld unit, a few people I've spoken with on reddit have been looking for a waterproof version. Would you be interested in offering waterproofing for the handheld version?
What's tough about waterproofing a handheld unit is I'd need to come up with some sort of cover for the USB and LEDs. Also, with 3D printing it's really hard to guarantee waterproofness because it's not a continuous molded plastic. My switch mechanism would be vulnerable too. I would have to take a whole other approach if I was trying to achieve waterproof.
that logo looks very very similar to Aerovironment's logo. (the company that went from making solar and human powered planes to making killer drones. Just like Scaled Composites but for Paul MacCready instead of Burt Rutan!)
Hi, I'm going to ask please if I may? Any Chance or possible to Share the STL for the WisBlock RAK Mount? I Be Very Keen. I Like that Design :-) No Harm in Asking Thanks Thumbs Up
Is there any problem using this in below freezing temperatures? I’m thinking about those 18 650 batteries being recharged in below freezing temperatures
I wonder the same thing. Typical lithium batteries do not do well in freezing temperatures. Can we install lithium iron phosphate battery (LiFePO4 battery) instead. Is the charge controller compatible with LFP?
Hi, I am based in NZ and wish to set up a mesh here, would you be happy to send me either a link to the aliexpress store, or I can buy a few units through you? Cheers
@@Atlavox You might scope new alternative non corrosive options for the screw heads. The screws included have acquired rust on the heads after one month of outdoor use. Hope this helps to improve your great product. Please let me know if you find a great option. I would like to switch mine out as well. Thank you.
Note to save you from repetitive motion injuries... Buy a decent electric screwdriver! Try to get something with a variable speed, my Skil is full forward or backward, I would not recommend it for your needs.
Please make it available as bare bones without US version of the board. There are plenty of customers in EU that would like to buy it. Most people in this hobby are tech savy and can run some cli commands :)
This dude is hand making them one at a time like a Rolls Royce and sells them for $139.99.
Im bummed I missed ordering this by a day but im excited for version 2.
Couple things I wanted to clarify after editing this video: The biggest reason I chose not to offer this as an empty enclosure was simply due to the attention to detail required to assemble. I think you can see in the video the amount of focus required to make sure everything is put together correctly. I'm hoping to solve that with the next iteration, so it's nearly foolproof to assemble. I'd be much more willing to sell international, because I could sell just the enclosure and not worry about shipping lithium batteries international, and having to stock different types of WisBlocks.
Also, I noticed I kept calling the iPEX cable an antenna, lol. I know the difference, honestly, lol.
Thanks to all my customers so far! Everyone's been so fantastic and supportive of what I put together. It's really cool.
Just a thought, adding an option to get notified when the units are back in stock would be handy.
Agreed
Wonderful to follow your thought process on the design and assembly. You are meticulous and an inspiration. I will buy V2 when available.
Have you thought of possibly a gutter-mount clip? That would make it super easy to put up and fast for a small area coverage.
Seconded. I think that would be an amazing option for getting friends and family to host a repeater if it was just "clip it on to the gutter and forget about it"
Congrats! It's very cool to see someone turn their passion into a successful business! Keep up the good work (and the great videos)!
Great video. Thanks for sharing. Do you put any of the STLs on printables or thingaverse? I liked the way you designed the wisblock mount
Amazing job, you built the solar node of my dreams. I tried the same and ran into this 'brown power state' issue you mentioned. If you could make the kit available in the UK, I think the Meshtastic UK Facebook group will be eternally thankful
Very impressive work you have done.
Excellent work! the effort and the thoughtfulness you put into the design and manufacturing process are obvious. I would love to buy a DIY kit without the wisblock and batteries and assemble everything myself. That may save you time in building them yourself and save us a few dollars.
Thank you. Yeah, I think that's going to be an objective with the next version. I just felt this one was a little too tricky to assemble and felt it would be a frustrating experience for people. I want to make the assembly easier in the next version.
Ive built a few these using a heltec.. prior to you building a brand. one thing I've seen is an issue with the BMS killing power output to the device for no reason, while maintaining charge to the 18650's. I'm not sure what theactual issue was, but my remedy was to tap power off the battery rails versus the 5v out from the BMS. just thought id share.. goodluck.
I can’t wait to order version 2!
For anyone that has ordered the solar unit without the circuit mod. On the pcb near the pads marked 5v and gnd there is a resistor marked 95B which is a 9.53k ohm resistor. If you change it to 12k ohm resistor your output will be 4.17v give or take. Which will make it safe for input in to the battery connector on the wisblock which has a max voltage of 4.3v.
@brettvk4bde are you using the 12v or 6v version? Which resistor block did you change? Mine are labeled R18, R17, and R14 near that point on the board.
I have the version with the usb c cable which is 5v
@@brettvk4bde do you have a link?
Do you have any thoughts about using an LFP battery to better withstand freezing temperatures? Is the controller compatible?
Do you have a link or share a closeup photo of this little resistor modification? Thanks
I am stoked for when this is back in stock
Definitely interested in knowing when these or new version will be available again. Very clean solar node would like an option to use larger high gain antennas with this instead of the 90 deg antenna only.
Awesome job, I can tell your a perfectionist. If you need any assembly help let me know. Still planning on a order soon.
What labeler is that you are using to print the antenna labels?
Hey Matt,
Can’t find the email list for the mk2 version.
I know you want to do this on your own but maybe you could partner up with someone to build subassembly’s for you? Let’s talk.
I love mine so much I bought a second one.
Excellent video. Thank you!!
Glad I got one!
Wow, this is super!
You mentioned power saving setting that you install. What are they and will they prevent bluetooth from disconnecting or go to sleep and disconnect from iPhone app.
Congrats, are any of them waterproof? Great idea for camping. I live in Australia, so we have some places where cell coverage is spotty or non instant.
For the handheld unit, a few people I've spoken with on reddit have been looking for a waterproof version. Would you be interested in offering waterproofing for the handheld version?
What's tough about waterproofing a handheld unit is I'd need to come up with some sort of cover for the USB and LEDs. Also, with 3D printing it's really hard to guarantee waterproofness because it's not a continuous molded plastic. My switch mechanism would be vulnerable too. I would have to take a whole other approach if I was trying to achieve waterproof.
Can you update the solar node without removing the back plate?
Pretty cool!
that logo looks very very similar to Aerovironment's logo. (the company that went from making solar and human powered planes to making killer drones. Just like Scaled Composites but for Paul MacCready instead of Burt Rutan!)
Did you have manufacturer exclude the DC power cable as well?
I did, since I connect the WisBlock to power internally.
I've used this video to make my own EU version. Let's see how long it lasts in Norwegian weather with four 18650s.
What solar panel are you using? I wanna make this but for my Lilygo nodes.
What is the temp range? We get to -15 at times here…
Hi, I'm going to ask please if I may? Any Chance or possible to Share the STL for the WisBlock RAK Mount? I Be Very Keen. I Like that Design :-) No Harm in Asking Thanks Thumbs Up
Is there any problem using this in below freezing temperatures?
I’m thinking about those 18 650 batteries being recharged in below freezing temperatures
I wonder the same thing. Typical lithium batteries do not do well in freezing temperatures. Can we install lithium iron phosphate battery (LiFePO4 battery) instead. Is the charge controller compatible with LFP?
Well hard job...
Has anyone tackled the issue of cold weather disconnect of the charging system?
Thank you kindly
The S4 isn't that sophisticated, unfortunately
Hi, I am based in NZ and wish to set up a mesh here, would you be happy to send me either a link to the aliexpress store, or I can buy a few units through you?
Cheers
What size is the screw on the back. Could you link to correct mounting screw from amazon?
It's an M6-1.0 thread, like this: www.amazon.com/Cicidorai-Flanged-Stainless-Machine-Quantity/dp/B0B581BZ1J
@@Atlavox You might scope new alternative non corrosive options for the screw heads. The screws included have acquired rust on the heads after one month of outdoor use. Hope this helps to improve your great product. Please let me know if you find a great option. I would like to switch mine out as well. Thank you.
😀
Note to save you from repetitive motion injuries... Buy a decent electric screwdriver! Try to get something with a variable speed, my Skil is full forward or backward, I would not recommend it for your needs.
Please make it available as bare bones without US version of the board. There are plenty of customers in EU that would like to buy it. Most people in this hobby are tech savy and can run some cli commands :)
Rip cheap solar node. Noticed this node was quietly discontinued after the new solar node was introduced.
your label says ‘made in China’, the point of final assembly is USA, so it might be considered made in the USA.
Are you in China? Wouldn't it be "Assembled in the USA with globally sourced materials" be more accurate, if you are in the USA?