Meshtastic with Heltec V3 and Sirio 868 GP

A powerful and reliable LoRa mesh solution

This week (15‑02‑2026) I discovered Meshtastic for the first time. Below is a short description of how I built my own LoRa station.

Overview

This setup combines the Heltec Wireless Stick Lite V3 with the Sirio 868 GP antenna to achieve a very stable connection and impressive range within the Meshtastic network. Thanks to the combination of a modern LoRa module, efficient firmware, and a high‑quality outdoor antenna, this configuration creates a robust mesh node ideal for hobby projects, community networks, outdoor communication, and IoT applications.

Heltec V3 – Compact, efficient, and fully integrated

The Heltec V3 is a popular choice within the Meshtastic community because of its:

• SX1262 LoRa chip for excellent sensitivity and long‑range performance
• ESP32 controller with WiFi and Bluetooth for easy configuration
• Low power consumption, perfect for 24/7 operation
• OLED display for quick status information
• USB‑C port for power and programming

With Meshtastic firmware installed, the Heltec V3 becomes a powerful mesh node capable of relaying messages without relying on mobile networks or the internet.

Sirio 868 GP – Professional antenna for maximum range

The Sirio 868 GP is a high‑quality 868 MHz antenna designed specifically for LoRa applications. It offers:

• Omnidirectional radiation pattern for full 360° coverage
• Durable outdoor construction, resistant to weather conditions
• High efficiency and gain, ideal for long‑distance communication
• Easy mounting on a mast, roof, or pole

When paired with the Heltec V3 using a suitable coax cable (such as RG58 or better), this antenna creates a very capable LoRa node that can cover a large area.

Why this combination

Using the Heltec V3 together with the Sirio 868 GP provides:

• Reliable communication over several kilometers
• Excellent signal quality, even in built‑up areas
• A stable mesh network that automatically optimizes routing
• Strong suitability for outdoor projects, community networks, and emergency communication

Whether you want to expand a local Meshtastic network or build your own high‑performance node, this setup offers a great balance between cost, quality, and range.

Applications

• Outdoor communication during hikes, events, or expeditions
• Neighborhood or village networks for emergency situations
• IoT sensors requiring long‑range connectivity
• Community mesh projects
• Experimental radio and LoRa projects