Description
STS Collective OpenMANET Heltec Node – Compact Off-Grid Mesh Communications
The STS Collective OpenMANET Heltec Node is a compact, self-contained mesh networking device built for off-grid communication, privacy-focused networking, and rapid deployment scenarios. Powered by Wi-Fi HaLow (802.11ah) in the 915 MHz band and preloaded with OpenMANET firmware, this unit enables you to create a long-range, infrastructure-free network anywhere.
Designed around the Heltec HT-HD01 V2 platform, this device is lightweight, efficient, and ideal for portable or distributed deployments where simplicity and reliability matter most.
Core Capabilities
📡 Long-Range HaLow Connectivity
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Operates in the 915 MHz band (US) for extended range
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Morse Micro MM6108 HaLow radio
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Improved signal penetration through buildings, terrain, and foliage
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External SMA antenna for flexible positioning
🔗 Self-Forming Mesh Network
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Uses BATMAN-V (batman-adv) mesh routing
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Nodes automatically connect and route traffic across multiple hops
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Flat mesh network: 10.41.0.0/16
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Expand coverage by simply adding more nodes
🔒 Private, Infrastructure-Free Networking
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No reliance on cellular, ISPs, or centralized systems
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Fully local communication between connected devices
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Ideal for off-grid, privacy-conscious, or disconnected environments
🌐 Local Access for Devices
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Built-in 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi access point (AP mode)
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Ethernet connectivity (100 Mbps)
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Automatic DHCP for connected clients
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mDNS support for easy device access (example: manet01.local)
Hardware Overview
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Platform: Heltec HT-HD01 V2
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CPU: MediaTek MT7628AN (580 MHz)
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RAM: 128MB DDR2
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Storage: 32MB SPI NOR
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HaLow Radio: Morse Micro MM6108
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Wi-Fi: 2.4 GHz 802.11b/g/n (AP mode only)
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Ethernet: 1x 100 Mbps port
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Power: USB-C (5V)
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Antenna: External SMA (sub-GHz)
Pre-Flashed with OpenMANET Firmware
This unit comes with OpenMANET firmware pre-installed, built on:
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OpenWRT 24.x base
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Linux kernel 6.x
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Optimized Morse Micro drivers
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Preconfigured mesh settings for immediate deployment
No flashing or build process required.
Use Cases
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Off-grid communications
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Emergency and disaster response
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Rural or remote networking
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Field teams and portable deployments
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Airsoft / milsim coordination
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Lightweight mesh expansions
Important Notes
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Designed for lightweight, low-power deployments
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Ethernet is 100 Mbps (not gigabit)
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Web interface performance may be slower due to hardware limitations
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2.4 GHz Wi-Fi operates in access point mode only
Setup & Documentation
For setup instructions and advanced configuration:
👉 https://openmanet.github.io/docs/
STS Collective Notes
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Professionally prepared with OpenMANET firmware pre-installed
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Built for simple, reliable, and independent networking
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No subscriptions, no cloud dependency, no external requirements
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Scales easily by adding additional nodes
We are here to help!
If you are having any trouble with locating the correct replacement, part number, or assistance with diagnosis please do not hesitate to reach out to us.
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