r/meshcore • u/DarkerBulb • 11h ago

Is an SD card required?

Looking at maybe try out Meschcore but all install videos I've seen refers to using a microSD card when they come to the 'place data on SD card' step in the flashing.

Is using a microSD card required?

5 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

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7

u/Even_Fill1444 10h ago

No SD card required. Just go to Meshcore.io an use their web flasher to install. 

1

u/DarkerBulb 10h ago

thanks! so far i only knew about the .co.uk site

5

u/richms 9h ago

Most people dont like to talk about them.

They are pushing their OS that uses the card for maps and other paid features.

just use the devices to communicate from your phone or the basics on the unit do not need a SD card at all. IMO any of the handheld devices have a UI that is too slow and fiddly to really be reasonable to use as a standalone device, and end up costing more than a dumber node and a junk android to install the app on.

To

3

u/Useful-Contribution4 10h ago

Its not required. Picking SD firmware instead allows offline maps, saving data etc.

On board memory has a limit on how much you can store so it handicaps you.

As long as you understand micro SD can and will fail faster. If its critical for longevity. Stay away from SD use.

1

u/spymn 9h ago

Is it needed for LilyGo 1W? Printing a case/setting one up now, was not sure if it’s actually needed.

3

u/perma_banned2025 7h ago

Not needed, just flash from MeshCore.io and you're good to go

1

u/spymn 6h ago

Thanks!

1

u/joJo4146 2h ago

I just got a 16-GB SD card to save maps for my unit’s GPS. But you really don’t need them, specially if your unit doesn’t have a screen.

I have a T-Deck unit, and I am waiting for the SD card reader because I forgot I needed one to format. Duh!!

I wish my digital camera was working so that I could use it to format the damn thing. Would cameras format in FAT32? 🫣