Description

Pssst, hey buddy! Want to run your own off-grid communications? Boy, have I got the device for you…

The next generation RNode is finally here, the openCom XL. Powered by the extremely power efficient nRF52 chipset and equipped with multiple LoRa radio modems, it is the perfect tool for facilitating modern off-grid communications, independent of internet service providers. You won’t be paying a subscription for an internet connection, you will be running your own connection. No subscriptions required, just electricity.

Features:

• Extremely power efficient nRF52 chipset with Bluetooth
• A long range SX1262 modem operating in the 800MHz band (up to 62.5kbps – theoretical only, 15kbps and lower IRL due to legislation)
• A higher data rate (but shorter range) SX1280 modem operating in the 2.4GHz band (up to 203kbps, currently effective at ~60kbps in firmware)
• Incredibly power efficient e-ink display for status updates
• Space for up to 2 18650 battery cells (cells not included) for excellent battery life
• Audio feedback on radio status
• Repair guide included
• Robust case design (printed professionally in PETG)

Use cases include:

• Utilisation as a network adapter for Reticulum, allowing for use in modern off-grid communications applications such as Sideband and Nomadnet
• Usage as a LoRa packet sniffer using LoRaMon
• Usage as a portable fed-finder, Kevin Mitnick style

A generous donation to Mark Qvist, the creator of the original RNode Firmware and Reticulum projects, is included with each purchase. Without him the openCom XL would not exist!

When selecting antennas, the higher the dBi, the higher the gain, which means your signal will travel further. However, it does also mean that differences in height will affect reception more dramatically. I would usually recommend selecting the highest dBi antenna you can when ordering. For those who know their stuff with regard to antennas, I would recommend you not include the 2.4GHz antenna when purchasing, and source your own instead. However, for the average person that antenna should be adequate.