ThinkNode M9 Standalone LoRa MeshCore Communication Terminal with Physical Keyboard, 2.4" LCD, GPS, and ESP32-S3 by Elecrow

Abstract

Elecrow’s ThinkNode M9 is a standalone handheld device designed for decentralized communication over a LoRa mesh network using MeshCore firmware. Designed in the form of a cell phone with a full 37-key keyboard and a 2.4-inch LCD screen, it eliminates the need for a smartphone to provide reliable offline messaging. This device is intended for radio enthusiasts, hikers, emergency preparedness enthusiasts (preppers), and professionals working in areas without cellular coverage.

Key Features

• 100% Standalone Experience: Direct message entry and smooth reading on the device thanks to the physical keyboard and color LCD screen.
• Ready to Use with MeshCore: Comes preconfigured with MeshCore firmware to instantly join decentralized mesh networks.
• High-Performance Hardware Architecture: Combines the power of an ESP32-S3 (240 MHz, 8 MB PSRAM, 16 GB storage) with the RF sensitivity of the Semtech LR1110 module.
• Comprehensive GNSS Geolocation: Integrated multi-GNSS chip (GPS, BeiDou, Galileo, GLONASS) with a ceramic antenna and electronic compass for real-time location tracking and sharing.
• Optimized Battery Life: Built-in 2300 mAh Li-Po battery providing 2 to 3 days of standby time for long-duration expeditions and emergency situations.
• Ultra-Compact All-in-One Design: Integrates all antennas (LoRa, GPS, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth) into a compact housing weighing just 123 grams and 10.3 mm thick.

Technical Specifications

• Main Processor: Espressif ESP32-S3R8 (Xtensa 32-bit LX7 dual-core up to 240 MHz)
• System Memory: 512 KB SRAM, 8 MB PSRAM, 384 KB ROM
• Mass storage: 16 GB built-in (memory card)
• LoRa RF chip: Semtech LR1110 compatible with 868 MHz and 915 MHz ISM bands
• Additional wireless connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n (2.4 GHz) and Bluetooth 5.0 / BLE
• Satellite positioning: Multi-constellation GNSS (GPS, BeiDou, Galileo, GLONASS) with dedicated ceramic antenna
• Built-in sensors: Magnetic compass (electronic compass), real-time clock (RTC), buzzer for audible alerts
• Display: 2.4-inch color TFT-TN LCD, 240 x 320-pixel resolution, 200 cd/m² brightness (non-touch)
• Physical keyboard: 37 keys with function keys, navigation pad, and hidden reset button
• Battery: 2300 mAh / 3.8V lithium-polymer with protection circuit (overcharge/deep discharge)
• Interface: USB Type-C 2.0 port (charging and programming)
• Antennas: Built-in internal antennas (LoRa FPC, ceramic GNSS, Wi-Fi/BLE)
• Supported development environments: Arduino IDE, ESP-IDF, MicroPython, LVGL graphics library
• Dimensions: 126 x 67 x 10.3 mm
• Net weight: 123 g
• Operating temperature: -10°C to +60°C

Compatibility

• Networks and Protocols: Compatible with the MeshCore ecosystem and LoRa mesh networks (868 MHz for Europe / 915 MHz).
• Computing Environments: Windows, macOS, and Linux for programming and updating via USB-C (ESP-IDF, Arduino IDE).
• Power Supply: Any standard 5V USB charger (USB Type-C) or external power bank.
• Management Applications: Integrated MUI user interface and MeshCore-compatible applications.

FAQ