John Richards unveils MeshCore's unique communication features at Tech Meetup

On April 27, 2025, the Bonner County Civil Defense Resilience Team hosted a meeting focused on emergency preparedness, featuring a presentation on Meshcore, a communication technology designed for use in crisis situations. John Richards, a local resident and enthusiast of the technology, shared insights about Meshcore, which is a branch of the well-known Meshtastic system.

Richards explained that he has been involved with Meshtastic for over a year, building devices and training others on their use. His enthusiasm stems from the ability to communicate without relying on traditional cell networks, which can be vulnerable during emergencies. He emphasized the importance of privacy in communication, linking it to First Amendment rights.

During his presentation, Richards highlighted the differences between Meshcore and Meshtastic. He described Meshtastic as utilizing a "flood routing" method, where devices continuously send signals, which can lead to communication congestion. In contrast, Meshcore employs a "path routing" approach, allowing devices to communicate more efficiently by designating a single device to relay messages. This method reduces noise and increases reliability, making it particularly useful in emergency scenarios.

One of the standout features of Meshcore is its Bulletin Board System (VBS), which allows users to log into "rooms" to receive messages. This system ensures that even if a device is offline, users can retrieve missed messages upon logging back in. Richards noted that this feature could be crucial during events like wildfires, where timely updates are essential for community safety.

The meeting underscored the growing interest in alternative communication technologies that enhance resilience in the face of disasters. As communities like Bonner County prepare for potential emergencies, tools like Meshcore could play a vital role in ensuring effective communication and information sharing. The discussions also highlighted the importance of ongoing training and education in utilizing these technologies effectively.

As the community continues to explore innovative solutions for emergency preparedness, the insights shared during this meeting may pave the way for broader adoption of Meshcore and similar technologies in Bonner County and beyond.