Off-Grid Client Repeat Mode¶
EXTENDING THE MESH · CLIENT AS REPEATER · INCREASING RANGE
In MeshCore there is a strict separation between clients (which send and receive messages) and repeaters (which forward traffic). With Client Repeat Mode this separation disappears: a regular client node can simultaneously act as a repeater and extend the mesh network — without extra hardware.
How does it work?¶
Normally a client node only processes its own traffic: sending, receiving, and displaying messages on screen or via the companion app. Once Client Repeat Mode is enabled, the node also repeats packets from other nodes in the network. The device effectively becomes a hybrid: fully usable as a client and actively forwarding mesh traffic for others.
Why is this important?¶
- Dynamic range — Every participating client automatically extends the network. The more users, the greater the range — without fixed infrastructure.
- No repeaters needed — In remote areas or during events, a fixed repeater is often unavailable. Client Repeat Mode fills that gap.
- Easy on/off — The mode can be enabled or disabled via the companion app. Handy for saving battery when you don't want to forward traffic.
- Full encryption — Forwarded packets remain fully encrypted. The repeating node cannot read the content — only forward it.
Typical use cases¶
Client Repeat Mode is particularly useful in situations where the mesh must emerge spontaneously from the devices present:
- Hiking and mountain trips — participants spread along a route together form a chain of repeaters, allowing messages to travel from head to tail
- Festivals and events — large groups with MeshCore devices automatically build a dense, self-healing network
- Emergency communication — when fixed infrastructure is missing or has failed, every client provides an extra link in the network
- Field days and radio activities — participants at different locations boost each other's range without extra equipment
How to enable it?¶
The setting is available in the companion app (Android/iOS) under node settings. After enabling, the device immediately starts forwarding packets from other nodes. Its own functionality as a client remains fully intact — sending messages, receiving, DMs, and Room access all continue to work normally.
[!WARNING] Note: Client Repeat Mode significantly increases battery consumption, because the radio is active more often. Preferably use a device with USB power or a larger battery when you want to operate as a repeater for an extended period.
Client vs. Repeater vs. Client Repeat¶
| Property | Client | Repeater | Client Repeat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Send messages | Yes | No | Yes |
| Receive messages | Yes | No | Yes |
| Forward packets | No | Yes | Yes |
| Companion app | Yes | No | Yes |
| Battery consumption | Low | High | High |
| Dedicated hardware required | No | Yes | No |
Source¶
This article is based on the publication by Ripple about Off-Grid Client Repeat Mode:
buymeacoffee.com/ripplebiz — Off-Grid Client Repeat Mode ↗
Translated from Dutch by Anthropic Claude