Where is the cheapest place to order parts to get started I’ll need us 915 want to build a few solar nodes then a few portable ones I have 18650 batteries ECT thanks for any help ps not in big hurry to receive parts
you can order from rak wireless, that way you get the newest models which are also the best option for solar nodes.
you can order several sets at once to reduce shipping costs,
and if you order several sets, you can friendly ask them to include free cable connectors for battery and solar , which you dont have to buy extra then 
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For cheap and no rush, I use Ali Express. The delay has always been less than two weeks and so far, it has all worked. RAK is clearly better and also expensive. I use both as appropriate.
Meshtastic is sparse in Michigan and non-existent within range of my country 10 acres.
I do homestead automation and HAM radio, so just had to have Meshtastic even if I only talk to myself. I am 76YO, so maybe talking to myself is normal? 
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also from Michigan and also talk to myself. you got 36 yeas on me and are not alone. KG5GML
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Also a ham, and interested in some automation on meshtastic if possible for a non ham buddy. We live in Rural Oklahoma, hes on 80 and needs to be able to open an close his gate remotely. We ate tgether Friday, he wont close his gate because hes the fire chief (im his deputy) and i can beat him to the firehouse…(my gate remote works better) As we were leaving my wife asked me, arent you smart enough to give him remote gate control from his house…it 1800’ and his house is in a while, but he has a tower with line of sight. After get a mesh network going on our main roadways I’m gonna have to work on that. Any pointers would be appreciated.
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Wait until you see how bad it gets in 36 years 
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Should work well. Does he have power at gate? Then the Meshtastic device does not even need solar. I would use a PSK to secure the gate from other people. Even then his gate would pass other peoples messages and be part of a mesh. I have an 800’ driveway and we use Dakota Alert sensor on driveway to alert us of company. Hope you can get it done.
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At the rate my kids are pushing me ill be long gone by then brother.
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He has solar charging the gate battery so I could just tap that for power. I’ll play with it once I get the repeaters in, up and operating in our area.
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