ChatterBox Mesh Node Firmware

Looking for T-Deck Firmware?
tdeck firmware download
Where are you located?
 If you are in the USA, choose the USA version. Otherwise, choose the Non-USA version. Use the same slection for all of your devices! Node: 1.7.7 (04/03/2025)
Comm: 1.7.7 (04/03/2025)

Note: The ChatterBox mesh node firmware is a licensed product, but the node firmware is currently free for download.

By downloading this firmware, you are agreeing to the terms, agreeing to abide by all laws and regulations while using this firmware, and agreeing to hold harmless the developer, Altware Development LLC. Altware Development LLC is not responsible for any data loss or other issues that might arise with with your device before, during, or after flashing. Unless you agree to those terms, don't use this tool or download our firmware.

1. Recommended (not required) - For all but Heltec, SD cards may be used if you choose. SD cards must be compatible (not all are).
2. Identify Your Node Device Below
If you have any questions, consult the device seller or builder.
3. Select Node Firmware Below
After connecting your device and putting it in "boot mode", select it from the list below.
    Private Cluster Mesh Nodes
    Full-featured secure mesh nodes within a private cluster. This is also the firmware for proximity / relay nodes.

    • Open Channel / Anon Mesh Nodes
    Broadcast-only/read-only nodes OR open channel nodes. These do not support remote commands.
Alternative Instructions: If you know what you are doing and want to install mesh node firmware using a different install tool, you may download the pre-built binaries here (USA):

GPS Node E-Paper Mini Node Solar Node Heltec E290 Node Anon GPS Node E-Paper Anon Mini Node Anon Mini Node Heltec E290 Anon Node
Basic Usage
Using a Communicator
Basic operation of a ChatterBox communicator
Message Types
How ChatterBox treats direct messages vs broadcasts
Private Clusters vs Channels
Your devices can exist within private clusters and/or they can utilize open (but secure) channels
ChatterBox Remote Commands
ChatterBox supports sending remote commands to other on-cluster devices
Setting Up and Using Channels
How to set up and use a new or existing channel on communicators and nodes
Using Location
How GNSS is integrated with ChatterBox and how you can make use of it
Time Synchronization
How to keep proper time on your devices. This is important!
Nodes
Using a GPS Node
Basic operation of a ChatterBox GPS node (T-Beam Supreme)
Utilizing a Node
How to position and use a node for delivery assistance, packet caching, location caching, and more
Utilizing Multiple Nodes
Using multiple nodes presents more opportunities for assuring delivery
How Messages are Delivered

Onboarding a Device

Creating a Private Cluster

Configuring a Secure / Open Channel

1. If using an SD card (recommended), ensure you have a compatible card installed
These devices ARE VERY PICKY about SD cards. Consider buying a new SD card from the known compatible list. SD cards are cheap, and your time is not. The cards on that list typically work right out of the box. However, if your device seems to have trouble using the SD card (gets stuck mounting/decrypting), reformat the card using these instructions.

2. Open a supported browser
You must be using a "standard" browser, such as Chrome, etc.

3. Plug your device into a USB connection
IMPORTANT: You must be using a good quality data transmission cable, not just a power cable. I use these.

4. Put the device in "boot mode"
GPS NodeE-Paper Mini Node
  1. Press and hold boot button
  2. Press and release reset button
  3. Release the boot button
  4. Device is now in boot mode
  1. Power off the device
  2. Press and hold the boot button (back of device, press with paper clip/etc)
  3. Power on the device
  4. Release the boot button
  5. Device is now in boot mode

5. Use the Flashing Tool to execute the flash
When prompted, select the USB port that is connected to your device. The firmware flashing tool should properly recognize the device, and you should be able to click through the prompts to complete the install. If it fails or of your device doesn't come back on properly after the flashing, it doesn't mean your device is destroyed, just repeat the steps carefully again from start to finish, and make sure you select the proper device.

For instance, if you have a T-Beam Supreme and you select to install the Heltec firmware, the flashing tool will happily install the wrong firmware, and then your device won't boot. It's no problem, just repeat the instructions with the correct options.

6. Restart the device
The flashing tool doesn't normally restart the devices properly, so wait for the flasher to say it's done, then disconnect your device, then power it off and back on.
ChatterBox Secure Off-Grid Texting — Installer powered by ESP Web Tools.
ChatterBox communicators and nodes can be assembled using mostly (or all) components you can purchase from Amazon, Ali Express, and other sources.

Custom Communicator
Based on T-Deck. Communicate messages and location securely.
Assembly Instructions
User Guide
Printable Enclosure
GPS Node
Fully functional node with GPS based on T-Beam Supreme
Assembly Instructions
User Guide
Printable Enclosure
E-Paper Mini Node
Non-GPS, low power node with E-Paper display. Based on T3S3 E-Paper.
Assembly Instructions
User Guide
Printable Enclosure
Proximity/Relay GPS Node
GPS node with added mmwave proximity senser and (optionally) relay/switch function
Assembly Instructions
Printable Enclosure
GPS Relay Node
GPS node with relay (switch) functionality.
Assembly Instructions
Printable Enclosure
Solar Node
Solar powered node (non-GPS). Based on T3S3.
User Guide
Assembly Instructions
Proximity/Relay Paper Node
T3S3 paper node with added mmwave proximity senser and (optionally) relay/switch function
Assembly Instructions
Printable Enclosure
Heltec Vision e290 Paper Node
Larger paper screen, but you'll need to download an enclosure elsewhere.
Assembly Instructions
Mini Node
Non-GPS, low power node. Based on T3S3.
User Guide
Assembly Instructions
Printable Enclosure