How To Add Motion Sensor To DIY ESP32 / Heltec Lora V3 Meshtastic Node

In this guide, we'll walk you through adding a motion sensor to your existing ESP32 Lora Meshtastic Node. This guide will work also for any Heltec Lora V3 boards but slight changes might be required.

Hardware

Now let's get started with the hardware you need:

• 1x HC-SR501 Motion Sensor - AliExpress Price: 0.66 USD
• 3canx Female to Female Pin Connector AliExpress Price: 0.42USD

Assembly

The hardware is all ready and set now to the wiring. For this, we will follow the following Schematics.

HC-SR501 Motion Sensor - DIY ESP32 / Heltec Lora Meshtastic Node

• +Power -> VIN (5V…20V)
• HIGH/LOW Output-> PIN 13 or any empty pin
• GND -> GND

Once all the wiring is completed. Double-check your connections and ensure they match the suggested layout before proceeding to the next steps.

Meshtastic Settings

On the Sensor Device

1. Open Meshtastic App (IOS for this guide)
2. Go to the Settings page
3. In the module configuration section go to Detection Sensor
4. Toggle the switch to enable Enable
5. Give the sensor a name
6. Set GPIO PIN to monitor to PIN 13
7. Lastly, press Save

On the Client Device

1. Open Meshtastic App (IOS for this guide)
2. Go to the Settings page
3. In the module configuration section go to Detection Sensor
4. Toggle the switch to enable Enable
5. Right under the toggle select Client this time.
6. Lastly, press Save

Once this is set up, you'll receive messages on the public channel whenever the sensor is triggered. It's worth noting that if your sensor is expected to be triggered frequently, consider setting a limit in the settings. Saturating the network could potentially lead to issues with sending and receiving data. Check out or Channel Utilization post for more information

Understanding and Optimizing Channel Utilization in Meshtastic Devices

Channel utilization is the key to efficient communication. Whether you’re engaged in long-range communication, participating in a Helium network, or using other compatible devices like LoRaWAN, monitoring and optimizing channel utilization is crucial for a healthy network.

Adrelien Blog - Every Pulse CountAdrelien

In conclusion, this comprehensive guide ensures seamless integration of a motion sensor into your ESP32 Lora or Heltec Lora v3 Meshtastic Node, extending its capabilities. The instructions provided are for ESP32, yet you can also apply to Heltec Lora V3 boards with minor adjustments. Remember to be mindful of network usage to optimize data transmission. This guide not only enhances your device with a motion sensor but also opens up possibilities for incorporating other sensors. Explore the potential of your Meshtastic Node by experimenting with diverse sensors and configurations, broadening the scope of applications for your mesh network. Happy tinkering and discovering new horizons!