¶ Heltec Automation Heltec V3 - Overview
The Heltec Automation Heltec V3 is a compact, powerful IoT development board designed to offer LoRa communication capability with various enhancements. It is ideal for integration into Meshtastic networks, enabling long-range communication between users across vast areas.
¶ Key Specifications
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| CPU | ESP32 dual-core LX6 microprocessor (240 MHz) |
| Wireless Connectivity | LoRa (SX1262) + Bluetooth + WiFi |
| Frequency | 433 MHz / 868 MHz / 915 MHz LoRa bands |
| Lora Range | Up to 10+ km (depending on environment/setup) |
| Display | 0.96-inch OLED, 128x64 resolution |
| Flash Memory | 8 MB (supports firmware and storage) |
| Power Supply | 5V via USB Type-C or LiPo battery (2.9V–3.7V) |
| Battery Charger | Built-in LiPo battery charger (1A max) |
| GPIO | 21 GPIO pins for sensors, modules |
| Weight | Approx. 10 g |
| Dimensions | 52 x 32 x 11 mm |
¶ Notes
Pros:
Integrated OLED Display:
The 0.96-inch OLED display is a significant feature, offering real-time visibility into signal strength, messages, and device status without needing external apps or hardware.
Comparison: Many other Meshtastic devices do not include a built-in display, requiring additional equipment or apps to see node information.
Compact Size & Lightweight:
Small dimensions (52 x 32 x 11 mm) and lightweight (10 g), making it suitable for portable or space-constrained installations.
Comparison: Other devices like the T-Beam are larger and bulkier due to integrated GPS and other modules.
Affordable Price:
Generally priced lower compared to premium alternatives with similar specifications, making it a cost-effective solution for many users.
Comparison: Other options like the RAK Wireless WisBlock modules may offer similar capabilities at a higher price point.
Cons
- No Built-in GPS
- Very high power usage (when compared to other devices)
- Cannot have device on wifi network & use BT for client at same time.
The Heltec V3 is a solid choice for users seeking an affordable, compact, and display-integrated device for Meshtastic networks. Its primary limitations include the lack of built-in GPS and fewer GPIO pins, but it excels in portability and ease of use, making it suitable for many IoT applications for Mesh networks. It excels as a stand-alone device with a permanent power source and a wifi connection (if one uses MQTT). Also in a similar role, with its fast processor it's quite well adapted to function as a serial client for those who like Homelabs.