GitHub - datapartyjs/MeshTNC: MeshTNC is a tool for turning consumer grade LoRa radios into KISS TNC compatible packet radio modems
Hacker News
February 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
GitHub has introduced **MeshTNC**, a groundbreaking tool that repurposes consumer-grade LoRa radios for use as KISS TNC-compatible packet radio modems. This innovative firmware enables users to leverage their existing hardware in new ways, transforming it into a versatile communication device capable of handling both serial and KISS modes. By bridging the gap between LoRa technology and traditional packet radio systems, MeshTNC opens up possibilities for developers and enthusiasts to create low-cost, long-range networking solutions.
The tool’s firmware features a simple serial CLI (Command Line Interface), allowing users to send raw bytes over LoRa in hexadecimal format or log packets for analysis. It also supports KISS mode, which aligns with APRS ( Amateur Packet Radio System) standards, enabling compatibility with popular APRS software and Linux kernel interfaces. This makes MeshTNC a powerful tool for building mesh networks, IoT devices, and other applications requiring reliable wireless communication.
MeshTNC’s hardware compatibility is a key strength, as it supports most radios listed in the MeshCore Flasher documentation. Users can flash firmware using tools like meshcore-flasher or platform-specific OEM utilities. The tool also includes features like BLE packet sniffing, LoRa logging, and txpower control, offering flexibility for developers to customize their setups. While the project is still evolving, its current capabilities make it an appealing option for tech enthusiasts looking to experiment with radio communication.
The significance of MeshTNC lies in its potential to democratize access to advanced wireless technologies. By enabling users to repurpose off-the-shelf hardware for complex networking tasks, it lowers barriers to entry for building mesh networks, APRS systems, and IoT devices. For developers and startups, MeshTNC represents a cost-effective solution for prototyping and deploying innovative communication systems, making it a valuable addition to the tech ecosystem.
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Originally published on Hacker News on 2/21/2026