If you would like to join the CVADN mesh, choose from the AREDN supported devices at https://www.arednmesh.org/content/supported-platform-matrix. Follow the instructions on that site for flashing the firmware to your node.
The first time you start the device after loading the AREDN firmware it will automatically generate a Mesh RF IP address based on the unique MAC address embedded in the device. You do not need to and should not change that address.
The CVADN node name convention for fixed nodes is “CALLSIGN-LOCATION-CHANNEL”. For example, “KQ9P-MJH-183” belongs to KQ9P, is located at Martha Jefferson Hospital, and is on channel 183. For portable nodes, replace “LOCATION” with something meaningful to you. “KQ9P-P02-183” is one of my portable nodes. The name you choose must be unique on the CVADN network.
On the “Basic Setup” page (select the information for the appropriate band for your node):
5.8 GHz: Enter “CVADN” in the “SSID” field; select “183 (5915)” for the “Channel” field; and select “20 MHz” for the “Channel Width” field.
2.4 GHz: Enter “CVADN” in the “SSID” field; select “-1 (2402)” for the “Channel” field; and select “10 MHz” for the “Channel Width” field.
Set your node to full transmit power unless you have reason to do otherwise. Nodes on the CVADN network should be configured for “AUTO” (“0”) for “Distance to FARTHEST Neighbor”.
For the LAN configuration, I recommend you stick with the default “5 host Direct”. “Direct” addressing will cause devices you attach to the LAN side of your node to appear as aliases on the mesh network. This makes it easier to offer a service from your node that will be consumed by the other network users.
Leave the “WAN” settings at their default values. Check the box “Prevent LAN devices from accessing WAN”. Leave all the settings on the other tabs at their defaults.
You’ll end up with something like this:
Take your node somewhere with line-of-sight to one of the backbone nodes and it should automatically join the CVADN mesh network. A device such as a laptop can be connected to the node with an Ethernet cable and will receive an IP address assignment automatically. You can also connect an Ethernet hub or a standard consumer WiFi access point to support multiple attached devices.