Parts List
This page lists every component needed to build a complete Sensor Net network. A minimal network consists of three nodes: one receiver, one temperature sensor, and one pressure sensor. You can add more sensor nodes to extend coverage or add redundancy.
Per-Node Components
Section titled “Per-Node Components”Every node in the network uses the same development board. You need at least three boards for a minimal network.
| Component | Quantity | Approximate Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heltec WiFi LoRa 32 V3 | 1 per node | ~$18 USD | ESP32-S3 with built-in SX1262 LoRa radio and OLED display |
Sensor Breakout Boards
Section titled “Sensor Breakout Boards”Each sensor node needs one breakout board. The receiver node does not need any external sensor.
| Component | Used By | Approximate Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| TMP102 breakout board | Temperature node | ~$5 USD | Texas Instruments 12-bit I2C temperature sensor |
| BMP280 breakout board | Pressure node | ~$4 USD | Bosch digital barometric pressure sensor |
Popular sources for these breakout boards include SparkFun, Adafruit, and various vendors on Amazon. Any generic TMP102 or BMP280 breakout with standard I2C header pins will work.
Wiring Supplies
Section titled “Wiring Supplies”To connect the sensors to the Heltec board, you need a small amount of wiring supplies.
| Component | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Breadboard (optional) | 1 per sensor node | A small 170-point mini breadboard is sufficient |
| Jumper wires (male-to-male or male-to-female) | 4 per sensor node | For VCC, GND, SDA, and SCL connections |
If you prefer a permanent installation, you can solder the connections directly instead of using a breadboard.
Minimum Network Summary
Section titled “Minimum Network Summary”For a three-node network (receiver + temperature + pressure):
| Item | Quantity | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Heltec WiFi LoRa 32 V3 | 3 | ~$54 |
| TMP102 breakout | 1 | ~$5 |
| BMP280 breakout | 1 | ~$4 |
| Jumper wires | 8 | ~$3 |
| Total | ~$66 |
Costs vary by supplier and region. The Heltec boards are the primary expense. The sensors and wiring supplies are inexpensive.
Optional Extras
Section titled “Optional Extras”These are not required but can be useful:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| USB battery bank or LiPo battery | Power sensor nodes without a laptop connection |
| 3D printed enclosure | Protect boards and sensors for outdoor deployment |
| Additional Heltec boards | Add more nodes to test mesh relay behavior |
| Additional TMP102 or BMP280 breakouts | Build multiple nodes of the same type |
Next Step
Section titled “Next Step”Once you have your parts, head to Software Prerequisites to install the tools you need on your computer.