In the last diary entry, we focused on building a very simple mesh network with broadcast and unicast capabilities. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3DN4L_vdwA4
In this entry, I experiment with range and try and broadcast data across 1.2km of the bitcoin mesh network.
The eventual goal is to be abl...
Here's a summary of the cryptocurrency podcast transcript, "BTCIOT - Bitcoin Mesh Diary, Part 2," broken down into the requested sections.
1. Narrative Summary
This episode documents an experiment building a Bitcoin mesh network along a coastal village. The host placed six ESP32 microcontrollers along a railing, intending to create a network capable of broadcasting Bitcoin transaction data over a distance of approximately 1.2 kilometers. The initial goal was to send a Lightning invoice through the mesh network and receive it on a laptop. While the initial setup showed promise with most ESP32s successfully relaying data, one node was blocked by a van, hindering the signal. The host then successfully transmitted a Lightning invoice after repositioning one of the ESP32s. The host discusses future plans to expand the network, improve signal strength with external antennas, explore power solutions (potentially integrating with light bulbs), and consider a wider, grid-like mesh network configuration. They also mention an upcoming Lightning hackathon in Munich and encourage viewers to attend.
2. Main Topics Discussed
- Mesh Network Setup: Building and testing a basic mesh network using ESP32 microcontrollers.
- Range and Distance: Experimenting with the range and distance capabilities of the network.
- Bitcoin Transaction Data Broadcasting: The goal of broadcasting Bitcoin transaction data, specifically Lightning invoices, through the mesh network.
- Signal Obstruction: Identifying and troubleshooting signal blockage issues, particularly due to a van.
- Future Development: Plans for expanding the network, improving signal strength (external antennas), power solutions (light bulb integration), and a wider grid-like network.
- Lightning Network: Demonstrating the transmission of a Lightning invoice through the mesh.
- Community Engagement: Promoting the Munich Lightning Hackdown and Raspberry Blitz project.
3. Key Quotes
- "The idea is to build just a a simple mesh network and then see how far I can send some data through it."
- "So I actually placed the ESP 32s on the along this railing here. It's runs all the way along this coastline and it doesn't look like much but like there is a kilometer there trust me."
- "Using these ESP 32s in these little bags. I was able to send a Bitcoin transaction data, just an invoice through my mesh network which is pretty cool."
4. People Mentioned
- Host: (Name not explicitly stated, but the speaker throughout the podcast)
- Attendees of Munich Lightning Hackdown: Mentioned as potential collaborators and participants.
- Individuals with ESP32s: The host mentions having "a whole bunch of mates" who could potentially host ESP32s on their property.
5. Bitcoin Price
- The Bitcoin price is not mentioned in this podcast.