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T-Echo get it now

Overview

T-Echo is a multi-functional LoRa communication device based on the nRF52840 chip, integrating an E-Paper screen, GPS positioning, NFC functionality, and multiple sensors. The device supports Arduino and nRF5-SDK development environments, making it an ideal platform for developing LoRa communication, IoT nodes, and low-power applications.

T-Echo is compatible with multiple open-source firmware projects, including SoftRF and Meshtastic, and can be used to build decentralized communication networks. The device features low-power design and supports various power-saving modes, making it suitable for outdoor communication, environmental monitoring, and other application scenarios.

Quick Start

Example Support

ExamplePlatformIO/ArduinonRF5-SDKDescription
T-Echo ExamplesOfficial example programs
SoftRFAircraft collision avoidance firmware
MeshtasticLoRa mesh communication firmware

Arduino IDE

  1. Download Arduino IDE
  2. Open Preferences, add https://www.adafruit.com/package_adafruit_index.json to the Board Manager URL list
  3. Open the Board Manager, wait for the index to update, select Adafruit nRF52 by Adafruit and click Install
  4. After installation is complete, select Nordic nRF52840 (PCA10056) from the board list
  5. Copy all folders in the lib directory to the Arduino library folder
  6. Open the sketch, select the correct port, then click Upload

When using USB to download firmware, double-click the reset button to enter DFU mode.

PlatformIO

  1. Install Visual Studio Code and Python
  2. Search for and install the PlatformIO IDE extension in VS Code
  3. After restarting VS Code, click FileOpen Folder → select the LilyGO-T-ECHO folder
  4. Click the at the bottom to compile, to upload

nRF5-SDK

  1. Download nRF5-SDK
  2. Use nRF5-SDK for programming, supporting advanced features like NFC

Note: NFC functionality is not supported in Adafruit_nRF52_Arduino. Use nRF5-SDK for NFC-related development.

Development Platforms

  1. Arduino IDE — Supports Adafruit nRF52
  2. PlatformIO — Cross-platform development
  3. nRF5-SDK — Nordic official SDK

Video

Key Features

  • nRF52840 ARM Cortex-M4 MCU with Bluetooth 5.0
  • SX1262 LoRa module, supports multiple frequency bands, output power −17 to 22 dBm
  • E-Paper display with ultra-low power consumption
  • GPS module for global positioning
  • NFC (Near Field Communication) support
  • Compatible with SoftRF and Meshtastic open-source firmware
  • Multiple power-saving modes, suitable for battery-powered outdoor use

Product Parameters

FeatureSpecification
MCUnRF52840 @ ARM Cortex-M4
FlashMX25R1635FZUIL0 or ZD25WQ16B (selected based on supply conditions)
Wireless (BLE)Bluetooth 5.0
LoRaSX1262, multiple frequency bands, −17 to 22 dBm
DisplayE-Paper, low power
GPSSupported
NFCSupported

Pin Diagram

For pin definitions, please refer to the utilities.h file in the repository.

Dimension Diagram

Schematic

Datasheet

Software Development

Dependent Libraries

  • arduino-lmic
  • AceButton
  • Adafruit_BME280_Library
  • Adafruit_BusIO
  • Adafruit_EPD
  • Adafruit-GFX-Library
  • Button2
  • GxEPD
  • PCF8563_Library
  • RadioLib
  • SerialFlash_ID539
  • SoftSPI
  • TinyGPSPlus

FAQ

  • Q. FLASH model varies between boards? A. FLASH will be selected as MX25R1635FZUIL0 or ZD25WQ16B based on supply conditions. Pay attention to the distinction during use.

  • Q. NFC is not working with Arduino? A. NFC functionality is not supported in Adafruit_nRF52_Arduino. Please use nRF5-SDK for NFC programming.

  • Q. How to enter DFU (download) mode? A. Double-click the reset button to enter DFU mode when using USB to download firmware.

  • Q. LoRa output power configuration? A. After setting LoRa output power, current limit configuration is required:

cpp
// Set output power to 22 dBm (range: -17 to 22 dBm)
radio.setOutputPower(22);

// Set over-current protection limit to 80 mA (range: 45–240 mA)
// Setting to 0 disables over-current protection
radio.setCurrentLimit(80);
  • Q. What open-source firmware is compatible with T-Echo? A. T-Echo supports SoftRF (aircraft collision avoidance) and Meshtastic (LoRa mesh communication).

Version History

VersionRelease DateUpdate Description
T-Echo V1.0Initial release