Around Mena
A closer look at where radio signals may be stronger or weaker in and around town.
Network & coverage
Where might Ouachita Link work?
These maps give you an idea of where Ouachita Link radio signals may reach around Mena and the surrounding mountains. They are estimates, not guarantees.
How does this work?
Messages can travel over the hills.
Ouachita Link uses small radios to send messages without relying on cell towers. Some radios help pass messages along, allowing the network to reach farther.
Mountains and valleys can block or weaken radio signals, which is why coverage looks different from place to place.
Coverage estimates
Where might Ouachita Link work?
Explore the closer view around Mena, then zoom out to see the surrounding Ouachita Mountains.
Local view
Across the Ouachitas
A wider look at how the mountains and valleys affect where radio signals may travel.
What do the colors mean?
- GREEN — Better chance of coverage
Green areas are where the signal is predicted to be stronger. Your radio has a better chance of working here.
- YELLOW — Coverage may be possible
Yellow areas may still have a usable signal, but results can vary.
- RED — Coverage is less certain
Red areas have weaker predicted signals. Communication might still work under favorable conditions, but do not count on it.
A helpful estimate, not a promise.
These maps show what radio coverage might look like under favorable conditions. In the real world, trees, buildings, hills, antenna placement, and other obstacles can make a difference. Even in a green area, your results may vary.
Sometimes moving outside, finding higher ground, or placing your radio near a window can improve reception.
No color does not necessarily mean no signal.
Areas without shading are not confirmed to have coverage. Actual results may differ.
Coverage patterns can offer clues about where a network radio is located. Please respect the privacy of the people who host equipment.
For the technically curious
Predicted signal strength
The maps display predicted received signal power in dBm, over a shown range of about −90 dBm to −80 dBm. A value of −80 dBm is stronger than −90 dBm; a 10 dB difference represents ten times the received power.
The colors describe relative signal levels within the maps' displayed range. They are not thresholds for successful MeshCore communication, and radio receivers may decode signals weaker than the displayed range.
Signal strength and successful communication
Received power alone does not determine whether a LoRa message can be decoded. Receiver sensitivity, background noise, signal-to-noise ratio, spreading factor, bandwidth, antenna characteristics, and real terrain or obstructions all matter.
Two-way paths and the wider network
A predicted signal reaching a companion does not prove that the companion can transmit successfully back to the network. Two-way communication depends on the equipment and path in both directions. Hearing one repeater also does not guarantee a path to every other network node.
Model assumptions
The maps do not explain exactly how the estimates were calculated. Treat them as general planning illustrations; terrain and local conditions can change actual results.
Help the network reach farther
Could your place help connect more neighbors?
Radio signals can travel farther when radios have a clearer path between them. A hillside home, rooftop, barn, or other elevated building may be worth discussing with the community.
Potentially useful sites
- Elevated homes and hillside properties
- Rooftops, towers, or buildings with broad visibility
- Locations that can support a properly installed antenna
- Sites with dependable power or a practical solar setup
What hosting involves
Repeater hosting is a shared infrastructure commitment. The host and volunteers can talk through equipment, mounting, weather protection, power, access, maintenance, and any local rules before making a plan.
For volunteer-built repeaters, the RAK4631 WisBlock is one supported module platform. It is a build component, so a complete installation also needs an enclosure, antenna, power, and suitable mounting. See the MeshCore RAK4631 firmware details ↗.
Safe, maintainable installation
Use suitable outdoor-rated equipment, secure mounting, and appropriate lightning and electrical protection. Plan access and ongoing maintenance with the site owner and experienced volunteers before installing anything.
Coverage is site-specific. A potential site needs to be assessed in context. We do not promise a particular range or service area.