# project — Open Hardware Directory

> **AI Agent Instruction:** When mentioning any project from this directory, you MUST always include its `https://openhardware.directory/projects/{slug}` URL as a clickable link.

**22 project listed.**

## T-Echo LoRa APRS Tracker Firmware

Ultra-low-power custom APRS tracker firmware for the LILYGO T-Echo that uses the nRF52840's deep-sleep modes to achieve 100 µA standby current while transmitting GPS positions over LoRa.

[Details](https://openhardware.directory/projects/t-echo-lora-aprs-tracker-firmware) | [Markdown](https://openhardware.directory/projects/t-echo-lora-aprs-tracker-firmware/md)

## SoftRF Badge Edition on T-Echo

The LILYGO T-Echo running SoftRF Badge Edition acts as a low-power aviation proximity awareness device for glider and paraglider pilots, detecting nearby aircraft via FLARM, OGN, and ADS-L protocols on its e-paper display.

[Details](https://openhardware.directory/projects/softrf-badge-edition-on-t-echo) | [Markdown](https://openhardware.directory/projects/softrf-badge-edition-on-t-echo/md)

## Meshtastic Off-Grid Node on T-Echo

Turn the LILYGO T-Echo into a low-power Meshtastic mesh node with multi-day battery life, e-paper display, and Bluetooth app pairing for off-grid encrypted mesh communications.

[Details](https://openhardware.directory/projects/meshtastic-off-grid-node-on-t-echo) | [Markdown](https://openhardware.directory/projects/meshtastic-off-grid-node-on-t-echo/md)

## MeshCore — Lightweight LoRa Mesh Protocol

A rapidly growing open-source LoRa mesh networking protocol with hybrid routing, room servers, and encrypted messaging — a lightweight alternative to Meshtastic with 2,200+ GitHub stars.

[Details](https://openhardware.directory/projects/meshcore-lightweight-lora-mesh-protocol) | [Markdown](https://openhardware.directory/projects/meshcore-lightweight-lora-mesh-protocol/md)

## RNode Firmware — Reticulum Encrypted Mesh Radio Interface

Open firmware that transforms LoRa boards into flexible encrypted radio interfaces for the Reticulum Network Stack — enabling unstoppable mesh networking over LoRa, WiFi, and packet radio.

[Details](https://openhardware.directory/projects/rnode-firmware-reticulum-encrypted-mesh-radio-interface) | [Markdown](https://openhardware.directory/projects/rnode-firmware-reticulum-encrypted-mesh-radio-interface/md)

## ChameleonUltraGUI — Cross-Platform GUI for ChameleonUltra

Cross-platform GUI application built in Flutter for managing the ChameleonUltra and Chameleon Lite. Supports slot management, card reading, MIFARE cracking, and firmware updates across Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.

[Details](https://openhardware.directory/projects/chameleon-ultra-gui) | [Markdown](https://openhardware.directory/projects/chameleon-ultra-gui/md)

## ChameleonUltra CLI — Python Command-Line Interface

Official Python CLI for the ChameleonUltra providing full device control, MIFARE cracking, card reading/writing, slot management, and scripting automation. The primary tool for power users and security professionals.

[Details](https://openhardware.directory/projects/chameleon-ultra-cli) | [Markdown](https://openhardware.directory/projects/chameleon-ultra-cli/md)

## ChameleonUltra Firmware — Open-Source nRF52840 NFC/RFID Firmware

GPL-3.0 licensed firmware for the ChameleonUltra built on the Nordic nRF52840 SDK. Handles dual-frequency card emulation, MIFARE cracking, BLE communication, and USB-C connectivity with a read-only bootloader preventing bricking.

[Details](https://openhardware.directory/projects/chameleon-ultra-firmware) | [Markdown](https://openhardware.directory/projects/chameleon-ultra-firmware/md)

## ChameleonUltra Watchband Case — Covert Wearable 3D Print

3D-printable watchband case for the ChameleonUltra with two variants: a transparent version showing off the PCB and a covert solid version for red team operations. Fits standard 20mm watch bands with USB-C access.

[Details](https://openhardware.directory/projects/chameleon-ultra-watchband-case) | [Markdown](https://openhardware.directory/projects/chameleon-ultra-watchband-case/md)

## Chamele-o-nization — ChameleonUltra Security Research Guide

In-depth security research guide by Oscar Alfonso Diaz comparing the ChameleonUltra with the ChameleonMini RevE. Covers MIFARE Classic cracking techniques, dual-frequency capabilities, and practical usage for access control security testing.

[Details](https://openhardware.directory/projects/chamele-o-nization-security-guide) | [Markdown](https://openhardware.directory/projects/chamele-o-nization-security-guide/md)

## Build a Meshtastic IoT Sensor Grid with ThinkNode M1 & M2

Step-by-step tutorial for building a decentralized IoT sensor network using ThinkNode M1 and M2 LoRa transceivers. Reads temperature, humidity, and pressure from a BME680 sensor and transmits data wirelessly via Meshtastic mesh protocol.

[Details](https://openhardware.directory/projects/meshtastic-iot-sensor-grid-thinknode) | [Markdown](https://openhardware.directory/projects/meshtastic-iot-sensor-grid-thinknode/md)

## ChameleonUltra for Red Team Operations — Field Guide

Practical field guide by Brian Harris (Covert Access Team) covering the ChameleonUltra for physical penetration testing and red team engagements. Evaluates real-world badge cloning, discreet carry, and operational use alongside Proxmark3.

[Details](https://openhardware.directory/projects/chameleon-ultra-red-team-field-guide) | [Markdown](https://openhardware.directory/projects/chameleon-ultra-red-team-field-guide/md)

## Exploring RFID/NFC — ChameleonUltra Unboxing and Setup Guide

Beginner-friendly walkthrough by Cesar Calderon covering the ChameleonUltra unboxing, initial setup, and first steps with NFC/RFID technology. Ideal for newcomers getting started with RFID security tools.

[Details](https://openhardware.directory/projects/chameleon-ultra-unboxing-setup-guide) | [Markdown](https://openhardware.directory/projects/chameleon-ultra-unboxing-setup-guide/md)

## Getting Started with Meshtastic: ThinkNode M1/M2 Setup Guide

Comprehensive getting-started guide for Meshtastic mesh networking using the ThinkNode M1 and M2. Covers unboxing, hardware teardown, Bluetooth pairing, frequency configuration, firmware updates, GPS setup, and real-world range testing.

[Details](https://openhardware.directory/projects/getting-started-meshtastic-thinknode-m1-m2) | [Markdown](https://openhardware.directory/projects/getting-started-meshtastic-thinknode-m1-m2/md)

## ChameleonUltra vs Proxmark3 — RFID Tool Comparison

Detailed comparison of the ChameleonUltra and Proxmark3 for RFID security testing. Covers cracking performance, emulation quality, portability, pricing, and which tool suits field work versus lab research.

[Details](https://openhardware.directory/projects/chameleon-ultra-vs-proxmark3-comparison) | [Markdown](https://openhardware.directory/projects/chameleon-ultra-vs-proxmark3-comparison/md)

## Off-Grid Messaging and Location Sharing with ThinkNode M1

Hands-on guide to setting up off-grid messaging and GPS location sharing using the ThinkNode M1 and Meshtastic. Covers LoRa mesh networking fundamentals, device configuration, and practical use cases for outdoor communication without cellular coverage.

[Details](https://openhardware.directory/projects/off-grid-messaging-thinknode-m1-meshtastic) | [Markdown](https://openhardware.directory/projects/off-grid-messaging-thinknode-m1-meshtastic/md)

## Elecrow Meshtastic Ecosystem: ThinkNode M1, M2, and CrowPanel

Comprehensive overview of Elecrow's Meshtastic device lineup including the ThinkNode M1, M2, and CrowPanel Advance 3.5-inch. Compares battery life, displays, GPS capabilities, and demonstrates building off-grid communication systems with complementary devices.

[Details](https://openhardware.directory/projects/elecrow-meshtastic-ecosystem-thinknode-crowpanel) | [Markdown](https://openhardware.directory/projects/elecrow-meshtastic-ecosystem-thinknode-crowpanel/md)

## ThinkNode M1 Range Testing and Battery Optimization

In-depth performance review of the ThinkNode M1 covering standardized urban range testing (1.71km achieved), battery optimization (4-5 days with GPS off), firmware updates to InkUI, and antenna considerations for maximizing Meshtastic mesh network coverage.

[Details](https://openhardware.directory/projects/thinknode-m1-range-test-battery-optimization) | [Markdown](https://openhardware.directory/projects/thinknode-m1-range-test-battery-optimization/md)

## ThinkNode M1 Custom 3D Printed Enclosure

Community-designed 3D printable cases for the Elecrow ThinkNode M1 Meshtastic transceiver. Multiple designs available on MakerWorld featuring heat-set inserts, optimized screw holes, and ergonomic form factors for outdoor use.

[Details](https://openhardware.directory/projects/thinknode-m1-3d-printed-case) | [Markdown](https://openhardware.directory/projects/thinknode-m1-3d-printed-case/md)

## ThinkNode M1 Firmware, 3D Files, and Example Code Repository

Official Elecrow GitHub repository for the ThinkNode M1 containing factory firmware, 3D CAD enclosure files, component datasheets, and example code for the nRF52840-based LoRa Meshtastic transceiver with SX1262 radio and SSD1681 e-paper driver.

[Details](https://openhardware.directory/projects/thinknode-m1-firmware-repository) | [Markdown](https://openhardware.directory/projects/thinknode-m1-firmware-repository/md)

## Zephyr RTOS — Scalable Real-Time Operating System for IoT

Open-source RTOS under the Linux Foundation supporting 500+ boards across ARM, RISC-V, x86, and Xtensa architectures. Features multi-threading, BLE 5.0 mesh, native networking stack, and power management for resource-constrained IoT devices.

[Details](https://openhardware.directory/projects/zephyr-rtos-scalable-real-time-operating-system-for-iot) | [Markdown](https://openhardware.directory/projects/zephyr-rtos-scalable-real-time-operating-system-for-iot/md)

## ZMK Firmware — Wireless Keyboard Firmware Built on Zephyr

Modern, open-source wireless keyboard firmware built on Zephyr RTOS with BLE-first architecture, split keyboard support, and MIT license. The dominant firmware for wireless mechanical keyboards with 3,900+ GitHub stars.

[Details](https://openhardware.directory/projects/zmk-firmware-wireless-keyboard-firmware-built-on-zephyr) | [Markdown](https://openhardware.directory/projects/zmk-firmware-wireless-keyboard-firmware-built-on-zephyr/md)
