Compact RAK19003 Mount for Solar MPPT Modules

📄 Meshtastic Node Bracket for 150 × 100 × 70 mm IP67 Case

✅ Compatibility

• Case Fit: Specifically designed for the 150 × 100 × 70 mm IP67 enclosure from Aliexpress I recommand using as it is the go to case for outdoor applications. IP67 Waterproof Transparent Cover Enclosure Juction Box ABS Plastic Outdoor power distribution box Electronic Instrument Case - AliExpress

This type of enclosures is preferred due to its secure top and bottom lids, which protect the internal sealing from mechanical stress — especially important in outdoor setups.

• Board Compatibility: Mounting points for the RAK19003 mini base board with RAK4631 RF module and options for 3 different MPPT chargers and 2 different current sensors.

🧩 Design and Functionality

• Sensor Mounting:

  • INA219 1-channel current sensor

  • INA3221 3-channel current sensor

• Solar Charging Support: Compatible with popular low-power MPPT solar chargers:

  • Waveshare Solar Power Manager (A) (6V min)

  • DFRobot Solar Manager V1.1 (5V)
     

  • (Note: Waveshare (D) is not recommended due to current draw up to ≤30 mA and an incompatible battery holder that does not fit into the case.)

IMPORTANT UPDATE:

Since the DFSolar Manager board overheats in summer due to direct sun exposure on my roof, and because the CN3065 chip is a linear charger that dissipates excess solar power as heat, the board eventually went into thermal shutdown and stopped charging the battery, which caused the node to power off as well. I have now switched to the CN3791 MPPT solar charger, which operates more efficiently and provides better performance under strong sunlight. 

Usage with 5V
For using a 5V solar panel, it is recommended to use the 6V version of the charger module and ensure that the panel’s output is sufficient to provide a current between 1 A and 1.5 A. The module will then supply the connected 3.7 V lithium battery and the load with 4.2 V.

🔧 Mounting Details

• Battery Compartment: Space beneath the bracket accommodates up to 3× 18650 Li-ion cells (following the approach by @Jimmy_67261, check out his collection).

🛠 Recommended Print Settings

• PETG due to temperature stability

• 30% infill w support

🌦 Use Cases

• Outdoor Meshtastic node with solar power supply.

• Weatherproof installation with IP67 protection.

• Reliable performance even in poor weather, powered by a suitable solar panel and 3× 18650 batteries.

• Works best with a 67° solar panel mount, designed for optimal winter performance (+15° langitude offset).

📋 Materials List for interior

• RAK19003 Mini Base Board + RAK4631 RF module + antenna

• Suitable solar charge controller (check required voltages first)

• cables to connect

• 150 × 100 × 70 mm IP67 case

• Batteries as required

Optional:

• INA219 or INA3221 current sensor (if required)

Note: If you choose the DFRobot Solar Manager V1.1, make sure to add a heat sink to the module to ensure stable operation under continuous sunlight.

🔗 Related Models in My Collection

• 67° Solar Panel Mount for Winter Use:
  Solar mount with 67° inclination for winter sun (suitable for 11 mm photo threaded screw) | Printables.com

• Check out my other Meshtastic-related designs on my profile as well as the pole mount created by Rinodods.

Technical Data Reference

• Waveshare:
  Solar Power Manager, Solar Power Management Module, for 6V~24V Solar Panel

• DFRobot:
  Solar Power Manager 5V - DFRobot

• Texas Instruments current sensors

  • NA219 data sheet, product information and support | TI.com

  • INA3221 data sheet, product information and support | TI.com

• RAKwireless: 

RAK19003: WisBlock Mini Base Board - Carrier for WisBlock Core MCU module

•  CN3791 MPPT Solar Akku Laderegler Lithium Lion Charger Modul 6V 9V 12V 2A 4.2V

Additional Info

See the attached reference pictures for hardware placement and internal layout — more to follow soon. 

If you're interested in remixing or customizing the bracket, feel free to reach out — I’m happy to share the 3MF or Fusion 360 files upon request.