Heltec V4 Zynode

Summary

If you are like me you have a few… or 10… of these empties laying around, and what better way to use them than to stuff a Meshtastic/Meshcore node inside.

This is a snug, removable insert that fits inside a standard US market ZYN can and houses a screenless Heltec V4 along with a 600mAh battery tucked underneath. Honestly kinda ridiculous but I dig it.

Features

• Uses a US market ZYN can as the enclosure (Diameter: 2.75 inches; Height: 0.78 inches)

• Compact all-in-one node build

• Removable insert (no glue required)

• Fits Heltec V4 (screenless) + battery

• Dual antenna options:

  • Internal micro antenna (stealth mode)

  • External SMA (range mode)

• Designed for quick builds and easy swaps

Hardware / BOM

• Heltec V4 (screenless)

• ~600mAh LiPo battery https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00M6LKAQA

• Micro LoRa antenna (or SMA + pigtail) 

• ZYN can

Optional:

• SMA extension cable

• 1/4" drill bit (for external antenna mod)

Design Notes

• The Heltec V4 is installed upside down

  • This puts the battery + GPS connectors facing upward

  • Allows the battery to sit cleanly underneath the board

• Bluetooth antenna runs along the curved inner wall

• Insert is a tight friction fit inside the can

• Everything is designed to stay compact and clean without fasteners

• Remove insert to charge
  -Battery lasts about a day, no GPS, conservative use. 

Antenna Options

Option 1 – Internal antenna:
Use the included small internal antenna for a completely hidden build.

Option 2 – External SMA :
Drill a 1/4" hole in the side of the can halfway up and install an SMA pigtail like shown in the photos. The insert will slide down over the SMA hex and lock it into place.

Print Settings

• Material: PETG (used) or PLA

• Layer height: 0.20mm

• Infill: 20%

• Supports: None

• Orientation: Print as provided

Assembly

1. Print the insert

2. Place battery on bottom of insert sled

3. Install the Heltec V4 upside down so battery plugs face up

4. Route Bluetooth antenna along the curved wall

5. Install LoRa antenna (internal or SMA)

6. Drop insert into ZYN can

7. Snap lid on

8. Discreet addiction in another form

Compatibility

• Designed for Heltec V4 (screenless)

• Fits standard US ZYN cans

Why This Exists

Because:

• ZYN cans are everywhere

• Meshtastic nodes should be everywhere

• Combining the two just made sense

• This node has zero physical interaction, pocket it and interact via mobile apps.