I have used previously paired GTM’s as relay’s before and it is fantastic to be able to message or ping them to efficiently determine any holes in the mesh network. The only problem I have is they consume roughly twice the power in “pairing mode” as I call it. “pairing mode” = white light continuously flashing with the paired device either not on or not in range. I’ve also have several that I’ve soldered in connections for replaceable batteries. It all comes down to power consumption in a solar setting.
If the GTM would just reliably auto power on I would take that over any other feature request! These little 1 watt radios can do wonders when they are working!
Check out the post How to make a unit stay on?! - #70 by rogeroverout for some good stuff on what folks have been up to.