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An Inside Look at Crypto Mining
Many people think of cryptocurrency as a virtual form of money stored in a digital wallet, but the process that generates these digital coins, called mining, is a quite extensive physical operation.
The Crypto Rig
In our latest project, we managed to get 12 GPUs (graphics processing units) up and running effectively. Over a duration of 48 hours, these gave us a very stable performance. One GPU needed a slight power upgrade due to occasional crashes, but with this, we have the rig running smoothly at an average hash rate of 162 to 164 mega hashes on Raven coin. This translates into approximately 13.5 mega hashes per card, a noteworthy performance for 4GB 470s.
Power Supply and Stability
However, the process was not without its challenges. We had to cope with power supply issues. Given the demand of the GPUs, we had installed three 900-watt power supplies for the processing units and risers. Additionally, a separate 650-watt EVGA was installed for the motherboard and peripherals.
The location of the mining operations was in an unfinished basement, sharing power circuits with equipment like the HVAC, fridge, hot water heater, gaming computer, adjustable desk, and lights. Thus, we had to balance the power load tactically between a 15-amp and a 20-amp circuit, running both 110 volts.
Power Audit and Solutions
In an effort to monitor and manage our electricity consumption efficiently, we used a voltage meter to bug the entire rig. The readings we got were around 1850 watts. This realization led to the decision to engage a professional electrician. The goal was to find a way to run an electrical cable from the garage to the basement, hence expanding the power supply reach.
Future Expansion Plans
In the short term, the role of the electrician is to ensure a dedicated and stable power supply for the 12-GPU rig. This constraint is what prevented us from extending beyond 12 GPUs, despite our rig having the capacity to accommodate up to 19 GPUs.
The long-term plan is to not only expand the GPU capacity as the power situation improves, but also to build an exclusive space for an advanced crypto mining set-up, complete with dedicated AC and exhaust ducts. In effect, we’re looking towards constructing a 4.5ft x 10ft dedicated mining room complete with a studio for streaming.
Continuous Mining Operations
In the meantime, we’re running a 12 GPU mining rig that is stable and delivering on the expected performance. A noteworthy mention here would be the utility of the offerings from Misfit Mining. The aesthetic and functional benefits of their products enabled us to order more for our future expansions.
Extended Mining Capabilities
Damage to some cards, however, is a visible obstacle to our plans. But we are looking for solutions, and have sent one for repair to Canada. If the repair goes well, we’ll have the others fixed as well. Once repaired, these cards will contribute to our GPU setup, taking us closer to our goal of 19 GPUs.
Keeping Up with the Mining Community
Keeping the community informed and updated about the progress of our mining operation is a key priority. Our analysis of the 12 GPU rig performance over a month will provide insights on what kind of yield one can expect from a similar set-up. Following the money trail – what does a 12 GPU mining rig running 12 470s deliver for Raven coin – will be an engaging exercise.
Wrapping Up
Overall, the endeavour to set up, run, and manage a mining rig is not a simple one. It requires planning, technical expertise, and a lot of power supply management! But the process and experience bring a lot of learning and insight into the world of cryptocurrency and the art of mining.
Sharing this journey as it develops enables us to engage with the broader community of hobbyist miners. Empowering them with knowledge, insights and tips to build and manage their own mining operations is a key objective. So stay tuned, subscribe, share your thoughts, and remember – happy mining!
How many watts does your mining rig use up? or should I say "rigs" lol.
run another circuit just for your mining needs. I would add another 30 amp breaker on your panel and run 10 AWG. 10 awg can handle up to 30 amps. so @ 110VAC x 30 amps = 3300 watts. so you have a budget of 3,300 watts on that 30 amp circuit. your 20 amp circuit is only good up to 2200 watts make sure you use the right size wire or you could risk burning your house down.
What is the name of your vesa mount? I have the same rack bought in a hardware store, but I don't know what material to mount the gpus like that.
Go with 30 amp 220/240
Mannnn I’m so jealous! I only got 2 3070 1 zotac 1 asus tuf. I need to get more but some asking outrageous prices keep it up bud. I’ll catch up soon hahaha
Do you have to bios mod the 470 or are they good to go stock?
pls update on how he repaierd those?
i have the sam problem and how much did it cost
Freaking sweet PC Monitor setup. What vesa mount is that? I'd love to replicate that little configuration.
30 amp 240v circuit. 240v gives you double the wattage so it's the equivalent of getting basically 60 amps on 120v. Psus are also more efficient on 240v. Oh and all of that on 10 gauge romex.
How much does it cost for the Electrician to come in?
kids stuff….. thats your pink gym equipment 🤣🤣
i dont run into power problems cos i cant get gpus lol
Awesome rig setup! I'm curious as to why you went with 4gb 570's, aren't those going to be obsolete soon due to the limited VRAM?
If you are having an electrician come in to discuss your power issues I would suggest having a 30 amp 240v installed and run to your basement. 240v and PDU will give you the additional power you will need to continue to build out.
Rig is looking better and better! 🙂 With the power I suspect you will be mining for some time so I'd ask the electrician about running some 10/3 to a new 30amp 2 pole breaker in your panel with a L6-30R receptacle in your basement. Then go with a PDU to plug all the PSU's into using C13 to C14 14AWG cables. If you envision adding a few more rigs I'd ask about just putting a subpanel similar to what people use in detached garages in your mining room. Of course soon maybe you will be checking with the electric company about about a new 200Amp single phase or 3 phase service. 😉 Welcome to the addictive world of mining! 😀
FIRST-PERSON