Block, Inc. has launched Proto Rig, a modular bitcoin mining system, and Proto Fleet, a fleet management software platform. These innovations aim to decentralize mining hardware, boost operational efficiency, and enhance Bitcoin network resiliency. Proto Rigs are already deployed in mining operations at Core Scientific. The new hardware addresses inefficiencies in bitcoin mining, transitioning from single-use machines to a modular design that extends asset life and reduces upgrade costs. In-place repairs promise to significantly cut downtime, and Proto Rig offers greater power efficiency compared to traditional setups.
"Mining hardware hasn't really changed in years," said Thomas Templeton, Hardware Lead at Block. "Machines break often, are hard to repair, expensive and time-consuming to upgrade, and don't make the most efficient use of power or space. With Rig, we set out to change all of that-and contribute to hardware decentralization in the process."
Proto Rig aims to directly address these challenges by introducing a durable, modular design that transforms a historically disposable 3-5 year asset into a 10-year infrastructure investment.
Operators can swap out individual hashboards instead of replacing entire units, cutting upgrade costs by 15-20% per cycle.
Tool-free, in-place repairs allow fixes to be completed in seconds rather than hours or days, significantly reducing downtime.
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