BlockchainIntermediate#Mining#Hardware
ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit)
A
Definition
Specialized computer hardware designed exclusively for mining cryptocurrencies using specific algorithms like SHA-256.
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Concept Diagram
Key Takeaways
1
ASICs are specialized hardware chips designed for a single purpose like Bitcoin mining
2
They are orders of magnitude more efficient than GPUs or CPUs for their specific task
3
ASIC resistance in some cryptocurrencies aims to keep mining decentralized and accessible
4
Bitmain and MicroBT dominate the Bitcoin ASIC market with machines like the Antminer S21
Practical Example
An Antminer S21 ASIC produces 200 TH/s at 17.5 joules per terahash — while a top GPU produces only 0.1 TH/s. This 2,000x efficiency advantage is why Bitcoin mining is dominated by ASICs, not GPUs.
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Related Terms
Blockchain
Consensus MechanismA fault-tolerant process used in blockchain systems to achieve the necessary agreement on a single data value or network state.
Blockchain
MiningThe process of verifying complex mathematical problems to secure a blockchain network and earn newly issued tokens.
Blockchain
NodeA computer that participates in a blockchain network by storing, validating, and broadcasting transaction data.
Blockchain
Proof of Work (PoW)A consensus algorithm that requires validators to solve intensive computational puzzles to secure the network.
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