The End of 4G GPU Mining Era
In the Ethereum ecosystem, it's widely known that the Ethash algorithm generates DAG files stored in GPU memory. Each new block creates an updated DAG file containing cryptographic information from all previous blocks, causing continuous file growth.
Key points about ETH mining:
- Requires storing DAG files in GPU memory (not just CPU optimization)
- Memory-intensive algorithm maintains Ethereum's "ASIC resistance"
- GPU mining dominates ETH with smaller hashpower scale than BTC
Current situation:
- DAG files grow ~520MB annually
- Current sizes: ETH 3.59G | ETC 3.67G
- By December 2020, DAG files will reach 4G
- Over 60% of ETH's hashpower comes from 4G GPUs
Operating system impact:
- Windows 10 systems will fail first
- Linux systems may gain ~1 month extra mining time
- GPU rigs will begin failing as early as July-August 2020
GPU Upgrade Methods and Limitations
Potential temporary solutions:
- System Modification
Switching to Linux OS - Mining Software Updates
Example: P104 cards can be BIOS-upgraded from 4G to 8G via minerOS Hardware Modifications
- Replacing 512MB memory chips with 1GB versions
- Shared memory configurations between cards
Challenges with upgrades:
- Requires specialized technical skills
- Low success rates for amateur modifications
- Time-consuming preparation (PCB cleaning, etc.)
- Efficiency concerns during conversion downtime
- High component costs (~$350+ for basic materials)
The Future of Obsolete GPU Rigs
Market projections:
- ~50% of ETH hashpower may become obsolete
Secondary market destinations:
- Gaming PCs/cybercafés
- Component recycling
- Alternative coin mining
Alternative coin considerations:
- Algorithm compatibility varies by blockchain
- Massive hashpower influx (~90T) could destabilize small coins
Potential recipient coins:
- Aeternity
- BEAM
- Grin
Industry trends:
- GPU upgrade cycles slower than ASICs
- GPU manufacturers primarily assemble rather than produce chips
- Custom GPU miners gaining market share
The Rise of Custom Mining Rigs
A10 Pro highlights:
- First to implement GDDR6 memory
- Memory chips 3x faster than competitors
- Future-proof 5G-8G upgradability
- Modular design avoids unnecessary power consumption
👉 Discover professional mining solutions
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will 4G GPUs stop mining ETH?
A: Starting July-August 2020, with complete obsolescence by December when DAG reaches 4G.
Q: Can older GPUs mine other cryptocurrencies?
A: Yes, but with limitations due to algorithm differences and potential market instability from massive hashpower migration.
Q: What's the most cost-effective solution?
A: Custom rigs like A10 Pro offer better long-term value with upgradability versus standard GPU solutions.
Q: How much will GPU upgrades cost?
A: Basic memory chip replacements start around $350, excluding labor and potential downtime losses.
Q: Will ETH mining remain profitable after the transition?
A: Profitability depends on multiple factors including electricity costs, hardware efficiency, and ETH market price.