Block, Inc. has introduced the Proto Rig, a modular bitcoin mining system, alongside Proto Fleet, a free and open-source fleet management software, signaling a new approach to bitcoin mining infrastructure.
Proto Rig redefines mining hardware
The Proto Rig departs from the traditional disposable mining hardware model, offering a durable and upgradeable solution designed to function as long-term infrastructure.
Its modularity enables operators to replace individual hashboards rather than entire units, transforming typical 3-5 year assets into machines expected to last a decade.
This shift can reduce costs by 15-20% per upgrade cycle and dramatically cut repair times from days to seconds due to tool-free maintenance.
Thomas Templeton, Hardware Lead at Block, emphasized the innovation, stating:
“Mining hardware hasn’t really changed in years. 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.”
The Proto Rig also provides 1.5 times the power density per rack foot compared to legacy systems and is compatible with both modern and existing mining infrastructure.
Proto Fleet delivers open-source management
Alongside Proto Rig, Block launched Proto Fleet, an open-source software platform that integrates power scaling, diagnostics, monitoring, and maintenance tools.
This unified approach streamlines operations for miners of all sizes, increases miner uptime, and reduces troubleshooting time.
The software is available at no cost, advancing Block’s goal of decentralizing mining operations.
Expanding commitment to bitcoin
These launches follow Block’s previous sale of mining chips to Core Scientific and round out its broader bitcoin-focused offerings across Square, Cash App, Bitkey, and Spiral.
The company aims to make bitcoin mining more accessible and resilient to a wider range of operators.
Related mining context
The introduction of more efficient and upgradeable hardware comes as miners face pressure from tighter margins and competition.
For insight into miner profitability, see the bitcoin mining profitablity chart, and for broader network trends, review the bitcoin historical hashrate chart.
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