What Is the NerdOctaxe Gamma?
The NerdOctaxe Gamma is the most powerful open-source Bitcoin miner ever built for the desktop. Eight BM1370 ASIC chips — the same silicon inside Bitmain’s flagship Antminer S21 Pro — packed onto a single PCB, delivering 9.6–9.8 TH/s at stock settings. That is more hashrate than an entire Antminer S9, the machine that once dominated Bitcoin mining, sitting on your desk and drawing about 200 watts from a 12V power supply. Tuned properly, it pushes past 12 TH/s. This is not a novelty miner. This is a serious piece of hashing hardware.
The NerdOctaxe Gamma runs NerdOS, an ESP-Miner fork purpose-built for multi-chip open-source miners. It connects via WiFi, presents a web dashboard for configuration and monitoring, supports OTA firmware updates, and gives you per-chip control over all eight ASICs. A built-in LILYGO T-Display S3 color LCD shows real-time stats without needing to open a browser. Two physical buttons on the display let you cycle through screens — hashrate, temperature, pool status, individual chip metrics — at a glance.
Every NerdOctaxe Gamma sold by D-Central is hand-assembled in Laval, Quebec by the same team that repairs thousands of Antminers every year. We know BM1370 chips because we work with them daily in industrial machines. We know thermal management because we diagnose and fix cooling failures for a living. We know power delivery because we trace voltage regulator failures on hashboards every week. That expertise is soldered into every NerdOctaxe Gamma we ship.
D-Central Technologies has been a pioneer in the open-source mining ecosystem since its earliest days. We created the original Bitaxe Mesh Stand, developed custom heatsinks for Bitaxe and Bitaxe Hex, and stock every variant of every major open-source miner. The NerdOctaxe Gamma represents the current apex of what open-source mining hardware can do — and we are proud to build it by hand in Canada.
This guide walks you through every step: unboxing, power setup, WiFi configuration, pool selection, frequency tuning across all eight chips, thermal management, ECO mode, and troubleshooting. Whether you are upgrading from a Bitaxe or adding TH-scale hashrate to your solo mining operation, this guide has you covered.
NerdOS is the open-source firmware that runs on the NerdOctaxe Gamma. It is a fork of ESP-Miner (the same project behind AxeOS on Bitaxe devices), adapted for multi-chip boards and the NerdAxe hardware family. NerdOS provides a web-based dashboard for configuration, per-chip monitoring, fan curve control, and OTA updates — all accessible from your browser. If you have used AxeOS on a Bitaxe, NerdOS will feel familiar, with additional multi-chip features. Throughout this guide, when we refer to the web interface, we mean the NerdOS dashboard.
Technical Specifications
Before you begin, here is what you are working with. The NerdOctaxe Gamma is a fundamentally different class of open-source miner — 200 watts of hashing power on a single board.
NerdOctaxe Gamma — Full Specifications
| ASIC Chips | 8x BM1370 (Bitmain Antminer S21 Pro generation) |
|---|---|
| Algorithm | SHA-256 (Bitcoin) |
| Hashrate (Stock, 600 MHz) | 9.6–9.8 TH/s |
| Hashrate (Tuned) | Up to 12 TH/s |
| Hashrate (ECO Mode, 495 MHz) | ~8.1 TH/s |
| Power (UI Reading, Stock) | 160–183W |
| Power (Wall Draw, Stock) | ~208W |
| Power (ECO Mode) | ~153W |
| Efficiency | ~16 J/TH |
| Power Input | 12V DC via XT60 connector |
| Recommended PSU | 12V / 18–20A (216–240W minimum) |
| Connectivity | WiFi 802.11 b/g/n 2.4 GHz (ESP32-S3) + USB-C (flashing/serial) |
| Display | LILYGO T-Display S3 (1.9″ color LCD, 2 buttons) |
| Firmware | NerdOS (ESP-Miner-Nerd fork, OTA-updatable) |
| Cooling | 2x Thermalright AXP90-X53 aluminum coolers |
| ASIC Temperature (Stock) | 52–55 °C |
| PCB Dimensions | ~200 mm x 190 mm |
| Mining Mode | Solo mining (lottery) or pool mining via Stratum |
| Configuration | Web dashboard via browser + on-device LCD display |
| Open Source | Fully open-source hardware and software |
| Assembly | Hand-assembled in Laval, Quebec by D-Central technicians |
Performance Modes at a Glance
The NerdOctaxe Gamma supports three distinct operating profiles. Choose based on your priorities — raw hashrate, efficiency, or balanced daily driving.
Stock vs. Tuned vs. ECO Mode
| Mode | Frequency | Hashrate | Wall Power | Efficiency | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stock | 600 MHz | 9.6–9.8 TH/s | ~208W | ~16 J/TH | Default, reliable 24/7 operation |
| Tuned | 650–700+ MHz | 10–12 TH/s | 230–280W | ~18–20 J/TH | Maximum hashrate, good cooling required |
| ECO | 495 MHz | ~8.1 TH/s | ~153W | ~14 J/TH | Lower power bill, quieter, warmer climates |
NerdOctaxe Gamma vs. Antminer S9
For context, here is how the NerdOctaxe Gamma compares to the Antminer S9 — the most iconic Bitcoin miner ever produced:
NerdOctaxe Gamma vs. Antminer S9
| Specification | NerdOctaxe Gamma | Antminer S9 |
|---|---|---|
| Hashrate | 9.6–12 TH/s | 13.5 TH/s |
| Wall Power | ~208W | ~1,350W |
| Efficiency | ~16 J/TH | ~100 J/TH |
| Noise | Desktop-quiet | 75+ dB (jet engine) |
| Power Input | 12V DC, standard outlet | 220V recommended, 1600W PSU |
| Size | Fits on a desk (~200x190mm) | Full server chassis |
| Open Source | Yes, fully | No, proprietary |
| Desk-friendly | Yes | Absolutely not |
The NerdOctaxe Gamma delivers S9-class hashrate at one-sixth the power consumption, in a form factor that sits on your desk instead of screaming in a server room. Three generations of ASIC chip evolution — from BM1387 to BM1370 — condensed into an open-source package you control completely.
What’s in the Box
Your NerdOctaxe Gamma from D-Central arrives hand-assembled and tested. Here is what you should find:
- NerdOctaxe Gamma PCB — The main board with 8x BM1370 ASIC chips, ESP32-S3 controller, and LILYGO T-Display S3 color LCD
- 2x Thermalright AXP90-X53 coolers — Pre-mounted aluminum heatsinks with fans, covering all 8 chips
- XT60 power connector — Soldered to the board (the power input — NOT a USB-C device)
The NerdOctaxe Gamma draws ~208 watts at stock. It is powered via a 12V DC XT60 connector — the same yellow connector used in high-current RC hobby and drone batteries. You CANNOT power this device from a USB-C charger. You need a dedicated 12V / 18–20A (216–240W minimum) power supply with an XT60 output. See the prerequisites section below for recommended PSU options.
Some smaller open-source miners use the XT30 connector (smaller, rated for lower current). The NerdOctaxe Gamma uses the XT60 connector — larger, rated for 60A continuous — because it draws 15–20A at 12V. Do not attempt to adapt an XT30 PSU for this device. The current draw will exceed XT30 ratings and create a fire hazard. If your PSU has an XT30 output, it is not suitable for this miner.
If anything is missing or shows signs of shipping damage, contact D-Central support immediately. Every NerdOctaxe Gamma is tested before it leaves our Laval workshop.
What You’ll Need
Safety Warnings
The NerdOctaxe Gamma is a 200-watt device. This puts it in a fundamentally different safety category than a 15-watt Bitaxe. Read this section completely before powering on.
At stock settings, the NerdOctaxe Gamma converts approximately 208 watts of electricity into heat. That is equivalent to a small space heater. In a closed room, this will noticeably raise the ambient temperature. Proper ventilation is mandatory. Do not operate this device in an enclosed cabinet, closet, or unventilated space. Ensure adequate airflow around the device and the room it operates in.
- Power circuit: 208W wall draw on a 120V circuit is about 1.7 amps — well within a standard 15A circuit’s capacity, but do not daisy-chain multiple power strips or share the circuit with other high-draw appliances (space heaters, air conditioners, microwaves). A dedicated circuit or at minimum a circuit with headroom is recommended.
- XT60 connector: The XT60 carries 15–20 amps at 12V. Always ensure the XT60 connection is fully seated — a loose connection under high current generates heat at the contact point and can melt the connector. Push the XT60 in firmly until it clicks.
- PSU quality: Use a reputable 12V power supply rated for at least 240W. No-name PSUs with inflated wattage ratings may deliver dirty power (voltage ripple) that damages ASIC chips or causes instability. Server PSUs (HP, Dell) with XT60 breakout boards are popular and reliable options.
- Surface: Place the NerdOctaxe Gamma on a non-flammable, heat-resistant surface. Do not place it on carpet, paper, fabric, or near flammable materials. A desk, shelf, or metal surface is ideal.
- Do not block the cooler fans: The dual Thermalright AXP90-X53 coolers must have unobstructed airflow. Both intake and exhaust must be clear. Blocking airflow will cause rapid thermal shutdown.
- Do not touch the heatsinks during operation: The heatsinks can reach 55+ degrees Celsius. Not dangerous to a brief touch, but hot enough to cause discomfort. Allow the device to cool for several minutes after shutdown before handling.
- Do not operate unattended for the first 24 hours: During initial setup and burn-in, monitor the device closely. Check temperatures periodically. Once you have confirmed stable operation for 24 hours, the NerdOctaxe can run continuously with periodic remote monitoring.
Step 1: Unbox and Inspect
Before connecting power, take a few minutes to inspect your NerdOctaxe Gamma. Every unit is hand-assembled and tested at our Laval workshop, but shipping can shift components.
- Visual inspection of the PCB: Look for any obvious shipping damage — cracked PCB, loose components, disconnected wires. The board should look clean and intentional.
- Verify both Thermalright coolers are seated: The NerdOctaxe Gamma uses two Thermalright AXP90-X53 aluminum coolers to cover all 8 BM1370 chips. Each cooler should sit flat and firm against the PCB with no wobble. Gently try to rock each cooler side to side — if either moves, the mounting may have loosened in shipping. Do not power on until both coolers are firmly secured.
- Check cooler fan connections: Each Thermalright cooler has a fan. Verify both fan cables are connected to their headers on the PCB. A disconnected fan means 4 chips will run without active cooling — they will overheat within minutes.
- Inspect the XT60 connector: The XT60 power connector should be firmly soldered to the board. Check for any cracks or loose solder joints at the base of the connector.
- Check the LILYGO display: The T-Display S3 should be mounted securely. The 1.9-inch color LCD should be free of cracks. The two buttons on the display should click cleanly when pressed.
- Inspect the USB-C port: The USB-C port is used for serial connection and firmware flashing (not power). Make sure it is intact.
A BM1370 chip without adequate cooling will hit thermal protection within 60 seconds and can sustain permanent damage. If a cooler has shifted during shipping, carefully reseat it — ensure the thermal pads make full contact with the ASIC chips underneath — and verify it is firmly mounted before proceeding. Contact D-Central support if you need guidance on remounting.
Step 2: Connect the Power Supply
The NerdOctaxe Gamma is powered via a 12V DC XT60 connector. This is a high-current connector common in the RC hobby, drone, and power supply world.
Power Supply Requirements
PSU Specifications
| Voltage | 12V DC (do NOT use 5V, 19V, or 24V supplies) |
|---|---|
| Current | 18–20A minimum |
| Wattage | 216–240W minimum (300W recommended for tuning headroom) |
| Connector | XT60 male |
| Not Compatible | USB-C, XT30, barrel jacks, ATX PSU without adapter |
Recommended PSU options:
- Server PSU with XT60 breakout board — HP DPS-1200FB or Dell 1100W server PSUs are excellent, inexpensive options. Pair with a 12V XT60 breakout board (widely available). These deliver rock-solid 12V at high current with excellent voltage regulation.
- RC/drone 12V power supply — Purpose-built 12V supplies with XT60 output designed for high-current applications. Look for at least 20A / 240W rating from a reputable brand.
- Mean Well LRS-350-12 — Industrial-grade 12V / 29A (350W) supply. Requires wiring an XT60 connector but delivers exceptionally clean power.
The NerdOctaxe Gamma’s voltage regulators are designed for 12V input. Connecting a 19V laptop charger, 24V industrial supply, or any non-12V source will destroy the voltage regulators and potentially the ASIC chips. Always verify your PSU output voltage before connecting. When in doubt, measure with a multimeter at the XT60 connector before plugging into the board.
Connecting the XT60
- Ensure the PSU is unplugged from the wall outlet.
- Connect the XT60 — The XT60 connector is keyed (it only fits one way). Align the connector and push firmly until it seats with a click. Do not force it at an angle.
- Verify the connection — Give the XT60 a gentle tug to confirm it is fully engaged. A half-seated XT60 under 20A load will overheat.
- Plug the PSU into the wall outlet.
The NerdOctaxe Gamma will power on immediately. There is no power switch.
Step 3: First Boot
When power is applied, the NerdOctaxe Gamma goes through its boot sequence:
- Both cooler fans spin up — You should hear both Thermalright fans engage. This confirms power is reaching the board and fan headers.
- The LILYGO display activates — The 1.9-inch color LCD lights up and shows the NerdOS boot screen, followed by status information (firmware version, WiFi status, hashrate placeholder).
- NerdOS initializes all 8 BM1370 chips — The firmware runs its initialization sequence, powering up and testing each ASIC chip in order.
- WiFi access point broadcasts — If no WiFi network is saved (first boot), NerdOS creates a WiFi hotspot for configuration.
The two physical buttons on the LILYGO T-Display S3 let you cycle through display screens. Press the buttons to switch between views: total hashrate, per-chip hashrate breakdown, temperatures, pool status, WiFi info, and uptime. This gives you at-a-glance monitoring without needing to open a browser — handy for a quick check as you walk past your miner.
If the fans do not spin or the display does not activate, disconnect power immediately. Check the XT60 connection, verify your PSU is outputting 12V, and inspect the board for any visible issues. Contact D-Central support if the device does not boot.
Step 4: WiFi Configuration
On first boot, NerdOS broadcasts a WiFi access point for initial configuration.
Connect to the NerdOS Hotspot
- On your phone, laptop, or tablet, open WiFi settings.
- Look for a network named “NerdOctaxe”, “NerdOS_XXXX”, or similar (where XXXX is a unique identifier).
- Connect to this network. No password is required on initial setup.
- Your device may show a “no internet” warning — this is normal. You are connected directly to the NerdOctaxe, not to the internet.
Access the NerdOS Web Portal
After connecting to the NerdOctaxe’s WiFi hotspot, open your browser and navigate to:
Browser Address Bar
http://192.168.4.1
The NerdOS dashboard will load, showing the main configuration interface.
(1) Confirm you are connected to the NerdOctaxe’s WiFi, not your home network. (2) Disable mobile data on your phone — some phones prefer cellular over a WiFi network with no internet. (3) Try a different browser. (4) Power cycle the NerdOctaxe by disconnecting and reconnecting the XT60. (5) Check the LILYGO display — it may show the correct AP IP address if different from the default.
Configure Your Home WiFi
- In the NerdOS dashboard, navigate to the WiFi / Network settings section.
- Enter your WiFi SSID (network name) — case-sensitive, exactly as it appears in your router.
- Enter your WiFi password.
- Click Save. The NerdOctaxe will reboot and attempt to connect to your home network.
The ESP32-S3 only supports 2.4 GHz WiFi. Additionally, the NerdOctaxe Gamma’s 200W of switching power generates significantly more electromagnetic interference (EMI) than a small Bitaxe. If you experience WiFi dropouts, try positioning the NerdOctaxe farther from your WiFi router or access point, or use a WiFi extender placed away from the miner. A dedicated 2.4 GHz SSID is strongly recommended.
Find Your NerdOctaxe’s IP Address
After the NerdOctaxe connects to your home WiFi, you need its new IP address:
- Check the LILYGO display — NerdOS displays the device’s IP address on one of the LCD screens. Press the buttons to cycle through views until you see the network information screen.
- Check your router’s admin page — Look in the connected devices list for “NerdOctaxe,” “NerdOS,” or “ESP32.”
- Use a network scanner — Fing (iOS/Android) or Advanced IP Scanner (Windows) will find all devices on your network.
- Try mDNS — Navigate to http://nerdoctaxe.local or http://nerdos.local in your browser.
Once you have the IP address, bookmark it. You will use it frequently.
DHCP assigns dynamic IPs that can change after a router reboot. Log into your router and create a DHCP reservation (static IP) for the NerdOctaxe’s MAC address. This way it always gets the same IP. Especially important if you run multiple mining devices.
Step 5: Configure Mining Pool
With the NerdOctaxe Gamma on your network, it is time to point it at a mining pool. At 9.6+ TH/s, this device is a serious solo mining contender.
Solo Mining with Public Pool (Recommended)
Public Pool is the community-standard solo mining pool for open-source miners. Zero fees, open-source, and built for exactly this use case.
In the NerdOS dashboard, navigate to Mining / Stratum settings and enter:
Solo Mining Pool Settings
| Pool URL | public-pool.io |
|---|---|
| Port | 21496 |
| Full Stratum Address | stratum+tcp://public-pool.io:21496 |
| User / Worker Name | Your Bitcoin address (e.g., bc1q…youraddress) |
| Password | x (or leave blank) |
Alternative Solo Pools
Compatible Solo Mining Pools
| Pool | Stratum URL | Port | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Pool | public-pool.io | 21496 | 0% |
| CKPool Solo | solo.ckpool.org | 3333 | 2% |
| Ocean (TIDES) | mine.ocean.xyz | 3334 | 0% |
Set Your Bitcoin Address
Your Worker Name is your Bitcoin wallet address. On solo pools, this is where the full block reward (3.125 BTC) gets sent if your NerdOctaxe finds a block.
- Open your self-custody Bitcoin wallet (Coldcard, Trezor, Sparrow, Electrum, BlueWallet, etc.).
- Copy a receive address — use a bc1q (native SegWit) address for the lowest fees.
- Paste it into the Worker Name or Username field in NerdOS.
- Optionally append a device identifier: bc1q…address.nerdoctaxe1
Double-check the address character by character. Click Save. The NerdOctaxe will reboot and begin mining.
Never use an exchange deposit address (Coinbase, Binance, Kraken, etc.) for mining payouts. Exchanges can change your deposit address, lock your account, or refuse mining-related deposits. Use a wallet where you hold the private keys. If your NerdOctaxe finds a block, that 3.125 BTC belongs in YOUR wallet.
Step 6: Frequency Selection and Fan Curve
After the NerdOctaxe reboots and connects to your pool, it will start hashing at whatever frequency NerdOS defaults to. Now you choose your operating mode.
Setting Stock Frequency (600 MHz)
For initial setup, we recommend running at stock 600 MHz to verify everything is stable:
- In the NerdOS dashboard, navigate to Tuning or ASIC Settings.
- Set the Core Frequency to 600 MHz.
- Set the Core Voltage to the recommended stock value (displayed in NerdOS, typically around 1150–1200 mV).
- Click Save and allow the NerdOctaxe to restart mining.
- Monitor for 30 minutes minimum — verify all 8 chips are hashing, temperatures are in the 52–55 degree Celsius range, and shares are being accepted.
Fan Curve Configuration
NerdOS lets you configure the fan curve — how aggressively the dual Thermalright fans respond to temperature changes.
- Default fan curve: NerdOS ships with a reasonable default that ramps fan speed as temperature increases. For stock 600 MHz operation, the default is usually fine.
- Aggressive fan curve: If you plan to tune above 600 MHz, set a more aggressive fan curve that starts ramping earlier (e.g., 40% at 45 degrees, 70% at 50 degrees, 100% at 55 degrees). More airflow at lower temperatures gives you more overclocking headroom.
- Quiet fan curve: If noise is a concern in ECO mode, you can set a gentler curve since ECO’s lower power output generates less heat.
Resist the urge to immediately push for 12 TH/s. Run the NerdOctaxe at stock 600 MHz for a full 24 hours first. This burn-in period confirms that all 8 chips are stable, the cooling is adequate, your PSU handles the sustained load, and your WiFi connection is reliable. Tune only after you have a stable baseline.
ECO Mode Setup
ECO mode reduces frequency to 495 MHz, dropping power from ~208W to ~153W while maintaining ~8.1 TH/s of hashrate. This is the most efficient operating point — roughly 14 J/TH.
When to Use ECO Mode
- High electricity costs: ECO mode saves ~55W (about 1.3 kWh/day, or $4–6/month at typical North American rates)
- Warm climates or summer: Less power means less heat output and lower chip temperatures
- Noise sensitivity: Lower thermal load means the fans run slower and quieter
- PSU headroom: If your PSU is rated at the minimum 216W, ECO mode gives you comfortable margin
- Running multiple units: ECO mode on several NerdOctaxe units can keep total circuit load manageable
Enabling ECO Mode
- In the NerdOS dashboard, navigate to Tuning or ASIC Settings.
- Set Core Frequency to 495 MHz.
- Adjust Core Voltage — ECO mode may allow slightly lower voltage since the chips are running below stock. Reduce in 10 mV increments and test stability. Lower voltage = less heat = more efficiency.
- Click Save and let the NerdOctaxe restart.
- Verify hashrate stabilizes around 8.1 TH/s and temperatures drop noticeably.
Tuning for Maximum Hashrate
For miners who want every hash they can extract, the NerdOctaxe Gamma can be pushed beyond 600 MHz toward 12 TH/s. This requires good cooling, a strong PSU, and patience.
Pushing 8 chips simultaneously above stock frequency increases power draw, heat output, and stress on your PSU. A 240W PSU may not have sufficient headroom for aggressive tuning — a 300W+ PSU is recommended. Monitor all 8 chip temperatures individually, not just the average. One hot chip can drag down the entire board.
Tuning Procedure
- Confirm stable baseline: Run at stock 600 MHz for 24+ hours. Record per-chip temperatures, total hashrate, and power draw.
- Increase frequency by 25 MHz: Move from 600 to 625 MHz. Save and restart.
- Monitor for 30 minutes: Check all 8 chip temperatures. If any individual chip exceeds 65 degrees Celsius, stop and address cooling for that chip.
- Repeat in 25 MHz steps: 625 → 650 → 675 → 700 MHz. At each step, monitor for 30 minutes minimum.
- If instability occurs, increase voltage by 10–20 mV: Higher frequency needs more voltage. But more voltage means more heat — watch the thermal feedback loop.
- Back off one step from the edge: Once you find the frequency where crashes or high rejection rates begin, drop back 25 MHz. This is your 24/7 tuned setting.
Tuning Reference
| Frequency | Expected Hashrate | Approx. Wall Power | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 495 MHz | ~8.1 TH/s | ~153W | ECO mode — best efficiency |
| 600 MHz | ~9.6–9.8 TH/s | ~208W | Stock — recommended default |
| 650 MHz | ~10.5–11 TH/s | ~235W | Moderate tune — good PSU needed |
| 700 MHz | ~11.5–12 TH/s | ~270W | Aggressive — 300W PSU, excellent cooling |
Per-Chip Tuning
With 8 individual BM1370 chips, the NerdOctaxe Gamma gives you the ability to monitor and potentially tune each chip independently. This matters because no two silicon chips are identical — even from the same production batch, individual chips have slightly different characteristics.
Why Per-Chip Monitoring Matters
- Silicon lottery: Some chips run cooler and faster than others at the same voltage. One chip might be perfectly stable at 700 MHz while its neighbor needs 675 MHz.
- Thermal positioning: Chips in the center of the PCB tend to run hotter than edge chips because they are surrounded by other heat sources. The dual coolers help, but position-dependent temperature differences are normal.
- Error detection: If one chip consistently shows higher error rates or lower hashrate, it may need lower frequency or higher voltage relative to the others. Per-chip monitoring lets you identify the weak link.
Monitoring Individual Chips
In the NerdOS dashboard, navigate to the ASIC Status or Chip Details section. You should see all 8 chips listed with individual metrics:
- Per-chip temperature: At stock, all 8 chips should be in the 52–55 degree Celsius range. A chip more than 5 degrees hotter than its neighbors indicates a thermal pad issue or airflow obstruction over that chip.
- Per-chip hashrate: Each chip should contribute roughly 1.2 TH/s at stock (9.6 TH/s divided by 8). A chip producing significantly less may be thermal throttling or unstable at the current frequency.
- Per-chip error rate: Check for chips with elevated error rates. A chip producing hardware errors is running beyond its capability at the current frequency/voltage combination.
When tuning with a global frequency setting, the worst-performing chip determines your maximum stable frequency. If 7 of 8 chips are happy at 700 MHz but one starts erroring at 675 MHz, your stable global setting is 675 MHz. This is why per-chip monitoring matters — it tells you which chip is the limiting factor and whether targeted interventions (better thermal pad contact, redirected airflow) might help.
Thermal Management
Managing heat across 8 ASIC chips drawing 200+ watts is the critical challenge of the NerdOctaxe Gamma. The dual Thermalright AXP90-X53 coolers are excellent, but proper setup and environment matter enormously.
Understanding the Dual Cooler System
The NerdOctaxe Gamma uses two Thermalright AXP90-X53 aluminum coolers, each covering 4 of the 8 BM1370 chips. This design distributes the cooling load and provides independent airflow over each half of the board.
- Each cooler has its own fan: Both fans must be operational. If one fan fails, 4 chips will overheat rapidly while the other 4 remain cool — you will see a dramatic temperature split on the per-chip dashboard.
- Thermal pads underneath: Each cooler makes contact with its 4 chips through thermal pads. Proper thermal pad contact is essential for heat transfer. If temperatures are uneven between chips under the same cooler, the thermal pad may not be making full contact with all chips.
- Orientation matters: Position the NerdOctaxe so both coolers have unobstructed airflow. Avoid placing anything on top of or directly adjacent to the coolers.
Temperature Reference
ASIC Temperature Ranges — NerdOctaxe Gamma
| Below 45 °C | Cool — Excellent. Room to tune higher if desired. |
|---|---|
| 45–55 °C | Optimal — Ideal 24/7 operating range. Stock settings typically land here. |
| 55–62 °C | Warm — Acceptable for tuned operation. Monitor for seasonal changes. |
| 62–68 °C | Hot — Reduce frequency or improve cooling. Check per-chip temps for outliers. |
| Above 68 °C | Critical — Reduce frequency immediately. Check cooler mounting, fan operation, and ambient temperature. |
Ambient Temperature Impact
With 200+ watts of heat output, ambient room temperature has a significant impact on chip temperatures. A rough rule of thumb: every 5 degree Celsius increase in room temperature adds approximately 3–5 degrees to your chip temperatures.
- Winter in Canada (18–20 °C room): Stock settings will keep chips well within optimal range. Tuning headroom is excellent.
- Summer without AC (28–32 °C room): Stock settings may push chips toward the warm range. Consider ECO mode or improved room ventilation.
- If the NerdOctaxe is your only heat source in a small room: It will raise the room temperature by several degrees. The device heats the room, the warmer room heats the device — a feedback loop. Ensure the room has ventilation or airflow to an adjacent space.
Running Multiple NerdOctaxe Units
Running multiple NerdOctaxe Gamma units multiplies your solo mining odds proportionally. Two units at stock give you ~19.6 TH/s — approaching Antminer S19 territory from open-source hardware on your desk.
Multi-Unit Considerations
- Power budget: Each unit draws ~208W at stock (wall). Two units on a single 15A/120V circuit draw ~3.5A — still well within limits. Three units at ~6.2A total is still safe. But factor in everything else on that circuit. A dedicated circuit is ideal for 3+ units.
- Heat output: Two NerdOctaxe Gammas produce ~416W of heat — equivalent to a small space heater. Three produce over 600W. In winter, this is free heating. In summer, you need ventilation or AC.
- WiFi bandwidth: Each unit uses minimal bandwidth (Stratum protocol is lightweight). However, multiple 200W devices create more EMI. Spread units apart if possible, or use a dedicated 2.4 GHz access point near your mining setup.
- Same Bitcoin address: Use the same Bitcoin wallet address across all units. Append different worker names (e.g., .nerdoctaxe1, .nerdoctaxe2) to identify them on the pool dashboard. Combined hashrate appears as one total on Public Pool.
- Individual IP management: Each unit gets its own IP address. Use DHCP reservations and label each unit (a piece of tape with the IP on the case works). NerdOS’s LILYGO display also shows the IP address.
OTA Firmware Updates
NerdOS supports over-the-air (OTA) firmware updates through the web dashboard. Keeping firmware current is important — updates can include per-chip tuning improvements, better thermal management, new display features, and bug fixes.
Update Procedure
- Check your current version: The NerdOS dashboard shows the firmware version in the System or About section. The LILYGO display may also show it on the info screen.
- Download the latest firmware: Get the correct .bin file from the NerdOS or ESP-Miner-Nerd GitHub repository. Make sure you download the build specifically for the NerdOctaxe hardware.
- Record your settings: Write down your frequency, voltage, pool URL, Bitcoin address, fan curve, and WiFi credentials. Some updates reset configuration to defaults.
- Navigate to OTA Update: In the NerdOS dashboard, go to System → OTA Update.
- Upload the .bin file: Select the firmware file and click Update. The upload and flash process takes 1–3 minutes.
- Wait for reboot: The NerdOctaxe will reboot automatically. The LILYGO display will show the boot sequence again.
- Verify settings: Check that pool configuration, frequency, and fan curve settings survived the update. Reconfigure if needed.
Interrupting the OTA flash process can brick the ESP32-S3, requiring a USB-C serial connection to recover. If the update appears stuck, wait at least 5 minutes before assuming failure. The LILYGO display will typically show update progress.
USB-C Recovery (If OTA Fails)
If an OTA update fails and the NerdOctaxe will not boot properly, you can reflash the firmware via the USB-C port using a computer. This requires:
- A USB-C data cable (not a charge-only cable)
- The esptool.py flashing utility or the ESP web flasher
- The correct NerdOS firmware .bin file
This is a recovery procedure only — normal updates should always use the OTA method through the web dashboard.
Troubleshooting
Chip Thermal Imbalance
Symptoms: One or more chips running 8+ degrees hotter than the others. Uneven hashrate across chips.
- Check which cooler covers the hot chips: If all hot chips are under the same cooler, that cooler’s fan may be failing or the thermal pads under that cooler may not be making proper contact.
- Verify fan operation: Look at both cooler fans — are both spinning? A stopped fan is immediately obvious by the temperature split.
- Check thermal pad contact: If the cooler fan is running but chips are still hot, the thermal pads may have shifted. Power off, carefully remove the cooler, inspect the thermal pads, and remount with even pressure.
- Center chips run warmer: Chips in the center of the PCB are surrounded by other heat-producing chips and naturally run a few degrees warmer. A 3–5 degree difference between center and edge chips is normal. More than that indicates a cooling issue.
- Ambient airflow direction: Ensure both coolers have equal access to cool ambient air. If one cooler is against a wall and the other faces open air, you will see a temperature differential.
WiFi Connectivity Issues (EMI-Related)
Symptoms: WiFi drops, intermittent disconnections from pool, shares stop being accepted then resume.
- Move the NerdOctaxe away from the router: 200W of switching power creates significant electromagnetic interference. Place the miner at least 1–2 meters from your WiFi router or access point.
- Use a dedicated 2.4 GHz SSID: Band steering on combined 2.4/5 GHz networks can cause the ESP32-S3 to lose connection when the router tries to push it to 5 GHz (which it does not support).
- Try a different WiFi channel: If other 2.4 GHz devices (microwave, baby monitors, other miners) are nearby, channel congestion can cause drops. Change your router’s 2.4 GHz channel to 1, 6, or 11 (the non-overlapping channels).
- Add a WiFi access point: If your miner must be far from the main router, place a dedicated WiFi access point near the mining setup. This gives the ESP32-S3 a strong, clean signal.
- Check the LILYGO display: The display shows WiFi signal strength and connection status. Use this to verify the connection is stable without needing to open a browser.
Power Supply Issues
Symptoms: Random reboots, hashrate drops, one or more chips failing to initialize, NerdOctaxe not powering on.
- Verify 12V output: Use a multimeter to check your PSU’s output voltage at the XT60 connector under load. It should read 11.8–12.2V. Below 11.5V under load indicates a weak or failing PSU.
- Check wattage rating: At stock, the NerdOctaxe draws ~208W from the wall. Your PSU must handle this sustained load. A PSU rated for 200W is too close to the edge — 240W minimum, 300W recommended.
- Check the XT60 connection: A loose or partially-seated XT60 connector under 20A load will generate heat and cause intermittent contact. Disconnect, inspect both connectors for blackening or melting (signs of poor contact), and reconnect firmly.
- Server PSU fan noise: If using a server PSU (HP, Dell), note that these PSUs have their own high-speed fans that can be noisy. This is normal server PSU behavior. Fan speed adapters are available if the noise is excessive.
- Multiple units on one PSU: If your PSU has enough wattage, you can technically power multiple NerdOctaxe units from a single PSU using XT60 splitters. However, ensure the total current draw does not exceed the PSU’s rating, and use quality splitter cables rated for the combined current.
LILYGO Display Issues
Symptoms: Display shows incorrect data, display is dark, buttons do not respond.
- Display is dark but mining works: The LILYGO display is driven by the same ESP32-S3 that controls mining. If mining is working (verify via web dashboard) but the display is dark, try pressing both buttons simultaneously — some NerdOS versions use this as a display wake/sleep toggle.
- Display shows stale data: If the display appears frozen but the web dashboard shows live data, the display refresh may have crashed. A power cycle will resolve this.
- Button navigation: The two buttons cycle through display screens. If pressing a button does nothing, try the other button — the button functions may differ by firmware version.
No Hashrate or Very Low Hashrate
Symptoms: Dashboard shows 0 TH/s or significantly below 8 TH/s at stock.
- Check per-chip status: In NerdOS, look at individual chip status. If some chips show 0 hashrate, they may have failed to initialize. A reboot often resolves initialization failures.
- Verify PSU is adequate: If the PSU cannot sustain the full load, the voltage sags and chips drop offline. This is the most common cause of partial hashrate.
- Check pool settings: Incorrect pool URL, port, or Bitcoin address prevents share submission. Shares are still computed locally but not accepted by the pool.
- Update firmware: Older NerdOS versions may not initialize all 8 chips correctly. Update to the latest firmware.
- Temperature check: If chips are above 68 degrees, thermal throttling reduces hashrate. Fix the cooling issue first.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the NerdOctaxe Gamma compare to an Antminer S9?
The NerdOctaxe Gamma delivers comparable hashrate to an Antminer S9 (~9.6–12 TH/s vs the S9’s 13.5 TH/s) at roughly one-sixth the power consumption (~208W vs ~1,350W). It is whisper-quiet instead of 75+ dB. It runs on a standard wall outlet instead of requiring a 220V circuit and a 1600W PSU. It fits on your desk instead of occupying a server rack. And it is fully open-source — you can audit the hardware design, modify the firmware, and control every parameter. The S9 is a legacy machine from 2017. The NerdOctaxe Gamma runs 2024-generation BM1370 silicon. Three chip generations of efficiency improvement in a desktop form factor.
Can I run the NerdOctaxe Gamma in my living room?
Yes, with caveats. The NerdOctaxe Gamma is significantly quieter than industrial ASIC miners — the dual Thermalright fans produce moderate noise at stock settings, roughly comparable to a desktop computer under load. It will not wake anyone in the next room. However, it outputs ~208 watts of heat, equivalent to a small space heater. In a well-ventilated living room, this is fine — even beneficial in winter. In summer or in a small, poorly ventilated room, the heat output is noticeable. ECO mode at 153W reduces both noise and heat. For a bedroom or home office, ECO mode is the recommended starting point.
What PSU do I need for the NerdOctaxe Gamma?
You need a 12V DC power supply rated for at least 18–20A (216–240W) with an XT60 output connector. This is NOT a USB-C device. Popular options include: (1) Server PSU + XT60 breakout board — HP DPS-1200FB or Dell server PSUs are cheap, reliable, and deliver extremely clean 12V power. Pair with an XT60 breakout board. (2) RC/drone power supplies — purpose-built 12V XT60 supplies designed for high-current applications. (3) Mean Well industrial supplies — the LRS-350-12 delivers 12V/29A and is rock solid, but requires wiring your own XT60 connector. We recommend a 300W+ PSU if you plan to tune beyond stock settings. Do NOT use laptop chargers (wrong voltage), USB-C chargers (wrong connector and voltage), or cheap no-name PSUs with inflated wattage claims.
What is ECO mode and when should I use it?
ECO mode drops the core frequency from 600 MHz to 495 MHz, reducing hashrate to ~8.1 TH/s and power consumption to ~153W. The efficiency actually improves from ~16 J/TH to ~14 J/TH because ASIC chips are more efficient at lower frequencies. Use ECO mode when: your electricity costs are high, it is summer and your room is already warm, you want quieter operation, your PSU is at the minimum 216W rating, or you are running multiple units on the same circuit. ECO mode is not a downgrade — it is the optimal efficiency point.
What are my solo mining odds with the NerdOctaxe Gamma?
At ~9.8 TH/s, the NerdOctaxe Gamma produces roughly 8–10x the hashrate of a single-chip Bitaxe. Your solo mining odds scale linearly with hashrate — so you have 8–10x the chance per unit time compared to a single Bitaxe. In absolute terms, the probability of finding a block on any given day is still very small relative to the total network hashrate (hundreds of exahashes). But the NerdOctaxe pushes open-source solo mining into the multi-terahash range where the math starts to become more interesting over longer timeframes. Solo miners with similar hashrate have found blocks. Every hash counts, and at nearly 10 TH/s, you are producing a lot of hashes.
How much does it cost to run the NerdOctaxe Gamma?
At stock settings (~208W wall draw), the NerdOctaxe consumes about 5 kWh per day or ~150 kWh per month. At typical North American electricity rates: $0.10/kWh = ~$15/month. $0.15/kWh = ~$22.50/month. In ECO mode (~153W), costs drop to ~$11–17/month. In Quebec, where D-Central is based, residential hydro rates are among the lowest in North America at ~$0.07/kWh — that is about $10.50/month at stock. Compared to running a full Antminer S19 at 3,000W (~$100+/month), the NerdOctaxe gives you meaningful hashrate at a fraction of the operating cost.
Can I pool mine instead of solo mine with the NerdOctaxe?
Yes. The NerdOctaxe Gamma supports any Stratum-compatible mining pool. At ~9.8 TH/s, pool mining payouts would be small but measurable — roughly a few hundred satoshis per day depending on pool fees and network difficulty. However, most NerdOctaxe owners solo mine. The philosophy behind building a 10 TH/s open-source miner is aligned with solo mining: decentralization, self-sovereignty, and the chance at a full block reward. Pool mining removes the volatility but also removes the dream of hitting 3.125 BTC.
Is the NerdOctaxe Gamma louder than a Bitaxe?
Yes, noticeably. A single-chip Bitaxe with its small onboard fan is nearly silent. The NerdOctaxe Gamma has two Thermalright AXP90-X53 cooler fans moving significantly more air to dissipate 200W of heat. At stock settings, the noise level is comparable to a desktop computer under moderate load — clearly audible in a quiet room but not disruptive. At aggressive tuning (higher fan speeds), it gets louder. In ECO mode, the fans run slower and the noise is considerably reduced. It is nowhere near the deafening noise of an industrial ASIC miner, but it is not silent. If noise is a primary concern, start with ECO mode and adjust from there.
Can I use the NerdOctaxe Gamma as a space heater?
Practically speaking, yes. At ~208W, the NerdOctaxe Gamma outputs the same heat as a small electric space heater. In winter, especially in Canadian climates, that is free heating paid for by Bitcoin mining. The heat output is 100% efficient — every watt of electricity consumed becomes heat (with hashrate as a bonus). Running two or three NerdOctaxe Gamma units provides 400–600W of heating while accumulating hash power. That said, a dedicated D-Central Bitcoin Space Heater running a full-size ASIC provides much more heat (1,000–3,000W+) for whole-room heating. The NerdOctaxe is supplemental heating for a desk or small room.
Why does D-Central hand-assemble the NerdOctaxe instead of factory production?
D-Central hand-assembles every NerdOctaxe Gamma in our Laval, Quebec workshop because quality control at this level requires hands-on expertise. We work with BM1370 chips daily — the same chips inside industrial Antminer S21 Pro machines that we repair, service, and refurbish. Our technicians test every solder joint, verify every thermal pad placement, run every unit through a full burn-in sequence, and confirm all 8 chips are operating within specification before the unit ships. This is not volume manufacturing — it is precision assembly by people who understand ASIC mining hardware at the component level. When you buy a NerdOctaxe Gamma from D-Central, you are getting the same hands-on expertise that our ASIC repair customers trust with their multi-thousand-dollar mining machines.
Next Steps
Your NerdOctaxe Gamma is hashing at nearly 10 TH/s, submitting shares, and contributing real hashrate to Bitcoin’s decentralization. Here is where to go from here:
- Burn in at stock for 24 hours — Confirm stability across all 8 chips before tuning. Check the tuning section when you are ready to push further.
- Monitor on Public Pool — Visit web.public-pool.io with your Bitcoin address to track your hashrate, shares, and best difficulty.
- Join the community — Follow @DCentralTech on X for block win celebrations, firmware updates, and community highlights. Share your NerdOctaxe setup photos.
- Explore more open-source miners — Check out the full open-source miner lineup at D-Central, including Bitaxe (all variants), NerdAxe, NerdQAxe, and more.
- Consider a Bitcoin Space Heater — Ready for serious hashrate AND whole-room heating? D-Central’s Bitcoin Space Heaters combine full-size ASIC power with home heating integration.
- Read the Bitaxe Hub — D-Central’s Bitaxe Hub is your definitive resource for the entire open-source mining ecosystem.
- Keep firmware updated — Check the NerdOS GitHub repository periodically for performance improvements and new features.
NerdOctaxe Gamma — 8-Chip Solo Mining Beast
Every NerdOctaxe Gamma is hand-assembled and tested by D-Central technicians in Laval, Quebec. The same team that repairs thousands of industrial ASIC miners brings that expertise to the most powerful open-source miner on the market. 9.6 TH/s stock. Up to 12 TH/s tuned. 8 BM1370 chips. Your desk, your rules.
The NerdOctaxe Gamma is the apex of what open-source Bitcoin mining can deliver today. Eight chips. Nearly 10 terahashes per second. More power than an Antminer S9 in a fraction of the space and energy. Hand-built in Canada by the Bitcoin Mining Hackers who have been at this since 2016. Every hash your NerdOctaxe computes is a declaration of independence — proof that you do not need a data center, a corporate mining contract, or anyone’s permission to participate in securing the most important monetary network ever built.
Every hash counts.
— The D-Central Technologies Team
Bitcoin Mining Hackers since 2016