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Abelian CPU Mining User Guide

This document explains how to run CPU mining for the Abelian blockchain, covering both solo mining using the built-in CPU miner and pool mining options.

Please refer to the Abelian Applications Basics to understand the software architecture and choose between solo mining or joining a mining pool.

Visit the Abelian official website's download page to download the appropriate mining client.

All operations are performed via the Command Line Interface (CLI). For Linux, open the Terminal; for Windows, open PowerShell or any shell application of your choice.

Overview

CPU mining on Abelian can be performed in two ways:

  • Solo Mining: Mine independently using your own Abelian node with built-in CPU miner
  • Pool Mining: Join a mining pool using a dedicated CPU mining client

Prerequisites

System Requirements

ComponentSolo MiningPool Mining
CPU4+ cores (8+ recommended)2+ cores
Storage160GB+ (for normal node)100MB (client only)
RAM8GB+4GB+
NetworkStable broadbandStable broadband

Choose Your Mining Method

Solo Mining:

  • ✅ Keep 100% of block rewards
  • ✅ Support network decentralization
  • ✅ Uses built-in CPU miner in abec
  • ❌ Requires running an Abelian node
  • ❌ Irregular rewards (high variance)
  • ❌ Lower hashrate compared to GPU mining
  • Best for: Users who want to support the network while running a node

Pool Mining:

  • ✅ Regular, predictable rewards
  • ✅ No need to run an Abelian node
  • ✅ Lower hardware requirements
  • ✅ Optimized CPU mining client
  • ❌ Share rewards with other miners
  • ❌ Pool fees (typically 1-3%)
  • Best for: Users with limited resources who want consistent rewards

Solo Mining Setup

1. Install Abelian Node

You need a running Abelian node with CPU mining enabled. Follow the Abelian Node (abec) Manual to set up abec.

Key configuration for CPU mining in abec.conf:

ini
# Node Type
# Note that the Normal Node is sufficient for mining
nodetype=normalnode 

# Enable CPU mining
generate=1

# Set your mining reward address
miningaddr=[your wallet address]

2. Create a Wallet Address

You need a wallet address to receive mining rewards. The easiest way is to use Abelian Pro:

  1. Download and install Abelian Pro mobile wallet
  2. Create a new wallet or import existing one
  3. Navigate to Profile → Account Details
  4. Click the eye icon next to the address field
  5. Copy your wallet address

3. Start Solo Mining

Navigate to your abec directory and start the node with CPU mining:

shell
$ .\abec.exe
shell
$ sh start_abec.sh

Alternative: Enable mining on running node:

If abec is already running, you can enable CPU mining using abectl:

shell
# Start CPU mining with 4 cores
$ sh start_abectl.sh setgenerate true 4

# Check mining status
$ sh start_abectl.sh getmininginfo

# Stop CPU mining
$ sh start_abectl.sh setgenerate false

Pool Mining Setup

1. Choose a Mining Pool

Official Maxpool (Recommended):

  • Website: https://maxpool.org/
  • Supports both legacy and MLP addresses
  • Multiple server locations
  • Comprehensive guides and scripts

Legacy Pool Notice

The original Abelian Foundation Pool has ceased operations. All miners should migrate to the new Maxpool.

2. Follow the Guide

Follow detailed instructions in Pool's Guide, such as Quick Start Guide for Maxpool, starting your CPU mining.

Monitoring and Optimization

Performance Metrics

Monitor these key metrics while CPU mining:

  • Hashrate: Your mining speed (H/s, KH/s)
  • CPU Usage: Should be manageable for system stability
  • CPU Temperature: Keep below 80°C
  • Accepted Shares: Successfully submitted work (pool mining)
  • Rejected Shares: Should be minimal (<2%)

Optimization Tips

Hardware Optimization:

  • Ensure adequate CPU cooling
  • Monitor CPU temperatures during mining
  • Consider undervolting for better efficiency
  • Use high-performance CPU cooling solutions

Software Optimization:

  • Adjust thread count based on CPU cores
  • Leave 1-2 cores free for system operations
  • Use mining intensity settings to balance performance
  • Monitor system responsiveness

System Optimization:

  • Close unnecessary applications
  • Set mining process to appropriate priority
  • Ensure stable power supply
  • Monitor system stability during extended mining

CPU Mining Performance Expectations

Typical hashrates by CPU type:

  • Entry-level (2-4 cores): 100-500 H/s
  • Mid-range (4-8 cores): 500-2000 H/s
  • High-end (8+ cores): 2000-5000+ H/s

Performance Note

CPU mining typically yields much lower hashrates compared to GPU mining. Consider it primarily for network support rather than profit maximization.

Troubleshooting

Common Issues

High CPU Usage:

  • Reduce mining cores
  • Lower mining intensity
  • Ensure adequate cooling
  • Monitor system stability

Low Hashrate:

  • Check CPU temperature throttling
  • Verify thread count settings
  • Update system and drivers
  • Ensure sufficient power supply

Connection Problems (Pool Mining):

  • Verify pool server addresses and credentials
  • Check network connectivity
  • Try different pool servers
  • Confirm firewall settings

System Instability:

  • Reduce CPU mining intensity
  • Lower thread count
  • Check system temperatures
  • Ensure adequate power supply

Getting Help

Community Support:

Security Considerations

Wallet Security

  • Never share your private keys or seed phrases
  • Use dedicated mining addresses separate from main wallet
  • Backup wallet before starting mining operations
  • Verify pool authenticity before providing credentials

System Security

  • Monitor system resources to prevent overheating
  • Use firewall rules to restrict unnecessary access
  • Keep software updated to latest versions
  • Monitor mining activity for unusual behavior

Operational Security

  • Start with low intensity to test system stability
  • Monitor temperatures continuously during mining
  • Have cooling solutions in place before extended mining
  • Plan for system maintenance and updates

Economics and Profitability

Factors Affecting Profitability

  • CPU Hashrate: Your mining speed
  • Network Difficulty: Adjusts every 200 blocks
  • Block Rewards: Currently 64 ABEL per block (Era 2)
  • Electricity Costs: Major operational expense
  • CPU Efficiency: Hash per watt ratio

Calculating Returns

Solo Mining:

  • Rewards = (Your Hashrate / Network Hashrate) × Block Reward × Blocks per Day
  • Very high variance - may not find blocks for extended periods

Pool Mining:

  • Rewards = Your Contribution × Pool Rewards × (1 - Pool Fee)
  • Lower variance - small but regular payouts

Profitability Reality

CPU mining is generally not profitable due to low hashrates and electricity costs. Consider it primarily as a way to support the network while learning about mining.

Use online calculators and monitor network statistics at AbelScan

Advanced Topics

Multi-Core Optimization

  • Configure optimal thread count per CPU
  • Use CPU affinity for dedicated cores
  • Balance mining with system responsiveness

Hybrid Mining Setup

  • Combine CPU and GPU mining on same system
  • Optimize resource allocation between miners
  • Monitor total system power consumption

Mining Farm CPU Integration

  • Use CPU mining on GPU mining rigs
  • Implement centralized monitoring
  • Optimize power and cooling for mixed setups

Next Steps

New to CPU Mining?

  1. Start with pool mining for consistent rewards
  2. Begin with low intensity to test system stability
  3. Join the Discord community for support
  4. Monitor your setup and optimize gradually

Experienced Miners?

  1. Consider CPU mining as supplementary to GPU mining
  2. Experiment with optimization techniques
  3. Contribute to network decentralization

Want Better Performance?

  1. Consider upgrading to GPU mining for higher hashrates
  2. Optimize your CPU cooling and power setup
  3. Explore hybrid CPU+GPU mining configurations

Happy mining ⛏ and welcome to the Abelian network! 🚀