Bitmain Releases New Air-Cooled BTC Miner, the Antminer T21
Bitmain, a leading manufacturer of Bitcoin application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC), has unveiled its latest air-cooled BTC miner, the Antminer T21. The announcement was made on Twitter, where Bitmain shared that the Antminer T21 can operate in temperatures up to 45 degrees Celsius. The global release of the mining device took place at the Blockchain Life 2023 Forum in Dubai, where Bitmain was a diamond sponsor.
Features and Availability
The Antminer T21 is expected to start shipping in January 2024. It supports the SHA256 mining algorithm used for Bitcoin and forked coins like Bitcoin Cash and Bitcoin SV. With a computing power of 190 terahashes per second and an energy efficiency ratio of 19 joules per terahash, it offers impressive performance. Additionally, Bitmain is offering buyers of the Antminer T21 its price protection plan, which safeguards against cryptocurrency price declines for a period of one to six months.
Canaan’s New Miners
Canaan, one of the first companies to release a Bitcoin mining ASIC in 2013, continues to produce new mining machines. In September 2023, Canaan introduced its A14 series miners on its 10th anniversary. Recently, the company launched its sustainability-focused A1466 and A1466I miners in the Middle East, featuring liquid-cooled and air-cooled options.
The Challenges of the ASIC Industry
While companies like Bitmain and Canaan are introducing new mining devices, the ASIC industry has faced challenges. The price per terahash of ASIC miners dropped over 80% from its peak in 2021 due to an influx of new miners in the market. In anticipation of the Bitcoin halving in 2024, blockchain technology firm Blockstream sought to raise $50 million to acquire and store mining equipment from secondary markets.
Hot Take: Advancements in BTC Mining Equipment
Bitmain’s release of the Antminer T21 and Canaan’s A14 series miners demonstrate the ongoing advancements in BTC mining equipment. These devices offer increased computing power and energy efficiency, enabling miners to enhance their operations. However, the ASIC industry faces challenges with declining prices and market saturation. As the demand for Bitcoin mining continues to grow, it will be interesting to see how manufacturers innovate to meet the evolving needs of miners while maintaining profitability.
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