Solo Mining with Solar: My QSE Experiment with a Bitaxe Stack..

[AnisEverRise]

Hi everyone,

I'm a Master's student in Quality, Safety, and Environment (QSE) and I've been messing around with electronics for a while. I wanted to share my current project because I think the "Bitcoin energy" debate is missing a point that we, as hobbyists, can actually prove.

I’m currently testing a small stack of Bitaxes powered entirely by a DIY solar setup . ☀️

The Technical Side (My electronics "headache"):

Instead of just plugging them into the wall, I'm trying to optimize the DC-DC conversion. Running Bitaxes directly from a battery buffer (LiFePO4) through a buck converter to keep the voltage steady at 5V/3.3V. The challenge is the ripple voltage—these chips are sensitive. I’m trying to see if I can bypass the typical AC inverter losses to reach a higher Energy Return on Investment (EROI).

The QSE Angle (Why I'm doing this):
In my studies, we talk a lot about lifecycle assessments. Most people call solo mining a "lottery tax" (and they’re right, my odds are basically zero!). But from an environmental standpoint, using "stranded" solar energy on a balcony to secure the network is a fascinating case study. It's zero-emission hashrate.

The Satire / Reality Check:
I know, I know... My hashrate is a joke compared to an S21. My neighbors see the blinking lights and the panels and probably think I’m trying to contact aliens. In reality, I’m just paying a "hope tax" with photons. But hey, it's better than a scratch-off ticket, right? At least I’m learning about voltage regulation and thermal management.

I'd love some feedback from the OGs here:
1. Has anyone tried a direct DC-to-Bitaxe setup without an inverter? What converters are you using to minimize heat?
2. Do you think micro-scale solar mining actually helps the "green" image of Bitcoin, or am I just over-engineering a heater? 😅
3. For those with a "BitcoinTalk Code" mindset: does anyone else prioritize sovereignty over ROI?

I'm not here for the profit (clearly!), I'm here for the tech and the decentralization.

Let me know what you think! I’m eager to learn from your setups.

[GFOXOG]

Very cool setup.

I mostly just run the bitaxe lottery mine but that is quite the setup you have going on!

[philipma1957]

you want an invertor  and a battery.  surges and ripples need to be buffered.

get a bigger battery than what I see and try to get a high quality inverter.


if you are daring and go battery to dc-dc voltage converter you will need

(battery)-big ass cap-(battery)-(dc to dc converter)

                  ^
              hoping the cap
              flattens ripple


there are caps in car amp setups.




AI Overview:
A capacitor system for filtering ripple in a car (often a capacitor bank or "cap pack") acts as a storage reservoir connected in parallel with the load (e.g., amplifiers, ESCs). It smooths pulsating DC voltage by storing charge when voltage is high and discharging when it drops, reducing AC ripple and spikes.
Facebook
Facebook
 +3
Key Aspects of Car Capacitor Systems:
Purpose: These systems absorb high-voltage spikes, eliminate electrical noise, and prevent voltage drops in high-demand audio or brushless motor applications.
How They Work: They filter ripple by acting as a passive filter that bypasses AC noise to ground, while providing stable DC voltage to components.
Application: Commonly used in high-power car audio systems and Electronic Speed Controllers (ESCs) in RC cars, or high-voltage EV subsystems to protect sensitive electronics from deterioration.
Benefits:
Reduced Noise: Eliminates hum and noise on radio signals.
Voltage Stabilization: Provides instantaneous power to meet peak demands, reducing voltage dips during heavy loads.
Component Safety: Reduces stress on batteries and ESCs.
Selection: The size of the capacitor should be chosen based on load current, frequency, and desired ripple reduction, with larger values generally providing better filtering.
Facebook
Facebook
 +6
These capacitor packs are often added in parallel with existing electrical systems to support them, especially in high-performance or modified vehicles.
Facebook
Facebook
Ripple voltage improved with cap pack addition - Facebook
Oct 24, 2022 — Mamba Racing Extreme Low Ripple Cap Packs.. Adding a capacitor pack or cap pack Inline to help support the esc and batteries from ...

Facebook

Use a filter to reduce ac ripple voltage - Facebook
Jun 24, 2019 — Power supply filters, also known as ripple filters or passive filters, are essential circuits used to smooth the pulsating DC outp...

Facebook

When to use a capacitor for car electrical ripple filtering?
Sep 13, 2017 — ... car electrical on a capacitor as a ripple filter instead of the amps? ... caps serve the purpose in a properly set up electric...


Facebook

Show all
Dive deeper in AI Mode
AI can make mistakes, so double-check responses

been 30 plus years since I built one but you can smooth out current with a proper design.

sidehack may have made a filter  and or voltage regulator for mining a ways back.

https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=130792

[FP91G]

Is this your photo or a generated image?
I don't understand what you'll do when it rains. Electronics in this location, close to the sea, die much faster, and I don't understand the point of your lottery if you want to play for a long time.
In my country, if thieves find out I have a server on my balcony, they'll likely try to steal it when I'm not home. Your experiment could quickly end

[AnisEverRise]

you want an invertor  and a battery.  surges and ripples need to be buffered.

get a bigger battery than what I see and try to get a high quality inverter.


if you are daring and go battery to dc-dc voltage converter you will need

(battery)-big ass cap-(battery)-(dc to dc converter)

                  ^
              hoping the cap
              flattens ripple


there are caps in car amp setups.




AI Overview:
A capacitor system for filtering ripple in a car (often a capacitor bank or "cap pack") acts as a storage reservoir connected in parallel with the load (e.g., amplifiers, ESCs). It smooths pulsating DC voltage by storing charge when voltage is high and discharging when it drops, reducing AC ripple and spikes.
Facebook
Facebook
 +3
Key Aspects of Car Capacitor Systems:
Purpose: These systems absorb high-voltage spikes, eliminate electrical noise, and prevent voltage drops in high-demand audio or brushless motor applications.
How They Work: They filter ripple by acting as a passive filter that bypasses AC noise to ground, while providing stable DC voltage to components.
Application: Commonly used in high-power car audio systems and Electronic Speed Controllers (ESCs) in RC cars, or high-voltage EV subsystems to protect sensitive electronics from deterioration.
Benefits:
Reduced Noise: Eliminates hum and noise on radio signals.
Voltage Stabilization: Provides instantaneous power to meet peak demands, reducing voltage dips during heavy loads.
Component Safety: Reduces stress on batteries and ESCs.
Selection: The size of the capacitor should be chosen based on load current, frequency, and desired ripple reduction, with larger values generally providing better filtering.
Facebook
Facebook
 +6
These capacitor packs are often added in parallel with existing electrical systems to support them, especially in high-performance or modified vehicles.
Facebook
Facebook
Ripple voltage improved with cap pack addition - Facebook
Oct 24, 2022 — Mamba Racing Extreme Low Ripple Cap Packs.. Adding a capacitor pack or cap pack Inline to help support the esc and batteries from ...

Facebook

Use a filter to reduce ac ripple voltage - Facebook
Jun 24, 2019 — Power supply filters, also known as ripple filters or passive filters, are essential circuits used to smooth the pulsating DC outp...

Facebook

When to use a capacitor for car electrical ripple filtering?
Sep 13, 2017 — ... car electrical on a capacitor as a ripple filter instead of the amps? ... caps serve the purpose in a properly set up electric...


Facebook

Show all
Dive deeper in AI Mode
AI can make mistakes, so double-check responses

been 30 plus years since I built one but you can smooth out current with a proper design.

sidehack may have made a filter  and or voltage regulator for mining a ways back.

https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=130792

First of all, thank you for the exchage and for the previous exchange in the other thread. Coming from you, it means a lot and truly motivates me to push this project further.

You are absolutely right these reality checks are exactly what I’m looking for. Theoretical knowledge from my Master's textbooks is one thing, but the hard truths about salt corrosion, heat management, and real-world hardware sourcing that you share are invaluable.

These exchanges are always highly constructive for me. They help me bridge the gap between being a student and becoming a practical operator. I’d rather face these tough questions now on the forum than face a hardware failure on my balcony later!

I'm currently refining my list on eBay/AliExpress based on these points. I will make sure to share the actual unboxing and assembly of the protective enclosure once the parts arrive.

Thanks again for keeping it real and for the support!


PS : Picture is AI to illustrate only ! ....but this is like the weather where i live



@FP91G: Thank you for the sharp reality check!

To be clear: the image was indeed an AI concept to illustrate the goal. My actual plan is to keep the mining hardware indoors to avoid the salt and humidity you mentioned. Only the panels will be outside.

As a student in Quality and Safety (QSE), I’m focusing on the DC-to-DC efficiency and protecting the boards from coastal degradation. Your experience helps me bridge the gap between theory and real-world risks.

Looking forward to sharing the actual build once the sourcing is complete!

[AnisEverRise]

you want an invertor  and a battery.  surges and ripples need to be buffered.

get a bigger battery than what I see and try to get a high quality inverter.


if you are daring and go battery to dc-dc voltage converter you will need

(battery)-big ass cap-(battery)-(dc to dc converter)

                  ^
              hoping the cap
              flattens ripple


there are caps in car amp setups.




AI Overview:
A capacitor system for filtering ripple in a car (often a capacitor bank or "cap pack") acts as a storage reservoir connected in parallel with the load (e.g., amplifiers, ESCs). It smooths pulsating DC voltage by storing charge when voltage is high and discharging when it drops, reducing AC ripple and spikes.
Facebook
Facebook
 +3
Key Aspects of Car Capacitor Systems:
Purpose: These systems absorb high-voltage spikes, eliminate electrical noise, and prevent voltage drops in high-demand audio or brushless motor applications.
How They Work: They filter ripple by acting as a passive filter that bypasses AC noise to ground, while providing stable DC voltage to components.
Application: Commonly used in high-power car audio systems and Electronic Speed Controllers (ESCs) in RC cars, or high-voltage EV subsystems to protect sensitive electronics from deterioration.
Benefits:
Reduced Noise: Eliminates hum and noise on radio signals.
Voltage Stabilization: Provides instantaneous power to meet peak demands, reducing voltage dips during heavy loads.
Component Safety: Reduces stress on batteries and ESCs.
Selection: The size of the capacitor should be chosen based on load current, frequency, and desired ripple reduction, with larger values generally providing better filtering.
Facebook
Facebook
 +6
These capacitor packs are often added in parallel with existing electrical systems to support them, especially in high-performance or modified vehicles.
Facebook
Facebook
Ripple voltage improved with cap pack addition - Facebook
Oct 24, 2022 — Mamba Racing Extreme Low Ripple Cap Packs.. Adding a capacitor pack or cap pack Inline to help support the esc and batteries from ...

Facebook

Use a filter to reduce ac ripple voltage - Facebook
Jun 24, 2019 — Power supply filters, also known as ripple filters or passive filters, are essential circuits used to smooth the pulsating DC outp...

Facebook

When to use a capacitor for car electrical ripple filtering?
Sep 13, 2017 — ... car electrical on a capacitor as a ripple filter instead of the amps? ... caps serve the purpose in a properly set up electric...


Facebook

Show all
Dive deeper in AI Mode
AI can make mistakes, so double-check responses

been 30 plus years since I built one but you can smooth out current with a proper design.

sidehack may have made a filter  and or voltage regulator for mining a ways back.

https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=130792

First of all, thank you for the exchage and for the previous exchange in the other thread. Coming from you, it means a lot and truly motivates me to push this project further.

You are absolutely right these reality checks are exactly what I’m looking for. Theoretical knowledge from my Master's textbooks is one thing, but the hard truths about salt corrosion, heat management, and real-world hardware sourcing that you share are invaluable.

These exchanges are always highly constructive for me. They help me bridge the gap between being a student and becoming a practical operator. I’d rather face these tough questions now on the forum than face a hardware failure on my balcony later!

I'm currently refining my list on eBay/AliExpress based on these points. I will make sure to share the actual unboxing and assembly of the protective enclosure once the parts arrive.

Thanks again for keeping it real and for the support!


PS : Picture is AI to illustrate only ! ....but this is like the weather where i live

Is this your photo or a generated image?
I don't understand what you'll do when it rains. Electronics in this location, close to the sea, die much faster, and I don't understand the point of your lottery if you want to play for a long time.
In my country, if thieves find out I have a server on my balcony, they'll likely try to steal it when I'm not home. Your experiment could quickly end

@FP91G: Thank you for the sharp reality check!

To be clear: the image was indeed an AI concept to illustrate the goal. My actual plan is to keep the mining hardware indoors to avoid the salt and humidity you mentioned. Only the panels will be outside.

As a student in Quality and Safety (QSE), I’m focusing on the DC-to-DC efficiency and protecting the boards from coastal degradation. Your experience helps me bridge the gap between theory and real-world risks.

Looking forward to sharing the actual build once the sourcing is complete!

Very cool setup.

I mostly just run the bitaxe lottery mine but that is quite the setup you have going on!

Thanks! The lottery is definitely the fun part, but I'm trying to make the power side just as interesting.

[FP91G]

@FP91G: Thank you for the sharp reality check!

To be clear: the image was indeed an AI concept to illustrate the goal. My actual plan is to keep the mining hardware indoors to avoid the salt and humidity you mentioned. Only the panels will be outside.

As a student in Quality and Safety (QSE), I’m focusing on the DC-to-DC efficiency and protecting the boards from coastal degradation. Your experience helps me bridge the gap between theory and real-world risks.

Looking forward to sharing the actual build once the sourcing is complete!

If you want to professionally protect your devices from degradation on the coastal, you'll have to make a large investment, which won't be cost-effective. The only option is to install the equipment in a room with a temperature that doesn't fluctuate much between day and night. But I think solo mining at a low hashrate will get boring before your equipment breaks down

[AnisEverRise]

@FP91G: Thank you for the sharp reality check!

To be clear: the image was indeed an AI concept to illustrate the goal. My actual plan is to keep the mining hardware indoors to avoid the salt and humidity you mentioned. Only the panels will be outside.

As a student in Quality and Safety (QSE), I’m focusing on the DC-to-DC efficiency and protecting the boards from coastal degradation. Your experience helps me bridge the gap between theory and real-world risks.

Looking forward to sharing the actual build once the sourcing is complete!

If you want to professionally protect your devices from degradation on the coastal, you'll have to make a large investment, which won't be cost-effective. The only option is to install the equipment in a room with a temperature that doesn't fluctuate much between day and night. But I think solo mining at a low hashrate will get boring before your equipment breaks down

@FP91G  , I completely agree with you on the cost-effectiveness solo mining is definitely more of a proof of passion than a proof of profit at this scale!Regarding the setup: the image I shared was indeed a generic AI-generated concept to visualize the goal. In practice, I would never expose delicate hardware to the coastal elements; the plan is to have a dedicated, climate controlled enclosure indoors, with only the PV arrays handling the salt and humidity.Since you mentioned the hardware potentially breaking down before it gets boring, I’m actually diving deep into the Bitaxe (BM1366) specs. I’m particularly interested in the DC to DC conversion efficiency to minimize heat waste.Given your experience, have you experimented with undervolting these chips to find that 'sweet spot' where efficiency ($J/TH$) is maximized even if it sacrifices raw hashrate? I’d rather have a stable, cool-running board that lasts years than push it to the limit. I’d value any technical insights you have on thermal management for these small stacks!

[BlackHatCoiner]

Pretty cool setup. I had thought of using solar panels to power a little rig of Bitaxes as well, but it's not as much sunny here. Also, I remember I had checked the price of the solar panels, and it was a lot cheaper to just use electricity for a couple of years instead of buying the panels and setting everything up. But, it's a cool project to learn something new.

Edit: OK, this is the first time I'm getting tricked into believing an AI generated image is a real one. Congrats for whatever tool you used and tricked me, but it is not cool to use AI without telling anyone.

[AnisEverRise]

Pretty cool setup. I had thought of using solar panels to power a little rig of Bitaxes as well, but it's not as much sunny here. Also, I remember I had checked the price of the solar panels, and it was a lot cheaper to just use electricity for a couple of years instead of buying the panels and setting everything up. But, it's a cool project to learn something new.

Edit: OK, this is the first time I'm getting tricked into believing an AI generated image is a real one. Congrats for whatever tool you used and tricked me, but it is not cool to use AI without telling anyone.

Haha, fair enough! We’ve all been tricked by AI at least once lately. It’s becoming way too good at making things look cinematographic. Honestly, I used that image because it perfectly captured the vibe of the project I'm aiming for.

To be totally transparent: my real setup is a bit more low-key' for now. I currently have two Bitaxes running, and I’ve got more on the way from eBay. It’s all tucked away discreetly in a corner of the house rather than looking like a sci-fi movie set!

But on a serious note, living in a place where we are blessed with plenty of sun makes the Solar + Wind combo more than just a hobby it’s the future. You’re right about the initial costs and the hardware investment, but for me, the Return on Investment (ROI) is the bottom line. It’s about making solo mining sustainable in the long run.

Looking forward to seeing how your setup evolves too!