Cryptocurrency mining requires the right combination of hardware, software, and a reliable mining pool. Getting started demands a solid understanding of the process, careful guidance, and a good deal of patience.
This detailed guide will help you build a 6 GPU mining rig for cryptocurrency mining, even if you have no prior experience building a computer.
What Is a Mining Rig?
A mining rig is a specialized hardware setup responsible for adding new coins to the circulating supply of a cryptocurrency. This process is fundamental to how cryptocurrencies operate as decentralized peer-to-peer (P2P) networks. By design, crypto mining eliminates the need for central authorities, third-party intermediaries, or managed entities.
Overview of the Mining Rig to Be Built
We will construct an Nvidia-based mining rig running the Windows 10 operating system. However, the principles in this guide can be applied to other operating systems and AMD graphics cards.
The primary difference between Nvidia and AMD graphics cards lies in their core chipsets. Each is compatible with a range of different cryptocurrency mining algorithms. We recommend Nvidia GPUs for beginners, as correctly installing and configuring AMD cards requires a higher level of technical expertise.
You will need several computer components, peripherals, an operating system, mining software, and a wallet to store your mined cryptocurrency. This guide uses the Nvidia GTX 1070 for its examples and also provides a list of alternative GPUs. If all goes well, the entire assembly process can be completed within three hours.
Mining Rig Parts List
You will need to acquire all the hardware components described below.
GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)
The GPU is the most critical part of the entire mining setup, as it is the component that generates profit. We recommend purchasing six GTX 1070 GPUs to start.
You only need one to begin the process, but a multi-GPU setup is the ultimate goal. Here are some solid options:
- MSi Gaming GeForce GTX 1070: Nvidia GeForce co-processor, 1607 MHz clock speed, 8192 MB memory size.
- ASUS Dual GEFORCE GTX 1070: Features DisplayPort, DVI, and HDMI video outputs, 1582 MHz clock speed, 8 GB memory.
- Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1070 G1: Equipped with DVI and HDMI outputs, a high 1822 MHz clock speed, and 8 GB of memory.
- EVGA GeForce GTX 1070: Offers an HDMI video interface, a 1784 MHz clock speed, and 8 GB of memory.
List of Other Components
Here is a categorized list of the other essential components needed to build your mining rig.
- Motherboard: Your choice of motherboard depends on the processor socket type and the number of GPUs you plan to use (6 in this case). Options like the ASUS Prime Z370-A or Z390-A are excellent choices, supporting DDR4 RAM and multiple PCIe slots.
- CPU (Central Processing Unit): Since we are GPU mining, a high-end CPU is unnecessary. A mid-range or low-end option is sufficient. An Intel 8th or 9th Generation 1151 socket CPU, like the Core i5-9400, is a good fit.
- RAM (System Memory): RAM is a required but less critical component for a mining setup. A single 8GB DDR4 module, such as the Patriot Viper Elite, is adequate.
- PSU (Power Supply Unit): You will need a robust and efficient power supply. Any 1200 Watt 80+ Platinum certified PSU, like the Corsair HX1200i or a dedicated server PSU with a breakout board, will provide stable power for six GPUs.
- Risers (PCI-e Risers): PCI-e riser cards elevate the GPUs from the motherboard, enabling better cooling and improved airflow. You will need six powered USB 3.0 risers.
- SSD (Solid State Drive): Any SATA SSD with 240 GB or more of storage, such as the Samsung 860 EVO or Crucial BX500, is suitable for hosting the operating system and mining software.
- Network Connection: A reliable internet connection is mandatory. You can use a standard Ethernet cable (e.g., a Mediabridge 15-ft cable) or a WiFi adapter (like the TP-Link AC600 USB adapter) if wired access is unavailable.
- Mining Frame/Rig Case: You can either build a custom open-air frame from aluminum extrusions or purchase a pre-made 6/8 GPU stackable open-frame case.
- Flash Drive: A USB flash drive with at least 5 GB of capacity is needed for the Windows installation.
- Zip Ties: You will need more than 20 nylon cable ties (zip ties) for secure and tidy cable management.
- PCI-e Y-Splitter Cables: Depending on your PSU, you may need 8-pin to dual 6+2 pin PCI-e splitter cables to power multiple GPUs from a single PSU port.
Cryptocurrencies You Can Mine with This Rig
Your Nvidia GPU is capable of handling a variety of mining algorithms. These include Lyra2REv3, MTP, X16RT, X25X, Ethash, CryptoNightGPU, Cuckaroo29s, and Zhash, among others.
Here is a sample list of mineable cryptocurrencies and their algorithms:
| Cryptocurrency Name | Algorithm Name |
|---|---|
| Ethereum (ETH) | Ethash |
| Ethereum Classic (ETC) | Ethash |
| Bitcoin Gold (BTG) | Equihash |
| Zcoin (XZC) | MTP |
| Beam (BEAM) | BeamHashII |
| Conflux (CFX) | Octopus |
| Aion (AION) | Ethash (10,9) |
| Veil (VEIL) | X16RT |
👉 View real-time mining profitability calculators
Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Mining Rig
Once you have successfully collected all the required components, you can begin assembling the rig. While it may seem daunting at first, it becomes straightforward if you follow the instructions accurately—much like building with Lego blocks.
Step 1: Prepare the Motherboard
Place your motherboard on top of its box or an anti-static bag outside of the mining frame. Before proceeding, ensure you have released the lever holding the CPU socket protector in place.
Step 2: Install the Processor
Carefully install the processor into the motherboard socket. Align the marked corner of the CPU with the corresponding mark on the socket. Lower the CPU into place without applying force—it should drop in easily. Secure the CPU by lowering the retention lever.
Before mounting the CPU cooler, apply a small, pea-sized amount of thermal paste onto the center of the CPU's heat spreader. Then, secure the cooler according to its instructions. Connect the cooler's power cable to the motherboard header labeled "CPU_FAN1."
Step 3: Install the RAM
Installing the RAM (system memory) is simple. Open the side clips on the motherboard's RAM slots. Align the notch on the RAM module with the key in the slot and press down firmly on both ends until the clips snap shut automatically.
Step 4: Mount the Motherboard to the Frame
Carefully position the motherboard onto your mining frame. Handle the motherboard by its edges to avoid scratching the bottom. If using a metal frame, ensure the motherboard only makes contact at the screw holes. Use the provided standoffs and screws to securely fasten the motherboard to the frame.
Step 5: Connect the Power Supply Unit (PSU)
Place the PSU in a designated spot within the mining frame, ensuring it has adequate space for ventilation. Locate the 24-pin ATX power connector and the 8-pin EPS connector for the CPU on your motherboard and connect them securely from the PSU.
Crucial Note: Do not confuse the 8-pin CPU cable with the 8-pin (6+2) PCI-e cables meant for the GPUs. The CPU cable is often thicker and keyed differently.
Step 6: Connect the PCI-e Riser Cards
Connect the x16 end of each USB riser card to a GPU. The x1 (short) end of the riser card plugs into a PCI-e x1 or x16 slot on the motherboard. Each riser card also needs to be powered. Depending on the riser model, use either a PCI-e 6-pin connector, a SATA cable (be cautious, as SATA can be a fire risk under high load), or a Molex connector from the PSU.
Warning: Do not chain more than two risers on a single strand of Molex or SATA power cables from the PSU, as this can cause overheating.
Step 7: Install the GPUs
Secure the graphics cards to the frame. Connect the PCI-e 6+2 power connectors from the PSU directly to each GPU. Ensure all connections are snug.
Step 8: Final Connections and First Boot
Double-check that all cables are connected correctly. Connect a monitor to the first GPU installed in the primary PCI-E slot. Connect a keyboard and mouse.
Finally, turn on the rig by shorting the two "PWR_SW" pins on the motherboard's front-panel header with a screwdriver. If the assembly is successful, you will see the BIOS message on your screen.
Configuring Your Cryptocurrency Mining Rig
With all hardware connected, it's time to power on and configure the software for mining Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies.
Step 1: BIOS Configuration for Mining
Access the BIOS by pressing F2 or Delete during startup. Once in the BIOS, navigate to the advanced settings (often by pressing F7) and apply the following optimizations:
- DMI/OPI Configuration: Set DMI Max Link Speed to Gen1.
- PEG Port Configuration: Set all PCIEX16_x settings to Gen1.
- SATA Configuration: Disable any SATA ports that do not have an SSD connected.
- PCI Express Configuration: Set PCIe Speed to Gen1.
- Onboard Devices: Disable the HD Audio Controller.
- 4G Decoding / Above 4G Decoding: Enable this critical setting.
- Boot Settings: Disable Fast Boot.
Save these settings and exit the BIOS.
Step 2: Windows 10 Installation
Insert your Windows 10 installation USB and boot from it. Follow the installation prompts. When configuring Windows, we recommend declining options for Cortana, OneDrive, location tracking, and personalized ads for a cleaner, less intrusive setup. After installation, log in and install all necessary Windows updates.
Step 3: Nvidia Driver Installation
While Windows may install a basic driver, it's best to download the latest drivers directly from Nvidia's website. Run the installer, choose "Custom Installation," and select only the Graphics Driver. Reboot your system after the installation is complete.
Step 4: Windows 10 Optimization for Mining
Optimize your OS for stability and performance:
- Go to System > Power & Sleep and set sleep to "Never."
- In System > Advanced System Settings > Performance Settings, choose "Adjust for best performance."
- Under Virtual Memory, uncheck "Automatically manage," select your SSD, and set both initial and maximum size to 16384 MB.
- Consider pausing Windows Updates to prevent unexpected restarts during mining.
Step 5: Installing the Remaining GPUs
With the first GPU working, power down the rig and connect the remaining five GPUs one by one:
- With the PSU switched off, connect a riser and GPU to an open slot.
- Power on the rig and boot into Windows.
- Open Device Manager and check if the new GPU is detected under "Display adapters."
- If it appears with a warning icon, right-click it, select "Update driver," and manually direct Windows to the
C:\NVIDIA\folder to search for drivers. - Repeat this process for each additional GPU, troubleshooting one at a time to isolate any issues.
👉 Explore more advanced configuration strategies
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most important component in a crypto mining rig?
The GPU is the most critical component as it performs the actual computational work required for mining and directly determines your potential earnings and efficiency.
Can I use any power supply for a 6 GPU mining rig?
No. You need a high-wattage (1000W+), high-efficiency (80+ Gold or Platinum certified) power supply designed to deliver stable power 24/7. Using an underpowered or low-quality PSU can lead to system instability or hardware failure.
Why do I need to enable "4G Decoding" in the BIOS?
Enabling Above 4G Decoding allows your system to recognize and utilize more than four graphics cards simultaneously by remapping PCIe memory above the 4GB boundary. It is essential for multi-GPU setups.
Is building a mining rig still profitable?
Profitability depends heavily on several dynamic factors: the cost of your electricity, the current market value of cryptocurrencies, and the network mining difficulty. It requires continuous calculation and monitoring.
What are the biggest risks when building a mining rig?
The primary risks are hardware damage from electrostatic discharge or incorrect assembly, financial loss if cryptocurrency prices fall below mining costs, and fire hazard from improper electrical wiring or overloaded power cables.
Do I need an internet connection for mining?
Yes, a stable internet connection is mandatory. Your mining rig needs to be constantly connected to a mining pool and the blockchain network to receive work and submit valid shares.
Summary
This comprehensive tutorial provides the knowledge to build your own 6 GPU cryptocurrency mining rig. While the specific parts listed can be substituted with comparable components, following the core principles of assembly, BIOS configuration, and software setup will put you on the path to becoming a successful miner. The process is simplified specifically with first-time builders in mind.