Optimizing Your Mining Setup
Adding a second GPU introduces new considerations—power, heat, and configuration. Here’s how to maximize efficiency while maintaining stability.
Power Supply Requirements
- Minimum PSU Capacity: 800W Platinum-rated (e.g., Corsair AX860).
- Cable Compatibility: Ensure your PSU has sufficient 6-pin or 8-pin PCIe connectors for both GPUs.
Heat Management Strategies
- GPU Spacing: Maximize distance between cards to reduce heat buildup.
Cooling Solutions:
- Use high-airflow case fans or external cooling (e.g., box fans).
- Monitor temps closely—top cards may reach 80°C, while bottom cards stay ~50°C.
- Thermal Throttling Threshold: GPUs throttle at 83°C (max safe limit: 93°C).
👉 Essential tools for GPU overclocking
Performance Tweaks: SLI vs. Non-SLI
Testing revealed SLI configuration delivers:
- Smoother operation (+5% efficiency).
- Higher hash rates (50–53 MH/s baseline).
Overclocking with NVIDIA Inspector
- Core Clock Adjustment: Reduce by -200 MHz (to ~1700 MHz) for heat reduction.
- Memory Clock Boost: +360 MHz (effective 8316 MHz), yielding 55–57 MH/s.
| Metric | Baseline | After OC |
|---|---|---|
| Hash Rate | 50 MH/s | 57–60 MH/s |
| Top GPU Temp | 80°C | 78–80°C |
| Bottom GPU Temp | 50°C | 50°C |
Advanced Tuning with Nvidia Profile Inspector
Force P0 state for better control:
- Download Nvidia Profile Inspector (v2.3.1.6+).
- Modify profile to lock GPUs in P0 mode.
- Result: Consistent 58–60 MH/s with reduced throttling.
👉 Maximize mining profitability with these tips
FAQs
1. Does SLI improve mining performance?
Yes, SLI can enhance stability and hash rates by optimizing GPU synchronization.
2. What’s the ideal temperature range for GTX 1070 mining?
Aim for ≤80°C on the top card; sustained temps above 83°C trigger throttling.
3. Can I mix different GTX 1070 models in SLI?
Technically yes, but matching models (e.g., same VRAM) ensures balanced performance.
4. How much power do dual 1070s consume?
~300W total under load (varies by OC settings).
5. Is overclocking memory or core more impactful?
Memory speed directly boosts hash rates; core clock adjustments primarily manage heat.
6. Why force P0 state?
Prevents GPUs from defaulting to power-saving modes, ensuring peak mining performance.
Final Notes
- Expected Output: 57–60 MH/s with dual OC’d GTX 1070s.
- Critical Tools: GPU-Z, NVIDIA Inspector, Ethminer.
- Pro Tip: Regularly clean dust from GPUs to maintain optimal cooling.