Troubleshooting Low Hashrate On Ubuntu Mining Rig With RX570 4GB And Claymore

Hey guys! Mining cryptocurrencies can be super rewarding, but it can also be a real headache when things don't go as planned. If you're like me, you've probably spent hours tweaking your rigs to get the best possible hashrate. Today, we're diving deep into a common issue faced by miners using Ubuntu with RX570 4GB cards and Claymore miner – low hashrates. Specifically, we'll tackle the problem of getting only around 17Mh/s when you know these cards can do so much more. We'll explore the setup, troubleshooting steps, and optimization techniques to help you maximize your mining performance. So, buckle up, and let's get those hashrates soaring!

Initial Setup and Configuration

Operating System and Kernel

The foundation of any mining rig is the operating system. For this setup, we're using Ubuntu 17.10 with Kernel 4.13.0-36-generic. While Ubuntu is a popular choice due to its stability and extensive community support, it's essential to ensure that your kernel and drivers are playing nicely together. The kernel version is crucial because it dictates compatibility with the AMD drivers. A mismatch can lead to significant performance issues, including the dreaded low hashrate. Before proceeding, it’s worth checking if a kernel upgrade or downgrade might align better with the AMDGPU-Pro drivers you intend to use.

Driver Installation (AMDGPU-Pro 17.40)

Installing the correct drivers is paramount. In this case, we’re using AMDGPU-Pro 17.40. AMDGPU-Pro drivers are specifically designed to optimize performance for professional workloads, including mining. However, the installation process can be tricky. It’s not just about running an installer; it’s about ensuring the system recognizes and utilizes the drivers effectively. A common pitfall is incomplete installation or conflicts with existing drivers. Before installing, it's a good practice to purge any previous AMD drivers to avoid conflicts. The installation should be followed by a reboot to allow the system to load the new drivers. A quick check using amdgpu-smi can confirm if the drivers are correctly installed and if the GPUs are recognized.

Claymore Miner Configuration

Claymore miner is a favorite among miners for its efficiency and features. However, even with the best hardware and drivers, a poorly configured miner can lead to suboptimal performance. The Claymore config file is where you fine-tune settings like intensity, GPU target temperature, and memory timings. A common mistake is using default settings that don't fully utilize the potential of your RX570 cards. Each card is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Experimenting with different settings and monitoring the results is key. Pay close attention to the -dcri parameter, which controls the intensity of the mining process. Start with lower values and gradually increase to find the sweet spot where the hashrate is maximized without causing instability.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Low Hashrate Diagnosis

Experiencing a low hashrate of around 17Mh/s on an RX570 4GB card is a clear indicator that something isn’t right. These cards are generally capable of much higher hashrates, often exceeding 20Mh/s or even 25Mh/s with the right tweaks. Diagnosing the root cause involves a systematic approach. Start by isolating the problem. Is it specific to one card, or do all cards exhibit the same low performance? Check the logs of the Claymore miner for any error messages or warnings. These logs often provide clues about what's going wrong. Common issues include driver conflicts, insufficient power, overheating, or incorrect miner settings. A methodical approach to checking each potential cause is essential to pinpoint the exact issue.

Driver Conflicts and Compatibility

Driver conflicts are a frequent culprit behind low hashrates. As mentioned earlier, mixing different versions or having remnants of old drivers can wreak havoc on performance. The AMDGPU-Pro drivers are known to be finicky, and they require a clean environment to function optimally. Use the apt package manager to remove any existing AMD drivers completely before installing the 17.40 version. Sometimes, even after a clean installation, certain kernel modules might not load correctly. Checking the output of lsmod for AMD-related modules can help identify if all components are loaded. If not, manually loading the modules or reinstalling the drivers might be necessary.

Overclocking and Undervolting

Overclocking and undervolting are essential techniques for optimizing mining performance and efficiency. Overclocking increases the clock speeds of the GPU and memory, potentially boosting the hashrate. Undervolting reduces the voltage supplied to the card, lowering power consumption and heat generation. However, both techniques need to be applied judiciously. Aggressive overclocking without sufficient cooling can lead to overheating and instability, while excessive undervolting can cause crashes or performance degradation. Use tools like amd-smi to monitor GPU temperatures and power consumption. Start with small increments and thoroughly test the stability of your system after each change. A balanced approach that maximizes hashrate while maintaining stability and efficiency is the ultimate goal.

Insufficient Power Supply

Power is the lifeblood of any mining rig. Insufficient power can lead to a variety of issues, including low hashrates, system crashes, and even hardware damage. Ensure that your power supply unit (PSU) has enough wattage to handle the total power draw of your system, including GPUs, CPU, motherboard, and other components. It's always a good idea to have some headroom to accommodate power spikes. Use a power meter to measure the actual power consumption of your rig under full load. If you're pushing your PSU to its limits, it might be time to consider upgrading to a higher wattage model. Also, check the PCI-e power cables connecting the GPUs to the PSU. Faulty or loose connections can restrict power delivery and affect performance.

Hardware Limitations

While the RX570 4GB is a capable mining card, it does have its limitations. The 4GB of VRAM can be a bottleneck for certain mining algorithms, especially as the DAG (Directed Acyclic Graph) size increases. DAG size is a critical factor in Ethereum mining, and it grows over time. When the DAG size exceeds the available VRAM, the hashrate can plummet. While this is more of a long-term concern, it’s worth keeping in mind. Consider mining other cryptocurrencies or algorithms that are less VRAM-intensive if you encounter this limitation. Additionally, the silicon lottery plays a role. Some cards are simply better performers than others, even within the same model. This is where fine-tuning and optimization become even more critical.

Optimization Techniques

BIOS Modification

Modifying the BIOS of your RX570 cards can unlock significant performance gains. A BIOS mod typically involves adjusting memory timings and voltage settings to optimize the card for mining. This is an advanced technique that carries some risk, as an incorrect BIOS flash can brick your card. However, when done correctly, it can result in a substantial hashrate increase. There are many online resources and communities that provide pre-modified BIOS files for RX570 cards. Before flashing a modified BIOS, make sure it's compatible with your specific card model and memory type. Always back up your original BIOS in case you need to revert to it. Use tools like PolarisBiosEditor to inspect and modify BIOS settings.

Fine-Tuning Claymore Miner Settings

Claymore miner offers a plethora of settings that can be fine-tuned to maximize performance. The -dcri parameter, as mentioned earlier, controls the mining intensity. Experimenting with different values is crucial to find the optimal setting for your cards. Other important parameters include -cclock (core clock), -mclock (memory clock), and -cvddc (core voltage). Use a monitoring tool like amd-smi to track temperatures and power consumption while adjusting these settings. Start with small increments and monitor the impact on hashrate and stability. The -retrydelay and -r parameters can help with system stability by restarting the miner if it crashes. The -logfile parameter is invaluable for debugging issues.

Memory Timings and Overclocking

Memory timings play a significant role in mining performance. Tighter timings can improve the hashrate, but they also increase the risk of instability. Overclocking the memory can also boost performance, but it's essential to find the right balance between speed and stability. Use tools like amd-smi to monitor memory temperatures. If you've flashed a modified BIOS, the memory timings might already be optimized. However, it's still worth experimenting with different memory clock speeds to find the sweet spot. Gradually increase the memory clock and monitor the hashrate. If you encounter errors or crashes, reduce the clock speed slightly. The goal is to find the highest stable memory clock speed that provides the best hashrate.

Cooling Solutions

Effective cooling is paramount for maintaining high hashrates and prolonging the lifespan of your GPUs. Overheating can cause performance throttling and even hardware damage. Ensure that your mining rig has adequate ventilation. Use fans to circulate air and remove hot air from the enclosure. Consider upgrading the stock coolers on your RX570 cards with aftermarket coolers if necessary. Monitoring GPU temperatures is crucial. Use tools like amd-smi to track temperatures under full load. Aim to keep temperatures below 70°C for optimal performance and longevity. If temperatures are consistently high, consider adding more fans or improving the airflow in your rig.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting low hashrates on an Ubuntu mining rig with RX570 4GB cards can be challenging, but with a systematic approach, it’s definitely achievable. Remember, start with the basics: ensure your drivers are correctly installed, your miner is properly configured, and your power supply is sufficient. Don't be afraid to experiment with overclocking and undervolting, but always monitor temperatures and stability. BIOS modification can offer significant gains, but proceed with caution. By addressing these key areas and fine-tuning your setup, you'll be well on your way to maximizing your mining performance. Happy mining, guys! I hope this guide helps you get the most out of your RX570 cards and boosts your mining profits!