Intel launches blockchain chip

Intel has launched a chip to accelerate the use of distributed ledger blockchain secure applications. This uses the same technology that was in the cryptocurrency mining Bitminer chip detailed in February at the ISSCC conference.

The Blockscale application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) aims to make the underlying technology of the blockchain more energy efficient for decentralised applications such as Web3.0, security and counterfeit detection.

The chip is a dedicated secure hash algorithm-256 (SHA-256) ASIC processor with a has rate of up to 580 GH/s and up to 26 J/TH power efficiency. It can be combined in a chain of 256 devices and includes on-chip temperature- and voltage-sensing capabilities for remote monitoring. Samples and a reference design will be available in Q3 2022.

Related blockchain articles

• 冷杉区块链保证优质麦芽威士忌st time
• First quantum network for blockchain
• Intel details bitcoin mining chip
• UK drug police uncover Bitcoin mining farm

“Momentum around blockchain continues to build. It is the enabler of decentralized and distributed computing, making way for innovative business models. To power this new era of computing, Intel is delivering solutions that can offer an optimal balance of hashing throughput and energy efficiency regardless of a customer’s operating environment. Intel’s decades of R&D in cryptography, hashing techniques and ultra-low voltage circuits make it possible for blockchain applications to scale their computing power without compromising on sustainability, “ said Balaji Kanigicherla, Intel vice president and general manager of Custom Compute in the Accelerated Computing Systems and Graphics Group.

The computing requirements for blockchain using proof-of-work consensus mechanisms is growing at a rapid rate due to their resiliency and ability to scale without sacrificing decentralization. However this can use an enormous amount of energy. For proof-of-work algorithms that are compatible with ASIC-based systems and SHA-256 hashing, the Blockscale ASIC will provide the energy efficiency and computing power needed to achieve scalability and sustainability without compromising the supply of new CPUs or GPUs that are currently used for this.

“Intel is committed to advancing blockchain technology in a responsible way, and we’re proud to collaborate with and provide solutions to companies that are creating a more sustainable cryptocurrency ecosystem globally,” said Jose Rios, general manager of Blockchain and Business Solutions in the Accelerated Computing Systems and Graphics Group at Intel. “The Intel Blockscale ASIC is going to play a major role in helping bitcoin mining companies achieve both sustainability and hash rate scaling objectives in the years ahead.”