Open Mining Firmware

There are currently no open-source Bitcoin mining firmware options and we’re going to change that with this project. Unless you are running your miner in the exact conditions it was engineered for then you have probably experienced the headache of dealing with closed parameters in the firmware that you can’t change. There are several aftermarket firmware options available that provide additional flexibility beyond the manufacturers firmware but they are all closed source and still they leave something to be desired when it comes to customizations. Beyond being open-source, the main highlights of the Mujina Mining Firmware are: Linux based, multi driver compatible, and Stratum v2 client support. This will unlock hacks like changing the main supply voltage, swapping out or removing the fans, changing ASIC voltage & frequency, and anything else the end user wants to change.

If this sounds like a project you want to support, then send The 256 Foundaton a tax deductible donation here! Or use The 256 Foundation PayNym!

Scope

One Project Manager position and one developer position to fulfill the mission of The 256 Foundation, “Dismantle the proprietary mining empire to make Bitcoin and freedom tech accessible to anyone”. This grant proposal aims to secure funding for:

• One project manager to oversee and ensure mission adherence, timeliness, and execution.
• One developer to build the Mujina Firmware.
• Mujina specifics: Fully open-source Linux-based mining firmware which is compatible with a range of Bitcoin mining hardware drivers like Antminer, Whatsminer, Avalon, and the list can be extended.
• A built-in StratumV2 client.
• User-friendly dashboard.
• Complete client architecture.
• Supporting documentation and specifications.
• This project is fully open-source GPL licensed.
• Excluded from this proposal are sales, distribution, marketing, and customer technical support.

Deliverables

Core Mujina-miner Application

• Fully open-source under GPLv3 license
• Written in Rust for performance, robustness, and maintainability, leveraging Rust’s growing adoption in the Bitcoin ecosystem
• Designed for modularity and extensibility
• Stratum V1 client (which includes DATUM compatability)
• Stratum V2 client Hardware Support on a best effort basis
• Support for Ember One 00 hash boards
• Support for Ember One 01 hash boards on a best effort basis
• Full support on the Raspberry Pi CM5 and IO board running the Raspberry Pi OS
• Support for the Libre board when released
• Best-effort compatibility with other hardware running LinuxManagement Interfaces
• HTTP API for remote management and monitoring
• Command-line interface for direct control
• Basic web dashboard for status monitoring
• Configuration via structured text filesCommunity Building and Infrastructure
• GitHub project organization and workflow
• Continuous integration and testing framework
• Comprehensive user and developer documentation
• Communication channels for users and developers
• Community building through writing, podcasts, and conference participation

The initial release of Mujina is being built in such a way that it supports long-term goals like ultimately evolving into a complete Linux-based operating system, deployable through simple flashing procedures. Initially focused on supporting the 256 Foundation’s Libre control boards and Ember hash boards, Mujina’s modular architecture will eventually enable compatibility with a wide variety of mining hardware from different manufacturers.

Timeline:

The timeline for this grant is nine months with the opportunity to extend the grant cycle at the conclusion of each nine month period, pending negotiations.

Materials:

Materials for this project’s initial release are included in the budget. Potential materials for the project may include but are not limited to compute modules, various I/O boards, various common mining rigs like Antminer or Whatsminer, and various other tools or software.

Team Members:

Lead Developer = @ryankuester

Project Manager = @econoalchemist

Budget:

For security reasons, exact dollar amounts are kept confidential. This project budget covers fair-market compensation for one project manager as well as the materials, travel expenses, and living expenses for one developer for nine months. Funds are disbursed monthly in equal amounts. Within 30-days prior to the expiration of this grant, a renewal opportunity will open and be subject to review and negotiation.