by Nowitness
Bobcat Miner Outdoor Setup
Many Bobber owners are Outdoor Mining fans. After some tests, I’d like to share some hints for moving your miner outdoor.
There are several factors you need to consider before moving your Hotspot outside.
Cold and Heat (0°C to + 60°C)
According to the Bobcat Miner datasheet, the operating Temperature is 0°C to + 60°C. This is mainly decided by the operating temperature of the LoRa module it’s using SX1308, CPU and Network Card.
Bobcat Miner DatasheetSX1308 Datasheet
Why cold isn’t good to your Hotspot?
In fact, a hotspot may operate more efficiently in cooler conditions. However, taking a hotspot that was in a cold temperature to a warmer temperature can cause condensation in it that causes damage. To reduce this damage, you should wait until its’ temperature back the same as the warmer environment. Also, the shape of some parts in it may change because of very cold temperature.
WiFi Speed (Slow)
If your Router is indoors, the WiFi might not be good enough for your Hotspot to get good performance.
Power (110V - 240V is Dangerous)
Since it’s outdoors, it will be dangerous to use the 110V – 240V power directly outside.
Rain & Snow
Water, Snow and Humidity need to be considered.
Ideas to Solve These
1. Air Circulation & Heatsink/Fan to Protect from Heat
2. Cover to Protect from Snow
3. LAN Cable to Improve Network Speed
Use a POE or LAN Cable. If you have already owned LAN Cables, don’t waste them, you only need to buy the Power Cable. It’s even better than using a combination cable.
4. 12V/5V Power Outdoor
Use POE or Power Cable. If you have already owned Power Cables, don’t waste them, you only need to buy the LAN Cable. It’s even better than using a combination cable.
5. Waterproof Box/Shelter to Protect Miner
Learn what different components were used for this DIY enclosure and how well they faired under different conditions by reading the full article.
TheRavan
I read the full article and found it lacking in details when it came to the power and networking. For most people running a network outside is not an option so they have to use WIFI. Plus you failed to point out that if you are going to use a network cable it really should be outdoor rated. Outdoor and indoor rated CAT5/6 cables are very different.