Chip generation is a characteristic describing the technological and architectural version of the computing chips used in mining equipment. For ASICs, a transition to a new chip generation is usually associated with changes in architecture, manufacturing process, and power efficiency.

A newer generation does not automatically mean that all characteristics will improve. To evaluate specific equipment, it is necessary to consider a combination of parameters: hashrate, power consumption, power efficiency, operating temperatures, and other characteristics.

Relationship to the Manufacturing Process

Reducing manufacturing process node size can make it possible to place more computing logic in the same area and reduce the energy required for individual operations. However, final characteristics depend not only on transistor size but also on architecture, circuit design, frequencies, and power management.

Chips of a particular generation can operate in different modes. Changes to frequency, voltage, and power limit affect actual hashrate and power consumption.