Do I have it right? | Efficient powering of small ASIC cluster

[NLM]

Hi All,

I am building a cluster of small ASIC miners and looking for a more efficient way to power them. The ASICs come with a 120W laptop style charger, for power (stock speeds) they require 100W at 16v-19v. Now for 2 or 3 this is ok but more than that it is not very efficientor clean to have a bunch of laptop chargers and using tons of outlets.

I have some 1200W server PSU that I would like to use, problem is they are 12v, so what I was thinking is:

Server PSU > Breakout board > ATX 6 pin off breakout to voltage step-up > to ASIC which accepts 2.5*5.5mm DC jack.

I will be running these ASIC overclocked which increases power to about 160W.

In theory I should be able to power 6 ASIC per 1200w server PSU, it would be much cleaner and efficient / cheaper.

This all sounds good in my head, and I think should work. BUT I am new to doing mods like this and looking for any advice or things I should be watching out for.

Cheers,
NLM

[Ian.M]

Sounds like a PITA.  The boost converters will kill your efficiency and cost a fair bit as you need 10A ones to have some margin.   A 1000W 18V PSU can support six 160W loads direct, with much simpler wiring.  Maybe derate to five loads to have some margin.

N.B. 2.5x5.5mm barrel jacks are *not* trustworthy at high currents.

[PSR B1257]

https://www.meanwell.com/productSeries.aspx#The PSPA-1000-15 (can be adjusted to 17V output voltage) should suit your needs.