1. About Zcash

1.1 What Is ZEC?

ZEC is the native cryptocurrency of the Zcash network.

Zcash is a Proof-of-Work blockchain that supports both transparent and privacy-preserving transactions. It uses the Equihash mining algorithm and is now mined mainly with ASIC miners designed for the Equihash parameters used by Zcash.

As the network hashrate and ASIC mining hardware have developed, CPUs, regular computers, and consumer GPUs are generally no longer competitive at the current ZEC network difficulty.

1.2 What Is Equihash?

Equihash is the Proof-of-Work algorithm used by Zcash.

Miners continuously perform Equihash computations and submit valid shares to KuPool. KuPool combines the hashrate contributed by all connected miners to mine Zcash blocks and distributes rewards under the applicable payout scheme.

1.3 ZEC Address Types

Transparent and Shielded Transactions

Zcash supports more than one transaction type.

These include:

• Transparent transactions: Addresses, amounts, and transaction records are publicly visible, similar to Bitcoin.
• Shielded transactions: Zero-knowledge proofs can conceal the sender, recipient, or transaction amount.
• Transfers between transparent and shielded pools.

Zcash therefore uses different address and receiver types for different transaction capabilities.

Transparent addresses primarily receive transparent funds. Shielded receivers can receive funds into a shielded pool.

Multiple Generations of Zcash Addresses

As the Zcash privacy protocol has evolved, the network has introduced several address and receiver types, including transparent addresses, Sapling addresses, and newer shielded receivers.

Different address types may vary in whether they:

• Accept transparent payments
• Accept shielded payments
• Support automatic shielding
• Are recognized by older wallets
• Are supported by exchange deposit systems
• Can receive direct mining pool payouts

Two addresses may both be labeled as ZEC addresses while having different payment capabilities.

Why Unified Addresses Were Introduced

Zcash introduced Unified Addresses to reduce the complexity of choosing between different address types.

A Unified Address is not a separate pool of funds. It is an encoded address that combines multiple Zcash receivers.

When a wallet processes a Unified Address, it can select a compatible transparent or shielded receiver based on the capabilities of the sender and recipient.

A Unified Address can therefore act as a compatibility layer:

• A wallet that supports shielded payments may select a shielded receiver.
• A wallet that supports only transparent payments may select a transparent receiver.
• The user does not need to copy and manage several separate addresses.

However, the sending wallet must be able to parse the Unified Address and select a compatible receiver.

2. Before You Start

2.1 Miner Requirements

ZEC is currently mined mainly with ASIC miners that support the Equihash parameters used by Zcash.

Common miner types include:

• Air-cooled Equihash ASIC miners
• Hydro-cooled Equihash ASIC miners
• Immersion-cooled Equihash ASIC miners
• Other dedicated ASIC miners that explicitly support ZEC

Before connecting a miner, make sure that:

• The miner explicitly supports ZEC.
• It supports the Equihash parameters currently used by Zcash.
• It supports standard Stratum pool connections.
• Its firmware allows custom KuPool URLs.
• Its rated power matches the available electrical capacity.
• The power supply and cables meet the required specifications.
• Its efficiency remains economically viable at your electricity rate.
• All hashboards and chips are working properly.

The following devices are not recommended for ZEC mining:

• SHA-256 Bitcoin miners
• Scrypt Litecoin miners
• Equihash miners that do not support the Zcash parameters
• CPUs
• Consumer GPUs
• ASIC miners that do not support Equihash

Two miners may both be labeled as Equihash miners but still support different Equihash parameters. Always confirm that the miner explicitly supports Zcash.

Changing the pool URL cannot make an ASIC miner support a different mining algorithm.

2.2 Power Requirements

Equihash ASIC miners consume significant power. Before powering on your miner, make sure that:

• The input voltage meets the miner’s specifications.
• Power outlets and cables support the required current.
• The PDU can handle the actual load.
• The circuit breaker has sufficient capacity.
• The electrical system is properly grounded.
• Cables and connectors are not damaged, loose, or overheating.
• All power connectors are fully inserted.
• The circuit is not overloaded.

Do not connect a high-power miner to a household power strip that is not rated for the required load.

The power usage shown in the miner dashboard may differ from actual wall consumption. Use a power meter or smart PDU when calculating electricity costs.

2.3 Network Requirements

Use a stable wired network connection.

Before mining, make sure that:

• The router has internet access.
• The Ethernet cable is properly connected.
• DHCP is enabled and working.
• The miner can obtain a local IP address.
• Pool ports are not blocked by a firewall.
• DNS resolution is working.
• The network does not experience frequent packet loss.
• Latency to the KuPool server is stable.

For large mining farms, consider using:

• Primary and backup internet connections
• Static IP addresses or DHCP reservations
• A dedicated miner network
• Switch-port monitoring
• Network outage alerts

2.4 Cooling Requirements

Equihash ASIC miners generate substantial heat and noise.

Make sure that:

• Air intakes are not blocked.
• Exhaust outlets remain unobstructed.
• Hot exhaust air does not flow back into the air intake.
• The ambient temperature stays within the miner’s operating range.
• All fans are working properly.
• There is enough space between miners.
• The facility has sufficient ventilation and exhaust capacity.
• Dust is removed regularly.

For hydro-cooled or immersion-cooled miners, also check:

• Coolant condition
• Water or circulation pumps
• Pipeline pressure
• Connections and potential leaks
• Heat exchangers
• Inlet and outlet temperatures
• Cooling system alarms

3. Create a KuPool Account and Subaccount

For detailed instructions, refer to:

• KuPool Registration and Login
• How to Create a Subaccount

When creating a ZEC subaccount, consider naming it by mining site, customer, or server room.

Examples:

• zec-hk01
• zec-farm-a
• equihash-room01
• customer01-zec

The standard worker format is:

subaccount.worker_name

Example:

zec-hk01.Z15-001

In this example:

• zec-hk01 is the KuPool subaccount.
• Z15-001 is the worker name.
• A period separates the subaccount from the worker name.

Assign a unique worker name to each miner. This makes it easier to identify offline, low-hashrate, or abnormal machines in the KuPool dashboard.

4. Prepare a ZEC Payout Address

After configuring your ZEC miner, add a valid ZEC payout address to KuPool.

Once the address is verified and active, KuPool will send eligible ZEC rewards to that address under the applicable payout schedule and threshold.

4.1 Understand ZEC Address Types

The Zcash network supports several receiving address types.

Common types include:

• Transparent addresses
• Unified Addresses
• Wallet addresses with shielded receivers
• TEX addresses

Each type has different functions and compatibility requirements.

Before adding an address, confirm that both the wallet and KuPool’s current payout system support it.

4.2 Obtain a ZEC Wallet Address

Choose a payout address based on how you prefer to manage your assets.

Option 1: Use a Wallet Recommended by Zcash

Whenever possible, use a wallet recommended by the Zcash project that is also compatible with KuPool’s current payout rules.

To obtain an address:

1. Download the wallet from its official website or a trusted app store.
2. Confirm that it is the official version.
3. Create or import a wallet.
4. Back up the recovery phrase or private key.
5. Generate a ZEC receiving address.
6. Update the wallet to a version that supports the current Zcash network.
7. Confirm that KuPool supports the generated address type.

When using a non-custodial wallet:

• You are responsible for protecting the recovery phrase and private keys.
• A lost wallet can usually be recovered only with its recovery phrase.
• Do not screenshot or upload the recovery phrase.
• Never share your Spending Key or private key.
• Test a new address with a small transaction before regular use.

Option 2: Use a Mobile Wallet

You may use a non-custodial mobile wallet that supports the current Zcash network rules.

When using a mobile wallet:

• Download it only from its official website or a trusted app store.
• Confirm that it supports the current Zcash network upgrade.
• Confirm that KuPool supports the generated address type.
• Back up the recovery phrase immediately.
• Do not store the recovery phrase online.
• Never share your private key, recovery phrase, or wallet password.
• Keep the wallet updated.

Option 3: Use a Platform Deposit Address

Some digital asset platforms provide ZEC deposit addresses.

After registering and logging in, open the deposit page and select ZEC.

Before using the address, confirm that:

• The selected asset is ZEC.
• ZEC deposits are currently available.
• KuPool supports the address type.
• The address complies with the current Zcash network rules.
• KuPool payouts meet the platform’s minimum deposit requirement.
• The platform is not undergoing wallet maintenance or a network upgrade.

Regulations and service availability vary by region. Users are responsible for checking local requirements and evaluating account, deposit, and custody risks.

4.3 ZIP 320 Address Requirements

TEX addresses are defined in Zcash ZIP 320.

They allow a recipient to require that payments come from transparent inputs. Some exchanges and asset platforms may provide TEX deposit addresses.

TEX addresses are not the same as regular transparent addresses or Unified Addresses. A mining pool must add specific support before it can send payouts to them.

Therefore:

• Do not assume that every ZEC address provided by an exchange can receive KuPool payouts.
• Do not rely only on the platform’s ZEC deposit label.
• Check the latest KuPool notice before adding a TEX address.
• If KuPool does not currently support TEX addresses, use a wallet address that KuPool explicitly supports.

Supported address types may change as wallets and Zcash network rules are updated. Always check the latest KuPool page and announcements before adding an address.

4.4 Add a ZEC Address to KuPool

After obtaining a compatible ZEC address:

1. Log in to KuPool.
2. Go to Mining > Payout Settings.
3. Select the required subaccount.
4. Open Payment Settings.
5. Select ZEC and click Change Address.
6. Enter and verify the payout address.
7. Add a note if needed.
8. Click Next.
9. Confirm that payouts are enabled.

Adding or changing an address may trigger a security protection period. Rewards will continue to accrue, but payouts may be delayed.

Refer to the status shown on the KuPool Payment Settings page.

4.5 Address Security

When adding a ZEC payout address:

• KuPool requires only your public receiving address.
• KuPool will never ask for your private key or recovery phrase.
• Never send private keys, recovery phrases, passwords, or verification codes through messaging apps.
• Never share your Spending Key.
• Do not use wrapped ZEC addresses from another network.
• Check at least the first and last six characters after pasting the address.
• Confirm that KuPool currently supports the address type.
• Confirm that you are visiting the official KuPool website.
• Monitor deposit availability and address-change notices when using an exchange address.
• Check KuPool announcements during wallet or Zcash network upgrades.

5. Payout Address Security Lock

For detailed instructions, refer to:

• How to Add a Payout Address

Adding or changing an address triggers a 48-hour security lock, subject to the status shown in your KuPool account.

Rewards will continue to accrue during the lock period, but payouts will be suspended.

After the lock expires, eligible rewards will be paid on the next payout date once all payout requirements have been met.

Before submitting a ZEC address, confirm that:

• The address was generated by a wallet currently supported by KuPool.
• The address complies with current Zcash network rules.
• It is not an unsupported TEX address.
• The address is complete.
• Payouts are enabled.

6. Find the Miner’s IP Address

6.1 Use the Manufacturer’s IP Tool

After powering on the miner and connecting it to the network, locate its local IP address.

1. Connect the miner and your computer to the same router or network switch.
2. Download the official IP discovery tool from the miner manufacturer.
3. Open the tool.
4. Press the IP, IP Report, or similar button on the miner.
5. Locate the miner’s IP address in the tool.
6. Record the address.

Common tool names include:

• IP Reporter
• IP Finder
• Miner Tool
• Batch Management Tool

Only download miner management tools from the manufacturer’s official website.

7. Log In to the Miner Dashboard

Open a web browser on a computer connected to the same local network.

Enter the miner’s IP address in the address bar, then log in with the administrator username and password.

Default login credentials may be listed in:

• The miner label
• The product manual
• The manufacturer’s documentation
• Equipment delivery records

After your first login, check:

• Firmware version
• System time
• Number of hashboards
• Chip count
• Fan status
• Power-supply status
• Temperature sensors
• Current operating mode
• System logs

Resolve missing hashboards, overheating, or chip errors before configuring KuPool.

8. Configure the KuPool ZEC Pool

8.1 KuPool ZEC Stratum URL

Use the ZEC Stratum URL currently displayed on the KuPool website.

Pool servers and ports may change because of node optimization or maintenance. Always verify the latest configuration on the official KuPool page.

Do not rely on group-chat screenshots, outdated guides, or unverified pool URLs.

8.2 Enter the Pool Settings

In the miner dashboard, open a page named:

• Miner Configuration
• Pool Settings
• Mining Pools
• Pool Configuration

Most ASIC miners support up to three pool entries.

Pool 1

URL

Enter the current KuPool ZEC primary Stratum URL.

Worker

subaccount.worker_name

Password

x

Use additional KuPool servers as backup pools when available.

8.3 Worker Example

Assume your KuPool subaccount is:

zec-hk01

And your worker name is:

Z15-001

Enter the Worker field as:

zec-hk01.Z15-001

The Password field can normally be set to:

x

Follow the KuPool page or miner firmware instructions if different settings are required.

8.4 Save the Configuration

After entering the pool settings:

1. Check the pool domain.
2. Check the port.
3. Check the subaccount name.
4. Check the worker name.
5. Click Save & Apply.
6. Wait for the miner to restart or reconnect.
7. Open the miner status page and check the connection.

The worker will normally appear in the KuPool dashboard within several minutes after the miner connects and submits valid shares.

9. Check Mining Status

9.1 Check the Miner Dashboard

After the miner starts, confirm that:

• All hashboards are detected.
• The chip count is normal.
• The real-time hashrate is within the expected range.
• Fan speeds are normal.
• Chip temperatures are within the normal range.
• Intake and exhaust temperatures are reasonable.
• The pool status shows Alive or Connected.
• Accepted shares are increasing.
• Hardware errors are not unusually high.
• The miner is not restarting frequently.

9.2 Check the KuPool Dashboard

Log in to KuPool and:

1. Open the Mining page.
2. Switch to the correct ZEC subaccount.
3. Open Worker Management.
4. Confirm that the worker is online.
5. Check the real-time hashrate.
6. Check the average hashrate.
7. Check the rejected share rate.
8. Review ZEC mining rewards.
9. Check the pending payout balance.
10. Review payout records.

KuPool can display effective hashrate only after the miner has run for a period of time and submitted enough valid shares.

10. Miner Operating Modes and Tuning

10.1 Standard Mode

Use the manufacturer’s standard operating mode when connecting a miner for the first time.

Standard mode helps you:

• Verify the miner hardware
• Establish a baseline hashrate
• Check temperatures
• Test the pool connection
• Check hashboard and chip status
• Compare later tuning results

10.2 Low-Power Mode

Consider the manufacturer’s official low-power mode when:

• Electricity costs are high.
• Ambient temperatures are high.
• Available electrical capacity is limited.

Do not evaluate low-power mode based only on total hashrate.

Also compare:

• Hashrate per watt
• Actual wall consumption
• Effective KuPool hashrate
• Uptime
• Chip temperatures
• Fan load
• Failure rate
• Actual net mining income

10.3 High-Performance Mode

High-performance or overclocking modes may increase hashrate, but they may also cause:

• Significantly higher power consumption
• Higher chip temperatures
• Continuous high fan speeds
• Increased power-supply load
• More hardware errors
• Missing or dropped hashboards
• Frequent restarts
• Shorter hardware service life

Test high-performance settings only on a small number of machines and only when power, cooling, and hardware conditions allow.

Do not judge tuning results only by the local real-time hashrate. Also monitor the KuPool average hashrate and the number of valid shares submitted.

10.4 Firmware Security

Do not install firmware from unknown or untrusted sources.

Third-party firmware may contain:

• Hidden developer fees
• Unauthorized pool addresses
• Remote-control software
• Malicious user accounts
• Unstable frequency settings
• System changes that cannot be easily reversed

Back up the original firmware and configuration before upgrading. Test new firmware on a small number of miners first.

11. Troubleshooting

11.1 Miner Cannot Connect to KuPool

Check:

• The pool URL
• The port
• The Ethernet connection
• DNS resolution
• Firewall settings
• The subaccount name
• The miner’s system time
• KuPool server availability

11.2 Worker Does Not Appear in KuPool

Check:

• The local pool connection status
• Whether accepted shares are increasing
• Whether the worker format is correct
• Whether you selected the correct subaccount
• Whether the miner has only recently started
• Whether the network is frequently disconnecting

11.3 Hashrate Is Below the Expected Range

Check for:

• Missing or undetected hashboards
• Missing or failed chips
• Low-power mode
• Thermal throttling
• Insufficient power-supply output
• Firmware errors
• Fan failures
• Frequent miner restarts

11.4 Rejected Share Rate Is Too High

Check:

• Network latency and packet loss
• The selected KuPool server
• The miner’s system time
• Firmware stability
• Overclocking settings
• The pool port
• Frequent switching between primary and backup pools

11.5 ZEC Address Cannot Be Added

Check:

• Whether the address is complete
• Whether the address contains spaces
• Whether KuPool supports the address type
• Whether it is an unsupported TEX address
• Whether you selected the correct ZEC subaccount
• Whether KuPool is performing wallet maintenance
• Whether the wallet supports the current Zcash network upgrade
• Whether the address belongs to wrapped ZEC on another network

Do not modify address characters or attempt to force-submit an unsupported address.

Use a wallet address that KuPool currently and explicitly supports.

11.6 Rewards Are Available but No Payout Has Been Sent

Check:

• Whether the payout threshold has been reached
• Whether a ZEC payout address has been added
• Whether the address is active
• Whether payouts are enabled
• Whether the account is within the 48-hour security lock
• Whether KuPool is performing ZEC wallet maintenance
• Whether the address type is still supported
• Whether KuPool has announced a payout delay

11.7 KuPool Shows Paid but the Wallet Has Not Credited the Deposit

1. Open the KuPool payout record.
2. Copy the transaction hash.
3. Search for it in a Zcash block explorer.
4. Check the on-chain transaction status.
5. Verify the receiving address.
6. Confirm that the wallet is synchronized.
7. Check address compatibility.
8. Check the receiving platform’s ZEC deposit status.
9. Check the required network confirmations.
10. Contact the wallet or receiving platform if necessary.

If the transaction is confirmed on-chain, KuPool has completed the payout. Any remaining crediting issue normally needs to be handled by the wallet provider or receiving platform.

11.8 Miner Restarts Frequently

Check:

• Power load
• Voltage fluctuations
• Chip temperatures
• Fans
• Firmware
• Hashboards
• Ethernet cables and network stability
• Overclocking settings
• Miner logs

11.9 Hashboard Goes Offline

Check:

• Hashboard power supply
• Data cables
• Chip temperatures
• Power-supply output
• Firmware status
• High-performance or overclocking settings
• Miner logs
• Hashboard hardware status

Restore the miner to the manufacturer’s standard mode and restart it.

If the hashboard remains offline, arrange further inspection or repair.

12. Related Guides

For more information, refer to:

• Mining Reward Fluctuations and Differences from Calculator Estimates
• How to Create and Use a Read-Only watcher Link
• Abnormal Hashrate and High Rejected Share Rates
• Offline Workers