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# Advanced Node Options

Beyond traditional hosting nodes, there are specialized **Edge Compute** and **Edge AI** configurations designed for enhanced earning potential and more demanding workloads.

## Edge Compute Node

**Based on GMKtec NUCBox M6 Ultra (Ryzen 5 7640HS)**

### Specifications

| Component | Specification |
|-----------|---------------|
| **CPU** | AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS (6 cores / 12 threads, up to ~5.0 GHz) |
| **RAM** | 32 GB |
| **Storage** | 1 TB NVMe SSD |
| **Power Usage** | ~30–40 W typical under load |
| **Network** | 2.5GbE LAN |
| **Form Factor** | Mini PC, silent and 24/7‑ready |

### Usage Options

#### Option 1: Use It Yourself (Private Edge)

- ✅ Full control of the hardware and software stack.  
- ✅ Ideal for private AI, dev, or homelab workloads.  
- ✅ No hosting fees – your own personal edge compute.

#### Option 2: Host for the Mycelium / ThreeFold Network

- ✅ Allocate "slices" of CPU, RAM, and storage as public capacity.  
- ✅ Offer them on the marketplace and match customer demand.  
- ✅ Earn SPORE with a guaranteed baseline via bid tiers.  
- ✅ Example: standard compute tiers pay a minimum price (in SPORE) per slice.

#### Option 3: Hybrid

- ✅ Keep part of the machine for your private workloads.  
- ✅ Rent out the remaining capacity to the network.  
- ✅ Balance personal use and automated revenue.

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## Edge AI Node

**Based on Ryzen AI MAX+ 395 platform**

### Specifications

| Component | Specification |
|-----------|---------------|
| **CPU** | AMD Ryzen™ AI MAX+ 395 (8C/16T, up to 5.1 GHz) |
| **AI Accelerator** | Integrated NPU (~50 TOPS) |
| **RAM** | 128 GB DDR5 |
| **Storage** | 2 TB NVMe SSD |
| **Power Usage** | ~45–55 W typical load |
| **Network** | Dual 2.5 G LAN |
| **Form Factor** | Compact, silent, designed for 24/7 AI workloads |

### AI‑Focused Features

- ✅ **Built‑in AI acceleration** – Dedicated NPU for local AI inference.  
- ✅ **High memory headroom** – 128GB DDR5 for large models and context windows.  
- ✅ **Edge AI ready** – Run models close to data sources for low latency.  
- ✅ **Ideal for Mycelium Agents** and data‑sensitive AI workflows.

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## How Rewards Flow

The earning logic for advanced nodes is the same as for any hosting node:

```mermaid
graph TD
    A[Node Provides Capacity] --> B[User Rents Resources]
    B --> C[80% to You<br/>SPORE Tokens]
    B --> D[10% Burned<br/>Makes SPORE Scarcer]
    B --> E[10% Mycelium<br/>Development]

    C --> F[You Choose:<br/>Hold • Convert • Use]
    D --> G[SPORE Supply Decreases<br/>Your Holdings More Scarce]
    E --> H[Ecosystem Grows<br/>More Demand Over Time]
```

Advanced nodes simply position you for **higher‑value workloads** and **future AI‑centric demand**.

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## Comparison: Edge vs Traditional Nodes

| Feature | Edge Compute | Edge AI | Traditional Mini Node |
|--------|--------------|--------|------------------------|
| **CPU Performance** | High (6‑core Zen 4) | Very High (8‑core AI) | Moderate |
| **RAM** | 32 GB | 128 GB DDR5 | 32 GB typical |
| **AI Capabilities** | Basic (CPU only) | Advanced NPU | None |
| **Power Usage** | ~30–40 W | ~45–55 W | ~60 W+ |
| **Best For** | General compute & cloud | AI/ML & agents | Entry‑level hosting |

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## Getting Started with Edge Nodes

### Ready to Buy?

1. Research pricing and availability for **GMKtec NUCBox M6 Ultra** or **Ryzen AI MAX+ 395**.  
2. Decide whether you want a **private**, **hosting**, or **hybrid** usage model.  
3. Follow the **[Setup Guide](/hosters/setup)** to connect the node to your farm and the grid.  
4. Read **[SPORE Economics](/hosters/economics)** to understand the reward model.

### Need Help Deciding?

- **Edge Compute** – Best for efficient general‑purpose compute with solid earning potential.  
- **Edge AI** – Best for AI workloads, Mycelium Agents, and high‑end hosting.  
- **Traditional nodes** – Best for starting small and learning the stack.

:::tip Pro Tip
Consider starting with a smaller, traditional hosting node to gain operational experience. Once you understand the economics and monitoring, upgrading to Edge Compute or Edge AI becomes a much easier decision.
:::

## Reference Links

- **GMKtec NUCBox M6 Ultra** – [gmktec.com/products/amd-ryzen-5-7640hs-mini-pc-nucbox-m6-ultra](https://www.gmktec.com/products/amd-ryzen-5-7640hs-mini-pc-nucbox-m6-ultra)  
- **Ryzen AI MAX+ 395 EVO X2** – [gmktec.com/products/amd-ryzen%E2%84%A2-ai-max-395-evo-x2-ai-mini-pc](https://www.gmktec.com/products/amd-ryzen%E2%84%A2-ai-max-395-evo-x2-ai-mini-pc)  
- **Learn SPORE Economics** – **[Farming/Hosting Economics](/hosters/economics)**  
- **Community Discussion** – [t.me/threefoldfarmers](https://t.me/threefoldfarmers)