Alongside SHA-256, HashNet runs a Scrypt algorithm group. Its machines choose between two coins: Litecoin (LTC) and Dogecoin (DOGE).
Why these two coins are grouped
Litecoin and Dogecoin both use the Scrypt algorithm, so the same hardware can mine either. That gives HashNet’s Alpha Engine a choice within the group.
How the Alpha Engine handles Scrypt
The engine follows the same steps it uses everywhere:
- Monitor conditions on both coins, around the clock.
- Evaluate which is the more efficient to mine at that moment.
- Switch the Scrypt hardware when the balance changes, in about 12 milliseconds (company-reported).
- Deliver the output as Bitcoin, on-chain, to customer wallets.
Dedicated hardware
Each of HashNet’s algorithm groups has its own dedicated hardware. Scrypt machines only compare Scrypt coins. They never attempt Bitcoin, Zcash or Kaspa.
Paid in Bitcoin
Even though the group mines Litecoin and Dogecoin, customers do not receive either coin directly. All output converts to Bitcoin and is delivered on-chain every eight hours, to public addresses that can be checked on a block explorer.
The value of a second group
Running a Scrypt group alongside SHA-256 spreads HashNet’s operation across more networks. HashNet points out that difficulty adjustments, upgrades and halvings hit a single-coin operation in full; spreading across networks softens the impact of any one.
Summary
HashNet’s Scrypt group gives its hardware a choice between Litecoin and Dogecoin, managed automatically by the Alpha Engine and paid out to customers as Bitcoin.
