Ethereum: Why do I get this error when I try to install CGMiner on my RaspberryPi?

Ethereum: CGMiner Installation Issue on Raspberry Pi

As a miner, you rely on software like CGMiner to mine cryptocurrencies from your mining rig. However, when you try to install this crucial tool on a Raspberry Pi running Raspbian, you encounter an error message that seems obscure and frustrating. In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind this issue and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve it.

The error:

The error message typically includes the following text:

configure: error: cannot find CFLAGS or LDFLAGS
could not compile CGMiner due to missing linker definition for 'scrypt'
Found multiple definitions of __SCRYPT crypto

This message suggests that the compiler cannot find the required flags (CFLAGS and LDFLAGS) or there is a problem with linking to the scrypt library.

Why this error occurs:

• Missing CFLAGS or LDFLAGS: The configure script expects a specific set of compiler flags to be installed on your system. These flags are usually provided by the -C flag during compilation, followed by the desired options. However, some versions of Raspbian may not include these flags in their default installation.

• Missing scrypt library: CGMiner requires the scrypt library to function properly. This library is normally linked during the compilation process, but its presence or absence can be a problem.

Solutions:

Solution 1: Check and install additional compiler flags

On Raspbian, you can add additional compiler flags using the following commands:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install -y build-essential libssl-dev libz-dev

After running these commands, try running the configure script again:

./configure --cflags=-L/path/to/cryptocurrency/libscrypt -lcryptocurrency

Replace /path/to/cryptocurrency/libscrypt with the actual path to your scrypt library on your system.

Solution 2: Update CGMiner

The latest version of CGMiner includes updated build instructions and fixes. You can update it using:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install -y cgminer

This should include any compiler flags or dependencies required for the miner to function properly.

Troubleshooting:

For additional troubleshooting, you can try the following steps:

• Check your Raspbian installation and verify that the scrypt library is actually linked during compilation.

• Ensure that your system’s compiler flags are set correctly.

• If you are using a different version of CGMiner, ensure that it is compatible with your system architecture.

Conclusion:

Installing CGMiner on a Raspberry Pi can be a straightforward process once you address the potential issues outlined in this article. By following these steps and troubleshooting tips, you should be able to resolve the configure error and successfully install CGMiner for your cryptocurrency mining needs. Happy mining!