PoA network confusion resolving using geth

Question

I am planning to move from PoW to PoA consensus (clique) using geth. But I am confused of some of the topics -

• 1) Empty blocks are created periodically? What is the size of an empty block?

• 2) Is it possible to avoid empty block creation? That is new block will be only created whenever there is a new transaction ?

• 3) I have observed that with unlocking the coinbase account new block is not created? Is it ok? if not what can be logic behind this?

• 4) What is the process of adding new sealer in PoA network?

• 5) What can be the reasonable period for new block?

• 6) what can be the possible issues behind period=0

I would highly appreciate if someone provides some explanations. Thanks in advance

Answer 1

1) I'm curious about this one ! :)

2) Yes, if you set period to 0, commit new mining work whenever a transaction arrives

3) Unlocking is done "under-the-hood" it's not a transaction, it's more an "authentication"

4) Sealers are defined in the genesis file, but you can add it by using Geth

clique.propose("Sealer address", true)

5) It depends on your configuration if you set it to 1sec your tx will be processed very quickly, but after a while, you will run out of space, and if you put a very high amount it will take a long time to validate your transactions

6) On PoA if you set period = 0, each time you trigger a transaction, it will generate a new block

I hope that helps! :)