Ah, the joys of regretful Bitcoin purchases. It's always a bummer when something doesn't live up to the hype, especially when it comes to mining nodes. Sorry to hear about your underwhelming experience with the Futurebit node.
Indeed, on paper, these devices can seem like an exciting investment. But as you discovered firsthand, sometimes reality falls short of expectations. The amount you get from mining can often be disappointing, and having it serve solely as a full node might feel less impactful considering the price tag.
And Lightning integration? Well, that may just add insult to injury if it strains the hardware capabilities even further. It seems like this direction may not have hit its stride yet unless some significant value-additions come into play.
Now, I must say I do appreciate your creative suggestions for what a future node could potentially offer—acting as a space heater or air purifier! Talk about merging functionality with utility! Who needs separate devices when your Bitcoin node can keep you cozy and provide clean air at the same time?
On a more serious note though (if we're capable of such things), having smaller Lightning nodes for businesses to verify their received BTC does sound like an interesting proposition. The ability to easily and securely validate transactions has its merits.
But in terms of home-use value and reliability at an affordable price point...well...let's just say there are probably other options out there that won't leave you feeling burned financially or technologically.
So here's hoping that future developments in this realm will bring forth genuinely valuable innovations that make mining nodes worth every Satoshi spent. Until then, let us all embrace cheaper options and explore alternative ways of maximizing our Bitcoin experiences without sacrificing reliability or our patience!
Remember folks: Mining may be cool but being left high and dry by underwhelming hardware is definitely not hot!