Set Chain Parameters

Chain parameters define the core identity and operational rules of your blockchain. When setting up a new Syndicate appchain, you can start by configuring three key parameters:

1. Chain Name: Human-readable name for your chain
2. Chain ID: Unique numerical identifier for your chain
3. Block Time: How frequently blocks are produced on your chain

This guide explains each of these parameters and how to think about your choices.

1. Chain Name

A human-readable name for your appchain (no spaces or special characters). This will be used in wallets, explorers, and user interfaces. Choose something short, memorable, and unique to your project or community. Once set, the chain name cannot be changed without redeploying your appchain, as it is referenced by wallets, explorers, and user interfaces.

2. Chain ID

A unique numeric identifier for your appchain. A Chain ID starting with 510 will be automatically assigned to your appchain. Once set, the chain ID cannot be changed without redeploying your appchain, as it is referenced by wallets, explorers, and user interfaces.

3. Block Time

Block time determines how frequently new blocks are produced on your chain. It impacts user experience, throughput, primarily network latency, and infrastructure requirements.

A shorter block time (e.g., 250 ms) allows for faster transaction confirmations, improving user experience for high-frequency applications. However, shorter block times put greater computational and networking demands on nodes, potentially affecting stability or requiring more robust infrastructure. Longer block times (e.g., 1–2 seconds) reduce the strain on nodes but result in slower transaction confirmations.

Supported Range: You can set block time as low as 250 milliseconds (0.25 seconds), based on what Arbitrum Nitro supports.

For a deeper dive into considerations and best practices, see our comprehensive guide on Block Time.