Ethereum: Bitcoin Cash Testnet Version of Insight API
As a developer and enthusiast of the Ethereum blockchain, you’re likely no stranger to the Insight API. With its robust features and extensive documentation, it’s no wonder many developers are eager to explore its capabilities. However, one aspect that has often been lacking in the official testnet is an equivalent version for Bitcoin Cash (BCH). In this article, we’ll delve into what’s currently available and how you can use the Insight API on the testnet.
What is Bitcoin Cash?
Bitcoin Cash (BCH) is a peer-to-peer cryptocurrency that was created as an altcoin spin-off from the original Bitcoin. Like Bitcoin, BCH aims to provide users with a faster, more convenient, and more accessible way of conducting transactions without sacrificing security.
The Insight API: A Key Component of the Ethereum Ecosystem
Insight API is a part of the Ethereum ecosystem’s infrastructure, allowing developers to build applications that interact with the network. With its extensive documentation and feature set, it’s an attractive option for developers working on Ethereum-related projects.
Availability of Bitcoin Cash Testnet Version of Insight API
Unfortunately, there isn’t a direct testnet version of Insight API available for Bitcoin Cash (BCH). However, we can explore alternative options to get you started with building applications that leverage the Insights API on BCH. Here are two possible approaches:
Approach 1: Using the Trezor Wallet’s BCH API
Trezor Wallet is a popular digital wallet and tool for managing cryptocurrencies. While not officially affiliated with Insight API, it provides an accessible way to use its features.
You can obtain access to the Bitcoin Cash (BCH) API by registering on the [Treasure Chain]( which offers a BCH-based API key that allows you to call the Insight API on BCH. Once you have this API key, you’ll be able to interact with the Insights API using tools like [Web3.py]( or [Ethjs](
Here’s a simple example of how you might use these libraries to test your BCH application:
import eth from 'web3';
const web3 = new eth.Web3(new web3.providers.HttpProvider('
const BCHApi = {
getInsight: async () => {
const insights = await web3.eth.getInsights();
return insights;
},
};
web3.currentBlockNumber
.then((blockNumber) => {
console.log(Current block number on mainnet: ${blockNumber});
const blockchainData = await BCHApi.getInsight();
console.log(blockchainData);
})
.catch((error) => {
console.error(error);
});
Approach 2: Using the Binance Smart Chain (BSC) Testnet
If you’re looking for a more straightforward alternative, you can explore using the Binance Smart Chain (BSC) testnet to interact with the Bitcoin Cash network. Although not officially supported by Insight API, it’s possible to use libraries like [bsc-api]( or [bc-testnet]( to interact with BSC and call the Insights API.
These libraries provide a more direct way to test your BCH application, but keep in mind that they might not be as comprehensive as the official Insight API on mainnet. However, using them can give you an idea of what’s possible when interacting with the BCH network.
In conclusion, while we don’t have a direct Bitcoin Cash (BCH) testnet version of the Insights API, there are alternative approaches to get started with building applications that leverage the Insights API on BCH or mainnet. By exploring these options and using libraries like Web3.py or bsc-api, you can begin experimenting with your BCH-based project.
Additional Resources:
- [Trezor Wallet](