1) I have been using Slushpool with great results.
2) If no pool is specified in the settings, the machine will sit idle with very little heat discharging out of the back of the unit.
3) I updated the firmware with the jumper on the main board and then removed it after a restart.
4) The 2 black buttons.... I have no idea what they do but mine were busted off when I received mine and I had to solder new buttons back on.
I spent the better part of 3 weeks fiddling with my first B8, keep trying and you will eventually be successful. Try updating the firmware again using Version 1.2.0. I tried running the new V 1.3.3 and I had similar results as you, could get into the software but the unit wouldnt hash. My guess is Bitfury messed up this version of firmware or they didnt specify a specific update process for us to follow.
GL
Thank you for your response. I am not sure what you mean by updating the firmware with the jumper. Is there supposed to be some type of plug to place over the jumper to update the firmware? The current jumper on the main board just has two exposed pins. If there is a plug that is supposed to go over top of it then I might have to order one because nothing came with these devices.
If that s the case, would you happen to know where I would be able to order one?