Tectum is a Layer 1 blockchain network designed for high-speed transactions, functioning as a distributed ledger platform. It utilizes a proprietary consensus mechanism to serve as an overlay network for other blockchain systems and to power its native payment solution, SoftNote. [1]
Tectum is a blockchain platform developed by Tectum Technologies LLC that focuses on scalability through its proprietary architecture and Proof-of-Utility consensus. Instead of storing full transaction data on-chain, it records hashes mapped to external data, reducing network load and enabling reported throughput of over 3.5 million transactions per second. Designed as an overlay network, Tectum can integrate with blockchains like Bitcoin by processing transactions off-chain and anchoring final hashes on its ledger, combining speed with distributed ledger security. Its ecosystem includes the Tectum Token (TET) and the SoftNote payment system, which facilitates instant, fee-free transfers by shifting ownership of digital bearer instruments rather than executing repeated on-chain transactions. The platform’s design supports applications such as financial payments, legal and municipal record-keeping, logistics tracking, and Internet of Things data capture. [2]
Tectum uses a proprietary consensus algorithm called Proof-of-Utility (PoU), which differs from Proof-of-Work and Proof-of-Stake by assigning nodes distinct roles in a tiered structure. Instead of processing full transaction data directly, the system validates and records hashes of bundled data, allowing for very high throughput and near-instant event updates.
Consensus is achieved through collaboration between multiple node types. Basic nodes handle standard functions, such as creating transfers, staking, and managing tokens. Validators confirm signed transactions distributed by archivers, while archivers manage transaction collection, initial checks, validator assignment, and fee distribution. At the top level, the Key Archiver finalizes blocks by compiling validated transactions into separate chains for token transfers, staking activities, validation processes, and commission handling. This structure ensures both efficiency and security in the network. [4]
The Tectum network operates on a tiered node architecture, where each type of node has a defined role in transaction processing and record-keeping. Basic nodes (Tectum Node 4.0) allow users to create and view transactions, mint custom tokens, manage keys, and stake TET to become validators. Validators, formed from staked basic nodes, confirm the authenticity of transactions distributed by Archivers. Archiver nodes handle heavier responsibilities, including initial transaction checks, distribution to validators, result collection, and calculating validator fee allocations.
At the final stage, the Key Archiver compiles all validated transactions into blocks and records them on the blockchain. While it does not perform validation itself, it serves as the ultimate ledger for the network. This layered design ensures transactions move sequentially—from creation at a basic node, to validation through archivers and validators, and ultimately to permanent recording by the Key Archiver. [4]
The Tectum Light Node is a streamlined application that allows users and developers to interact with the Tectum blockchain without running a full node. It supports token management, real-time transaction processing, and secure key handling while maintaining connectivity with the main network and integrated tools like WalletAPI and a built-in blockchain explorer.
For developers, the Light Node provides an efficient environment for creating and managing custom tokens, requiring significantly fewer resources than a full node. It provides dedicated sections for handling Tectum Tokens (TET), minting new custom tokens, managing balances, and tracking token movements through an explorer. By reducing storage and processing requirements, the Light Node enables easier building and deployment of digital assets on Tectum while maintaining speed and security. [12]
SoftNote is a digital bearer asset developed within the Tectum ecosystem and designed to function as a “transactionless” payment system. Instead of moving coins across blockchains, transfers involve changing ownership of the private key to a pre-funded wallet, with updates recorded on the Tectum ledger. This method enables instant, off-chain transfers with zero fees for peer-to-peer payments and merchant fees capped at 1%. SoftNotes are minted using Tectum’s native token (TET), then filled with cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or USDT. Minters receive a share of merchant fees whenever their issued SoftNotes are used, creating a built-in reward mechanism. The system emphasizes speed, low cost, and privacy, and is accessible through the SoftNote Wallet mobile application. [3] [13]
The SoftNote Wallet is the primary application for interacting with the Tectum ecosystem. It allows users to mint, send, receive, and store SoftNotes. The wallet is designed to facilitate instant crypto transfers and conversions at a lower cost compared to traditional on-chain transactions. The app was launched on iOS in October 2024 for select regions, with an Android version planned for release. [6] [7]
Tectum Enumeration Token (TET) is the core utility token of the Tectum network, built as an ERC-20 token with a fixed supply of 10 million. It underpins several functions within the ecosystem, including minting SoftNotes, staking for validator participation, and paying network fees tied to blockchain operations such as creating custom tokens. Beyond these roles, TET interacts with a range of Tectum products, including the Tectum Enumeration Coin (TEC), SoftNote Wallet, minting licenses, and supporting tools such as the Telegram bot and mobile app, allowing users to engage with digital assets, contracts, and NFTs within a unified system. It is also used for liquidity provision, either by backing new SoftNotes or filling existing ones, creating a mechanism that links TET directly to network activity. By serving as the medium for access, security, and efficiency across the platform, TET functions as both the entry point to the SoftNote ecosystem and the mechanism that sustains its broader financial infrastructure. [8]
TET has the following allocation: [8]
Tectum Cash Token (TCT) is the governance and community-focused token of the Tectum ecosystem, complementing the network’s core token, TET. While TET powers blockchain functions such as minting and validator rewards, TCT is designed to engage users through voting rights, premium access to tools, early releases, and future DeFi integrations like borrowing and lending. It also incorporates a rewards system tied to SoftNote ePOS revenue, offering cashback, discounts, and loyalty incentives. By serving as the medium for community participation and benefit distribution, TCT provides the layer of access, governance, and incentives that balances TET’s technical role within the ecosystem. [9]