> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.fiammalabs.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.fiammalabs.io/our-product-suite/pragmatically-trustless-bitvm-bitcoin-bridge/user-guides/testnet-beta/how-to-run-the-fiamma-operator/operator-for-mac/3.-deposit-and-stake-btc.md).

# 3. Deposit and Stake BTC

Deposit sufficient amount of BTC (sBTC for testnet) to help process transactions. An operator is required to stake 1 BTC as a security deposit before processing transactions (the 1 BTC is time-locked and self-custody, kept under operator's address). If an operator is found acting maliciously (e.g. attempting to steal funds), the deposit will be slashed as a penalty. The deposit can be unstaked when the operator chooses to exit. Here's how to deposit and stake:

1. **Deposit Funds**

Click the **+** button next to Total Balance to deposit funds. Wait for around ten minutes for the deposit to be received. To successfully complete the staking, you need at least `stake_amount` + `dust` + `gas` BTC.

> Currently for beta testnet, `stake_amount` is 1 sBTC, so deposit at least 1.00001 sBTC to the address. Since subsequent work requires 12 sBTC, we recommend an operator to deposit at least 13.00001 sBTC initially.

Note: Fiamma Operator is running on **Bitcoin Signet** during testnet. Please deposit **sBTC** to continue.

<figure><img src="/files/AmfUBOpvKRpy1KTfaIZM" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="/files/kQ4ZNdTb9WQLLe4GGqDd" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

2. **Stake Funds**

When the operator's main address has sufficient BTC, click the "Start operator" button. If you haven't staked funds before, an interface will pop up with the Stake button. Click the button to stake 1 BTC and wait for the transaction to be processed:

<figure><img src="/files/YaGyLI8AyAv6aOWbUH1P" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>