> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.apica.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.apica.io/data-management/overview-1/visualizations/counter.md).

# Counter

A Counter displays a single numeric value as a large, prominent number. Use it to show current totals, capacity, or key metrics at a glance.

It’s ideal for:

* CPU cores
* Active users
* Total requests
* Memory size
* Node count
* License usage

<figure><img src="/files/yGOxVNfRnHzazFwh6Z1K" alt="Example Counter tile showing a large number with a unit label"><figcaption><p>Example Counter tile</p></figcaption></figure>

### Configure a Counter

Set **Chart type** to **Counter**. Set **Unit** to the label shown under the number.

<figure><img src="/files/f7OjnwTDOlnug4uB70MM" alt="Counter chart settings showing the Unit field"><figcaption><p>Counter configuration</p></figcaption></figure>

### Counter configuration options

Use these options to control how the Counter renders.

| Option     | Purpose                               |
| ---------- | ------------------------------------- |
| Chart type | Must be **Counter**.                  |
| Unit       | Display label shown under the number. |

Common **Unit** values:

* `CPU Cores`
* `GB`
* `Requests`
* `Users`
* `Errors`
* `%`

{% hint style="info" %}
Key rules:

* Counter uses one numeric value.
* Unit is display-only.
* No grouping or time axis.
* Built for dashboard KPIs.
  {% endhint %}

### How the Counter value is chosen

The Counter displays the latest or aggregated value from your query result.

If the query returns multiple rows, the system uses:

* The latest time value, or
* An aggregated value (depends on the query)

### When to use a Counter

Use Counter when you want:

* One key number
* At-a-glance KPI display
* Capacity metrics

It’s perfect for CPU cores, total memory, active sessions, and running pods.