# single

A `single` encoder sends a signal from the rotating encoder over a single wire to one pin on the [board](https://docs.viam.com/reference/components/board/). The direction of spin is dictated by the [motor](https://docs.viam.com/reference/components/motor/) that has this encoder’s name in its `encoder` attribute field.

To be able to test the encoder as you configure it, connect the encoder to your machine’s computer and power both on.

- [JSON Template](https://docs.viam.com/reference/components/encoder/micro-rdk/single/#configure-an-single-encoder-0)
- [JSON Example](https://docs.viam.com/reference/components/encoder/micro-rdk/single/#configure-an-single-encoder-1)

The following attributes are available for `single` encoders:

| Name         | Type    | Required?   | Description                                                                 |
|--------------|---------|--------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| `pin`       | object  | **Required** | GPIO number of the pin to which the encoder is wired.                     |
| `dir_flip`  | boolean | **Required** | If the encoder’s count should increment or decrement in its initial state  |
|              |         |              | before a [`SetPower()`](https://docs.viam.com/reference/apis/components/motor/#setpower) call is made to an encoded [motor](https://docs.viam.com/reference/components/motor/). `true` implies decrement. |

## Test the encoder

Once your encoder is configured and connected, open the encoders’s **TEST** panel on the **CONFIGURE** or [**CONTROL**](https://docs.viam.com/monitor/default-interface/#web-ui) tabs. The ticks count is displayed. Try moving the encoder (for example, by turning a motor it is attached to) and check whether the count increases as expected.

If the encoder does not appear on the **TEST** panel, or if you notice unexpected behavior, check your machine’s [**LOGS** tab](https://docs.viam.com/monitor/troubleshoot/#check-logs) for errors, and review the configuration.