# 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/single/#configure-an-single-encoder-0)

```json

```

The following attributes are available for `single` encoders:

| Name   | Type   | Required?  | Description |
|--------|--------|------------|-------------|
| `board`| string | **Required**| The `name` of the [board](https://docs.viam.com/reference/components/board/) to which the encoder is wired. |
| `pins` | object | **Required**| A struct holding the name of the pin wired to the encoder:<br>- `i`: Pin number of the pin to which the encoder is wired. |

Viam also supports a model of encoder called [`"incremental"`](https://docs.viam.com/reference/components/encoder/incremental/) which uses two pins.

## 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.