> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.oncanary.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# About meters

> Track numeric values or on/off conditions for an asset or location.

A meter is a time-ordered measurement attached to exactly one asset or location. Use meters for run hours, cycles, pressure, temperature, mileage, production counts, or an on/off condition.

## Before you begin

An administrator must enable **Meters** in **Settings > Features**. Automations also depends on the Meters module.

## Meter types

| Type    | Use                               | Stored reading                                    |
| ------- | --------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------- |
| Numeric | Counters and measured values      | Whole-number value with a standard or custom unit |
| On/Off  | Binary equipment or process state | On or Off                                         |

Numeric meters can define minimum, maximum, and rollover values. Canary validates manual readings against the configured range.

## Meter ownership and collection

Every meter belongs to one asset or one location. The meter also records whether collection is manual or automated and the expected reading frequency. Frequency is descriptive scheduling context; meter automations evaluate readings when they arrive.

## Create a meter

1. Open **Meters** and select **New Meter**.
2. Enter the name and description.
3. Choose an asset or location owner.
4. Select **Numeric** or **On/Off**.
5. For a numeric meter, choose the unit and optional value range or rollover.
6. Set the collection category and reading frequency.
7. Create the meter.

## Archive a meter

The **Delete** action makes a meter inactive and preserves its reading history. Canary blocks the action while an automation uses the meter. Remove or delete the automation dependency first.

## Related pages

* [Record and review readings](/help/meters/readings)
* [Meter automations](/help/meters/meter-automations)
* [Create an automation](/help/automations/create-automation)