Chain counter is a complete and reliable surface mounted instrument with a simple user friendly interface used to operate the windlass from a distance while monitoring the length of chain lowered through the LCD graphic display. Features of this unit include information displayed in 5 different languages, automatic lowering function, up alarm function, locked keys function, windlass management with auto free fall, chain speed and supply voltage are displayed, equipped with a clock and calendar, depth of chain lowered shown in meters or feet, graphic LCD display screen that can be easily read at various angles, backlight display screen with 8 brightness levels, 8 different display contrasts levels, automatic display contrast compensation according to environment temperature, universal power supply (12/24 Vdc), backlight illuminated function keys, CAN BUS interface for data transfer, capable of operating in a wide range of ambient temperatures, and IP67 waterproof (except for where the electrical contacts are connected).