Box counting is a method of gathering for analyzing complex patterns by breaking a dataset, object, image, etc. into smaller and smaller pieces, typically "box"-shaped, and analyzing the pieces at each smaller scale. The essence of the process has been compared to zooming in or out using optical or computer based methods to examine how observations of detail change with scale. In box counting, however, rather than changing the magnification or resolution of a lens, the investigator changes the used to inspect the object or pattern (see ). Computer based box counting algorithms have been applied to patterns in 1-, 2-, and 3-dimensional spaces. The technique is usually implemented in software for use on patterns from digital media, although the can be used to investigate some patterns ph