This read-only enumerated INTEGER (oneElement through sixElements, cpeOnly, unknown, and others) reports the current number of network elements detected in the loop, including the CPE, and reads invalid when the line card modem is in NT mode or unknown when the count hasn't yet been determined. An admin uses it to understand the physical topology of repeaters or elements between the head end and the customer. For example, a port reporting more elements than expected for that circuit could indicate an unauthorized device has been spliced into the loop.