---
title: "Auto-generate minimum count with function"
url: "https://openforis.support/questions/4533/auto-generate-minimum-count-with-function"
tags: ["arena"]
status: "answered"
score: 0
answer_count: 1
asked: "2026-08-18T19:56:38"
last_activity: "2026-08-19T10:12:31"
source: "Open Foris Support - Q&A Forum"
license: "Copyright Open Foris, 2021. Some rights reserved under creative commons license."
---

# Auto-generate minimum count with function

Asked by bnagelson on 2026-08-18

Hi OF Team,

I collect data for individual trees using a multiple entity. I would like the min-count of this multiple entity to automatically populate. This is similar to the "enumerate" functionality, but I need to maintain the ability for the user to add new records beyond the number specified with min-count. I use the expression  categoryItemProp() to lookup the expected number of trees stored as an extra property for the sampling location.

This was possible in Collect (circa 2023), but has not been possible in Arena. Thank you for considering! 

Bryant


## Answer (score 1, by Stefano (OF) on 2026-08-19)

Link: https://openforis.support/questions/4533/auto-generate-minimum-count-with-function/4534

Dear Bryant,  
We are currently working on this feature. To keep things clear for the user, we will add an "Auto-generate minimum number of items" option in the entity definition editor.  
The minimum row generation (based on your defined expression) will trigger only when the table or form becomes relevant, or when its parent entity is created. Handling it at this stage avoids potential edge cases and keeps the workflow clean.  
We'll let you know as soon as it's ready for testing!  
Many thanks,  
The Open Foris Team