Visualize M3DB data with Grafana®
=================================

Since M3DB is best for time series data, consisting of many individual metrics, then it's nicer to visualize the data than try to view it in a table or log. Luckily, Aiven can set up the Grafana® and the integration between the two services for you.

Integrate M3DB and Grafana
--------------------------

1. Log into `Aiven Console <https://console.aiven.io>`_ and select your Aiven for M3DB service.
2. Click **Integrations** on the sidebar.
3. Select **Monitor Data in Grafana**. 
4. Choose either a new service or existing service.

   - When creating a new service you will need to select the cloud, region and plan to use. You should also give your service a name. The service overview page shows the nodes rebuilding, and then indicates when they are ready.
   - If you're already using Grafana on Aiven, you can integrate your M3DB as a data source for that existing Grafana. 
   
     .. Note::
     
      If you are a member of multiple Aiven projects with *operator* or *admin* access right, you need to choose the project first then your target Grafana services.

5. On the service overview page for your Grafana service, select **Service URI** link. The username and password for your Grafana service is also available on the service overview page.

Now your Grafana service is connected to M3DB as a data source and you can go ahead and visualize your data.

Visualizing M3DB data in Grafana
--------------------------------

In Grafana, create a new dashboard and add a panel to it.

The datasource dropdown shows ``--Grafana--`` by default, but your M3DB service will be listed here with a Prometheus logo. Prometheus is managing the communication between M3DB and Grafana.

With your M3DB service selected, the **Query** section will show the metrics from the database in its dropdown.

.. tip::
   If no metrics are shown, check that there is data in the database

Once you are happy with your panel, give it a title and click **Save** in the top right hand corner.

.. image:: /images/products/m3db/m3db-grafana.png
   :alt: Screenshot of a Grafana panel

To get to know Grafana better, try the `Grafana Fundamentals <https://grafana.com/tutorials/grafana-fundamentals/?pg=docs>`_ page on the Grafana project site.