Lecture 3: Controllers
1. A control system may be required to:
A. Only measure variables
B. Control a sequence of events or maintain variables constant
C. Replace all mechanical components
D. Operate only manually
Answer: B
Explanation: Control systems manage sequences or maintain variables like speed, position, or
temperature.
2. An automatic drilling machine is an example of:
A. Open-loop control system
B. Manual control system
C. Closed-loop or sequence control system
D. Hydraulic control system
Answer: C
Explanation: The drilling operation follows a programmed sequence based on input conditions.
3. In a conveyor belt system, the controller might:
A. Count items and direct them into packing boxes
B. Only control motor speed
C. Operate without sensors
D. Work without power
Answer: A
4. The presence of a workpiece in a control system can be detected using:
A. Relays only
B. Switches or sensors
C. Motors
D. Microprocessors
Answer: B
5. The main function of a switch is to:
A. Store current
B. Interrupt or connect current flow
C. Convert AC to DC
D. Measure resistance
Answer: B
6. Which of the following is NOT a type of switch?
A. SPST
B. Push button
C. Toggle
D. Servo motor
Answer: D
7. A relay is:
A. A type of mechanical sensor
B. A switch operated by an electromagnet
C. A programmable logic controller
D. A type of manual switch
Answer: B
8. One problem with relay-based systems is:
A. They can be reprogrammed easily
B. They require no wiring
C. They must be hardwired specifically and are hard to modify
D. They use too little power
Answer: C
9. In traditional control systems, rules governing the process are determined by:
A. The wiring of relays and switches
B. The operator’s judgment
C. PLC programming
D. Computer algorithms
Answer: A
10. When rules for control actions change in a relay system:
A. The system automatically adapts
B. The wiring must be changed
C. The PLC is updated
D. The sensors adjust automatically
Answer: B
11. A microprocessor-based system replaces:
A. Mechanical relays with software instructions
B. Electric motors with sensors
C. Sensors with manual switches
D. All hardware components
Answer: A
12. In a microprocessor control system, changing the control logic requires:
A. Rewiring the circuit
B. Reprogramming the software
C. Adding more relays
D. Replacing all hardware
Answer: B
13. A domestic washing machine is an example of:
A. A microprocessor-based control system
B. A purely mechanical device
C. A relay control system
D. An analog control system
Answer: A
14. Inputs to a washing machine controller include:
A. Temperature and water level sensors
B. Drum rotation motor
C. Door lock
D. Drain pump
Answer: A
Explanation: Sensors provide input signals; motors and pumps are output devices.
15. The outputs of a washing machine controller include:
A. Water level sensor
B. Control panel buttons
C. Drum motor, drain pump, water valves
D. Thermostat
Answer: C
16. A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is:
A. A special-purpose computer for control tasks
B. A general-purpose PC
C. A mechanical relay circuit
D. A type of sensor
Answer: A
17. PLCs are mainly used for:
A. Office automation
B. Logic, sequencing, timing, and control in machines
C. Internet browsing
D. Data storage
Answer: B
18. A major advantage of PLCs over relay systems is:
A. They need more wiring
B. They are slower
C. They can be reprogrammed easily without rewiring
D. They require special computer programmers
Answer: C
19. PLCs are designed for people with:
A. Advanced programming skills only
B. Limited computing knowledge
C. No electrical knowledge
D. Mechanical-only background
Answer: B
20. The programming in PLCs mainly involves:
A. Logic and switching operations
B. Mathematical calculations
C. 3D modeling
D. Network communications only
Answer: A
21. PLCs are optimized for:
A. Graphics and display
B. Control tasks in industrial environments
C. Internet processing
D. Multimedia applications
Answer: B
22. PLCs are designed to withstand:
A. Dust and vibration only
B. Industrial conditions such as temperature, humidity, and noise
C. Office lighting and air conditioning
D. Dry lab environments only
Answer: B
23. The first PLC was developed in:
A. 1959
B. 1969
C. 1979
D. 1989
Answer: B
24. One of the essential skills for a PLC programmer is:
A. Web design
B. Mechanical and schematic knowledge
C. Video editing
D. Data entry
Answer: B
25. A PLC programmer must have attention to detail because:
A. PLC programs are very simple
B. A single error in code can affect entire mechanical operations
C. They rarely test their work
D. They focus only on hardware
Answer: B