Which control mode allows for direct operator influence on the output of a control system?

Manual mode is a control mode that allows operators direct control over the output of a control system without the intervention of an automatic control strategy. In this mode, the operator can adjust setpoints, manipulate control variables, and directly influence how the process operates. This is particularly useful during troubleshooting, maintenance, or when precise adjustments are required that automatic control may not be able to accommodate.

In contrast, automatic mode relies on pre-set algorithms and control loops to manage the output based on feedback from the process, limiting the operator’s ability to intervene directly. Feedback mode focuses on using measurements from the process to automatically adjust the control output in order to maintain the desired setpoint. Adaptive mode adjusts the control parameters in response to changing process dynamics, but it does not allow for immediate manual adjustments by an operator.