Red Seal Instrumentation and Control Technician Practice Exam

What is the main benefit of using closed-loop systems over open-loop systems?

1. Closed-loop systems are less expensive

2. Closed-loop systems require less maintenance

3. Closed-loop systems provide greater accuracy due to feedback

4. Closed-loop systems are simpler to design

The correct answer is: Closed-loop systems provide greater accuracy due to feedback

The main benefit of using closed-loop systems is that they provide greater accuracy due to feedback. In a closed-loop system, the output is continually monitored and compared to a desired set point. Any discrepancies or deviations from this set point are detected by sensors, which then provide feedback to the control element of the system. This feedback mechanism allows the system to make real-time adjustments to maintain the desired output, enhancing precision and stability. In contrast, open-loop systems do not have this feedback mechanism. They operate based solely on predetermined inputs without adjusting for any output variation, which can lead to reasons like environmental changes or component wear potentially compromising their accuracy. The closed-loop configuration's ability to self-correct and adapt to changes is a key reason it is often preferred in applications where precision is crucial, such as in automation and process control contexts.