Question 1

Operating systems in computing: which statements correctly describe their role in application development and reuse?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: An operating system (OS) abstracts hardware and provides services—process scheduling, memory management, file systems, I/O stacks, and networking—that make application development faster and more portable. While many embedded systems can run “bare metal” without a traditional OS, for general-purpose computing the OS is foundational. Given Data / Assumptions: We assess whether an OS is strictly required versus beneficial. We evaluate the OS’s role in providing structure and reusable components. Standard modules (libraries, drivers, APIs) accelerate development and improve reliability. Concept / Approach: Operating systems expose consistent interfaces (APIs) and frameworks so developers can build on well-tested services instead of rewriting low-level code. This “structure” includes process models, threads, IPC, files, sockets, GUIs, and package ecosystems. Standard modules—drivers, libraries, middleware—reduce time to market and improve maintainability. Step-by-Step Solution: Option A is too strong; microcontrollers may run without an OS.Option B is true: OS services structure application development.Option C is true: standard modules/libraries are reusable across apps.Therefore, select “Both (b) and (c).” Verification / Alternative check: Common platforms (Windows, Linux, Android) illustrate extensive APIs and reusable libraries that underpin most applications. Why Other Options Are Wrong: A ignores bare-metal firmware. E is wrong because valid statements exist. Common Pitfalls: Assuming an OS is mandatory for every microprocessor; many embedded designs use RTOS or no OS depending on constraints. Final Answer: Both (b) and (c).

Question 2

Smart solid-state sensor: which option best defines a “smart sensor” in modern instrumentation and automation?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Smart sensors combine the sensing element with on-chip signal conditioning, calibration memory, diagnostics, and communications. They reduce wiring complexity, improve accuracy, and make it easier to integrate measurements into control systems and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). Given Data / Assumptions: “Smart” implies integrated electronics beyond a raw transducer. Logic may include ADCs, microcontrollers/DSP blocks, linearization, filtering, and bus interfaces. Physical substrate count does not define smart capability. Concept / Approach: By embedding intelligence at the sensor head, manufacturers ship calibrated output (e.g., I2C, SPI, IO-Link) that is less susceptible to noise and easier to deploy. Diagnostics, self-test, and identification data further reduce commissioning time and lifecycle costs. This integration distinguishes smart sensors from traditional analog-only transducers. Step-by-Step Solution: Interpret “smart” as integration of sensing + logic/processing + interface.Reject definitions based on substrates (mechanical detail) or availability.Select the option that states sensing and logic are integrated into one unit. Verification / Alternative check: Common devices (temperature, pressure, inertial sensors) include embedded calibration and digital outputs, exemplifying smart integration. Why Other Options Are Wrong: B focuses on construction detail, not functionality. C is false; smart sensors are widely available. D cannot hold because A is correct while B and C are not. Common Pitfalls: Confusing “smart” with “wireless only”; smart refers to integrated processing regardless of wired/wireless interface. Final Answer: One that integrates both logic and a solid-state sensor into one unit.

Question 3

Scope of general-purpose CAD systems: which domains were considered when developing CAD to support a wide range of uses?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tools evolved to serve multiple industries. The same core capabilities—precise geometry, constraints, layers, parametrics, and visualization—apply to mechanical parts, buildings and bridges, electronic layouts, and even media production and animation workflows. Given Data / Assumptions: General-purpose CAD platforms aim for broad applicability. Different domains add plug-ins or specialized modules but share base drawing/modeling engines. The question asks which fields were considered; the comprehensive answer should include all listed domains. Concept / Approach: Mechanical CAD emphasizes parametric solids and assemblies; structural CAD focuses on drafting, analysis links, and detailing; EDA integration supports schematics and PCB layout; media/animation uses NURBS/subdivision surfaces and rendering, often exchanging data with CAD for visualization. A common geometry kernel and robust drafting tools enable these varied applications. Step-by-Step Solution: Recognize mechanical, structural/electronic, and animation/graphics as established CAD use cases.Note that “general-purpose” implies breadth, not a single niche.Therefore, select the comprehensive option “All of the above.” Verification / Alternative check: Major CAD ecosystems offer industry toolsets for mechanical, AEC (architecture/engineering/construction), and media, evidencing broad design intent. Why Other Options Are Wrong: A, B, and C each cover only part of the landscape. E is wrong because all are valid. Common Pitfalls: Assuming CAD equals only mechanical 3D; 2D/3D drafting and modeling serve many disciplines. Final Answer: All of the above.

Question 4

Standards and interoperability: having compatibility and commonality across and between different vendors’ equipment is called:

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: In technology ecosystems, products from different vendors must interoperate to reduce lock-in and integration costs. Achieving compatibility across hardware and software requires agreed-upon specifications and conformance testing so that components work together predictably. Given Data / Assumptions: The question asks for the term describing compatibility/commonality across vendors. We focus on shared specifications, interfaces, and behaviors. Other terms like integration or networking describe activities or architectures, not the underlying harmonization process. Concept / Approach: Standardization is the process of developing and adopting technical standards—protocols, file formats, mechanical dimensions, signaling levels, safety rules—so that independently developed components can interoperate. This promotes economies of scale, simplifies maintenance, and enables a healthy multi-vendor marketplace. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the requirement: cross-vendor compatibility and commonality.Associate that with standards creation and adoption.Select “Standardization.” Verification / Alternative check: Examples include IEEE, ISO, IEC, and W3C standards that enable plug-and-play across vendors. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Registration (A) is enrollment or alignment, not broad compatibility. Integration (C) is a project activity combining parts, often bespoke. Networking (D) is a domain, not the harmonization mechanism. E is invalid because the correct term exists. Common Pitfalls: Confusing de facto compatibility with formal standardization; de jure standards provide clearer, testable conformance. Final Answer: Standardization.

Question 5

TI510PC up/down counter: identify which signal is NOT one of the three standard inputs (Consider typical counter terminals used in programmable controllers).

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Up/down counters in programmable controllers (PC/PLC families such as the TI510PC) are fundamental building blocks for event counting, position tracking, and production tallying. They typically expose a small, well-defined set of input terminals for control signals and one or more outputs for status. This question checks whether you can distinguish inputs that affect the count from outputs that merely report the count state. Given Data / Assumptions: The device is an up/down counter module associated with a TI510PC-class controller. We are asked to identify the signal that is not an input. Typical counter inputs are “count up,” “count down,” and “reset” (sometimes named clear or preset/clear depending on model). Concept / Approach: A counter needs edge-qualified commands to increment and decrement, plus an initializing signal to reset or preset its internal register. An output, by contrast, publishes information such as “count reached,” “zero detected,” or a parallel/serial value for other logic. Therefore, the term “count out” signifies an output or result line, not a control input. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify canonical inputs: Count up (increment), Count down (decrement), Reset (initialize).Recognize “Count out” as a reporting/output function rather than a control signal.Select “Count out” as the item that is not one of the three inputs. Verification / Alternative check: Controller manuals list counter function blocks with UP, DN, and RST (or CLR) inputs, and one or more outputs such as DONE, ZERO, or a numerical output. This pattern confirms that “count out” belongs on the output side. Why Other Options Are Wrong: “Count up” is a valid input used to increment the counter. “Reset” is a standard input to clear the count. “Count down” is the decrement input. “None of the above” is invalid because one listed item is indeed not an input. Common Pitfalls: Confusing the naming of terminals across platforms (e.g., “CLR” vs “RST,” “DN” vs “COUNT DOWN”). Always separate control inputs from status/data outputs when reading schematics. Final Answer: Count out

Question 6

Industrial robotics terminology: what does the term “end-effector” refer to in a robot system? Choose the most complete description.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: In robotics, understanding the vocabulary for components at the robot's wrist is essential for planning applications, selecting accessories, and estimating cycle time. The term “end-effector” encompasses the business-end hardware that interacts with the workpiece or environment—tools, grippers, sensors, and specialized devices. Given Data / Assumptions: A robot typically has a multi-axis arm and a mounting flange at the wrist. End-effectors are attached to that flange and can be changed to suit tasks. Functions include grasping, welding, dispensing, cutting, measurement, and more. Concept / Approach: An end-effector is often described as the robot’s “hand.” In practice, it may be a tool (e.g., spot-weld gun, TIG torch, suction gripper, screwdriver) or a gripper with fingers or suction cups. Many end-effectors incorporate sensors (force/torque, vision, proximity) and compliance devices to improve robustness and part tolerance. Step-by-Step Solution: Map each statement to common end-effector capabilities.Recognize that tools and grippers are both valid end-effectors.Confirm that gripping actions are common but not exclusive (tools may not grip).Therefore, the most complete description is “All of the above.” Verification / Alternative check: Vendor catalogs classify end-effectors into grippers, welding tools, adhesive dispensers, screwdriving spindles, polishing heads, and sensors—validating the broad scope captured by “All of the above.” Why Other Options Are Wrong: Each single item is true but incomplete; only the combined option captures the full concept. “None” is wrong because the statements describe standard practice. Common Pitfalls: Assuming end-effectors must always grasp; many are process tools that perform operations without gripping. Final Answer: All of the above

Question 7

Computer instructions: which categories below are standard kinds of instructions used in programming and machine execution? Select the most inclusive answer.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: At every level—from assembly to high-level languages—programs are composed of common instruction categories. Recognizing these categories clarifies how data moves into a program, how it is transformed, and how control flow changes as conditions vary. Given Data / Assumptions: “Input” refers to acquiring data from a user, file, device, or network. “Arithmetic” covers numerical and logical operations on data. “Conditional branching” changes control flow based on evaluated conditions. Concept / Approach: Classic instruction sets and language constructs mirror these needs: read statements or I/O calls (input), operators and math libraries (arithmetic), and if/else or compare-and-branch operations (conditional branching). Any nontrivial program uses all three categories to be useful—accepting data, processing it, and making decisions. Step-by-Step Solution: List categories required for a general-purpose program.Confirm each option corresponds to a fundamental category.Choose the inclusive option “All of the above.” Verification / Alternative check: Programming language references and CPU ISA manuals include I/O primitives, ALU operations, and branch/jump instructions, confirming the universality of these categories. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Each single item is correct but incomplete; only the combined option fully represents a typical instruction mix. “None” is incorrect because these categories undeniably exist. Common Pitfalls: Overlooking that “input” includes automated sources (sensors, files), not just keyboard entry. Final Answer: All of the above

Question 8

Why do programmable controllers (PLCs/PCs) commonly use relay ladder logic for programming and visualization? Pick the best industry-grounded reason.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Relay ladder logic (RLL) visually mimics traditional hardwired relay schematics, which were common before programmable controllers. Because technicians, electricians, and controls engineers were already fluent in relay diagrams, early PLC vendors adopted ladder logic as a programming notation to reduce retraining and ease troubleshooting. Given Data / Assumptions: Industrial control teams value fast commissioning and maintainability. Ladder logic aligns with existing mental models from relay panels. Alternative languages exist (e.g., function block, structured text, sequential function chart). Concept / Approach: The main driver for ladder logic adoption is workforce familiarity. Its contact-coil paradigm maps directly onto inputs, interlocks, and outputs; rungs resemble electrical circuits, making it intuitive to trace power flow and find faults. This improves uptime because technicians can diagnose issues without learning an entirely new programming model. Step-by-Step Solution: Assess each claim for accuracy and practicality.Reject absolutist statements about impossibility or universal “best” status.Select the reasoning centered on personnel familiarity and ease of use. Verification / Alternative check: IEC 61131-3 supports multiple languages precisely because different plants prefer different paradigms. The enduring popularity of ladder logic is historically tied to maintainability and workforce skills—not technical exclusivity. Why Other Options Are Wrong: (a) Many controllers support multiple languages; ladder is not the only option. (b) “Best” is context-dependent; complex algorithms often use structured text or function blocks. (d) cannot be true because (a) and (b) are not accurate. Common Pitfalls: Underestimating training needs when migrating to other languages; failing to document rung comments and tag names reduces ladder’s maintainability advantage. Final Answer: Most industrial control personnel know ladder diagrams, making it the easiest for them to use

Question 9

Human–computer input devices: which device is often used as an alternative to a light pen and works well with storage-tube or non-refresh displays?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Early graphics systems used light pens for direct interaction with CRTs. However, light pens rely on timing the electron beam refresh—something that storage-tube and certain non-refresh displays do not provide reliably. In such contexts, indirect pointing devices that do not depend on screen refresh proved more effective. Given Data / Assumptions: We are comparing pointing/input devices suitable for graphics work. Non-refresh or storage-tube displays make light-pen timing impractical. Digitizers (graphics tablets) capture pen position on a separate surface. Concept / Approach: A graphics digitiser (digitizer tablet) provides absolute coordinate input using a stylus on a tablet surface. The tablet sends high-resolution x–y positions to the computer, independent of display technology. This makes it a natural alternative to the light pen when the display cannot be sensed directly. Trackballs and mice are relative pointing devices intended for refreshed raster displays and general UI use; they do not solve the refresh dependency. The generic word “tablet” can be ambiguous (modern touch tablets vs. graphics digitizers), so “digitiser” is the precise historical term used in CAD and early graphics workflows. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the requirement: input that does not rely on CRT beam timing.Match device: graphics digitiser meets the need.Exclude relative devices (mouse, trackball) as not ideal for this constraint. Verification / Alternative check: Classic CAD setups paired storage-tube or high-persistence displays with digitizer tablets for precise input of points, curves, and selections, confirming suitability. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Trackball and mouse rely on relative motion and are not historically the alternative for storage-tube displays. “Tablet” is too vague and may be misinterpreted; the correct, established term is graphics digitiser. “None” is invalid because an appropriate device exists. Common Pitfalls: Confusing modern consumer tablets with professional graphics digitizers; the question refers to the latter. Final Answer: Digitiser

Question 10

Programmable controllers (PLCs): which statements are accurate about their programming and industry adoption? Choose the best combined option.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Programmable controllers dominate discrete and process automation across manufacturing, energy, water, building systems, and more. Their success rests on pragmatic programming models and robust hardware designed for industrial environments. Given Data / Assumptions: PLCs historically support relay ladder logic due to workforce familiarity. Modern PLCs also support other IEC 61131-3 languages. Adoption spans multiple sectors worldwide. Concept / Approach: While PLCs are frequently programmed in ladder logic, they are not limited to relay-type operations. Today’s platforms implement timers, counters, math, motion control, PID, communications, and safety functions, delivered through ladder, function block diagrams, structured text, and sequential function charts. Therefore, statements (a) and (c) are collectively true, whereas (b) is false. Step-by-Step Solution: Evaluate (a): true—ladder logic remains common and supported.Evaluate (b): false—PLCs perform many non-relay functions.Evaluate (c): true—PLCs are widely used across industries.Select the combined option (a) and (c). Verification / Alternative check: Vendor catalogs show extensive application libraries and multi-language support, reinforcing that PLCs go far beyond simple relay replacement while remaining broadly adopted. Why Other Options Are Wrong: (a) alone ignores breadth of adoption; (c) alone ignores programming reality; (b) is incorrect; “None” is invalid because a correct combined option exists. Common Pitfalls: Equating ladder logic with limited functionality; modern instructions and modules enable sophisticated control within ladder-based projects. Final Answer: (a) and (c) above

Question 11

CAD vs. CAM: what is the primary focus of computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) compared with computer-aided design (CAD)?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: CAD (computer-aided design) concentrates on modeling and documenting the product. CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) turns those designs into manufacturing instructions, toolpaths, and production plans. Distinguishing these roles helps teams choose the right software stage for design versus execution. Given Data / Assumptions: CAD produces geometry, tolerances, assemblies, and drawings. CAM generates machine instructions, process plans, and tooling definitions. Both often share models and data for continuity. Concept / Approach: CAM is focused on manufacturing execution: post-processing NC code, simulating tool motion, selecting cutting parameters, and orchestrating fixtures and operations. It integrates with shop-floor resources and may feed data to CNC machines, robots, and inspection equipment. While CAM can influence tool design, the core emphasis is translating product geometry into controlled, efficient production steps. Step-by-Step Solution: Contrast CAD’s design tasks with CAM’s production tasks.Identify the option that emphasizes production/tool control.Select that option as the correct characterization of CAM. Verification / Alternative check: Typical workflows: CAD model → CAM toolpath programming → G-code/robot paths → machining/production. This pipeline reflects the stated focus. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Management programs and communications are ancillary IT functions, not CAM’s core. PC-board design is a specialized CAD/EDA domain, not the definition of CAM. “None” is invalid because a correct description is provided. Common Pitfalls: Assuming CAM equals only “G-code generation”; it also includes simulation, verification, and tooling setup that impact quality and throughput. Final Answer: concerned with production and control of tool design

Question 12

Integrated engineering data: which two disciplines are typically tied together by a common database to ensure continuity from design to production?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Efficient product development requires seamless data flow from design intent to manufacturing execution. Sharing a common database reduces translation errors, prevents version drift, and accelerates change propagation across the lifecycle. Given Data / Assumptions: CAD systems generate authoritative geometry and specifications. CAM systems derive toolpaths and process plans from that geometry. A shared or tightly synchronized database minimizes rework. Concept / Approach: CAD–CAM integration via a common database (or synchronized models) preserves a single source of truth. When engineering updates a feature, CAM automatically flags affected toolpaths, reducing the risk of machining obsolete geometry. This integration often extends to PLM/MES, further aligning BOMs, routings, and quality plans. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify disciplines that must exchange precise geometry and process details.Select the pair that directly links design data to manufacturing instructions: CAD and CAM. Verification / Alternative check: Modern platforms advertise “CAD/CAM in one” or associative toolpaths, demonstrating practical benefits of a common database. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Documentation and drafting are supportive but do not inherently drive manufacturing instructions. Testing and analysis usually loop back to design but are not the primary production link. “None” is incorrect because CAD and CAM are the canonical pair. Common Pitfalls: Breaking associativity by exporting dumb geometry (e.g., neutral files) without managing revision control; this leads to toolpath errors. Final Answer: Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing

Question 13

Standard computer control products in industry: which statement best reflects their availability and practicality?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: From PLCs and motion controllers to industrial PCs and I/O modules, standardized control products are widely used to automate processes. Knowing their availability and cost profile helps engineers specify reliable solutions without reinventing core components. Given Data / Assumptions: We are discussing “standard” products rather than one-off custom hardware. Vendors provide catalogs of certified, interoperable components. Commodity availability generally lowers the barrier to adoption. Concept / Approach: Off-the-shelf control products are stocked by distributors and come with documentation, certifications, and support. They tend to be cost effective due to economies of scale and competition. Integration costs still exist, but component availability is not the limiting factor. These products absolutely exist and are, in fact, the default choice in modern plants. Step-by-Step Solution: Evaluate each claim against industry reality.Select the statement that aligns with widespread, practical availability: off-the-shelf.Reject claims of non-existence or universal lack of cost-effectiveness. Verification / Alternative check: Major vendors offer extensive catalogs of controllers, drives, and I/O with short lead times, confirming off-the-shelf availability. Why Other Options Are Wrong: “Very expensive and not cost effective” overgeneralizes; many products are competitively priced. “Do not exist yet” is plainly false. Common Pitfalls: Assuming customization is always necessary; often, standard modules meet requirements with minimal configuration. Final Answer: are available off the shelf

Question 14

Microprocessors: which statements correctly characterize them in typical educational definitions? Select the most complete option.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: A microprocessor is the central processing unit fabricated on a single integrated-circuit chip. Understanding its basic attributes helps distinguish CPUs from complete computers and from fixed-function logic. Given Data / Assumptions: Microprocessors execute instruction streams stored in memory (hence “controlled by a program”). They are implemented as integrated circuits (ICs). Mass production has driven costs down, making general-purpose CPUs relatively inexpensive components. Concept / Approach: The microprocessor provides arithmetic, logic, control, and register functions necessary to run software. It is designed for general-purpose computation, not a single hardwired task. When combined with memory, storage, and I/O, it forms a complete computer. Price varies by performance tier, but foundational educational references describe microprocessors as inexpensive, versatile ICs. Step-by-Step Solution: Confirm programmability: the CPU fetch–decode–execute cycle runs arbitrary programs.Confirm physical implementation: a single IC incorporates the CPU.Confirm economic characterization: mass-market processors are cost-effective for many applications.Thus, the most complete option is “All of the above.” Verification / Alternative check: Development boards and embedded systems use low-cost microprocessors and microcontrollers broadly, demonstrating programmability and affordability alongside IC integration. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Any single statement omits other essential characteristics; “None” is incorrect because all listed statements are true in common definitions. Common Pitfalls: Confusing microprocessors with microcontrollers (which include I/O and memory on-chip) or with entire computers (which require multiple subsystems). Final Answer: All of the above

Question 15

To enable a PC to emulate a graphics terminal (e.g., Tektronix-style or ANSI graphics), you primarily need appropriate terminal emulation software that speaks the terminal's control protocols; assume a standard graphics adapter is already present.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Personal computers can mimic (emulate) legacy graphics terminals used by plotters, CAD workstations, and mainframes. Emulation requires the PC to interpret the terminal's escape codes and drawing commands, then render equivalent graphics locally. The key enabler is the terminal emulation software that implements the correct protocol and command set for the target terminal type. Given Data / Assumptions: The PC already has a standard graphics adapter suitable for basic rendering. We want to emulate the behavior of a graphics terminal over serial or network connections. Only one choice should be identified as the primary requirement. Concept / Approach: Terminal emulation is fundamentally a software problem: parse incoming control sequences, maintain a local screen/graphics buffer, and draw lines, points, and text. The software maps terminal-specific drawing primitives to the PC’s graphics APIs. While better graphics hardware can improve performance or resolution, hardware alone cannot interpret terminal protocols without software. Likewise, printers or color monitors are peripheral to emulation and not required to implement terminal behavior. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify what a graphics terminal does: receive commands and render graphics.Determine what lets a PC understand those commands: terminal emulation software.Note that standard PC graphics hardware is assumed; extra devices are not strictly required.Select the option that provides the necessary interpretation layer: software. Verification / Alternative check: Well-known terminal emulators (e.g., Tektronix/VT emulators) run purely as software on PCs, using existing graphics adapters to display lines, vectors, and plots. This confirms that software is the essential enabler for emulation. Why Other Options Are Wrong: A laser printer: output device, unrelated to real-time terminal emulation.A color monitor: helpful but not required; monochrome can still emulate.A graphics board: most PCs already have one; without software, emulation cannot occur.None of the above: incorrect because software is required. Common Pitfalls: Confusing display capability with protocol emulation; overlooking serial/network configuration and baud/flow control; assuming color is necessary when many classic terminals were monochrome. Always ensure the emulator matches the exact terminal type (escape codes, coordinate system, vector primitives). Final Answer: Software

Question 16

Which of the following can be classified as automation systems in industrial and logistics contexts (identify the comprehensive choice)?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Automation systems apply sensing, control, and actuation to perform tasks with minimal human intervention. In modern operations, automation spans warehousing, machining, and assembly, using technologies such as conveyors, automated storage and retrieval, NC/CNC, and industrial robots. This question tests recognition of the breadth of automation, not just one niche. Given Data / Assumptions: Automated warehouses use AS/RS, conveyors, and WMS-integrated control. Numerically controlled machine tools execute programmed motions. Robotics perform manipulation, assembly, and material handling. Concept / Approach: Each listed item is an established automation domain: warehouses automate movement and storage; NC tools automate machining; robots automate manipulation. Because all three apply automation principles, the comprehensive and correct choice is the combined option. Recognizing these as part of one umbrella helps plan integrated, end-to-end automation strategies. Step-by-Step Solution: Evaluate each option for sensing-control-actuation characteristics.Confirm each meets automation criteria independently.Choose the umbrella answer that includes all the valid instances. Verification / Alternative check: Case studies show automated facilities combining AS/RS, CNC machining cells, and robot workstations under centralized control—clear evidence that all are automation systems. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Automated warehouses: correct but incomplete alone.NC machine tools: correct but incomplete alone.Robotics: correct but incomplete alone.None of the above: false since each listed item is a legitimate automation system. Common Pitfalls: Narrowly equating automation with robotics only; ignoring software layers (WMS/MES) that orchestrate physical automation; overlooking safety interlocks required for compliant automation deployments. Final Answer: All of the above

Question 17

Which type of digitizer senses a wave that travels at the speed of sound and computes position from acoustic time-of-flight measurements?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Digitizing tablets and pens use several physical principles to detect the cursor's position. Some rely on electric fields, others on magnetic induction, and another family uses sound waves. Identifying which technology measures a propagating wave at the speed of sound requires understanding of the underlying sensing physics. Given Data / Assumptions: A wave traveling at the speed of sound is mentioned explicitly. Position is inferred from time-of-flight between emitters and sensors. We compare electrostatic, sonic, electromagnetic, and capacitive approaches. Concept / Approach: Sonic digitizers use ultrasonic transducers. Either the pen emits an ultrasonic pulse and multiple receivers on the tablet measure arrival times, or the tablet emits and the pen receives. Using time = distance / speed, the controller triangulates x,y. Electrostatic/capacitive systems sense electric field coupling and do not involve acoustic propagation. Electromagnetic systems use inductive coupling and magnetic fields, not sound. Step-by-Step Solution: Match the clue “speed of sound” to acoustic/ultrasonic sensing.Recognize that triangulation from arrival times determines coordinates.Select “Sonic” as the correct digitizer type. Verification / Alternative check: Vendor literature for sonic digitizers describes calibration using known transducer spacing and computing intersections from time-of-flight differences, confirming the sound-based method. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Electrostatic/Capacitive: measure electric field coupling, not acoustic waves.Electromagnetic: uses magnetic induction; wave speed is not the speed of sound.None of the above: incorrect because “Sonic” precisely matches the description. Common Pitfalls: Confusing capacitive touch (common in phones) with digitizers; ignoring environmental noise—air currents and reflections can affect sonic accuracy; neglecting temperature compensation since speed of sound varies with temperature. Final Answer: Sonic

Automation System Questions