Software Engineering › Key terms › Y11 Mechatronics › Open-loop control
Open-loop control
Term Check Y11 Mechatronics
Definition
A control system that sets its output without checking the result (a timer-based sprinkler). It is simple but cannot correct errors.
Example: Open: the motor runs for 5 seconds regardless of distance travelled.
Check this one: Not found word-for-word in the supplied syllabus, specifications, marking guidelines or notes; the definition is standard computing knowledge, so check it against your class notes.
Where it is used in the test
Syllabus area: Y11 Mechatronics.
Question types it can appear in
- Multiple choice: Pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Matching or table: Match it to its description, example or category.
- Fill in the blanks: Choose this term to complete a statement or table.
- Short answer: Compare open and closed loop
No past question in this bank is linked to this term yet. It can still be tested through the question types above.
Study links
- Flashcard: Open-loop control in Programming Mechatronics (Year 11) · study that set
- Memorise: Mechatronics: hardware, sensors, actuators, control
- Notes: Mechatronics: hardware, sensors, actuators, control (Year 11 content (Programming fundamentals, OOP, Mechatronics))
How to use it in an answer
A model sentence
“A control system that sets its output without checking the result (a timer-based sprinkler).” Then apply it: Open: the motor runs for 5 seconds regardless of distance travelled.
In a short answer, give the definition in your own words first, then tie it to the situation in the question. Do not copy the example above unless it fits the scenario.
Command words used with it
No linked question shows the command word for this term. Across the past short answer questions in this bank the words used most are: Explain, Outline, Describe, Compare, Classify, Analyse. Check the actual word in your question.
Technique for the question types
- Multiple choice: Read all four options, rule out wrong ones, pick one; no penalty for guessing so never leave blank.
- Matching or table: Tick or match each statement to the right column (for example ORM v SQL, SAST v DAST).
- Fill in the blanks: Choose the right word from a list; use exact syllabus terms.
- Short answer: One clear point per mark, use the stimulus and course terms, and answer the command word.
Common mistakes
- Check the sources: Not found word-for-word in the supplied syllabus, specifications, marking guidelines or notes; the definition is standard computing knowledge, so check it against your class notes.
- Use the term exactly as the syllabus words it, then link it to the scenario in the question; the 2025 feedback repeatedly rewards using the stimulus.
- Answer the command word: outline gives main points only, explain gives a reason or cause, discuss gives both sides.
Related terms
Same group in the syllabus: Diagnostic data · Optimisation data · Degrees of freedom · Motion constraints · Subsystem (combination of sensors, actuators and effectors) · Power, battery and material requirements · Wiring diagram · Specialist requirements for people with disability · Closed-loop control · Feedback · Autonomous control · Control algorithm pattern (line follower) · Simulation and prototype · Unit tests for control algorithms