Computer and Control Terms

Actuator—Device which accepts the output from a control system and moves a final control element (usually a valve) to change a process condition. 

A/D converter (analog to digital)—Device which converts analog signals from process sensors into digital form for use by computers and other digital equipment. 

Adaptive contro/—Method of control whereby tuning (response) of the control system is varied with process conditions, unlike other control systems where response times are set manually and remain constant. 

A/g orit/im—Mathematical representation of the action performance by a controlling device to achieve its task such as proportional integral and derivative. 

Architecture— SNith reference to computers, it is how the computer is constructed or wired and the path of data through it. 

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Kane, L.A. Glossary of Computer and Control Terms. Hydrocarbon Processing, June 1979, p. 71. 

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