Which sequence represents a typical sensor-based control loop?

• A. Sensors produce raw signals, and the system processes them directly without conditioning.
• B. Sensors -> actuators -> processing -> feedback
• C. Inputs from sensors -> signal conditioning -> logic/processing (PLC or controller) -> actuators/outputs -> feedback to sensors.
• D. Power supply operates independently of sensing network.

Answer: (C)

In a sensor-based control loop, information flows from sensing to action with steps that prepare, interpret, and apply the measurement, then loop back to refine future actions. The best sequence starts with inputs from sensors, moves through signal conditioning to make the data usable (amplifying, filtering, converting to digital if needed), then goes to logic or processing (like a PLC or controller) that determines the appropriate actuator commands. Those actuators carry out the control actions, and the results feed back to the sensors so the system can continuously adjust to keep the process at the desired state. This closed loop—measure, condition, compute, act, and feed back—is what enables accurate, stable control.

The other options skip essential steps or arrange them incorrectly: skipping conditioning or processing, or reversing the order so actions occur before the decision-making, or isolating sensing from the control loop.