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compound engine A multicylinder engine in
which the working fluid—steam, air, or hot
gas—expands successively as it passes from
one cylinder to another through the engine.
compound lever A device consisting of two
or more levers, where force or motion is
transferred from the arm of one lever to the
next lever in the train.
compounds Thermosetting, thermoplastic,
epoxy resin (cold curing), and elastometric
materials with or without fillers and/or
additives after they have solidified. [ANSI/
ISA-12.23.01-1998]
compound screw A screw that has threads of
different pitches or opposite helixes on oppo-
site ends of the shank.
compound semiconductor A semiconductor
such as gallium arsenide that is made up of
two or more materials, in contrast to simple
single-element materials such as silicon and
germanium.
compressibility Volumetric strain per unit
change in hydrostatic pressure.
compressibility factor (Z) A factor that is
used to compensate for deviation from the
laws of perfect gases. If the gas laws are used
to compute the specific weight of a gas, the
computed value must be adjusted by the
compressibility factor Z to obtain the true
specific weight.
compressible Capable of being compressed.
Gas and vapor are compressible fluids.
compressible flow Fluid flow under condi-
tions that cause significant changes in den-
sity.
compression Any of several techniques for
reducing the number of bits required to rep-
resent information in the storage or transmis-
sion of digital data (thereby saving memory
or bandwidth), and in which the original
form of the information can be reconstructed.
Also, called "compaction." See asymmetrical
compression, JPEG, MPEG, and symmetrical
compression.
compressional wave A wave in an elastic
medium that causes an element of the
medium to undergo changes in volume with-
out rotating.
compression element An element of a cable
entry that acts on the sealing ring to enable
the latter to fulfill its function. [ISA-12.00.01-
1999 (IEC 60079-0 Mod)]
compression failure Buckling, collapse, or
fracture of a structural member that is loaded
in compression.
compression member A beam, column, or
other structural component that is loaded in
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compound engine / computer
such a way as to be under predominantly
compressive stress.
compression ratio 1. In an internal combus-
tion engine, the ratio of cylinder volume with
the piston at bottom dead center to the vol-
ume when the piston is at top dead center. 2.
In powder metallurgy, the ratio of the vol-
ume of loose powder used to make a part to
the volume of the pressed compact.
compression spring An elastic member, usu-
ally made by bending metal wire into a heli-
cal coil, that resists a force tending to
compress it.
compression test A destructive test for deter-
mining fracture strength, yield strength, duc-
tility, and elastic modulus by progressively
loading a short-column specimen in com-
pression.
compressor [Eng] 1. In engineering, the
device, in a weir-type or sleeve (pinch) valve,
that the valve stem forces against the back-
side of the diaphragm or sleeve so as to cause
the diaphragm or sleeve to move and seal
against the internal flow passageway of the
valve body. [ANSI/ISA-75.05.01-2000] 2. A
machine—usually a reciprocating-piston,
centrifugal, or axial-flow design—that is
used to increase pressure in a gas or vapor.
Also known as "compression machine."
[Comp] 3. In computing, a hardware or soft-
ware process for removing redundant or oth-
erwise uninteresting words from a stream,
thereby "compressing" the data quantity.
Compton scattering A form of interaction
between X-rays and loosely bound electrons
in which their collision results in the deflec-
tion of the radiation from its previous path,
accompanied by random phase shift and a
slight increase in wavelength.
computational process An instance of the
execution of a segment by a processor using
a data area.
computational stability The degree to which
a computational process remains valid when
subjected to effects such as errors, mistakes,
or malfunctions.
computer 1. A data processor that can per-
form substantial computation, including
numerous arithmetic or logic operations,
without intervention by a human operator
during the run. 2. A device that is capable of
solving problems by accepting data, per-
forming described operations on the data,
and supplying the results of these opera-
tions. Various types of computers are calcula-
tors, digital computers, and analog
computers. See analog computer, digital com-
computer, notebook / computer program
puter, general-purpose computer, hybrid com-
puter, and stored program computer.
computer, notebook A small, portable com-
puter with a flip-up screen.
computer-aided drafting or design (CAD)
The technique of using computers to auto-
mate the production of technical line draw-
ings such as P&IDs.
computer-aided repair (CAR) The technique
of using computers to automate the repair of
electronic products after a fault has been
detected.
computer-aided test (CAT) The technique of
using computers to automate the test process
of a device, board, or system.
Computer and Automated Systems Associa-
tion of the Society of Manufacturing Engi-
neers (CASA/SME) A professional
engineering association dedicated to the
advancement of engineering technology.
CASA/SME supports the administrative
functions of the MAP/TOP users group.
computer code A machine code for a specific
computer.
computer control Computer control is a
device in which control and/or display
actions are generated for use by other system
devices. When used with other control
devices on the communication link, the com-
puter normally performs or functions in a
hierarchical relationship to the other control
devices.
computer control system A system in which
all control action takes place within the con-
trol computer. Single or redundant comput-
ers may be used. [ISA-5.5-1985]
computer-dependent language A relative
term for a programming language whose
translation can be achieved only by a specific
model (or models) of computer.
computer graphics A general term identify-
ing pictures or diagrams, as distinct from let-
ters and numbers, presented on a computer
video screen or hard copy device.
computer-independent language A lan-
guage in which computer programs can be
created without regard for the actual com-
puters that will be used to process them.
Related to transportability.
computer instruction A machine instruction
for a specific computer.
computer-integrated engineering (CIE) An
engineering environment that combines fea-
tures of test and measurement, computer-
aided design, manufacturing, and engineer-
ing.
computer-integrated manufacturing (CIM)
The application of computer and communi-
98
cations technology to automate and integrate
manufacturing processes.
computer interface Serves as the interface
device between the host computer and other
devices on the data highway. It converts data
from the protocol of the computer to that of
the highway, and vice versa.
computer interface device (CID) Hardware
that allows a general-purpose computer to
share data with the rest of the distributed
control system.
computerized composition An all-inclusive
term for the use of computers to automati-
cally perform the functions of hyphenation,
justification, and page formatting.
computer-limited Pertaining to a situation in
which the time required for computation
exceeds the time available.
computer maintenance management system
(CMMS) A general classification of com-
puter programs that are designed to assist in
managing the maintenance of process plants
and other facilities. CMMS programs also
provide the history and future work schedul-
ing of assets, including tracking preventative
maintenance schedules for these assets.
Sophisticated CMMS systems keep an inven-
tory of spare parts on line with work orders
and handle inventory control, automatic pur-
chasing, receiving, and physical counting as
well as providing personnel with the
information to make appropriate decisions
based on costs and operating efficiencies. See
preventative maintenance, predictive mainte-
nance, and total productive maintenance.
computer network A complex that consists
of two or more interconnected computing
units.
computer networking The interconnection of
two or more geographically separated com-
puters so that information can be exchanged
between them, usually under the direction of
individual, autonomous control programs.
See also distributed processing.
computer operator A person who performs
standard system operations such as adjust-
ing system operation parameters at the sys-
tem console, loading a tape transport,
placing cards in a card reader, and removing
listings from the line printer.
computer part-programming In numerical
control, the preparation of a part program in
order to obtain a machine program using the
computer and the appropriate processor and
post processor.
computer program A series of instructions or
statements in a form that is acceptable to a
 computer simulation / condensed type
computer prepared to achieve a certain
result.
computer simulation A logical-mathemati-
cal representation of a simulation concept,
system, or operation programmed to be
solved on an analog or digital computer.
computer telephony Broad term for the
many combinations of (PC) computers and
telephones for new and unique applications.
computer word A sequence of bits or charac-
ters treated as a unit and capable of being
stored in one computer location. Synony-
mous with machine word.
computing device A device or function that
performs one or more calculations or logic
operations, or both, and transmits one or
more resultant output signals. A computing
device is sometimes called a computing
relay. See computing relay. [ANSI/ISA-5.1-
1984 (R1992)]
computing instrument See instrument, com-
puting.
computing relay 1. A transducer that per-
forms a computational function in order to
convert the input signal into the desired out-
put value. 2. A device that performs one or
more calculations or logical functions or
both, and sends out one or more resultant
signals.
concatenate To combine several files into one
file or several strings of characters into one
string by appending one file or string after
another.
concave Describing a surface whose central
region is depressed with respect to a flat
plane that passes approximately through its
periphery.
concave curve A change in the angle of incli-
nation of a belt conveyor where the center of
the curve is above the conveyor. [ISA-
RP74.01-1984]
concentrate 1. To separate metal-bearing
minerals from the gangue in an ore. 2. The
enriched product resulting from an ore-sepa-
ration process. 3. An enriched substance that
must be diluted, usually with water, before it
is used.
concentration 1. The weight of solids con-
tained in a unit weight of boiler water or
feedwater. 2. The number of times that the
dissolved solids have increased from the
original amount in the feedwater to the
amount in the boiler water because of evapo-
ration in generating steam.
concentrator 1. Any communication device
that allows a shared transmission medium to
accommodate more data sources than there
are channels available within that transmis-
99
sion medium. See multiplexor. 2. In twisted-
pair Ethernet networks, a multiport repeater
that has diagnostic and administrative capa-
bilities (often referred to as "hub" or
"repeater").
concentricity The quality of two or more geo-
metric shapes that have the same center.
Usually, the term is applied to plane shapes
or cross sections of solid shapes that are
approximately circular.
concentric orifice plate A fluid-meter orifice
plate that has a circular opening whose cen-
ter coincides with the axis of the center of the
pipe it is installed in.
concrete A mixture of aggregate, water, and a
binder, usually portland cement, that cures
as it dries and becomes rock hard.
concurrent engineering Structuring the
design process so that all concerned parties,
including manufacturing, sales, and custom-
ers, are involved from the beginning so as to
bring about a more meaningful result faster.
concurrent processing Two (or more) com-
puter operations that appear to be processed
simultaneously when in fact the CPU is rap-
idly switching between them.
condensate 1. The liquid product of a con-
densing cycle. Also known as "condensate
liquid." 2. A light hydrocarbon mixture that
is formed by expanding and cooling gas in a
gas-recycling plant so as to produce a liquid
output.
condensate pot A section of pipe (4 inches in
diameter) that is installed horizontally at the
orifice flange union in order to provide a
large-area surge surface. This makes possible
the movement of the impulse line fluid with
the instrument element position change,
reducing measurement error from the hydro-
static head difference in the impulse lines.
condensate trap 1. A device that separates
saturated water from steam in a pipe or piece
of process equipment. 2. A device that is
used to trap and retain condensate in a mea-
surement impulse line in order to prevent
hot vapors from reaching the instrument.
condensation-type hygrometer Any of sev-
eral designs of dew point instruments that
operate by detecting the equilibrium temper-
ature at which dew or frost forms on a ther-
moelectrically, mechanically, or chemically
cooled surface. Surface condensation may be
detected by optical, electrical, or nuclear
techniques.
condensed type In the typographical compo-
sition of screen displays and printing, a slen-
der or narrow typeface.
condenser / conductivity-type moisture sensor
condenser The heat exchanger, located at the
top of the column, that condenses overhead
vapors. For distillation, the common con-
denser cooling media are water, air, and
refrigerants such as propane. The condenser
m a y be partial or total. In a partial condenser,
only part of the vapors are condensed, with
the remainder usually being w i t h d r a w n as a
vapor product.
condenser backpressure elements A multiple
breakdown diffuser, normally installed in the
steam condenser neck, that is used to gener-
ate a positive back pressure upstream of the
condenser v a c u u m and to reduce the kine-
matic energy of steam from an external
source other than the turbine exhaust.
[ANSI/ISA-77.13.01-1999]
condenser boiler A boiler in which steam is
generated by the condensation of a vapor.
conditional branch See conditional transfer.
conditional jump See conditional transfer.
conditional probability The probability that
a second event will be B if the first event is A,
expressed as P(B/A).
conditional stability 1. A linear system is
conditionally stable if it is stable for a certain
interval of values of the open-loop gain and
unstable for certain lower and higher values.
2. The property of a controlled process by
which it can function in either a stable or
unstable mode, depending on the conditions
imposed.
conditional transfer An instruction that, if a
specified condition or set of conditions is sat-
isfied, is interpreted as an unconditional
transfer. If the conditions are not satisfied,
the instruction causes the computer to pro-
ceed in its normal sequence of control. A con-
ditional transfer also includes the testing of
the condition. Synonymous with "condi-
tional j u m p " and "conditional branch" and
related to branch.
conditioning [Comm] 1. The addition of
equipment to a voice grade line, usually by a
common carrier, to provide the m i n i m u m
line characteristic values required for some
data transmission. 2. Modification of a signal
in one form or media to match that of
another, such as preparing digital output for
voice-grade channel transmission, or trans-
forming a 4-20mA nonlinear transmitter sig-
nal into a linear digital signal within the
controller.
condition monitoring system A system
designed to monitor the condition of a
machine or process.
conductance In conductivity measurement, a
measure of the ability of a solution (fluid) to
100
conduct electricity. Thus, conductance is
reciprocal of resistance.
conducting polymer A plastics material that
has an electrical conductivity approaching
that of metals.
conduction Transmission of energy, thermal
or electrical, by a m e d i u m that does not
involve movement of the m e d i u m itself.
conduction band In semiconductors, the
range of energies in which free electrons are
allowed. See valence band and band gap.
conduction error The error in a temperature
transducer as a result of heat conduction
between the sensing element and the mount-
ing of the transducer. [ISA-37.1-1975]
conduction pump A device for p u m p i n g a
conductive liquid, such as a liquid metal, by
passing an electric current across the stream
of liquid and applying a magnetic field at
right angles to the electrical current.
conductive dust A dust whose resistivity is
less than 100 ohm-cm or that breaks d o w n
w h e n 1,000 volts per cm are applied across
the bulk sample w h e n it is tested in accor-
dance with methods outlined in ISA-12.10-
1988. Such dust is denoted as Group E in the
National Electrical Code.
conductive elastomer An elastomeric mate-
rial that conducts electricity. Usually m a d e
by mixing p o w d e r e d metal into a silicone
before it is cured.
conductively connected A part is conduc-
tively connected to another part if the current
between the parts, with the equipment at ref-
erence test conditions, exceeds the limit for
leakage current. [ANSI/ISA-82.02.01-1999
(IEC 1010-1 Mod)]
conductivity 1. The a m o u n t of heat (Btu)
transmitted in one hour through one square
foot of a homogeneous material that is 1 in.
thick w h e n there is a difference in tempera-
ture of 1 F between the two surfaces of the
material. 2. The electrical conductance, at a
specified temperature, between the opposite
faces of a unit cube. Usually expressed as
ohm- 1 cm- 1 .
conductivity bridge A simple four-arm AC
bridge circuit in which a conductivity cell is
the u n k n o w n circuit element. Electrically, the
cell is equivalent to a resistance and a capaci-
tance in series. Higher AC frequencies lead
to lower cell-polarization errors but intro-
duce greater errors because of capacitance
impedance. The latter can be reduced by
using a phase-sensitive detector.
conductivity-type moisture sensor An
instrument for measuring the moisture con-
tent of fibrous organic materials such as

wood, paper, textiles, and grain at moisture
contents u p to saturation.
conductometer An instrument that measures
thermal conductivity, especially one that
does so by comparing the rates at which dif-
ferent rods conduct heat.
conductor Any material through which elec-
trical current can flow.
conduit 1. Any channel, duct, pipe, or tube
for transmitting fluid along a defined flow
path. 2. A thin-wall pipe used to enclose wir-
ing.
conduit entry A means of introducing a con-
duit into an electrical apparatus so as to
maintain the relevant type of protection.
[ISA-12.00.01-1999 (IEC 60079-0 Mod)]
cone bearing A tapered sleeve bearing
shaped like a truncated cone that runs in a
correspondingly tapered bearing block.
cone-plate viscometer An instrument for
routinely determining the absolute viscosity
of fluids in small sample volumes by sensing
the resistance to rotation of a moving cone.
This resistance is caused by the presence of
the test fluid in a space between the cone a n d
a stationary flat plate.
confidence level 1. The probability that the
interval in question will include the true
value of the quantity being measured. 2. In
acceptance sampling, the probability that
accepted lots will be better than a specific
value known as the rejectable quality level
(RQL). A confidence level of 90 percent indi-
cates that 90 out of every 100 lots accepted
will have a quality that is better than the
RQL. 3. In statistical work, the degree of
assurance that a particular probability
applies to a specific circumstance.
config.sys A basic computer file that outlines
how that particular device is designed to
operate.
configurable 1. A system feature that permits
the basic structure and characteristics of a
device or system, such as control algorithms,
display formats, or i n p u t / o u t p u t termina-
tions, to be selected by entering keyboard
commands. [ISA-5.3-1983] 2. A term applied
to a device or system whose functional char-
acteristics can be selected or rearranged
through programming or other methods. The
concept generally excludes physical (hard)
rewiring as a means for altering the configura-
tion. [ANSI/ISA-5.1-1984 (R1992)] 3. In
instrumentation, the term for a device or sys-
tem whose functional characteristics can be
selected or rearranged by selecting from
libraries of algorithms, images, and "soft-
101
conductometer / conformity
wiring" techniques (generally, methods other
than programming languages).
configuration 1. The arrangement of the parts
or elements of something. 2. A low-level,
fill-in-the-blank form of programming a pro-
cess control device. 3. In computing, a particu-
lar selection of hardware devices or software
routines a n d / o r programs that function
together. 4. A term applied to a device or sys-
tem whose functional characteristics can be
selected or rearranged through programming
or other methods. 5. The hardware, firmware,
a n d / o r software combinations that make u p a
system. 6. The selection of h a r d w a r e devices,
firmware, or software programs that fits the
application technology to its particular use.
COMPARING
CONFIGURATION APPROACHES
Configuration
configure To run an installation procedure
that sets u p software to operate on a particu-
lar computer and printer.
confined flow The flow of a continuous
stream of fluid within a process vessel or
conduit.
conformance The condition whereby a
device conforms to the manufacturer's speci-
fications. See accuracy a n d error band.
conformance testing Running a standard set
of tests to determine whether some product
meets a set of standards a n d / o r specifica-
tions. Testing does not guarantee that prod-
ucts can interoperate, only that they conform
to specification.
conformity Of a curve, the closeness to which
it approximates a specified curve (e.g., loga-
rithmic, parabolic, cubic, etc.). Note: 1. Con-
formity is usually measured in terms of
nonconformity and expressed as conformity,
for example, the m a x i m u m deviation
between an average curve and a specified
curve. The average curve is determined after
making two or more full range traverses in
each direction. The value of conformity is
referred to the output unless otherwise
stated. 2. As a performance specification,
conformity, independent / connector
conformity should be expressed as "indepen-
dent conformity," "terminal-based confor-
mity," or "zero-based conformity." When
expressed simply as conformity, it is
assumed to be independent conformity. See
linearity" [ANSI/ISA-51.1-1979 (R1993)]
conformity, independent The maximum
deviation of the calibration curve (the aver-
age of upscale and downscale readings) from
a specified characteristic curve positioned so
as to minimize the maximum deviation.
[ANSI/ISA-51.1-1979 (R1993)]
conformity, terminal-based The maximum
deviation of the calibration curve (the aver-
age of upscale and downscale readings) from
a specified characteristic curve positioned so
as to coincide with the actual characteristic
curve at upper and lower range values.
[ANSI/ISA-51.1-1979 (R1993)]
conformity, zero-based The maximum devia-
tion of the calibration curve (the average of
upscale and downscale readings) from a
specified characteristic curve positioned so
as to coincide with the actual characteristic
curve at the lower range value.
[ANSI/ISA-51.1-1979 (R1993)]
Zero-based Conformity
conforms Agrees fully with the rules of a
recognized standard, is compliant. See com-
pliant and compatible.
conical orifice An orifice that has a 45° bevel
on the inlet edge to yield a more constant
and predictable discharge coefficient at low-
flow velocity (Reynolds number less than
10,000).
conical scan antenna An automatic-tracking
antenna system in which the beam is driven
102
in a circular path such that it forms a cone.
The antenna is steered automatically so that
the telemetry source is kept at the center of
the cone.
coniscope See koniscope.
conjugate bridge An arrangement of electri-
cal or electronic components in which the
supply circuit and detector circuit are inter-
changed as compared with the normal
arrangement for that type of bridge.
conjugate impedances An impedance pair in
which the magnitudes of the resistance and
reactive components of one are equal to the
corresponding values of the other, but whose
reactive components are of opposite signs.
connect To establish linkage between an
interrupt and a designated interrupt servic-
ing program. See disconnect
connecting rod Any straight link that trans-
mits power or motion from one part of a
mechanism to another, especially one that
links a rotating member to a reciprocating
member. An example is the link that attaches
a piston to the crankshaft in a reciprocating
internal combustion engine.
connection In communications, connection
implies a transport link-level control circuit.
See association.
connection facilities Terminals, plugs and
sockets, screws, and other parts that are used
to electrically connect the conductors of
external circuits. [ISA-12.00.01-1999 (IEC
60079-0 Mod); ISA-12.02.01-1999 (IEC 60079-
11 Mod)]
connection head An enclosure attached to
the end of a thermocouple within which elec-
trical connections are made.
connection head extension A threaded fit-
ting or an assembly of fittings extending
between the thermowell or angle fitting and
the connection head. [ANSI-MC96.1]
connections, external Terminations that are
intended to be connected in the field.
[S12.16.01]
connections, internal Terminations that are
intended to be connected in the factory
under controlled conditions. [ANSI/ISA-
12.16.01-1998 (IEC 60079-7 Mod)]
connector 1. A connector is a coupling device
that is used to connect the wire medium to a
fieldbus device or to another segment of
wire. 2. A coupling device employed to con-
nect the medium of one circuit or communi-
cation element with that of another circuit or
communication element. [ANSI/ISA-50.02,
Part 2-1992] 3. Any detachable device for
providing electrical continuity between two
conductors. 4. In fiber optics, a device that
 connector insertion loss / constant voltage power supply
joins the ends of two optical fibers together
temporarily.
connector insertion loss The power loss (in
dB) by an optical signal as it passes through a
fiber-optic connector.
connect time 1. The length of time a user is
connected to a computer system measured
from logon to logoff. 2. The amount of time it
takes a switching network to connect the
calling party to the called party.
consecutive access A method of data access
that is characterized by the sequential nature
of the I/O device involved. For example, a
card reader is an example of a consecutive
access device. Each card must be read one
after another, and no distinction is made
between logical sets of data in or among the
cards in the input hopper.
conservation of charge The principle that
states that the total charge of an isolated sys-
tem is constant. Also known as "charge con-
servation."
conservation of energy (first law of
thermodynamics) The principle that
energy cannot be created or destroyed,
although it can be changed from one form
into another. Also known as "energy conser-
vation."
consistency A qualitative means for classify-
ing substances, especially semisolids, accord-
ing to their resistance to dynamic changes in
shape.
console 1. A main control desk for an inte-
grated assemblage of electronic equipment.
Also known as "control desk." 2. A grouping
of control devices, instrument indicators,
recorders, and alarms that are housed in a
freestanding cabinet or enclosure to create an
operator's workstation. 3. The cabinet or
enclosure for a floor-model radio or televi-
sion receiver, or similar electronic device. 4.
That part of a terminal that provides user
input and output capability. 5. A control cen-
ter, or part of a control center, that has one or
more inclined surfaces for mounting instru-
ments and controls within a range, for conve-
nient viewing and manipulation
constant 1. A value that remains the same
throughout the distinct operation. The oppo-
site of variable. 2. A data item that takes as its
value its name (hence, its value is fixed dur-
ing the execution of a program).
constant-amplitude (filter) A reference to the
characteristic of a butterworth filter. See But-
terworth.
constantan An alloy of copper (50% to 60%)
and nickel that has a very low temperature
coefficient of resistance and comparatively
103
high resistance, making it very suitable for
precision wire-wound resistors and for form-
ing thermocouples with iron, copper, silver,
and so on. Used as a negative lead in types E,
J, and T thermocouples.
constant-bandwidth (CBW) The spacing of
FM subcarriers equally with relation to each
other. See proportional bandwidth.
constant cavitation An early level of cavita-
tion that is characterized by mild, steady
popping or crackling sounds, which may be
audible or detected by vibration measure-
ments. It is the next higher inflection point
on the cavitation profile above the point of
incipient cavitation. This level is represented
by the constant cavitation coefficient sc. [ISA-
RP75.23-1995]
constant-current potentiometer A type of
null-balance instrument for determining an
unknown DC voltage, usually less than 10 V,
under conditions that maintain constant cur-
rent in the detector circuit. Resolution of up
to one part in 103 can be achieved with a sin-
gle potentiometer slidewire and up to one
part in 107 with a multidecade device.
constant-current transformer A type of
transformer that automatically adjusts the
output of its secondary circuit to maintain a
constant current under varying load imped-
ances when its primary windings are con-
nected to a constant-voltage power supply.
constant-delay (filter) See bessel.
constant-head meter A flow measurement
device that maintains a constant pressure dif-
ferential by varying the cross section of a
flow path through the meter, such as in a pis-
ton meter or rotameter.
constant-load balance A single-pan weight-
ing device that has a constant load and in
which the sample weight is determined by
hanging precision weights from a counter-
poised beam.
constant-resistance potentiometer A type of
null-balance instrument for determining an
unknown DC voltage, usually less than 10 V,
by using a constant scaling resistor in paral-
lel with the potentiometer circuit.
constant status A status attribute that has
both the high- and low-limit indications set
and is used to indicate that the downstream
block cannot respond to the output of the
upstream block. [ISA-TR50.02, Part 9-2000]
constant voltage power supply A power
supply that is capable of maintaining a fixed
voltage across variable load resistance and
over defined input voltage and frequency
change. Output current is automatically con-
constant-volume gas thermo... / context switching multitasking
trolled to keep constant the product of out-
put current and load resistance.
constant-volume gas thermometer A device
for detecting and indicating temperature
based on Charles's law—the pressure of a
confined gas varies directly with absolute
temperature. In practical instruments, a bulb
immersed in the thermal medium is con-
nected to a Bourdon tube by means of a cap-
illary. Changes in temperature are indicated
directly by the movement of the Bourdon
tube because of changes in bulb pressure.
constrained mechanism A mechanical
device in which all members move only
along predetermined paths.
constraint 1. The limit of normal operating
range. 2. A condition imposed on a system
that limits the freedom of the system. The
constraint may be physical or mathematical,
necessary or incidental.
consumables 1. Those materials or compo-
nents that are depleted or that require peri-
odic replacement through normal use of the
instrument. [ANSI/ISA-92.02.01, Part 1-1998;
ISA-92.03.01-1998; ANSI/ISA-92.04.01, Part 1-
1996; ISA-92.06.01-1998] 2. Resources that are
not normally included in bills of material or
are not individually accounted for in specific
production requests. [ISA-95.00.01-2000]
contact In hardware, a set of conductors that
can be brought into contact by electrome-
chanical action and that thereby produce
switching. In software, a symbolic set of
points that are open or closed depending on
the logic status assigned to them by internal
or external conditions.
contact input See input, contact.
contact inspection In ultrasonic testing, a
method for scanning a test piece that
involves placing a search unit directly on a
test piece surface that has been covered with
a thin film of couplant.
contactor A mechanical or electromechanical
device for repeatedly making and breaking
electrical continuity between two branches of
a power circuit, thereby establishing or inter-
rupting current flow.
contact output See output, contact.
contact rectifier A device for converting AC
electrical power into DC power. It is con-
structed of two different solids that are in
contact with each other. Rectification is
accomplished because the selected combina-
tion of solids yields greater electrical conduc-
tivity in one direction across the interface
between them than in the other direction.
contacts The electrically conducting parts in a
contactor that repeatedly come into contact
104
or that separate to make or break electrical
continuity.
contact sense module A device that monitors
and converts program-specified groups of
field-switch contacts into digital codes so
they can be input into the computer.
contact symbology The representation of
logic schemes in contact or ladder diagram
form.
contact thermography A method for measur-
ing surface temperature in which the surface
of an object is covered with a thin layer of
luminescent material and then viewed under
ultraviolet light in a darkened room. The
brightness that is viewed indicates the sur-
face temperature.
contact-type membrane switch A disk-
shaped momentary-contact switch of multi-
layer construction. The active element con-
sists of two conductive buttons that are
separated by an insulating washer. Finger
pressure on one face of the disk brings the
buttons into contact, completing the electri-
cal circuit. When the pressure is released, the
contacts separate, breaking the electrical cir-
cuit.
contact-wear allowance The thickness that
may be lost because of wear from either of a
pair of mating electrical contacts before they
cease to adequately perform their intended
function.
contained parameter A block parameter that
is accessible to the communication network
but may not be linked to an input or output
parameter. The parameter value may be used
in the block algorithm or written by the block
algorithm. [ISA-TR50.02, Part 9-2000]
container A special-purpose, reusable enclo-
sure for shipping cargo via truck, rail, and
ship. [ISA-RP60.11-1991]
contaminant That which makes something
else impure or corrupt through contact or
mixing. [ISA-71.04-1985]
contaminate To make impure or corrupt by
contact or mixing.
contamination The presence of an unwanted
substance—usually, a substance that causes
an undesired effect or interferes with a
desired effect.
content-addressed storage See associative
storage.
Contention 1. A condition on a multidrop
communication channel in which two or
more locations try to transmit at the same
time. 2. Unregulated bidding for a line or
other device by multiple users.
context switching multitasking Multiple
applications can be loaded into the com-

puter, but only the one in the foreground is
given process time. This simplest level of
multitasking is the way early versions of
Microsoft Windows worked. That is, once an
application is in the foreground, all other
applications stop. Compare cooperative multi-
tasking and time-slice multitasking.
contiguous file A file that consists of physi-
cally adjacent blocks on a mass-storage
device.
continuity test Any test to determine the
presence and/or location of broken or open
connections or of shorts in printed circuit
board interconnections, chassis, cables
(including fiber optic), and harness.
continuity tester A device for testing
whether a fiber-optic communication system
forms a continuous optical path between two
points.
continuous blowdown The uninterrupted
removal of concentrated boiler water from a
boiler in order to control total solids concen-
tration in the remaining water.
continuous control Automatic control in
which the controlled quantity is measured
continuously and corrections are a continu-
ous function of the deviation.
continuous dilution The technique of sup-
plying a protective gas flow continuously to
an enclosure that contains an internal poten-
tial source of flammable gas or vapor for the
purpose of diluting any flammable gas or
vapor that could be present to a level below
its lower explosive limit / lower flammable
limit (LEL/LFL). [ANSI/ISA-S12.01.01-1999]
continuous duty Term that describes a device
that is able to operate continuously with no
off or rest period.
continuous-duty rating The maximum
power or other operating characteristic that a
specific device can sustain indefinitely with-
out significant degradation of its functions.
continuous flow production A method of
ongoing production that is typical of the pro-
cess industries, as compared with batch man-
ufacturing.
continuous mixer A type of mixer in which
starting ingredients are fed continuously and
the final mixture is withdrawn continuously,
without stopping or interrupting the mixing
process. Generally, unmixed ingredients are
fed at one end of the machine and blended
progressively as they move toward the other
end, where the mixture is discharged.
continuous operating temperature of the
compound The maximum temperature to
which the compound can be subjected con-
tinuously according to the data given by the
105
contiguous file / contrast
compound's manufacturer of the compound.
[ANSI/ISA-12.23.01-1998 (IEC 60079-18
Mod)]
continuous operation A process that oper-
ates on the basis of continuous flow, as
opposed to batch, intermittent, or sequenced
operations.
continuous-path numerical control A type of
numerical-control system that involves not
only the specification of the successive end
positions of machine slides or equivalent
machine members, but also the automatic
generation of the linear, circular, or parabolic
path to be followed in moving from one end
position to the next. Also known as "con-
touring numerical control."
continuous rating 1. The rating that is appli-
cable to the specified operation for a speci-
fied uninterrupted length of time. [ISA-37.1-
1979 (R1982)] 2. A defined power input or set
of operating variables that represents the
maximum values for operating a device con-
tinuously for an indefinite time without
reducing its normal service life.
continuous spectrum A distribution of wave-
lengths in a beam of electromagnetic radia-
tion in which the intensity varies
continuously with wavelength. Further, the
intensity exhibits no characteristic structure
such as a series of bands where the intensity
does not abruptly change at discrete wave-
lengths. See also band spectrum.
continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR) A
widely used type of chemical reactor to
which feed is continuously added and from
which product is continuously removed. The
vessel is well-stirred, so the product's com-
position is the same as the overall vessel
composition. This type of reactor has been
extensively modeled and has served as a test
bed for many novel control schemes.
continuous weld A welded joint in which the
fusion zone is continuous along the entire
length of the joint.
contour control system A system of control
in which two or more controlled motions
move in relation to each other so that a
desired angular path or contour is generated.
contouring numerical control See continu-
ous-path numerical control.
contraction The narrowing of the stream of
liquid that passes through a notch of a weir.
contract maintenance 1. Maintenance that is
not normally done by plant personnel. 2. A
maintenance service organization that con-
tracts to do specific maintenance.
contrast In a photographic or radiographic
image, the ability to record small differences
contrast factor / control, velocity limiting
in light or X-ray intensity as discernible dif-
ferences in photographic density.
contrast factor The slope of the central por-
tion of a graph of photographic density ver-
sus the exposure for a given photographic or
radiographic emulsion.
control 1. Frequently, one or more of the com-
ponents in any mechanism that is responsi-
ble for interpreting and carrying out
manually initiated directions. 2. In some
applications, a mathematical check. 3.
Instructions that determine conditional
jumps often are referred to as "control
instructions," and the time sequence of the
execution of these instructions is called the
"flow of control." 4. Any manual or auto-
matic device for regulating a machine to
keep it at normal operation. If automatic, the
device is motivated by variations in tempera-
ture, pressure, water level, time, light, or
other influences. 5. Maintaining a desired set
point of steam temperature during opera-
tion. [ANSI/ISA-77.44-1995]
control, adaptive Control in which automatic
means are used to change the type or influ-
ence (or both) of control parameters in such a
way as to improve the performance of the
control system. [ANSI/ISA-51.1-1979
(R1993)]
control, cascade Control in which the output
of one controller is the set point for another
controller. [ANSI/ISA-51.1-1979 (R1993)]
control, differential gap Control in which the
output of a controller remains at a maximum
or minimum value until the controlled vari-
able crosses a band or gap, causing the out-
put to reverse. The controlled variable must
then cross the gap in the opposite direction
before the output is restored to its original
condition. [ANSI/ISA-51.1-1979 (R1993)]
control, direct digital Control that is per-
formed by a digital device that establishes
the signal to the final controlling element.
[ANSI/ISA-51.1-1979 (R1993)]
control, direct multiplex A control means
using hardware, a computer program, or
both, to directly interleave or simultaneously
receive or transmit two or more signals on a
single channel. [ISA-RP55.1-1975 (R1983)]
control, feedback Control in which a mea-
sured variable is compared to its desired
value to produce an actuating error signal
which is acted upon in such a way as to
reduce the magnitude of the error. [ANSI/
ISA-51.1-1979 (R1993)]
control, feedforward Control in which infor-
mation concerning one or more conditions
that can disturb the controlled variable is
106
converted, outside of any feedback loop, into
corrective action to minimize deviations of
the controlled variable. NOTE: The use of
feedforward control does not change system
stability because it is not part of the feedback
loop which determines the stability charac-
teristics. [ANSI/ISA-51.1-1979 (R1993)]
control, high-limiting Control in which the
output signal is prevented from exceeding a
predetermined high limiting value.
[ANSI/ISA-51.1-1979 (R1993)]
control, low limiting Control in which out-
put signal is prevented from decreasing
beyond a predetermined low limiting value.
[ANSI/ISA-51.1-1979 (R1993)]
control, optimizing Control that automati-
cally seeks and maintains the most advanta-
geous value of a specified variable, rather
than maintaining it at one set value.
[ANSI/ISA-51.1-1979 (R1993)]
control, relay A control system in which the
error signal must reach a certain value before
the controller reacts to it, so that the control
action is discontinuous in amplitude.
control, safety combustion See "combustion
(flame) safeguard."
control, safety Control (including relays,
switches, and other auxiliary equipment
used in conjunction therewith to form a
safety control system) which are intended to
prevent unsafe operation of the controlled
equipment.
control, shared time Control in which one
controller divides its computation or control
time among several control loops rather than
by acting on all loops simultaneously.
[ANSI/ISA-51.1-1979 (R1993)]
control, supervisory Control in which the
control loops operate independently subject
to intermittent corrective action; e.g., set
point changes from an external source.
[ANSI/ISA-51.1-1979 (R1993)]
control, time-proportioning Control in
which the output signal consists of periodic
pulses whose duration is varied to relate, in
some prescribed manner, the time average of
the output to the actuating error signal.
[ANSI/ISA-51.1-1979 (R1993)]
control, velocity limited Control in which
performance is limited by the rate of change
attainable by some component, usually an
actuator.
control, velocity limiting Control in which
the rate of change of a specified variable is
prevented from exceeding a predetermined
limit. [ANSI/ISA-51.1-1979 (R1993)]

control accuracy The degree to which a con-
trolled process variable corresponds to the
desired value or set point.
control action Of a controller or a controlling
system, the nature of the change of the out-
put that is effected by the input. Note: The
output may be a signal or the value of a
manipulated variable. The input may be the
control loop feedback signal when the set
point is constant, an actuating error signal, or
the output of another controller. [ANSI/ISA-
51.1-1979 (R1993)] See proportional control
action, integral control action, and derivative
control action.
control action, derivative (rate) (D) In pro-
cess instrumentation, control action in which
the output is proportional to the rate of
change of the input. [ANSI/ISA-51.1-1979
(R1993)]
control action, floating In process instru-
mentation, control action in which the rate of
change of the output variable is a predeter-
mined function of the input variable. Note:
The rate of change may have one absolute
value, several absolute values, or any value
between two predetermined values. [ANSI/
ISA-51.1-1979 (R1993)]
control action, integral (reset) (I) Control
action in which the output is proportional to
the time integral of the input. That is, the rate
of change of output is proportional to the
input. [ANSI/ISA-51.1-1979 (R1993)]
control action, proportional (P) Control
action in which there is a continuous linear
relation between the output and the input.
This condition applies when both the output
and input are within their normal operating
ranges and when the process is operating at a
frequency below a limiting value.
[ANSI/ISA-51.1-1979 (R1993)]
control action, proportional-plus-derivative
(rate) (PD) Control action in which the out-
put is proportional to a linear combination of
the input and the time rate of change of the
input. [ANSI/ISA-51.1-1979 (R1993)]
control action, proportional-plus-integral
(reset) (PI) Control action in which the out-
put is proportional to the linear combination
of the input and the time integral of the
input. [ANSI/ISA-51.1-1979 (R1993)]
control action, proportional-plus-integral
(reset)-plus-derivative (rate) (PID) Control
action in which the output is proportional to
a linear combination of the input, the time
integral of the input, and the time rate of
change of the input. [ANSI/ISA-51.1-1979
(R1993)]
107
control accuracy / control card
control agent The energy or material that
comprises the process element, which is con-
trolled by manipulating one or more of its
attributes. The attribute(s) are commonly
termed the controlled variable(s).
control algorithm A mathematical represen-
tation of the control action to be performed.
control and instrumentation engineer An
engineer who applies standard engineering
standards and practices to the specification,
sizing, and functional design of instrumenta-
tion hardware or control systems. Such engi-
neers must have a clear understanding of the
manufacturing or scientific process to be con-
trolled. They serve as the key person on the
instrumentation design and operation team,
often supervising and reviewing the team's
efforts. Under supervision, the control and
instrumentation engineer participates in the
design and planning of control and instru-
ment systems as required by the project
assignment, including: (a) collecting back-
ground information, (b) preparing drawings
and calculations, (c) designing or modifying
systems, (d) assisting in the selection and
procurement of equipment, (e) ensuring
compliance with applicable standards and
codes, (f) completing assigned tasks on
schedule, (g) assisting technicians and
designers as needed, and (h) possibly spe-
cializing in a specific engineering discipline.
3. See Instrument Engineer.
control apparatus An assembly that contains
one or more control devices to manipulate a
controlled variable.
control block A storage area through which a
particular type of information that is
required for control of the operating system
is communicated among its parts.
control board A panel that contains control
devices, instrument indicators, and some-
times recorders, which display the status of a
system or subsystem and from which
switches, dials, and controllers can be manip-
ulated to alter system operating variables.
Also known as control panel and panel board.
control bus The data highway that is used for
carrying control signals.
control calculations Installation-dependent
calculations that determine output signals
from the computer in order to operate the
process plant. These may or may not use
generalized equation forms such as PID
forms.
control card A card that contains input data
or parameters for a specific application of a
general routine.

control center / control instruction
control center 1. An equipment structure or
group of structures from which a process is
measured, controlled, and/or monitored.
[ANSI/ISA-51.1-1979 (R1993)] 2. An equip-
ment structure, or group of structures, from
which a system is measured, controlled,
and/or monitored. [ISA-RP 60.4-1990]
control center facility A combination of the
services, protective enclosures, and environ-
mental treatment that are necessary for the
proper functioning of the control center.
[ISA-RP 60.4-1990] Control center facilities
can be found in the following: (a) an area
within an enclosure that is constructed to
protect a control center and its operating per-
sonnel (the enclosure might also contain a
computer room, motor control center room,
instrument/electric shop, laboratory, and
personnel facilities such as toilets, lockers,
and offices), (b) an unenclosed area located
either indoors or outdoors at grade level or
in an elevated or subsurface structure, (c) an
area in a mobile unit, or (d) an area in a pre-
fabricated or skid-mounted enclosure. [ISA-
RP60.1-1990]
control character A character whose purpose
is to control an action rather than to pass
data to a program. For instance, ASCII con-
trol characters have an octal code between 0
and 37. The control character is normally
typed by holding down the Ctrl key on a ter-
minal keyboard while striking a character
key.
control chart A plot of some measured quan-
tity, such as a dimension, against the sample
number, time, or quantity of goods pro-
duced. This plot can be used to determine a
quality trend or to make adjustments in pro-
cess controls as necessary to keep the mea-
sured quantity within prescribed limits.
control circuit 1. A circuit in a control appa-
ratus that carries the electrical signal that is
used to determine the magnitude or duration
of control action. It does not carry the main
power that is used to energize instrumenta-
tion, controllers, motors, or other control
devices. 2. A circuit in a digital computer that
performs any of the following functions:
directing the sequencing of program com-
mands, interpreting program commands, or
controlling the operation of the arithmetic
element and other computer circuits in accor-
dance with the interpretation.
control complexity ratio (CCR) A measure of
the complexity of a particular control sys-
tem's logic configuration.
108
Next Page
control computer A process computer that
directly controls all or part of the elements in
the process. See process computer.
control counter A physical or logical device
in a computer that records the storage loca-
tions of one or more instruction words,
which are to be used in sequence, unless a
transfer or special instruction is encountered.
control device Any device—such as a heater,
valve, electron tube, contactor, pump, or
actuator—that is used to directly effect a
change in some process attribute.
Control Diagram Language (CODIL) A pro-
cess-oriented language and system that was
once offered by Leeds and Northrup Com-
pany.
control domain In (the referenced) standard,
control domain is synonymous with the
manufacturing operations and control
domain. [ISA-95.00.01-2000]
control drawing A drawing or other docu-
ment that is provided by the manufacturer of
the intrinsically safe or associated apparatus.
It details the interconnections that are
allowed between the intrinsically safe and
associated apparatuses. If the intrinsically
safe or associated apparatus is investigated
under the entity concept, the control drawing
should include the applicable electrical
parameters that will make it possible to
select the apparatus for interconnection.
[ISA-12.02.01-1999 (60079-11 Mod); ANSI/
ISA-12.01.01-1999]
control electrode In an electron tube or simi-
lar device, an electrode whose potential can
be varied to induce variations in the current
flowing between two other electrodes.
control element A component of a control
system that when stimulated by an actuating
signal reacts to manipulate a process
attribute.
control equipment Equipment that controls
one or more output quantities to specific val-
ues. Each value is determined by manual set-
ting, local or remote programming, or by one
or more input variables. [ISA-82.03-1988]
control function See control operation.
control grid An element of an electron tube
that is ordinarily positioned between the
anode and cathode to act as a control elec-
trode.
control initiation The signal that is intro-
duced into a measurement sequence to regu-
late any subsequent control action as a
function of the measured quantity.
control instruction A computer instruction
that directs the sequence of operations.