CAP Sample Questions

The following six questions were taken from the CAP examination question item bank and serve as
examples of the question type and question content found on the CAP examination.
1. The method by which the tasks and hazards associated with a machine or process are
analyzed is known as:
A. Risk assessment.
B. Machine assessment.
C. Risk reduction.
D. Risk abatement.
2. To test controller tuning or prototype new control strategies offline, the model should be
a(an):
A. Tie-back (loopback) simulation.
B. Artificial neural network.
C. Dynamic process simulation.
D. Steady state process simulation.
3. The temperature measurement with the BEST repeatability and resolution is the:
A. Thermocouple.
B. Resistance temperature detector (RTD).
C. Dial thermometer.
D. Capillary system.
4. Which of the following is NOT a variable speed drive setup parameter?
A. Acceleration rate.
B. Motor winding type.
C. Output frequency.
D. Maximum speed.
5. A complete test plan for system integration testing MUST include:
A. Comments for the application programmer.
B. Multiple test cases for each mode of operation.
C. At least five test cases for each test.
D. Expected results for each test case.
6. Frequency of maintenance should be determined by:
A. Failure rates of components.
B. Availability of personnel and parts.
C. Management targets for efficiency and productivity.
D. Effectiveness of maintenance personnel.

Sample Questions Answer Key

Question
Number

Correct
Answer

Examination Content
Outline

Domain 1, Task 4

Domain 2, Task 2

Domain 3, Task 3

Domain 4, Task 7

Domain 5, Task 5

Domain 6, Task 2

1. CAP question
Which of the following statements describes an advantage of a self-study workbook for operator
?training
A. Promotes reading, which is the most preferred learning style of adult learners
B. Provides interactivity through paper-and-pencil self-check questions and tests
C. Allows participants to delve deeper in areas of particular interest
D. Provides all participants with a common baseline of knowledge

CAP Answer
The correct answer is D, provides all participants with a common baseline of knowledge. Self-study
workbooks ensure that all students have been exposed to the same learning objectives and material,
.assuming successful completion of the self-study course requirements
Answer A is incorrect, since the most preferred learning style for adult learners is interactive or hands-on
learning. Answer B is important, but this same advantage can be said of classroom/lecture and
.online/computerized study methods
Answer C is not an advantage particular to self-study workbook training, as all forms of training will
.spark interest in many areas, which should lead to further study
Reference: Trevathan, Vernon L., A Guide to the Automation Body of Knowledge, Second Edition, ISA,
.2006

2. CAP question
Which of the following security risks is LEAST likely to disrupt operations at a geothermal power
?plant and result in an emergency situation
A. connections to the Internet
B. inadvertent network failures
C. email viruses
D. remote access to network components

CAP Answer
The correct answer is C, email viruses. Automation systems are vulnerable to all of these risks, but
email viruses pose the least risk to disrupt operations and create an emergency situation. Email is the
only item above that is potentially not directly connected to the operating control system. Information
technology and other experts should work together to find alternatives that will provide adequate
security commensurate with the individual risks identified by the security assessment and security audit
.processes
Reference: Trevathan, Vernon L., A Guide to the Automation Body of Knowledge, Second Edition, ISA,
.2006

3. CAP question
Translation of data between a networking service and an application, including character
encoding, data compression, and encryption/decryption is the responsibility of which layer of
?the open system interconnection (OSI) model
A. application
B. presentation
C. session
D. transport

CAP Answer
The correct answer is B, presentation. The presentation layer for protocols used in control systems
provides the translation of data received into a usable format, such as binary data from a programmable
.logic controller into floating point data for presentation in a distributed control system data table
The application layer addresses high-level application programming interfaces, including resource
sharing, remote file access, directory services, and virtual terminals. The session layer deals with
continuous exchange of information transactions between two nodes. This layer is often not required in
instrumentation bus protocols. The transport layer provides reliable transmission of data segments
.between points on a network, such as TCP and UDP
Reference: Trevathan, Vernon L., A Guide to the Automation Body of Knowledge, Second Edition, ISA,
.2006

4. CAP question
?Which of the following is not part of receipt verification
A. Comparison of loop checks to loop diagrams
B. Match to purchase order and instrumentation
C. Correct quantity of operator manuals received
D. Manufacturer and model number

CAP Answer
Receipt verification is a systematic process by which a site verifies that what was specified and ordered
:is actually what is received. To do this effectively, the person who performs this function will
1.
2.
3.

Verify the received item was what was actually purchased by checking the items model
number against the purchase order (answer B)
Make sure the correct quantity of each item has been received (answer C)
Verify that the manufacturer and model number match that shown on the specification for the
item (answer D)

Loop checks (answer A) are completed in the same phase of the project (deployment phase), but only
after receipt verification and installation tasks are completed. Therefore, Ais the correct answer, as it is
.the only choice that is not part of the receipt verification task

Reference: Trevathan, Vernon L., A Guide to the Automation Body of Knowledge, Second Edition, ISA,
.2006

5. CAP question
?Which of the following statements describes a database record
A. all data related to a particular subject kept in a group
B. a single row of information in a table
C. a single piece of data in a single row of a table
D. an electronic filing system

CAP Answer
The answer is B, a single row of information in a table. Regarding answer C, single pieces of data (cells
or fields) that describe related data entities can be combined into a single row, or database record. For
example, the values in the single data fields FIRST NAME, MIDDLE NAME, and LAST NAME in a single
.row could define a record called EMPLOYEE NAME
Multiple records make up answer A, which defines a table, or group of records, which defines
.EMPLOYEES
.All of the tables, records, and data are managed by answer D, an electronic filing system
Reference: Trevathan, Vernon L., A Guide to the Automation Body of Knowledge, Second Edition, ISA,
.2006

6. CAP question
:Cavitation occurs in liquid flow when
A. gas and vapor flow become sonic, and the flow rate drops
B. mixtures of fluid and vapor cause erosion of the valve and pipe surfaces
C. fluid pressure drops below the liquids vapor pressure, and the vapor pressure is below the outlet
pressure
D. fluid pressure drops below the liquids vapor pressure, and the vapor pressure is above the outlet
pressure

CAP Answer
The answer is C. Fluid pressure drops below the liquids vapor pressure, and the vapor pressure is
below the outlet pressure. In cavitation, when the liquid drops below the vapor pressure around the vena
cava, the liquid vaporizes. As the material moves downstream, the pressure recovers to above the
vapor pressure again, and the vapor collapses back into a liquid. This can cause mechanical damage to
.the valve, trim, and piping
Answers A and B are not correct, because cavitation requires a state change, which is not indicated in
sonic flow or two-phase flow. Answer D is not correct, as this describes the condition known as flashing,
where the liquid vaporizes as it passes through the valve orifice, and the pressure does not recover to
.the point of having the vapor collapse back to a liquid state

Reference: Trevathan, Vernon L., A Guide to the Automation Body of Knowledge, Second Edition, ISA,
.2006

7. CAP question
A return on investment (ROI) ratio is used to evaluate the purchase price for an automation system and
all other initial costs associated with the project against the accumulated cash inflows. What is the
primary pitfall in using this ROI ratio to make a decision as to whether or not to invest in an
?automation project
.A. It fails to capture the qualitative benefits derived from automation systems
.B. It relies on vendor estimates of useful life
.C. It ignores equipment reliability and system maintainability costs
.D. It ignores the time value of money

CAP Answer
.The correct answer is D, It ignores the time value of money
:ROI can be quantified by

,where
IC = initial cost
CFi = operating cash flow, year i
n = project operating lifetime, years
In the above equation, qualitative benefits derived from the automation system (answer A) less
maintenance costs (answer C) are included in the operating cash flow (CFi). The vendors estimate of
.useful life (answer B) is taken into account by the project operating lifetime (n)
This leaves answer D, which is the time value of money. The ROI equation does not include a term to
account for the lost opportunity to collect investment interest on the money that is being diverted to fund
the automation project or the cost of borrowing the same amount of money from a lender (time value of
.money)
Reference: Trevathan, Vernon L., A Guide to the Automation Body of Knowledge, Second Edition, ISA,
.2006

8. CAP question
?Common terms used to quantify dangerous failures include which of the following
A. probability of failure on demand (PFD) and nuisance trip rates
B. probability of failure on demand (PFD), risk reduction factor (RRF), and safety availability (SA)
C. mean time between failure, spurious (MTBFsp); nuisance trip rates; and safety availability (SA)
D. mean time between failure, spurious (MTBFsp) and risk reduction factor (RRF)

CAP Answer
The correct answer is B, probability of failure on demand (PFD), risk reduction factor (RRF), and safety
availability (SA). Spurious trips and nuisance trips are indicative of safe failure modes, not dangerous
.failures. This makes answers A, C, and D incorrect
.PFD, RRF, and SA are extremely important in quantifying dangerous failures

Probability of failure on demand: A value that indicates the probability of a system failing to
respond to demand when a failure occurs.

Risk reduction factor: RRF = 1/PFD

Safety availability: SA = 1 PFD

Reference: ANSI/ISA-84.00.01-2004 standard

9. CAP question
A control circuit within Field Control Panel #1 (FCP-1) in your facility is malfunctioning, and you must
initiate a work order to have a technician troubleshoot the circuit. FCP-1 contains a PLC, terminal
blocks, circuit breakers and fuses, and various other control equipment, of which none exceeds 120vac.
The technician will be working on energized electrical conductors and circuit parts and performing
voltage testing on the live circuits. On the work order, you will be required to state under which NFPA
.70E-2009 Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace Hazard/Risk Category this work activity falls
Per NFPA 70E-2009 Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace, what Hazard/Risk Category should
?be defined for the above task
A.

Hazard/Risk Category 0

B.

Hazard/Risk Category 1

*C.
D.

Hazard/Risk Category 2
Hazard/Risk Category 4

CAP answer
The correct answer is B, Hazard/Risk Category 1. Per NFPA 70E-2009 Table 130.7(C)(9), work on
energized electrical conductors and circuit parts, including voltage testing on panelboards, or other
.equipment rated 240V and below would be classified as Hazard/Risk Category 1
Answer A, Hazard/Risk Category 0, is incorrect as it typically relates to non-contacting work on various
.voltage ranges
Answer C, Hazard/Risk Category 2*, is incorrect as it relates to work on equipment with voltage present
.that is greater than 240V
Answer D, Hazard/Risk Category 4, is incorrect as it relates to work on equipment with voltage present
.that is 600V or greater

.Reference: NFPA 70E-2009 Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace

10.

CAP question

:Consider the following automation system data

Preventive maintenance for 1 hour every month

Quarterly preventive maintenance for 2 hours each quarter

One failure that results in 6 hours of downtime

One failure that results in 4 hours of downtime

?What is the uptime for this automation system if it runs 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
A. 99.66%
B. 99.77%
C. 99.86%
D. 99.89%

CAP Answer
.The most important measure for production equipment support is operational availability, or uptime
Automation equipment that operates for 365 days x 24 hours per day = 8,760 total possible up hours.
This equipment gets preventive maintenance for 1 hour every month (12 hours per year), plus additional
.quarterly preventive maintenance of another 2 hours each quarter (8 more hours per year)
There was one failure that resulted in 6 hours of downtime and a second failure that resulted in 4 hours
.of downtime. Thus, total downtime for all maintenance was 12 + 8 + 6 + 4 = 30
.The correct answer is A, 99.66%
Reference: Trevathan, Vernon L., A Guide to the Automation Body of Knowledge, Second Edition, ISA,
.2006

11.

CAP question

A Markov model is used to determine successful system operation as a function of operating time
interval. The resulting computation indicates system
A. mission time
B. steady-state availability
C. reliability
D. probability of success

CAP Answer
.The correct answer is B, steady-state availability

Systems that exhibit a Markov property are ones in which the future does not depend on the past.
Therefore, instantaneous availability will vary during the operating time interval, due to changes in
.failure probabilities and repair situations
Availability is often calculated as an average over a long operating time interval. The result indicates that
.availability reaches a steady state after some period of time
Reference: Trevathan, Vernon L., A Guide to the Automation Body of Knowledge, Second Edition, ISA,
2006

12.

CAP question

In a motion control application, which of the following signal types would be able to indicate both
?direction and velocity
A. 420 mA
B. 315 psi
C. 10 V
D. 010 V

CAP Answer
.The correct answer is C, 10 V
In order to indicate both direction and velocity, a signal with both positive and negative characteristics is
required. Motion controls use either 10 V or 5 V signals to accomplish this. Direction is indicated by
.the sign of the signal; magnitude of velocity is indicated by the magnitude of the voltage
The other three choices are typical signal types for analog inputs, but none have the ability to easily
indicate direction, only velocity. Obviously, a pneumatic (315 psi) signal would never be a good choice
.for motion control applications
Reference: Trevathan, Vernon L., A Guide to the Automation Body of Knowledge, Second Edition, ISA,
.2006

CAP question

.13

When compared to traditional bar-code systems, a primary benefit of radio frequency

:identification (RFID) tags is
1.

low-voltage power drawn from the battery.

2.

faster data transmission that can be read from farther away.

3.

the number of software applications that can process RFID data.

4.

cost savings of tags.

CAP Answer
.The correct answer is B, faster data transmission that can be read from farther away
RFID tags consist of silicon chips and an antenna that can transmit data to a wireless receiver. Unlike
bar codes, which need to be scanned manually and read individually, RFID tags do not require line-ofsight for reading. It is possible to automatically read hundreds of tags a second within the field of a
.wireless reading device
The other answers may describe secondary benefits in some cases, but each is highly dependent upon
the type and performance of different manufacturers' tags, readers, and software. In general, the
physical RFID tags are more expensive than other forms of ID, such as bar codes, but RFID tags can
have read/write capability as well as the ability to store many pieces of data, such as location or
.expiration dates
Reference: Trevathan, Vernon L., A Guide to the Automation Body of Knowledge, Second Edition, ISA,
.2006

CAP question .14

The graphic display for a distillation column in a refining train would BEST fit in the HMI Display
?hierarchy at which level
A. Plant
B. Area
C. Group
D. Loop

CAP answer
.The best answer is C, Group
:A typical hierarchy is composed of displays at four levels
.Plant level - Provides information regarding the entire plant
.Area level - Provides information on portions of the plant equipment that have a working relationship
Group level - Provides information for the control loops and data points relating to a single process unit
.within a plant area
.Loop level - Provides information that deals with individual control loops, sequences, or data points
A distillation column refers to one piece of equipment in the distillation process that will contain several
.loops. Therefore, it falls into the group-level category

Reference: Lukas, Distributed Control Systems, Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1986. y

Nicholas Sheble (nsheble@isa.org) edits the Certification department. For information about the CAP
.program, go to www.isa.org/cap

CAP questions .15

"?How is PID defined in the phrase "PID control loop .1
A. Proportional Instrument Device
B. Piping Instrumentation Diagram
C. Percentage Integration Delta
D. Proportional Integral Derivative
?P&ID is an acronym for which of the following .2
A. Process and Instruction Document
B. Process and Instrument Diagram
C. Piping and Instrument Diagram
D. Piping and Installation Drawing

CAP answers
D, Proportional Integral Derivative .1
The PID term as described refers to the loop control technique used in controllers. Proportional Integral
Derivative is the correct term as referenced. A PID Control Loop includes proportional, integral, and
.derivative functions to control the process
.Reference: Erickson and Hedrick, Plantwide Process Control, Wiley, 1999
.C: P&ID is a widely used acronym for Piping and Instrument Diagram .2
.Reference: Fleming, S88 Implementation Guide, McGraw-Hill, 1999
Nicholas Sheble edits the Certification department. For information about the CAP program, go
.to www.isa.org/cap

CAP questions .16

An application includes a variable frequency drive (VFD) that implements a V/Hz method of .1
torque control while maintaining a fixed V/Hz ratio. The motor has a nameplate rating of 460 volts
and 60Hz. If the drive is operating at 30Hz, what percent of rated torque will the motor MOST
?likely develop
A. 25%
B. 50%
C. 100%
D. 200%
To minimize electrical interference when AC power and DC signal wiring meet in a control .2
:panel, it is BEST to
.A. Use a different size wire
.B. Cross the wires at 90 degrees
.C. Run the wires parallel to each other
.D. Twist the AC wires around the DC wires

CAP answers
The correct answer is C, 100%. The volts per hertz ratio (V/Hz) controls the torque of a motor. As long .1
as this ratio is in proportion with the nameplate rating, the motor will develop rated torque. The only
answer that represents rated torque is 100% rated torque. Reference: Polka, Motors and Drives - A
.Practical Technology Guide. ISA Press, 2003
B, crossing the wires at 90 degrees is the correct answer. This minimizes the exposure of the wires to .2
each other, and therefore minimizes the effects of interface. Using a different size wire will have no
effect on the electrical interference. Running the wires parallel to each other will increase the effects of
interference. Twisting the AC wires around the DC wires will also increase the effects of interference.
Reference: Hughes, Programmable Controllers. ISA Press, 2001

17. CAP question

R= r L/A
What is the resistance of 1000 ft of copper wire (specific resistance = 10.37) given a cross?sectional area of 10370 circular mil (cmil) and a wire temperature of 20C
A. 1

B. 2
C. 10
D. 100

CAP answer
The resistance of a length (L) of a conductor can be determined using the specific resistance and the
.cross-sectional area (A) in cmil by using the equation R = rL/A. The correct answer is A, 1
.Reference: Hughes, Programmable Controllers, ISA Press 2001
Cmil is worth reviewing. Recall electrons flow through large-diameter wires easier than small-diameter
.wires, due to the greater cross-sectional area they have to move
Rather than measure small wire sizes in inches, the unit of "mil" (1/1000 of an inch) is common. The
cross-sectional area of a wire can be in terms of square units (square inches or square mils), circular
.mils, or gauge scale
:Calculating square-unit wire area for a circular wire involves the circle area formula
A=r2 (Square units)
Calculating circular-mil wire area for a circular wire is much simpler because the unit of circular mil
.exists just for this purpose, to eliminate the pi and the d/2 (radius) factors in the formula
A=d2 (Circular units)
.There are (3.1416) square mils for every 4 circular mils

18. CAP question

Which of the following control-valve body styles is MOST likely to develop blockage in a paper?pulp slurry service
A. Pinch
B. Characterized ball
C. Butterfly
D. Globe

CAP answer
.The correct answer is D, Globe

A globe valve consists of a plug on the end of a stem that moves the plug onto a seat. Because of the
body design of this valve, cavities in the body can easily fill with materials and develop blockage. Ball-,
.butterfly-, and pinch valve body style have straight-through flow, which is less likely to develop blockage
References: Borden, Guy, Control Valves: Practical Guides for Measurement and Control, ISA Press,
.1998. Liptk, Bela, Instrument Engineers' Handbook: Process Control, Volume 2. CRC Press, 2001

Nicholas Sheble (nsheble@isa.org) edits the Certification department. For information about the CAP
.program, go to www.isa.org/CAP

19. CAP question

Which of the following protection techniques is acceptable for equipment located in a Class I,
Division 1 area?
A. Explosion-proof apparatus and non-incendive equipment
B. Explosion-proof apparatus and intrinsic safety
C. Dust ignition-proof and non-incendive equipment
D. Hermetically sealed and intrinsic safety

CAP answer
The best answer is B, explosion-proof apparatus and intrinsic safety.

Hazardous location protection techniques are defined by NEC 500.7 (NEC 2002 Code). The protection
techniques are permitted as follows:

Explosion proof apparatus-Class I, Division 1 or 2

Intrinsic safety-Class I, Division 1 or 2; Class II, Division 1 or 2; or Class III, Division 1 or 2

Nonincendive equipment-Class I, Division 2; Class II, Division 2; or Class III, Division 1 or 2

(does not include Class 1, Division 1)
Dust ignition proof-Class II, Division 1 or 2 (does not include Class I, Division 1)
Hermetically sealed-Class I, Division 2; Class II, Division 2; Class III, Division 1 or 2 (does not
include Class I, Division 1)

Reference: Earley. NEC Handbook, 2002 edition, NFPA, 2002.

20. CAP question

Which of the following standards applies to the development of embedded software for a SIL 3
?certified safety system
A. ANSI/ISA-84
B. EC 61511
C. IEC 61508
D. 21 CFR Part 11

CAP answer
.The correct answer is C, IEC 61508
According to IEC 61511-1, embedded software, which is part of the safety device/controller, should
.follow software guidelines in IEC 61508-3
IEC 61511 and ANSI/ISA-84 are system standards and not product standards. 21 CFR Part 11 is not
.relevant as it deals with electronic signature
The standards bodies in acronyms are the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), American
National Standards Institute (ANSI), ISA-The Instrumentation, Systems, and Automation Society (ISA),
and the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), which refers to the U.S. federal government. Reference:
.IEC 61511, IEC, 2003
Nicholas Sheble (nsheble@isa.org) edits the Certification department. For information about the CAP
.program, go to www.isa.org/CAP

21. CAP question

According to NFPA Electrical Standards for Industrial Machinery, which of the following actions
?is NOT acceptable for emergency operations

A. Using a locally supplied disconnect

B. Using an emergency stop to override all other functions and operations with all modes
C. Using an emergency switch off initiated by a single human action
D. Resetting an emergency stop circuit to initiate a restart

CAP answer
.The correct answer is D, resetting an emergency stop circuit to initiate a restart
The reset of an emergency stop circuit will not initiate a restart; therefore, the answer
.is not an acceptable emergency operation
Emergency stop to override all other functions and operations with all modes is an
.acceptable emergency operation, per NFPA 79 - 9.2.5.4.11
Emergency switching off initiated by a single human action is an acceptable
.emergency operation, per NFPA 79 - 9.2.5.4.1

Source:
Rockford
Systems

.Using a locally supplied disconnect is an acceptable emergency operation, per NFPA - 10.7.5.1
.Reference: National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). NFPA 79, NFPA. 2002
Nicholas Sheble (nsheble@isa.org) edits the Certification department. For information about the CAP
program, go to www.isa.org/CAP

22. CAP question

What is the recommended limitation in meters for the length of a fast Ethernet (100 Megabits per
?second) segment on twisted pair cable
A. 10
B. 100
C. 300
D. 350

CAP answer
.The correct answer is B, 100 meters
Because of the high speed of fast Ethernet, the use of twisted pair cable is limited to 100 meters (328
feet). Ten meters would limit installations unnecessarily. Three hundred meters and 350 meters would
.exceed recommendations substantially, resulting, potentially, in signal errors

Reference: Berge. Fieldbuses for Process Control: Engineering, Operation, and Maintenance, ISA
.Press, 2001
Nicholas Sheble (nsheble@isa.org) edits the Certification department. For information about the CAP
.program, go to www.isa.org/CAP

23. CAP question

What is the MOST appropriate technique for modeling linear relationships for a large number of
?correlated inputs where the equations are unknown
A. Artificial neural networks
B. Multivariable statistical process controls
C. Step response models
D. First principle models

CAP answer
.The correct answer is B, multivariable statistical process controls
Artificial neural networks (ANN) excel at modeling nonlinear relationships for a relatively
large unknown number of inputs. However, the inputs don't correlate, and the training
data must cover the whole region. An ANN cannot extrapolate values outside the test
A natural
.region and doesn't handle large lags well
neural
network
Multivariable statistical process control excels at modeling unknown linear relationships
.for a large number of inputs that correlate
Step response models excel at linear relationships for a small to moderate number of uncorrelated
inputs where dynamics are important. Step response models work for linear dynamic on-line property
.estimates
First principle models require known equations and parameters that use process principles and material
.and energy balances
Reference: Blevins, et al. Advanced Control Unleashed: Plant Performance Management for Optimum
.Benefit, ISA Press, 2003
Nicholas Sheble (nsheble@isa.org) edits the Certification department. For information about the CAP
. program, go to www.isa.org/CAP
:Caption
A natural neural network

24. CAP question

To MINIMIZE the effect of feed upsets to the top of a distillation column, the flow feed forward
signal should be connected to a tray temperature controller output that then directly manipulates
:a(n)
.A. Overhead pressure controller
.B. Linear reflux valve
.C. Reflux controller
.D. Reboiler stream ratio controller

CAP answer
.The correct answer is C, the reflux controller
A distillation tower has feed upsets that can produce a feedforward signal. A reflux flow controller remote
setpoint becomes the feed multiplied by a reflux-to-feed ratio that the temperature controller output will
correct. This is the most linear and accurate way of maintaining the material balance as long as the flow
.measurements are above their low range ability limit
Changes in the pressure drop of a linear reflux valve and the valve installed characteristics and
deadband will introduce errors into the feed-forward. Manipulating a pressure controller setpoint will not
set up a flow ratio to maintain the material balance. A ratio controller uses a ratio of flows as its
controlled variable. This creates a nonlinear loop. Also, the remote set point would be incorrect, and
.steam would have a slower, and generally smaller, effect than reflux flow on the top
Reference: Blevins, et al. Advanced Control Unleashed: Plant Performance Management for Optimum
.Benefit, ISA Press, 2003
Nicholas Sheble (nsheble@isa.org) edits the Certification department. For information about the CAP
.program, go to www.isa.org/CAP

25. CAP questions

1. Considering a 60 Hz power source, at what speed does a four-pole synchronous motor run?

A. 1200 RPM

B. 1800 RPM

C. 2400 RPM

D. 3600 RPM

2. When a large automation project makes significant changes to plant operations, it is BEST to perform
operator training:

A. Six months prior to the startup phase during control system development

B. After acceptance testing and prior to the startup phase

C. During the startup phase after water batching

D. After the startup phase is complete and the process has stabilized

CAP answers

1. The correct answer is B, 1800 revolutions per minute (RPM).

Synchronous speed in RPM = (two frequency 60) / (number of poles)

For a 60 Hz, four pole motor that would be = (two 60 60) / four = 1800

Reference: Webb, Industrial Control Electronics, Merrill Publishing, 1990

2. The correct answer is B, after acceptance testing and prior to the startup phase.

The best time to train operators is after acceptance testing and prior to startup. Ideally, you want to train
the operators after the bulk of the changes have happened, but before they will need to implement the
knowledge. This reduces confusion and also reduces the chance that training will exit operator memory.
Training needs to occur before the startup phase because the operator would have to know something
about the process before they could start up the plant. However, if training occurs too early, the operator
will forget what he or she learned before having a chance to apply the knowledge.

Reference: Liptak, Instrument Engineers Handbook - Process Software and Digital Networks, Volume
3, ISA Press, 2002

For information about the CAP program, go to http://www.isa.org/CAP

26. CAP question

What ISA RP12.4 (NFPA 496) defined type of pressurization system will reduce the classification within
?an enclosure from Division 1 to nonhazardous
A.
B.
C.
D.

Type X
Type Y
Type Z
None

CAP answer
.The correct answer is A, Type X
A Type X pressurization system reduces the classification within the enclosure from Division 1 to
.nonhazardous and, therefore, permits the use of ignition-capable equipment inside the enclosure
A Type Y pressurization system reduces the classification within an enclosure from Division 1 to Division
2. A Type Z pressurization system reduces the classification within an enclosure from Division 2 to
.nonhazardous
Reference: Ernest Magison; Electrical Instruments in Hazardous Locations, 4th Edition; ISA Press,
.1998

27. CAP question

:The average person cannot respond to signals more frequent than one every
A. 30 milliseconds
B. 80 milliseconds
C. 300 milliseconds
D. 800 milliseconds

CAP answer
.The correct answer is C, 300 milliseconds
The average person cannot process signals more frequent than one every 300 milliseconds, or about
three signals per second. Therefore, for reliable regulation of events that are faster than three signals
.per second, a person should not act as the controller
Reference: Donald A. Coggan, Fundamentals of Industrial Control: Practical Guides for Measurement
and Control, 2nd edition; ISA Press, 2005

:What type of signal to use? Here are a couple simple rules

Use VISUAL codes for messages that are long, complex, or do not call for
immediate action.

Use AUDIBLE codes for messages that are short, simple, or call for
immediate action

28. CAP question

When developing HMI (human-machine interface) screens, it is recommended the quantity of items an
:operator has to remember is less than
A. 1
B. 3
C. 7
D. 20

CAP answer
.The correct answer is C, 7
Studies show people can remember approximately seven new things for about 20 seconds. This is
short-term memory. After 20 seconds, people will have lost the information if they cannot quickly store it
.in long-term memory
Reference: Susan Weinschenk, Pamela Jamar, Sarah C. Yeo; GUI Design Essentials; Wiley Computer
Publishing, 1997

29. CAP question

?"How is PID defined in the phrase "PID control loop
A. Proportional Instrument Device
B. Piping Instrumentation Diagram
C. Percentage Integration Delta
D. Proportional Integral Derivative

CAP answer
.The correct answer is D, Proportional Integral Derivative
.The PID term as described refers to the loop control technique used in controllers
Proportional Integral Derivative is the correct term as referenced. A PID Control Loop includes
.proportional, integral, and derivative functions to control the process
Reference: Erickson, Kelvin T. and Hedrick, John L., Plant-Wide Process Control (Wiley Series in
.Chemical Engineering) by Wiley, 1999

30. CAP question

?Using Modbus, what is the MAXIMUM level of precision available
A. 8-bits
B. 16-bits
C. 24-bits
D. 32-bits

CAP answer
.The correct answer is B, 16-bits
.Common Modbus uses two 8-bit bytes for each data register

Two 8 bits = 16 bits

To achieve more precision, special programming or a specialized version of Modus would be necessary.
.Eight-bits are less precise than 16-bits. 24-bits and 32-bits require uncommon means to achieve
Recall a "bit" is a binary digit, taking a value of either 0 or 1. Binary digits are a basic unit of information
.storage and communication in digital computing and digital information theory
Reference: Bela Liptak, Instrument Engineers Handbook - Volume 3 (3rd Edition). Process Software
and Digital Networks, ISA, 2002

31. CAP question

To minimize electrical interference when AC power and DC signal wiring meet in a control panel, it is
:BEST to
.A. Use a different size wire
.B. Cross the wires at 90 degrees
.C. Run the wires parallel to each other
.D. Twist the AC wires around the DC wires

CAP answer
.The correct answer is B, cross the wires at 90 degrees
Crossing the wires at 90 degrees will minimize the exposure of the wires to each other and therefore
minimize the effects of interface. "Using a different size wire" will have no effect on the electrical
interference. "Running the wires parallel to each other" will increase the exposure of the wires to each
other and increase the effects of interference. "Twisting the AC wires around the DC wires" will also
.increase the effects of interference
Reference: Thomas A. Hughes; Programmable Controllers, 4th Edition; ISA Press, 2005

32. CAP question

To measure the level of a liquid with a dielectric constant greater than 2 inches a horizontal vessel with
:changing composition and temperature, the device with BEST reproducibility is a
A. Radar level detector
B. Ultrasonic level detector
C. Capacitance level detector
D. Differential pressure transmitter

CAP answer
.The correct answer is A, radar level detector
The fact that the tank is horizontal implies the angle of the beam will be narrow at the surface and the
vessel walls will not interfere. Radar can detect the smallest change in surface level. It does not depend
upon the temperature or composition of the fluid as long as the beam is narrow and the dielectric
.constant of the fluid is greater than two
Ultrasonic level detectors are affected by changes in the speed of sound with temperature and are not
quite as sensitive as
.radar
Capacitance level detectors are affected by changes in the dielectric constant with composition and are
.not quite as sensitive as radar
Differential pressure transmitters are affected by changes in liquid density with composition and
.temperature and are not as sensitive as radar
Reference: Terrence L. Blevins, Gregory K. McMillan, Willy K. Wojsznis, and Michael W.
Brown; Advanced Control Unleashed: Plant Performance Management for Optimum Benefit; ISA Press,
.2003

33. CAP question

A pressure measurement has a range of 0-100 psig, a normal operating pressure of 50 psig, and a high
alarm setpoint of 60 psig. There is some noise on the measurement as shown in the figure.
Which of the following would be the best choice for the alarm deadband setting on the high alarm?
A.

10%

B.

5%

C.

2%

D.

1%

CAP answer
The correct answer is C, 2%, as the noise is under 2%.
Answer A, 10% is not the best choice as it is the difference between normal operation and the high
alarm condition, so the high alarm will not clear until the pressure has dropped below 50 psig.
Answer B, 5% is not the best choice as it is more than twice the signal noise and a significant part of the
range between normal operation and the high alarm condition.
Answer D, 1% is not the best choice as it is less than the signal noise and will likely create a chattering
alarm.
Reference: Hollifield, Alarm Management: A Comprehensive Guide, ISA Press, 2010.
34. CAP question
1. Most AC motors operate on the principle of:
A. Capacitance
B. Resistance
C. Induction
D. Semi conduction
CAP answer
The correct answer is C, induction. Most AC motors work on the principle of induction. The motor
consists of a rotor (rotating portion) with a laminated iron core containing copper bars in the slots. In
addition, the motor contains stator field windings (stationary portion). When AC current applies to the
stator, a current propagates in the rotor producing a rotor field polarity that opposes the stator field.
Capacitors may serve for starting single-phase motors, but this does not apply to the operational basics
of the motor, as capacitance refers to the storage of energy (not a function of a motor). A motor does
include resistance, but the operation of the motor rotation is not due to its resistance. Basic motor
operation has no relation to semi conduction. Reference: Tomal, Electronic Troubleshooting, McGrawHill, 1998.
The following questions come from the CAP study guide, Performance Domain V, Deployment.
Field installation and checkout and startup of the systems

35. CAP questions

1. A Bill of Materials for purchase of cable on a project is created by completing a material:
A. Procurement
B. Inspection
C. Take off
D. Requisition
2. If the distance in a sheet line from the thickness gauge to the manipulated diebolt actuators is 200
meters and the speed is 4 meters per second, then the dead time from the transportation delay for
thickness control is _____ seconds.
A. 200
B. 50
C. 5
D. 0.02
CAP answers
1. C, Take off, is the correct answer. A material takeoff is the process of analyzing the drawings and
determining all the materials required to accomplish the design. We then use the material takeoff to
create a Bill of Materials. Inspection does not aid in creating a Bill of Material. Procurement and
requisition are activities that occur after the Bill of Materials is complete. Reference: Whitt, Successful
Instrument and Control System Design, ISA Press, 2004.

2. B, 50 is the best answer. The time it takes the sheet to go from the diebolt
actuators, which are the manipulated variable, to the thickness gauge that
transverses the sheet to provide the controlled variable (sheet thickness profile
across the sheet), is the transportation delay. 50 seconds: Distance / velocity (200
meters / 4 meters per second) is the transportation delay. Reference: McMillan,
Good Tuning: A Pocket Guide, ISA Press, 2000 and Blevins, et al., Advanced
Control Unleashed: Plant Performance Management for Optimum Benefit, ISA
Press, 2003.
36. CAP questions
1. If an exothermic reactor can run-away in manual, then the temperature controller should be
tuned with a(n):
A. Open loop short cut method
B. Closed loop
C. Lambda Tuning method
D. Reaction curve method
2. An increase in which setting can compensate for a thermowell lag time?
A. Rate time
B. Reset time
C. Gain
D. Filter time
CAP answers
1. The best answer is B, closed loop.
The controller must stay in automatic to prevent a runaway reaction. Closed-loop methods keep the
controller in automatic. Normally, we maximize the gain to the point where either the error is small
enough or the process starts to show a slight oscillation. It does not imply the ultimate oscillation
method. The controller is in manual for open loop, Lambda Tuning, and reaction curve methods.
Reference: McMillan, Good Tuning: A Pocket Guide, ISA Press, 2000.
2. The correct answer is A, rate time.
Thermowell and temperature processes have multiple interacting thermal lags. Rate time cancels a
secondary thermal lag that can improve control in a slow temperature process without A/D chatter.
Reset time adds another lag that further increases the apparent dead time from multiple lags. A large
thermowell lag reduces the allowable gain. A process variable filter adds another lag that further
increases the apparent dead time from multiple lags.
Reference: McMillan, Good Tuning: A Pocket Guide, ISA Press, 2000.

37. CAP question

MOST initial project budgetary cost estimates have an acceptable margin of error of plus or
:minus
A. 10%
B. 30%
C. 50%
D. 70%

CAP answer
.The best answer is B, 30%
.It is common practice to have a preliminary estimate with a margin of error of plus or minus 30%
.A more detailed estimate takes place before presenting the bid to reduce the margin of error to 10%

Reference: Michael D. Whitt, Successful Instrument and Control System Design, ISA Press, 2004

38. CAP question

According to NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) Electrical Standards for Industrial
?Machinery, which of the following actions is NOT acceptable for emergency operations
A. Using a locally supplied disconnect
B. Using an emergency stop to override all other functions and operations with all modes
C. Using an emergency switch off initiated by a single human action
D. Resetting an emergency stop circuit to initiate a restart

CAP answer
.The correct answer is D, resetting an emergency stop circuit to initiate a restart
The reset of an emergency stop circuit will not initiate a restart; therefore, the answer is not an
.acceptable emergency operation and is the correct answer
Emergency stop to override all other functions and operations with all modes is an acceptable
.emergency operation, per NFPA 79 - 9.2.5.4.11
Emergency switching off initiated by a single human action is an acceptable emergency operation, per
.NFPA 79 - 9.2.5.4.1
.Using a locally supplied disconnect is an acceptable emergency operation, per NFPA - 10.7.5.1
.Reference: NFPA. NFPA 79, NFPA. 2002
39. CAP question
What is the recommended limitation in meters for the length of a "fast Ethernet" (100 Megabits/second)
segment on twisted pair cable?
A. 10
B. 100
C. 300
D. 350
CAP answer
The correct answer is B, 100.
Because of the high speed of "fast Ethernet," the use of twisted pair cable is limited to 100 meters (330
feet). 10 meters would limit installations unnecessarily. 300 meters and 350 meters would exceed
recommendations substantially, which could potentially cause signal errors.
Reference: Berge, Jonas; Fieldbuses for Process Control: Engineering, Operation, and Maintenance;
ISA Press, 2001.

40. CAP question

What is the MOST appropriate technique for modeling linear relationships for a large number of
?correlated inputs where the equations are unknown
A. Artificial neural networks
B. Multivariable statistical process controls
C. Step response models
D. First principle models
CAP answer
.The correct answer is B, multivariable statistical process controls
Artificial neural networks (ANN) excel at modeling nonlinear relationships for a relatively large unknown
number of inputs. However, the inputs cannot be correlated and the training data must cover the whole
.region. An ANN cannot extrapolate values outside the test region and does not handle large lags well
The multivariate statistical-process control excels at modeling unknown linear relationships for a large
.number of inputs that could be correlated
Step response models excel at linear relationships for a small to moderate number of uncorrelated
inputs where dynamics are important. Step response models are used for linear dynamic on-line
.property estimates
First principle models require known equations and parameters that use process principles and material
.and energy balances
Reference: Blevins, et al.; Advanced Control Unleashed: Plant Performance Management for Optimum
Benefit; ISA Press, 2003

41. CAP question

To MINIMIZE the effect of feed upsets to the top of a distillation column, the flow feed forward signal
should be connected to a tray temperature controller output that then directly manipulates a(n):
A. Overhead pressure controller
B. Linear reflux valve
C. Reflux controller
D. Reboiler stream ratio controller
CAP answer
The correct answer is C, reflux controller.
A distillation tower has feed upsets that are measured and used to create a feed forward signal. A reflux
flow controller remote set point becomes the feed multiplied by a reflux-to-feed ratio that the

temperature controller output will correct. This is the most linear and accurate way of maintaining the
material balance as long as the flow measurements are above their low range ability limit.
Reference: Blevins, McMillan, Wojsznis, and Brown; Advanced Control Unleashed: Plant Performance
Management for Optimum Benefit; ISA Press, 2003

he following question comes from the CAP study guide, Performance Domain I, Feasibility Study:
Identify, scope, and justify the automation project
42. CAP question
Given the following diagram, what is the transfer function for C(s)/R(s)?

CAP answer

The correct answer is A,

.
The numerator is the product of the transfer functions between the input and output, which are "R" and
"C," respectively in this case. The denominator is one plus the product of all the transfer functions.
Reference: George Ellis; Control System Design Guide; Academic Press, 2000.
A transfer function is a mathematical representation of the relationship between the input and output of a
system. In control engineering and control theory, one derives the transfer function using the Laplace
transform.
The transfer function was the primary tool used in classical control engineering. However, it has proven
to be unwieldy for the analysis of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems.
43. CAP question
If diagnostic software flags a controller as having high process variability when its output is
hitting a low limit, the MOST probable cause is a(n):
A. Zero shift in the measurement
B. Noisy measurement
C. Nonlinear control valve
D. Oversized control valve
CAP answer

The best answer is D, oversized control valve.

Controller output successively hits its low limit and manifests a saw tooth oscillation.
An oversized control valve will operate next to the seat where the friction and stick slip is greatest.
A noisy measurement increases high-frequency variability but does not necessarily cause a controller
output to hit its limit.
A nonlinear valve may require detuning but does not necessarily cause a controller output to hit its limit.
Zero shift, or bias errors, exists to some degree in all measurements and results in running at a shifted
set point. However, is does not cause a controller output to hit its limit unless it is extremely large, which
is not as probable as an oversized valve. Such large errors are not common, and during calibration, the
technicians would have certainly discovered the problem.
Reference: Blevins, et al., Advanced Control Unleashed: Plant Performance Management for Optimum
Benefit, ISA Press, 2003.

ISA Certified Automation Professional (CAP) program

Certified Automation Professionals (CAPs) are responsible for the direction, design, and deployment of
.systems and equipment for manufacturing and control systems
The following question comes from the CAP study guide, Performance Domain VI, Operations and
Maintenance. Long-term support of the system
CAP question .44
?Which of the following MUST be performed to reveal a normally undetected fault in a safety system
A. Proven-in-use
B. Proof test
C. System software test
D. System validation
CAP answer
The correct answer is B, proof test. A proof test on a system may reveal faults that would otherwise not
.be mentioned by internal diagnostic measures and is therefore correct
.Proven-in-use is an assessment on suitability for use and not related to fault detection
.A system software test relates only to software and not to system faults
System validation takes place to test requirements and specifications and may not reveal faults, which
.have not been refined by the requirements
.Reference: IEC, IEC 61511-1, 2002, Tomal, Electronic Troubleshooting, McGraw-Hill, 1998

45. CAP question

The peak performance demonstrated in an operating unit should be based on a(n):
A. Expert system
B. Operator's sweet spot
C. Process flow diagram
D. Review of cost sheets and historian data with operations
CAP answer
The best answer is D, review of cost sheets and historian data with operations.
Cost sheets show the best periods of operation, and data historians explain the conditions and
relationships.

However, these must see a review in the operations to rule out extraneous information and explain
special conditions.
The operator's "sweet spot" most often sits on that which makes his job the easiest.
Process flow diagrams depict how it should be and not the way it is and may rest on suboptimum design
criteria.
Expert systems are too fuzzy and tend to reflect a narrow and prejudiced knowledge base.
Reference: Terrence L. Blevins, Gregory K. McMillan, Willy K. Wojsznis, and Michael W.
Brown; Advanced Control Unleashed: Plant Performance Management for Optimum Benefit; ISA Press,
2003.
46. CAP question
To simultaneously optimize an interacting dead-time dominant process with multiple constraints,
one should use a (n):
A. Override PID control
B. Model predictive control
C. Decoupled PID control
D. Advisory control
CAP answer
The best answer is B, model predictive control.
Model predictive control (MPC) excels at dead-time dominance and simultaneous optimization while
accounting for future prediction of proximity to constraints.
PID (answers A and C) controllers are not suitable dead-time dominance. Derivatives cannot serve, and
PID controllers do not perform as well as MPCs. Override controllers select a single PID output and are
not simultaneous. PID controllers simply do not work well enough.
Decoupling is limited in practice to steady state gains and a small number of variables with no
optimization built in. Operators cannot handle the interactions, the dead time, or provide minute-tominute simultaneous corrections even if they receive regular and new set points.
Advisory control is not an entity and is therefore not the answer.
Reference: Terrence L. Blevins, Gregory K. McMillan, Willy J. Wojsznis, and Michael Brown; Advanced
Control Unleashed: Plant Performance Management for Optimum Benefit; ISA Press, 2003.

47. CAP question

Which of the following control strategies works to measure disturbances and compensate for
them before they cause the controlled variable to deviate from the set point?
A. Feedforward
B. Feedback
C. Cascade
D. Open loop
CAP answer
The best answer is A, feedforward.
The objective of feedforward control is to measure disturbances and compensate for them before the
controlled variable deviates from set point.
Feedback control can compensate for a disturbance only after the control variable has deviated from set
point.
Cascade is a form of feedback control.
Open loop is not a control strategy.
Reference: Carlos A. Smith and Armando B. Corripio; Principles and Practices of Automatic Process
Control, 2nd Edition; Wiley & Sons, 1997.

48. CAP question

Gathering requirements is critical to the success of an automation project because they:
A. Establish the design and engineering schedule.
B. Provide a basis for performing calculations.
C. Define the purpose, scope, and objectives.
D. Determine funding and buy-in from stakeholders.
CAP answer
The correct answer is C; define the purpose, scope, and objectives.
Gathering requirements is important because they define the objectives, purpose, scope, needs, and
other key meters. They perform the basis for understanding for the customer, the engineer, and other
stakeholders.
Requirements may make it easier to get funding approval and stakeholder approval but only because
the purpose, scope, and objectives are included. Gathering requirements should not affect the ease of
calculation.
Requirements will not generate automatically in and of themselves and one should map them out before
an automation project begins.
Reference: Jim Parshall and Larry Lamb, Applying S88: Batch Control from a User's Perspective, ISA
Press, 2000.

49. CAP question

Which of the following is NOT a benefit of using an agenda for discussions?
A.An agenda assures meeting objectives.
B.An agenda keeps discussion on track.
C.An agenda helps manage time.
D.An agenda allows everyone equal participation.
CAP answer
The best answer is D, an agenda allows everyone equal participation. An agenda does not enforce an
individual's participation.
Reference: Marion E. Haynes; Effective Meeting Skills; Crisp, 1998
50. CAP question
What is required to find the MOST efficient operating points that are highly dependent on complex
shifting process conditions, such as equipment fouling?

A. Real-time optimization with a detailed process model

B. Tactical schedulers with business economics
C. Linear programs with detailed process economics
D. Model predictive controls with a constraint pusher
CAP answer
The correct answer is A, real-time optimization with a detailed process model.
Real-time optimization uses a reconciled high fidelity process model with the equipment details, such
as heat transfer coefficients and physical properties of the components.
Tactical schedulers do not have process knowledge built in and may request operating points that are
not achievable or advisable based on equipment and process constraints.
A linear program assumes fixed economic relationships and does not deal with stationary behavior
shifts and nonlinear process behavior.
A model predictive control with a constraint pusher is only able to do a simple maximization on
minimization of a process variable such as feed flow.

51. CAP question

Which of the following contract types places the PRIMARY risk with the supplier?
A. Cost plus
B. Fixed price
C. Time and material
D. Unit price
CAP answer
The correct answer is B, fixed price.
The supplier estimates a fixed-price contract, and the customer accepts it and agrees to it before the
project begins. Any overruns are the responsibility of the supplier.
In cost plus, time and material, and unit-price contracts, the supplier and customer agree on the marginnot the total cost of the project.
Reference: Donald A. Coggan, editor; Fundamentals of Industrial Control, 2nd Edition; ISA Press, 2005

52. CAP questions

1. If you need an enclosure that resists corrosion and provides protection for outdoor use, dust,
and hose-directed water, which type of enclosure would you select?
A. Type 1 (NEMA 1)
B. Type 4x (NEMA 4x)
C. Type 12 (NEMA 12)
D. Type 13 (NEMA 13)
2. According to the NFPA 79, the standard wire colors for line voltage, AC control currents, DC
control circuits, and interlock circuits are respectively shown as:
A. Black, red, blue, yellow
B. Black, red, orange, yellow
C. Brown, red, orange, yellow
D. Brown, black, white, red

53. CAP answers

1. The correct answer is B, Type 4x (NEMA 4x).
NEC (National Electrical Code) 2002 defines an enclosure Type 4x as ideal for outdoor use and
resistant to splashing water, windblown dust, hose directed water, and corrosion. It is also undamaged
by the formation of ice on the enclosure.

A Type 1 enclosure is for indoor use.

A Type 12 enclosure is for indoor use and resists only dust and dripping non-corrosive liquids.
A Type 13 enclosure is for indoor use and resists dust, spraying water, oil, and non-corrosive coolants.
Reference: Mark W. Earley, Editor; NEC 2002 Handbook; NFPA, 2002
2. The correct answer is A, black, red, blue, and yellow.
Black, red, blue, yellow is the correct answer per NFPA-79: The Electrical Standard for Industrial
Machinery, which is in correspondence with article 670 in the National Electrical Code (NEC). This is
located in section 14.2: Identification of Conduction.
NFPA is the National Fire Protection Association (established 1896) an independent, voluntarymembership, non-profit (tax-exempt) organization.
Incorporated in 1930 in Massachusetts, NFPA's mission is to reduce the worldwide burden of fire and
other hazards on the quality of life by providing and advocating scientifically-based consensus codes
and standards, research, training, and education.
NFPA's international headquarters is in Quincy, Mass.
Reference: NFPA-79; Electrical Standard for Industrial Machinery, NFPA, 2002

54. CAP question

Which fuse has the quickest response to over currents?
A. Single-element
B. Dual-element
C. Time-delay
D. Dual-element time-delay
CAP answer
The correct answer is A, the single-element fuse. In electronics and electrical engineering, a fuse is a
type of over current protection device. Its essential component is a metal wire or strip that melts when
too much current flows.
When the metal strip melts, it opens the circuit of which it is a part, and so protects the circuit from
excessive current.
Fuses are fast-blow, slow-blow, or time-delay according to the time they take to respond to an over
current condition. The selection of the characteristic depends on the protected equipment.
Semiconductor devices may need a fast or ultrafast fuse for protection since semiconductors may have
little capacity to withstand even a momentary overload.
Fuses applied on motor circuits may have a time-delay characteristic, since the surge of current
required at motor start soon decreases and is harmless to wiring and the motor.
Single element fuses have a very high speed of response to over currents. They provide excellent shortcircuit component protection.
Dual-element and time-delay fuses serve in circuits subject to temporary motor overloads and surge
currents. Dual-element and time-delay fuses contain two series elements-a short-circuit element and an
overload element.
Reference: Bussmann Cooper Industries, SPD Electrical Production Handbook, 1992; Wikipedia