on-off control
nounUK /ˌɒn ˈɒf kənˈtrəʊl/
US /ˌɑːn ˈɔːf kənˈtroʊl/
A way to run a machine that only turns it fully on or fully off.
The heater uses on-off control, so it switches on when the room is cold and off when it is warm.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A control method where the output has only two states, with no middle setting.
The old oven relied on on-off control rather than a smooth temperature dial.
3. A simple switching system that reacts when a value crosses a threshold.
In on-off control, the pump starts at a low level and stops at a high level.
4. A basic form of automatic control often used in home appliances.
The iron's on-off control keeps the plate from getting too hot.