In a control system, what does the term 'resolution' refer to?

Resolution in a control system specifically refers to the smallest detectable change in position or measurable value that can be recognized by the system. This means it defines the fine details that the control mechanism can distinguish, which is critical for precise control and operation. High resolution allows for the detection of minute changes, enabling the system to respond accurately to various inputs or conditions.

In this context, understanding resolution is crucial for applications where precision is paramount, such as in positioning systems, where even slight deviations can lead to significant performance issues or failure to reach desired outcomes.

The other options address different aspects of a control system: the maximum output range relates to the limits of the control signal, the time taken to reach a set point pertains to the dynamic response of the system, and accuracy deals with how closely the measurement corresponds to the true value. Each of these elements contributes to the overall performance but does not define the specific concept of resolution within the context of control systems.