Which technique divides troubleshooting into two categories focusing on power paths and information paths?

• A. Signal Flow
• B. Block Diagrams
• C. Bracketing
• D. Information Funneling

Answer: (A)

Focusing troubleshooting on two paths—power flow and information (signal) flow—lets you isolate faults by tracing how energy and control signals move through the system. This approach is captured by signal flow, because it explicitly maps both where power travels from the source to the load and where control or feedback signals travel through the control loop.

In practice, you start with the power path: verify that voltage is present at the drive, that fuses and breakers are closed, that contactors are pulling in, and that the motor actually receives usable power. Then you switch to the information path: check that sensors are feeding correct data to the controller, that the controller is issuing proper commands, and that communications or feedback lines are intact. By following both tracks, you can determine whether the fault lies in delivering power, in the signaling and control path, or in the interface between them, which leads to a precise diagnosis and corrective action.