deadband

plural deadbands · alternative dead zone · alternative neutral zone

1. countableuncountableThe range through which an input can be varied without initiating an observable response. Deadband is usually expressed in percent of span.

   The thermostat was errantly set with a deadband from 18°C to 27°C, causing the air conditioner to not turn on below 27°C, and the heater to not come on above 18°C.

2. countableuncountablemathematicsIn the domain of a transfer function, the band of input values where the output is zero. "(the output is 'dead' - no action occurs)"

   The game will not respond to small movements of the joystick, until the stick is pushed out of its dead zone.

3. countableuncountableengineeringBacklash in a mechanical system.

   The steering system has so much backlash that it takes a full rotation of the wheel to exit its deadband and affect the steering.