To interpret a pneumatic schematic, start at the __________ and follow the lines to the individual components.

When interpreting a pneumatic schematic, starting at the air power supply is crucial because it serves as the source of compressed air that powers the entire pneumatic system. From this starting point, one can effectively trace the pathways of the pneumatic lines, which provides insight into how the system operates and how the various components are interconnected.

This approach allows you to understand the flow of air through different components such as valves, actuators, and filters, mapping how the input from the air supply translates into output actions. By beginning at the air power supply, you're able to logically follow the system's design, seeing how each part contributes to the overall functioning of the pneumatic system.

In contrast, starting at the power source might imply an electrical system context rather than a pneumatic one. Similarly, starting from the control unit or output device may not provide a clear view of the overall air flow, making it harder to understand how the components work together from the initial air supply to the final action. Hence, the air power supply is the most logical and effective starting point for interpretation.