Which of the following is NOT a basic component of a control circuit?

A control circuit typically includes several fundamental components that work together to operate electrical devices. A power source is essential, as it provides the necessary energy for the circuit to function. Switch contacts play a crucial role by enabling or disabling the flow of electricity through the circuit. Loads are the devices or components that consume the electrical power, completing the circuit's operation.

While a control panel can play an important role in managing and configuring the various aspects of a control circuit, it is not considered a basic component. A control panel may house several components, including switches, relays, and fuses, but it is more of a housing or interface for those components rather than a fundamental part of the circuit itself. Thus, the control panel is not essential to the basic functionality of every control circuit, making it the correct choice for this question.