noun
control unit; operating section; actuator
Technical term for the part of a machine or device that performs control operations or is manipulated by the user. Often used in engineering and electronics contexts.
この装置の操作部は、タッチパネルになっている。
The control unit of this device is a touch panel.
操作部のボタンを押して、設定を変更してください。
Press the button on the operating section to change the settings.
制御部 emphasizes the control function (often automatic), whereas 操作部 can also refer to the part that is manually operated.
Compound of 操作 (sōsa, 'operation') and 部 (bu, 'part, section').