What type of equipment is commonly protected and monitored by a control panel?

The correct choice highlights that a control panel is responsible for overseeing multiple systems, which typically includes security systems, fire alarms, and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems. Control panels serve as the central point for monitoring and managing various low-voltage systems, facilitating the integration and coordination of functions critical to building safety and efficiency.

Security systems are monitored for unauthorized access, fire alarms ensure the premises remain safe from fire hazards, and HVAC controls help maintain comfortable environmental conditions. This multifunctionality makes control panels versatile and essential in both residential and commercial settings.

The other options are too restrictive and do not accurately reflect the broader capabilities of control panels. For instance, suggesting that control panels only manage security cameras or HVAC systems neglects the comprehensive role they play in building system management. A well-designed control panel can efficiently handle a variety of low-voltage equipment, making option B the most accurate representation of a control panel's purpose.