Before forcing an input, it must be __________?

The correct completion for the statement is that before forcing an input, it must be verified. Verification means confirming that the input is functioning and responding correctly before making any modifications. Forcing an input without prior verification can lead to unintended consequences, such as damaging equipment or causing incorrect operation.

The process of verification ensures that the system is in a stable state and that the conditions for forcing an input are appropriate. This step is crucial for maintaining the safety and functionality of the robotic system during operation. If an input were to be forced without this confirmation, it could result in erratic behavior or even system failures.

While options like "active" and "disabled" pertain to the state of the input, they don’t encapsulate the safety and correctness aspect necessitated prior to forcing. Simulated inputs serve a specific purpose in testing but do not imply verification of the actual input condition. Therefore, the emphasis on verification underlines the importance of ensuring that the operational context is appropriate before making any changes to inputs.