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Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:

Control materials are substances with established target values used to monitor the performance of laboratory testing systems. They are analyzed along with patient specimens to determine whether an instrument, method, or reagent system is functioning correctly.

Quality control materials help detect analytical errors caused by instrument malfunction, reagent deterioration, calibration problems, or technical mistakes. Control results are evaluated using statistical methods such as Levey-Jennings charts and Westgard rules.

Calibrators are different because they are used to establish or adjust the relationship between instrument response and analyte concentration. Patient specimens are unknown samples being tested, and reagent blanks are used to measure background signal.

MLS professionals must understand the difference between controls and calibrators because both are essential components of laboratory quality management.