Final answer:
In the AUTO setting, the aircraft's PROBE/WINDOW and ANTI ICE PANEL systems automatically activate to heat probes and windows to prevent ice formation when icing conditions are detected or when certain conditions, like engine start or specific altitudes, are met.
Step-by-step explanation:
In aviation, the PROBE/WINDOW and ANTI ICE PANEL are part of the aircraft's systems designed to prevent ice formation on critical sensors and windows. When set to AUTO, these systems will automatically activate heating elements when the aircraft detects conditions that could lead to icing. Probes, which include devices like pitot tubes and angle of attack sensors, are typically heated to ensure they provide accurate readings by preventing ice from skewing the data.
The windshield or windows are often heated as well to maintain pilot visibility and prevent ice from obstructing the view outside the cockpit. The heating may start either when the engines are turned on and the aircraft begins to move, or when it reaches certain altitudes where temperatures are cold enough for ice to form.