Rather than using a movable tab on the trailing edge of the elevator, some airplanes have an adjustable stabilizer. With this arrangement, linkages pivot the horizontal stabilizer about its rear spar. This is accomplished by use of a jackscrew mounted on the leading edge of the stabilator.
On small airplanes, the jackscrew is cable-operated with a trim wheel or crank, and on larger airplanes, it is motor driven. The trimming effect and cockpit indications for an adjustable stabilizer are similar to those of a trim tab.
Since the primary and secondary flight control systems vary extensively between aircraft, you need to be familiar with the systems in your aircraft. A good source of information is the Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) or the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH).
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