Can the cooktop be operated without the mTwisT dial?

Yes, the cooktop can be operated without the mTwisT dial by using the touch pads directly. After turning off the Panel Lock and selecting the desired element pad, repeatedly touch the element pad until the desired heat setting is displayed. To turn off an element without the dial, touch the element pad until '0' is displayed, or use the Power Off pad for all elements. (Page 6)