This document discusses semi-active control systems using magnetorheological (MR) fluid dampers. MR dampers allow controllable damping forces through the use of MR fluids that greatly increase viscosity when subjected to a magnetic field. This provides reliability of passive systems with the adaptability of active control. MR dampers offer bounded input/output stability and low energy requirements. The document outlines types of semi-active control systems and explains the behavior and properties of MR fluids that make them suitable for vibration control applications.