A dual mode control system for a hydraulic circuit (200) having a variable displacement pump (216) includes at least two actuators, each controlled by a respective valve. The valves are connected in series with a pressure sensor (250) measuring a pressure of fluid between the first valve (224) and the second valve (234) and relaying a signal to the electronic controller (202). The electronic controller (202) operates in a first mode, varying the displacement of the pump (216) based on a command signal operating at least one of the valves, and operates in a standby mode, varying the displacement of the pump (216) based on the signal from the sensor, when both valves are in their respective neutral positions.