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Different types of computer software Software – is any program that can run on a computer containing a microprocessor, when a program runs, it directs the operation of the technology system by controlling the processing and peripheral devices. There are two main categories of software: Off the shelf – These programs are usually cheaper than custom made software; they are instantly available, well tested, bug-free, with good support available from books or the internet. Eg. Microsoft Office. Custom Made – These programs are written especially for the client to meet a specific need. Custom made (aka Bespoke) programs usually take weeks or months to write, but will deliver exactly what the client specified. Some organisations commission custom-made software to solve a specific problem, such as carrying out financial transactions or a robot control program for an automated car production line.

Cache memory Cache memory is used between faster and slower devices to let them work more quickly together. The fast device writes or reads to/from the cache memory and the slower device updates as quickly as it can. For example, the processor has cache memory to speed up access to the slower RAM, which means that the processor isn’t idle while It waits for the RAM to respond to an instruction. Also, slower hard disks have a cache memory to speed up disk accesss between the RAM and a hard disk. Powerful microprocessors generate lots of heat. Without a heat sing the fan heat dispersal system to cool them down they would quickly burn out. The Power supply unit (PSU) must produce enough power (watts) for all the components in the computer.