The utmost quantity that anything or someone can contain or create is referred to as its capacity. Machine Capacity: This is the greatest amount of data (output) that a machine can create by completing its intended operation. Certain criteria must be examined in order to get at that maximum measure. For example, if a copying machine were to print more than it copied, the extra ink used would be wasted and should not be considered in calculating total machine capacity. The two main factors that affect machine capacity are hardware and software. Hardware determines how many copies or pages the machine can produce in a given time. Software controls the flow of information between user input and output. For example, a computer keyboard is used to input data, while a display device shows the results of these inputs. Hardware limitations are important to understand because they determine how much work a machine can do before needing maintenance or repair. For example, if a machine is limited to 10 pages per hour, this means it can only copy about 100 pages in an eight-hour workday. If you try to use it past its limit, it will slow down its performance until it reaches its physical capacity. A photocopier uses hardware devices such as motors, rollers, and lamps to complete its operations. These components need regular replacement due to wear and tear; however, replacing them all at once will increase the cost of repairs beyond what a small business can afford. It is best to keep track of component costs so that unnecessary replacements can be avoided.