What is crucial about the relationship between the programmed computer and peripherals for patentability?

The correct answer highlights the importance of a functional relationship between a programmed computer and its peripherals for patentability. This relationship signifies that the programmed computer and peripherals must interact in a way that is critical to achieving a specific result or functionality. In the context of patent law, particularly under 35 U.S.C. § 101, an invention must be usable and must provide a novel and non-obvious technical solution to a problem. This means that if a programmed computer operates with peripherals, the combination must work together to perform a task that could not be accomplished by each component acting independently.

Functional relationships demonstrate how the components collaborate effectively to achieve a technological outcome that is innovative. Establishing such a relationship can aid in fulfilling the requirements for patentable subject matter, as it supports the notion that the claimed invention is more than just an abstract idea or a mere assembly of components that lack a cohesive operation.

In contrast, the other options highlight aspects that do not align with the patentability analysis under relevant patent statutes. While they touch on different considerations regarding the construction and assembly of systems, they do not emphasize the critical aspect of how the components must work together functionally to achieve patent protection.