The ’round file’ is where we file almost all the software install discs that come with new hardware, along with any software we’ve decided is unfit for purpose, or unworthy of us spending any time trying to make it work correctly.
A: Here’s the software install disc for the new printer.
B: Thanks, I’ll just put that in my round file.
It’s often said that a computer is obsolete almost as soon as you buy it. While that’s generally an exaggeration, the CD with the various drivers that make the computer/printer/scanner work is almost certainly obsolete the moment it leaves the warehouse. Newer versions with fewer different bugs will normally be available on the manufacturer’s website, making the inclusion of such discs a pointless waste for anyone in IT with an Internet connection and half a clue.
Why do I still keep them??? Everytime I get a new machine/ ANY HARDWARE AT ALL I will remember this post and hopefully have the courage to use your filing method.
Of course, it’s always worth checking that the manufacturer actually does include the content of the CDs online before binning! Drivers are usually a given, but bundled applications are not always available for download.