Ring binder

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Ring binders are folders in which punched pieces of paper may be held by means of clamps running through the holes in the paper. These retainers are usually spring-loaded, frequently but not invariably circular (some rings are D-shaped, others are actually rods), and may or may not have additional latching systems.

Binders come in many standard sizes with respect to both capacity and paper size. The most common type in the United States is a three ring system for letter size pages (8½ × 11 in), whereas most other countries use a two or four hole system for holding A4 sheets. The lever arch system is particularly useful for larger amounts of paper. Many personal organizers and memorandum books use a six or seven hole system, including Filofax, the FranklinCovey Franklin Planner and Day-Timer.

Most binder covers are made of three pieces, in the fashion of a hardback book, but are produced in many styles. Materials vary widely. Some vinyl binders have a clear pocket on the outside for cover pages, and many have pockets in the inner cover for loose papers, business cards, compact discs, etc. There are also zipper binders, which zip the binder up and keep papers from falling out.

According to Barbara Haydock of Guiseley the first example of the ring binder is thought to have been a loose leaf papyrus folder made from the dried bark of date trees during the fourth dynasty of the old kingdom of ancient Egypt (Cheops).