software restore vs. software install discs

My Mac came with two disks - Software Restore and Software Install, with no explanation of the difference. Both provide numerous options for re-installing the OS while preserving your applications, data, etc.

Could someone explain to me when one or the other disc should be used, and why? Thanks in advance.

P.S. I attempted a search of the board 3 times, but the search function doesn't appear to be working.

Hi zigzag,
The Software restore disk contains a disk image that allows you 3 options... 1)restore (backing up current drive to a folder), 2)restore in place (overwrites like files - ie system, applications, etc, w/o erasing anything you might have installed or the preferences), 3)restore (erasing hard drive). While the software install allows more customization and doesn't tie you to the factory default configuration, allowing you to reinstall just certain applications or certain parts of the system software... The software restore is great if you want to bring your computer back to the factory default configuration...
hope this helps...
dave

Note it will not be factory default once you've installed the new firmware...

Software wise it will be if the erase feature is used. The other two options allow the user to keep existing files and preferences. The new firmware will still be intact, but the ORIGINAL FACTORY SOFTWARE will be restored...
dave