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Is there a real reason to use a screen saver?

Is there a real reason to use a screen saver?

Other than entertainment, is there a real reason to use a screen saver? Does it somehow "save your screen"?

Asked by: Guest | Views: 156
Total answers/comments: 5
Guest [Entry]

"It used to, when screens used to suffer from burn-in. Nowadays they're mainly used for fun, and to lock the computer when you're away from it.

The Apple TV includes a screen saver (photos from the photo album) and periodic changes to the music playing interface to prevent burn-in of plasma TVs."
Guest [Entry]

"Yes, it used to be a feature to prevent images being ""burnt"" into CRT screens:

Before the advent of LCD screens, most computer screens were based on cathode ray tubes (CRTs). When the same image is displayed on a CRT screen for long periods of time, the properties of the exposed areas of phosphor coating on the inside of the screen gradually and permanently change, eventually leading to a darkened shadow or ""ghost"" image on the screen.

Therefore, providing a moving image worked around this. Now they are really only for entertainment."
Guest [Entry]

My screensaver is a selection of pictures of my smiling children. They remind me why I'm here working so hard so, yes, there is at least one very good reason for a screensaver.
Guest [Entry]

I don't generally have any purpose for them because I always have my power settings turn off my monitor in 15 minutes. So, there's really no time to enjoy the SS. :)
Guest [Entry]

As others have said, it's to prevent burn in. However, it's not just for CRTs. If you have a computer hooked up to a plasma TV, you'll want to have your screen saver come on early and often.