Buzz
Along with quirky mugs and amusing bobbleheads, fun screensavers were once the perfect way to show your colleagues how playful you were. They also protected bulky old computers from suffering permanent screen damage from static images.
As HowStuffWorks describes, early computer monitors used a cathode-ray tube (CRT), which displayed images on the screen using phosphor. If a single image stayed on the screen too long, the phosphor would leave a permanent imprint—known as burn-in. While a single mark wasn’t usually catastrophic, repeated burn-ins could eventually obscure what was displayed on the screen. So developers created moving images, called screensavers, to activate whenever the screen remained idle. Over time, CRTs were replaced with liquid crystal displays (LCDs), which are lighter, more energy-efficient, and don’t rely on phosphor, meaning burn-in is no longer a concern.
Although screensavers don’t actually protect screens much anymore, they remain just as enjoyable as before. In fact, they’re probably even more entertaining now, thanks to more intricate graphics and an endless supply of choices online. Entertainment is one of the reasons screensavers continue to be popular, but they also serve a practical purpose: cybersecurity. Some modern screensavers require you to enter a password to unlock your computer, keeping your data safe while you’re away. Some workplaces even mandate screensaver usage for this exact reason.
For some businesses, screensavers serve as a tool for branding or communication. When all employees use the same screensaver, it fosters a shared identity, which can also leave a positive impression on clients visiting the office. Corporate screensavers can even display important updates, event alerts, and other essential information.
Longing for the old-school screensavers from the CRT days? Here are 10 you can revisit on YouTube.
