DETROIT – In the 1990s, during the boom of the modern day personal computer, there was a thing called a screensaver.
We all had the best screensaver. Whether it was the old Windows maze animation, or the After Dark Bad Dog screensaver, we all had the best screensaver, in our own opinion.
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It wasn't just a function -- it was a sign of pride. You wanted people to see your screensaver. You set your screensaver to come on after just five minutes, to make sure someone would see it. You worked so hard to pick it, after all.
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Even though they are still around and serve a purpose today, it just isn't the same. Why are screensavers such a staple of the 90s? Sit back -- you're about to get a quick history lesson.
Before 1990, most computer monitors and other screens were prone to burn-in, which occurs when a stationary image stays on screen for an extended period of time, permanently damaging the screen.
The screensaver program was developed to change the image after a specified period of time, in order to prevent burn-in.
We can get really nerdy and talk about the technical aspects of it all, but we'll spare you. Instead, let's take a look at some of the classics, starting with my personal favorite, the Windows Maze.
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Another classic - the Windows random, somewhat trippy shapes screensaver.
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After Dark is a screensaver software first seen on Apple computers in 1989, and on Microsoft computers in 1991. One of their more well-known screensavers involves a dog, that would eat all of your documents, and dig holes into your desktop.
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Another well-known After Dark screensaver features flying toasters.
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Lastly, After Dark's Can of Worms.
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And finally, we'll leave you with this gem. In Microsoft computers, there was a screensaver option to post a scrolling marquee -- essentially a message -- which could act as a note for someone, or a reminder. But, for this cat, the scrolling marquee is the devil.
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