Use registry shortcuts to disable and enable screensavers in Win XP:
The
steps in this tip will show you how to edit the registry for a
time-saving shortcut for enabling and disabling your screensaver.
When
you perform maintenance operations such as defragmenting or backing up
the hard disk, you probably disable your screensaver before you begin to
prevent it from interfering with the maintenance operation. However,
disabling your screensaver manually is a multi step operation that
involves accessing the Display Properties dialog box, navigating to the
Screen Saver tab, and setting the screen saver to None. Then, you need
to re-enable the screen saver after you complete the maintenance
operation.
Fortunately,
you can automate the disabling and enabling screen saver procedures
with a couple of registry shortcuts. Note: Editing the registry is
risky, so make sure you have a verified backup before making any
changes.
Here's how.
1. Launch Notepad and type the following four lines. (Note: The second line must be blank.)
Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop]
"ScreenSaveActive"="0"
2. Save the file to your desktop with the name Disable Screen Saver.reg.
3. Change the 0 to a 1 in the fourth line.
4. Save the file to your desktop with the name Enable Screen Saver.reg.
Now,
when you need to disable the screen saver, just double-click the
Disable Screen Saver.reg shortcut. To enable the screen saver,
double-click the Enable Screen Saver.reg shortcut.
When
you run either of these files, the Registry Editor will display two
confirmation prompts—one before making the change and one after making
the change.
