How to Convert an Executable File Into a Screensaver

A screensaver is, in fact, an executable file that has had its file-extension changed from ".exe" to ".scr." If you don't change a screensaver's ".exe" extension, it will still work when you execute the file. However, if you add it to the System32 folder of your Windows directory, it won't appear in the "Display Properties" list. You must change the extension to .scr before Windows can add the screen saver to this list.

Instructions

1. Use Windows Explorer to open the folder that contains the executable file that you want to convert into a screen-saver.

2. Locate the file you want to use, which will typically have an ".exe" file extension. Your .exe files may be hidden by default. If so, follow step #3 below. If not, skip to step #4.

3. Click on "Tools" in the Explorer bar, and then click "Folder Options" in the Windows menu. In the pop-up window, click on the "View" tab. Under "Advanced Settings," scroll down the list until you find the option that reads "Hide extensions for known file types." Uncheck this option. Click on "Apply" or "OK" and then close the window.
   Click the 'View' tab in the new window that appeared.

4. Select the .exe file you would like to convert and right-click on it. Choose the option to "Rename" in the drop-down menu.

5. Change the file extension from ".exe" to ".scr"

6. Right click the file again and then choose the option to "Install."

Tips & Warnings

• If you are creating your own screensaver, be sure to compile it at max scale and without frames. You should also ensure that it is "always-on-top."

• If you would like to use the screensaver as a slide-show, Microsoft DirectX may come in handy for creating transitions between multimedia.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish