Hi Technical!
Many thanks for your prompt reply.

In answer to your questions:

 1)   No, Avast is not set to load the screensaver
       while scanning.

 2)   I am using the Windows screen saver 
       "3D Flying Objects" but the same thing happens
       with all windows screen savers.

 3)   I have now set that I use a dial-up connection

Unfortunately, the Windows XP Screen Saver settings in the Display Properties and the Windows XP screen savers are still not working properly and the Synchronisation Manager is still not working properly either.

I look forward to your reply.

Many thanks,
Tony.