X crashes if I'm idle

[Ivan Uemlianin <i.a.uemlianin@celtic.co.uk>]

Dear All

I'm running Debian GNU/Linux 3.0 on an IBM Thinkpad A31p.

X is in VESA mode, as the Thinkpad has unsupported Radeon video.

If I'm in X (Gnome) and I'm idle for a while (10 mins?) X crashes.  The 
error messages seem to be to do with trying to run a screensaver.  Now, 
I have xscreensaver installed, but opening Gnome Control Center's 
screensaver tab causes X to crash instantly.  Same thing happens when 
xscreensaver is not installed.  I'm happy not to have a screensaver, 
and/or for the screen to just go blank like it does when in console mode.

- Can I set up X to go 'blank screen' for its screensaver?

- Am I barking up the wrong tree?

Thanks

Ivan