Most of you guys know I'm a member of another forum. I had put up an avatar for the Thanksgiving holiday. So this morning I went to replace it with the one I've been using here. Imagine my surprise to get a message saying (basically) "No animated avatars allowed".
To say I'm pi$$ed is putting it mildly. An animated .gif has been my avatar for almost two years online. Does ST have any plans to stop allowing animated .gifs as well? Tell me now so I can vent. I know it's a small thing in the greater scheme of life, but jeez.

I would say that it depends on who runs this server and if it get overwhelmed, or thinks it needs to save space any way it can, then they might not let any on their server.

JP would know or be able to find out, but if it came to a vote, I would side with the majority, just jokin, I dont think that the group of guys running ST would ban that sort of avatar unless they had to.

hope that helps.

elroy

It does help, Elroy, thank you. I mean, I didn't think I asked for all that much out of life...

avatar gifs = bannination

j/k Tom!!

I see no issue with it and I believe there is a size limit regardless if it is animated or not. You avatar is fine and will be allowed here without issue. Tasteless ones are more of a concern.

*takes a bow* Thanks, Kelly. Much appreciated.

I like to see things moving. Reminds me that I'm not dead yet.

So, you got to shake it only in ST.
"Shake baby shake..."

Tom,

As I´m sure you´re aware of, JP is the guy who knows about the software we use here at ST, as well as what is compatible with our host´s rules, so his is the last word.

However, it looks to me your avatar is no larger than the maximum allowed, so IMO, it´s ok. By the way, I now think that besides being a wise man, you´re also a man of good taste.

I can only talk for ST´s way of doing things, so I can assure you if that same issue came up here, I´m sure we would find a more personal and friendly way of discussing the matter with you.

Jorge

see, thats what i was trying to say.

elroy

As the forum's quasi software technician, I can say that I see no problem with animated avatars for the foreseeable future. As far as bandwidth and our host's concerns, there's no difference between an animated image and a steady-state image of the same size. I suppose there is the possibility that an animated avatar allows the possibility of abuse, but it's our job as admins/mods to handle this on an individual basis rather than punishing all.

Far as I'm concerned, they add visual interest and make the forum a bit more fun.

- JP

Merci, mes amis! I don't change it often but wasn't sure of the future. I obsess over stupid things. Much appreciated, JP.