register_shutdown_function - uses for

I was hoping that I could use this function to enable me to finish scripts tidily when they time out or are aborted by the user. eg display the message "script timed out". However this will not work as no output is allowed in the shutdown function. I can see other ways to do what I want (but suggestions would always be welcome) but the real point of this email is this: what sort of thing would you use register_shutdown_function to achieve? Euan Greig Technical Consultant BRANN DATA euan.greig@brann.com 01285 645997 ************************************************************************** Any opinions expressed in this email are those of the individual and not necessarily the Company. This email and any files transmitted with it, including replies and forwarded copies (which may contain alterations) subsequently transmitted from the Company, are confidential and solely for the use of the intended recipient. If you are not the intended recipient or the person responsible for delivering to the intended recipient, be advised that you have received this email in error and that any use is strictly prohibited. **************************************************************************