Y2k Essay, Research Paper

“Its the end of the world as we know it and I feel fine” – Michael

Stipes of R.E.M.. The year 2000 brings the thought of a computer problem

the world now calls Y2K. Y for year and K for kilo or thousand making it

mean Year 2000.

“…The real answer to the Y2K questions is that no one knows. Either

way. Those who claim they do know are either fools or liars. So where

does that leave us? For most, the answer is easy. Be reasonable. Be

repared.” –David L. Cawthon.

“The Y2K problem is the electronic equivalent of the El Ni o and there

will be nastysurprises around the globe.” –John Hamre, Dep. Secretary

of Defense.

The electrical power industry says it has completed most of its Y2K

compliance work. In all likelihood, here

should be no major disruptions in most places. What’s uncertain is how

localized the breakdowns will be and how quick the response to them will

be if and when they do happen.

There have been some concerns expressed about potential problems in the

drug distribution system, including possible interruptions in the

manufacturing and distribution process. There are fears that power and

phone systems vital to the links in the chain — from shipment of raw

materials to pharmacy computer records — could collapse for days or

weeks. While many experts see this as an extreme scenario, some others

suggest keeping a supply of essential medication handy.

Both hardware and software for personal computers may have Y2K problems,

especially hardware

purchased before mid-1997. Check computer makers’ Web sites for

information on potential problems, as

well as repairs that can be downloaded. Apple reports that their

Macintosh computers should be immune to the Y2K bug. Software

applications also may not be Y2K-ready — even those running on Apple.

Check with the maker about software updates and applications for

testing. Back up all important files.

Major trade associations say that most home appliances use clock

functions, not calendars — and therefore

microwaves, clock radios and coffee makers are not likely to be

affected. VCRs, camcorders and other products that do use calendars are

likely to be immune from the Y2K bug unless they were purchased before

1987.

Some VCRs cannot be programmed to record a program in 2000 until the

year has been rectified. Check the Web sites of manufacturers and trade

associations for more information on specific products and models. .

The food industry is working with grocers to make sure shelves remain

stocked. In terms of individual

stockpiling, it is recommended that you keep bottled water, batteries

and some canned food on hand in case of power outages — as one normally

might during winter months.

Elevators themselves don’t have date-specific functions and therefore

shouldn’t experience any problems,

manufacturers say. But if they’re tied into larger systems that control

building operations, elevators could experience problems — if the

larger systems aren’t Y2K ready. Tenants of high-rise buildings should

check with their manager or community association for more information.

Some cars may alert you — incorrectly — that it’s time for a service,

but besides that minor glitch, auto manufacturers say cars will run

normally. Gas stations should be open, provided that power and phone

lines aren’t down.

a check list i got from the state dept of insurance.

1. Check with manufacturers of computer-controlled electronic

devices to see if the equipment may be affected. This includes

fire and security alarm systems, programmable thermostats,

appliances, consumer electronics, garage door openers,

electronic locks and any other equipment in which an “embedded

chip” may control its operation.

2. Stock disaster supplies to last several days to a week. Include

nonperishable foods, stored water and an ample supply of

prescription and nonprescription medications that you regularly

use.

3. Have some extra cash on hand in case electronic transactions

involving ATM cards, credit cards and the like cannot be

processed. Withdraw money from your bank in small amounts.

4. If your credit cards expire after 1/1/00, carry a credit card with

an earlier expiration date as a backup in case retailers’ equipment

is unable to process the 00 card. Ask your credit card company

what they’re doing to ensure a smooth transition. Get a copy of

your credit report from one of the major credit bureaus.

5. If you have a mortgage, car loan or other debts, keep your

canceled checks as proof of the payments you’ve made. Ask

your mortgage or car lender for a statement of payments already

made and those to come with the amounts allocated to interest,

principal and escrow. That will ensure an accurate record of

your payments.

6. If you have insurance policies, keep copies of the policies and

records of the payments you make.

7. If you have a bank, mutual fund or brokerage account, start to

keep records of any transactions that you make at least a year in

advance of the millennium. If you use your computer to make

any of these transactions, download the records of your

transactions and keep them on a backup diskette and print

copies for your files.

8. Keep your automobile’s gas tank above half full.

9. In case the power fails, have some alternative cooking devices

on hand. Have extra blankets, coats, hats and gloves to keep

warm. Do not plan to use gas-fueled appliances such as an oven

as an alternative heating source. The same goes for

wood-burning or liquid-fueled heating devices that are not

designed to be used in a residential structure. Camp stoves and

heaters should only be used out of doors in a well-ventilated

area.

10. Have plenty of flashlights and extra batteries on hand. Don’t use

candles for emergency lighting.

11. Examine your smoke alarms now. If you have smoke alarms that

are hard-wired into your home’s electrical system (most newer

ones are), check to see if they have battery back-ups.

12. Be prepared to relocate to a shelter for warmth and protection

during a prolonged power outage or, if for any other reason,

local officials request or require that you leave your home.

13. If you plan to use a portable generator, connect what you want

to power directly to the generator; do not connect the generator

to your home’s electrical system. Don’t put a generator in your

basement or anywhere inside your home.