Y2K update
September 1, 1999
Y2K update
Does your computer know 2000 is a leap year?
Test your PC for leap-year savvy
The last millennium leap year was 1600, so it’s safe to say many systems do not recognize 2000 as a leap year. It’s recommended that you test your computer ahead of time. As always, back up all data before testing:
• Set the date to Feb. 28, 2000, and the time to 23:55 — 11:55 p.m. — then shut down in the normal manner and turn off the power.
• Wait at least five minutes, then turn on the computer.
• Verify that the date is Tuesday, Feb. 29, 2000, and the time is a few minutes past midnight.
• If the day, date, or time is incorrect, then you have a problem with your basic input/output system (BIOS). Correcting the problem may require a software upgrade to the BIOS or a BIOS chip replacement. Contact the manufacturer of your computer to obtain the upgrade.
• Repeat the same test without shutting down the machine and turning off the power.
You can determine the compliance of your PC’s BIOS by following these steps:
• Set the date to Dec. 31, 1999, and the time to 23:55 — 11:55 p.m. then shut down the computer in the normal manner and turn off the power.
• Wait at least five minutes, then turn on the computer.
• Verify that the date is Saturday, Jan. 1, 2000, and the time is a few minutes past midnight.
• If incorrect, you have a problem with your BIOS. Contact the manufacturer of your computer to obtain the upgrade.
• Repeat the same test without shutting down the machine and turning off the power.
Note: if you have software applications that take automatic action based on the date of your computer, make sure those applications are disabled before conducting these tests. Damage or loss of data may result otherwise.
Source: Y2K Alert for Cardiology Practices, 1999.
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