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Technology Stocks : Year 2000 (Y2K) Embedded Systems & Infrastructure Problem
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To: John Mansfield who wrote (531)7/22/1998 4:50:00 PM
From: John Mansfield  Read Replies (2) of 618
 
'Will your VCR explode when the year 2000 arrives? (ABCNEWS.com)

By Chris Stamper
ABCNEWS.com
July 20 - If the world collapes because of the
millennium bug, isn't it nice to know you'll still be
able to get a cup of coffee?
....

No Problems
Y2K watchers see problems with home appliances as the
least of the world's troubles.
"Who cares if your coffeemaker has the right time or
not?" says Stephanie Moore, senior analyst with the Giga
Information Group. "It's not that critical."
Moore says most local problem caused by the bug are out
of the individual's control. Things like utilities, traffic lights,
and climate control are bigger risks.
Then there's the threat of infrastructural breakdowns.
"Most people won't have trouble at home," says computer
consultant Rich Burgeon. "They might be able to go to work,
they might be laid off or not be able to find fresh food for a
while."

Real Problems
Burgeon, who co-authored a business book on the bug,
Managing '00, expects several weeks of discomfort because
of the bug. He says he's concerned about making sure the
elevators and security system work in the building where he
lives.
Other parts of his home are of less concern. "If my
coffeemaker goes out, I can get a new one," he says. "If my
TV breaks, I can fix it."
Moore and Burgeon say the real risk is with industrial
equipment that uses preprogrammed microchips. Even if
someone's coffeemaker or microwave stopped working, the
effect would be minimal. If traffic lights malfunction or
equipment fails at local water works or power stations, the
results could be more troublesome than unpopped popcorn
or unbrewed French roast.
"People may not have phone or electricity or the heat may
shut off in the middle of December," Moore says
...

abcnews.com
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