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Technology Stocks : Year 2000 (Y2K) Embedded Systems & Infrastructure Problem -- Ignore unavailable to you. Want to Upgrade?

To: John Mansfield who wrote (334)	4/27/1998 6:14:00 PM
From: STLMD	Respond to of 618

John, I have been spending much of my time in the past six months working with our medical IS staff and lecturing around Virginia to Medical Staffs and Medical Societies regarding y2k and Medical systems and devices. What do we know specifically : About 9% of embedded systems are noncompliant. These range from laboratory testing units to MRI machines to different brands of infusion pumps to interfaces with our lab machines and our software systems. About 40% of our devices have no date function whatsoever. The other 50%: Haven't been able how to figure out now to test them or haven't received any notification from the vendor after multiple attempts dating back to late summer 1987. Contingency planning in these cases or removal of these devices are the only options unless we get a more reasoned response from vendors. The litigation atmosphere promoting the current "era of quiet" surrounding y2k vendor responses is frightening. Until we can remove the fear of litigation the responses will be slow. Stephen

To: John Mansfield who wrote (334)	4/28/1998 2:20:00 AM
From: John Mansfield	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 618

Local Utilities 'Key components to transmission system compliance are embedded technology devices called remote terminal units, which contain date- and time-stamping microchips. These units process information from sensors throughout the transmission grid. They are also used to reroute power service in the event of downed or damaged lines, and for communicating back to the master control office. One crucial aspect of RTUs is their role in load management. Load refers to the amount of power being transmitted between the generation plant and the consumer. In other words, consumption must equal production and when a line goes down or load consumption drops, the utility must reroute the power, or reduce generation. While inconsistent load can strain transmission, Sims said the year 2000 doesn't present any extraordinary problems. ' guide-p.infoseek.com

To: John Mansfield who wrote (334)	4/30/1998 2:18:00 PM
From: John Mansfield	Respond to of 618

'Beware Y2K building bug By Karina Barrymore Forget the crippled invoice system or the wayward automatic teller, the infamous 2000 computer bug may lock you in your elevator, leave you gasping for breath or even shut down your whole office building. Despite the mire of computer lingo and the temptation for glazed eyes at the mere mention of it, building owners can not overlook the risks from the Y2K bug. According to consultant engineer Norman Disney & Young, the potential computer problems when the century date changes to 2000 have the potential to shut down crucial building services such as lifts, fire protection and air conditioning, and may empty whole office buildings. afr.com.au