Web site helps students with Y2K problems

The computing services department has created a web site to advise CSUS students how to protect their personal computers from a possible Y2K meltdown.

“We wanted to be sure that tools were out there,” said Linda Downing, User Services manager.

The Web site provides comprehensive information, ranging from an explanation of Y2K challenges to providing links to many manufacturers of PCs who provide technical assistance and specific information regarding their products.

“It’s hard to know how a student has used their machine and what they’ve done to their machine,” said Downing in explanation of the many links.

So what is Y2K compliance for a computer?

The Institution of Electrical Engineers defines Y2K compliance as computer systems that can function through the turn of the year 2000 withouth suffering any ill effects.

According to the CSUS Y2K Web page, there are four places where Y2K problems can occur on a desktop PC. The site instructs users to check the BIOS, check the OS, check any applications, and to check any stored data.

“If a student’s PC is a newer model there shouldn’t be any problem,”said Downing. However, if the PC is an older machine, there may be a malfunction when the date on the computer’s calendar rolls over to Jan. 1, 2000, according to Downing.

The Web site explains that many computers store a two-digit number for the year. It is the computer’s inability to read the year 2000, interpreting the “00” as indistinguishable from the year 1900, that is the root of the Y2K bug.

For students who are unsure of how to proceed or who have questions, there is technical help available. “Students can send us an email message,” said Downing.

Comments are also welcome at the e-mail address: Y2K@csus.edu.

The CSUS Y2K Web site can be found at http://www.csus.edu/y2k.htm