Our recent WFTD (Y2K) and Tech Tip on Y2K issues (TTOTD 8/13/98) with keyboard products prompted many responses. While we’ve pretty much established that most synthesizers and hardware only devices will not be affected, one reader does offer some good input for PC computer users.
I think your readers should understand that this is not simply an issue of an incorrect date appearing on their screen. Most internal hardware including video cards, audio cards, BIOS chips and even motherboards use dates internally. So, when 1-1-2000 rolls around, it’s quite possible that their PC simply will not boot up because the hardware (not just the software) fails. They need to be aware that just because their software applications are compliant DOES NOT mean that their PC will function properly on that date.
In addition to the Microsoft web site you mention, I would highly encourage all of your readers to contact their PC vendor as well as the manufacturers of any additional hardware they’ve purchased for their PC. Also, be sure to make several full backups beginning several months before 2000. Most importantly, DO NOT advance the date on your computer just to see what will happen. Although many “experts” on TV are giving this advice, it’s a good way to lock your machine permanently. If 1-1-2000 rolls around and you’re still not sure if your machine is compliant, set the date back.