What is the “Year 2000” computer problem, anyway?

The “Year 2000” computer problem was created inadvertently when software designers in the 1970’s and 1980’s wrote computer programs that used just two digits to indicate the year. The “19” half of“1985” was a fixed element in most of these programs; only the last two digits could be changed.

As a result, on January 1, 2000, many computer programs will read the year “2000” as “1900.”

Does this really affect everyone?

In a word, yes. You don’t have to own a computer to be affected by the “Year 2000” computer problem. Basically, anything that contains a date-related function will be subject to this problem. Everything from simple wristwatch calendars to sophisticated software and hardware may need to be modified.

Here’s what we’re doing about it.

In 1996 we formed a special task force to work on our internal operating systems, using project plan guidelines recommended by the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC). In addition, because VNB/First Savings of New Hampshire is a national bank, we are monitored on our Year 2000 readiness by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). Our goal is to effect a smooth transition to the year 2000, internally and with our customers and vendors. Right now, we’re on track to be “Year 2000-” ready. We will keep you informed on our progress as the date draws nearer.

Our advice to you? Be prepared.

From a consumer perspective it would be a wise idea to save paper copies of any data stored in your home computer and make a “back-up” copy of your computer files. For specific questions on how this problem may affect your software or hardware, contact the manufacturers.

For more information:

Here are a few places where you can get more information on the Year 2000 issue:

Information Technology Association of America
(703) 522-5055
http://www.itaa.org

The Year 2000 Home Page
http://www.year2000.com

National Institute of Standards and Technology, Department of Commerce:
FIPS PUB 4-1, “Representation for Calendar
Date and Ordinal Date Information Interchange”
http://www.nist.gov/itl/div879/yr2000.htm

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