The millennium bug

Citation

(1999), "The millennium bug", Facilities, Vol. 17 No. 3/4. https://doi.org/10.1108/f.1999.06917cab.012

The millennium bug

The millennium bug

Keywords IT, PCs, Security

Businesses are ignoring the impact of the millennium bug on embedded systems at their peril, according to RS Components, Europe's largest distributor of electronic and industrial products. Embedded systems, including microprocessors and controllers, are found in many critical areas including manufacturing processes, telephone systems, petrochemical plants and so on.

"During 1995 200 million personal computers were sold but in 1996 the number of embedded systems distributed was around 7 billion," said Mick Parker, Year 2000 project manager, RS Components speaking at an RS Components organised seminar in Edinburgh to help its customers address the Y2K threat to embedded systems.

One hundred and twenty customers gathered at Murrayfield Rugby Union Football Stadium to hear industry experts from Action 2000, Siemens, Mitsubishi and RS offer advice on developing a Year 2000 embedded systems compliance strategy.

Said Parker: "The millennium bug is not just an IT issue. It is far more serious than that. Embedded systems exist in air-conditioning, security systems, lighting, conveyors, industrial control equipment. Although the list is endless some types of embedded system are more critical than others and the risks need to be carefully assessed. Embedded systems include pre-programmed chips, programmable chips, programmable logic controllers, industrial automation equipment, computer boards and linked PC systems."

Among the key issues addressed in the seminar were issues like the complex chain of supply, legal liability, testing procedures and timescales for correction. A central theme was that suppliers and companies need to work together to fix the problem rather than become embroiled in litigation.

"RS is actively working with all its suppliers to ensure that we sell only Y2K compliant products. Any products in the March 1998 catalogue confirmed by the supplier as non-compliant have been discontinued. In the unlikely event that one of our products is found to be non-compliant after 1 July 1998, it will be immediately withdrawn from sale and customers will be entitled to a refund or replacement", said Parker.

A number of other seminar days hosted by RS Components involving the government-sponsored agency, Action 2000, and other industry leaders is planned for RS Customers around the UK. The next one is at Stamford Bridge (Chelsea Football Club) on 18 November. Action 2000's programme manager, Andy Nurse said: "Action 2000 applauds the initiative of RS Components in raising the issue of embedded systems and offering advice to its customers through these seminars".

For further information contact Robin Brown, RS Components Limited, PO Box 99, Corby, Northants NN17 9RS. Tel: +44 (0) 1536 201234; Fax: +44 (0) 1536 201501; E-mail: robin.brown@rs-components.com