February 2007

Earlier DST may present computer problems

Daylight savings time (DST) starts on March 11 this year — three weeks earlier than in years past and will end November 4, 2007, a week later than usual. The extended DST period presents problems for computer operating systems, which generally update (change clocks) automatically.

An advisory on Microsoft’s Web site, says, “Unless certain updates are applied to your computer, the time zone settings for your computer's system clock may be incorrect during this four-week period. In particular, you must make sure that both your Windows operating system and your calendar programs are updated.”

The Web site offers an update guide for both personal and work users, which leads users through a Q&A to identify if they have to download a software patch to assure proper timekeeping on their computers.

The Q&A is available at http://support.microsoft.com/gp/cp_dst