YEAR 2000 (Y2K) COMPLIANCE ISSUE - REMINDER
ISSUE:
Some Building Control Systems (BAS) may not operate correctly at the transition to the
year 2000.
BACKGROUND:
Some computer systems and software programs were developed using two-digit year
numbers, e.g., 96 for 1996, with 19 as a hardcoded number. This will cause a problem
when changing over to the year 2000. Some of these systems may wrap around to the
year 1900 or applications may fail, if executed using the two-digit numbers. Database
structures in some systems may not function after the changeover.
DISCUSSION:
All building systems with clock functions are potential candidates for malfunctions
including elevators, security systems, fire alarm etc. Several BAS manufacturers such
as Johnson Controls and Honeywell have tested their products to determine potential
issues associated with the transition from year 1999 to the year 2000.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
1. VAMCs should contact their BAS manufacturer(s) for specific recommendations,
options, and solutions concerning their systems. Each system needs to be checked
individually.
Call Honeywell: 1-800-500-9403.
Visit web site: http://www.Honeywell.com/year2000
Johnson Controls: Contact local representative.
Visit web site: http://www.Johnsoncontrols.com/
All building systems in projects under design or construction should be checked for
compliance.
2. VA master construction specification section 15902 on Controls and
Instrumentation (DDC) and General Requirement section 01010 were updated for
year 2000 compliance.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFOR MATION:
Contact Satish Sehgal at 202-565-5032, Kurt Knight at 202-565-4980, or Sat Gupta at
202-565-5268.
22January 1997
FM-187C-DA62
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