CAN THE Y2K PROBLEM BE FIXED?
Several factors have made it difficult to examine and remediate embedded systems. Since many of the embedded systems are continuously “live,” testing can only take place in a simulated environment, without integration with other systems. In addition, it would be impossible to test embedded systems that have been upgraded until all such systems were in place, and the upgraded systems would not be ready to test at the same time. In other cases remediation cannot be accomplished, because the microprocessors themselves can no longer be manufactured. In theory the Y2K problem can be fixed, and Y2K compliance can be achieved. In practical terms, though, several factors prevent full compliance. These boiled down to two key factors: manpower and time. On a worldwide basis there are not enough people to examine and rewrite programs. An estimated 400 computer languages have been used, with COBOL accounting for about 30 percent of non-compliant languages. In addition, many businesses and governme
