The problem is most serious for computers that use the Windows or DOS operating systems. Apple Macintosh computers have used a four-digit date since 1984. Computers purchased in the last two years are less likely to have problems, but Dr. Tom Rosenal at the Calgary Regional Health Authority says that new computers from a major brand name have recently failed their Y2K tests. But, if you change this setting as some articles recommend, you could cause certain software programs to believe that your software license has expired. They may refuse to function, even when you reset the date back to normal.
Many medical devices contain microprocessors that calculate dates.
If you use such devices, contact the manufacturer. The Health Canada website has a list of y2k-compliant medical devices. Word-processing software will not be greatly affected. Accounting programs are the most critical because they could actually cost you money if they make a mistake. It may be necessary to upgrade to a newer version of the program.