Much like a checkbook has the 19 already filled in, the same is true for electronic systems, he said. He explained that there would be some unexpected results that could include total system failure. To help solve the problem the Department of Defense has categorized different systems and has begun to work fixes for them. Typical software systems like personnel and finance systems already have fixes in the works. In today's environment there are many products built with microprocessors inside them.
Obvious examples are microwaves, cameras and anything with a digital clock.
But, less obvious systems at risk can only be identified by the users of these systems. The hardest problem they face is identifying all the infrastructure out there that will be affected. Sudderman explained there is no one answer to fix the problem. Each system will be addressed individually. We first have to identify that there is a problem with the date field in the system.