Equipment - Y2K Hard drive, Australian Government, 1999

Historical information

Y2K / the year 2000 / The millennium bug / was commonly used to refer to a widespread computer programming shortcut that was expected to cause extensive havoc as the year changed from 1999 to 2000. Instead of allowing four digits for the year, many computer programs only allowed two digits (e.g., 99 instead of 1999). As a result, there was immense panic that computers would be unable to operate at the turn of the millennium when the date descended from "99" to "00".
The Bug presented a formidable challenge to the problem-solving skills of local government officials. Lacking a cure-all that will work for every municipality, local officials must develop their own solutions to meet their community's unique needs. At the same time, the Y2K bug provided a once-in-a-millennium leadership opportunity for local officials who understood that they are the key to preparing their communities for any issues.

Physical description

Hard drive mounted in an alaminium case with glass window front and back.

Inscriptions & markings

Presented to Greater Bendigo City Council / by Hon, Roger Hallam. MLC / Minister for Finance / and / Hon, Robert Maclellan. MLA / Minister for Planning and Local Government / on 21 June. 1999 / In recognition of being the first Victorian Council / to be Y2k compliant

Subjects

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