Understanding the Y2K Problem

The transcript discusses the Y2K problem, where computers were programmed to use two-digit years, leading to fears of a technological meltdown at the turn of the millennium. It highlights the public's fear and preparations, including purchasing survival gear, and the government's response to prevent a crisis. The potential impacts on technology and society were significant, with concerns about failures in essential services. The transcript captures the anxiety and actions taken to address the Y2K issue.

What was the main reason for the Y2K problem in computer systems?

• Hardware was incompatible with new software.

• Software was not updated regularly.

• Dates were stored using only two digits.

• Computers were not powerful enough.

Which of the following was NOT a potential consequence of the Y2K bug?

• Elevators stopping

• Credit cards functioning better

• Airplanes coming to a halt

• Heat vanishing

How did people generally feel about the Y2K issue?

• They were terrified of potential failures.

• They were indifferent to the problem.

• They were excited about new technology.

• They were confident it would be resolved easily.

What was the general sentiment about the impact of Y2K on the economy?

• It was believed to have no impact.

• It was expected to boost the economy.

• It was considered too huge to contemplate.

• It was seen as a minor inconvenience.

What extreme measure did some people consider due to Y2K fears?

• Purchasing special ammunition

• Buying extra computers

• Investing in technology stocks

• Stockpiling food and water

What was the public's general understanding of the Y2K problem?

• They were mostly ignorant and fearful.

• They were well-informed and prepared.

• They believed it was a hoax.

• They thought it was a minor issue.

What action did the government take in response to Y2K concerns?

• Ignored the issue

• Increased taxes to fund solutions

• Banned the use of computers

• Appointed a crisis management expert

What percentage of the population believed Y2K would lead to an apocalypse?

• 2 to 4%

• 5 to 7%

• 8 to 10%

• 11 to 13%

What was the role of the crisis management expert appointed by the President?

• To prevent a Y2K meltdown

• To develop new software

• To manage media relations

• To educate the public

What was the President's instruction to the crisis management expert?

• To ignore public fears

• To let the world stop

• To ensure the world doesn't stop

• To focus on economic growth