FactFinder: Embedded Systems Discussion?

greenspun.com : LUSENET : TimeBomb 2000 (Y2000) : One Thread

FactFinder started a thread yesterday which I had hoped would get more attention:

The "Real" Y2K Problem - Is it Embedded Systems or is it Software?

Embedded systems seems to be the "boogeyman" of Y2k. And I think a detailed discussion, or "debate" if you will, would be enlightening.

In any case, the "Debate Forum" is I believe still available. And I think the addition of a rational discussion on Embedded Systems would be truly beneficial.

So, if FactFinder wants to continue the discussion, and can find someone to take the opposing view, just let me know.

-- Hoffmeister (hoff_meister@my-deja.com), August 30, 1999

Answers

I appreciate the offer of the use of the "Debate Forum", Hoff. By the way, I congratulate you and Heller on an outstanding debate concering Y2K in software. Your discussions were conducted most professionally and I learned a great deal from them.

So far, I see there are no offers on a debate of Y2K in embedded systems. In a way I am relieved, though....I really am not sure I have the time to devote to this, and time is needed to do the subject justice. Besides, I might loose...lol! Of course I am kidding here, I would not "loose" or "win", we would all learn more. I concede no one as an "expert in the subject", and I consider the Gartner Group on a "learning curve" - as we all are, since as in software, the varieties of "embedded systems" and the various date processing and usage in these systems is tremendous.

So I actually prefer open discussions, open to anyone who has some solid facts to add (i.e., we'll be needing manufacturers and model numbers). However if Frautschi or Gordon shows up and makes an offer of a debate, I could never resist, lol.

Regards,

-- FactFinder (FactFinder@bzn.com), August 30, 1999.


Hoff, I'd like your cv or a list of your qualifications. At this time I haven't seen anything you've posted that might list your background experience, etc.

Also, perhaps one of you can explain this (pulled from the IEE site):

Equipment Type DCS

Industry Sector Oil & Gas PC or Computer based No

System Age 6 years

Application DCS control system control for petrochemical plant

Description of the Problem Online rollover to Year 2000

How was it Identified During testing. Offsite testing on a testbed was performed with satisfactory results. Upon testing of stations on site, control was no longer possible after the system had rolled over to Year 2000. It was not until this problem was evident on three of the four operating stations was testing aborted.

What was the Solution No known workaround. Plant had to be operated from one station until problem could be rectified

Consequences for the SYSTEM System Stops

Consequences of failure to the BUSINESS Near catastrophic. Limited reliability and operability of plant. Reduced production

Furthermore, what percentage of "type testing" would you suggest is realistic?

--------------------------------------------------------------------

-- interested (none@this.time), August 31, 1999.


Moderation questions? read the FAQ