Effective this weekend, Daylight Saving Time (DST) for the United States will be extended by four weeks in order to comply with the Energy Policy Act of 2005. DST dates will start three weeks early on Sunday, March 11, at 2:00 A.M. and end one week late on Sunday, November 4, at 2:00 A.M.
Computer systems, cell phones, PDAs, and other applications that process dates and times will be affected by this change. So what actions do users need to take? Lawrence University computers connected to the network have already been updated, so no action is required. However, it may be necessary for students, faculty and staff to update personal and home computers. The following information will help you make the necessary changes.
Mac Users: Mac OS 10.3.9 and later have a Software Update available from Apple. To run Software Update, click on the Apple in the upper-left corner, then Software Update (you may have to click About This Mac first). Be sure the Daylight Savings Time update is checked and click Install. For versions of OS X older than 10.3.9, there is a free updater available at: http://www.versiontracker.com/dyn/moreinfo/macosx/32030. (Rob Konitzer, Microcomputer Specialist)
Windows Users: Windows Vista is already updated, so no action is required for Vista users. Windows XP and 2000 Professional users have updates available from Microsoft. Click on the Start menu, then Help and Support. Select Windows Update. Be sure to select Critical Update 928388 and install. Users may also visit the following link for specific update instructions and downloads: http://support.microsoft.com/gp/dst_hu1. (Drew Giese, Microcomputer Specialist)
Cell Phone Users: should check with their provider for system updates.
Palm Users: See the following link and select your device. http://www.palm.com/us/support/downloads/dst.html
Don't forget to change your clocks to reflect the DST changes - time will "spring forward" one hour on March 11. If you have questions or concerns regarding DST computer or other technical equipment updates, please direct them to the ITS Helpdesk via e-mail (helpdesk@lawrence.edu)or phone (ext. 6570).