Daylight-saving time comes early this year – March 11, to be exact – because the federal government decided moving it to March could save energy. Here’s what you need to know:
TVs, VCRs, DVD PLAYERS
Since most consumer-electronic devices are programmed to switch to daylight-saving time in April, users will have to manually reset clocks on TVs, VCRs and DVD players. Depending on the device, you may need to reset it again in April if the clock automatically springs ahead.
Cable or satellite set-top box
Comcast, DirecTV and EchoStar, which runs the Dish Network, say all their set-top boxes or DVRs will automatically change to the new time at 2 a.m. Sunday and not interfere with scheduled recordings.
HOME COMPUTERS
Windows-based PCs
Users with the new Vista operating system will not have to make any manual changes. Users of Windows XP Service Pack 2 should let Windows automatically update the necessary patch. There is a step-by-step tutorial on the Microsoft website to help users:
Outlook
Users of the new Outlook 2007 do not have to do anything. Older versions of Outlook need to download the time-zone data update tool from the Microsoft website.
Macs
Apple is providing updates to users, depending on the Mac OS version they’re running. More information can be found at:
CELLPHONES
The time display on cellphones will change automatically as providers make time changes on a central network.
BlackBerrys, Treos and other smart phones
Verizon: Consult the manufacturer’s instruction guide and update or patch the device.
Cingular: Users will have to update software on certain Cingular smart phones.
T-Mobile: The website lists devices affected by the change: http://support.t-mobile.com/knowbase/root/public/tm23412.htm
Sprint: Is offering a patch for several devices.
