Beginning this year, the U.S. Congress has extended the start and end dates for daylight-saving time (DST). As a result, DST now will begin on the second Sunday of March (March 11) and end the first Sunday of November (Nov. 4).

This impending change means that UAB is implementing a wide variety of information technology systems updates because calendars and other time-keeping programs on computers and mobile devices could be affected by the new start and end dates. For example, calendar items may appear in incorrect time slots, mobile devices such as PDAs and Smartphones may not be properly synced with computers, and clocks on some devices may be an hour off after the DST changeover.

UAB has been working with its vendors to implement the software updates – many of which have only recently become available – to address these potential problems. In addition, users can turn to the new Web site www.uab.edu/it/dst established by the Office of the Vice President for Information Technology for general information and guidance on updating computers, mobile devices, servers and other operating systems. The AskIT Help Desk is also available to answer any questions at 996-5555 or askit@uab.edu .