Daylight Saving Time

This past Sunday, most of Canada and the US moved their clocks forward one hour to begin the annual Daylight Saving Time. The European Union does its one hour jump forward to Summer Time in just over a week from now.

How many clocks did you have to change? It’s amazing how many devices now include clocks, most of which must be manually changed. The list includes bedside alarm clocks, wrist watches, microwave ovens, electronic cooktops, home stereos, automobile clocks, wall clocks, and more.

Many VCRs (video cassette recorders) were so complicated to change, that they forever flashed “12:00” because their owners couldn’t set the time.

For years I was guaranteed a visit from an old friend at least twice yearly, spring and fall, with his car. The car’s clock was so devilishly difficult to change that he was unable to do so, and relied on me to figure it out. I still see him, but he hasn’t asked me to adjust his car clock for a while, so perhaps his new car is easier to adjust.

Most computers, mobile phones and portable music players change time automatically, but this automation isn’t perfect. iPhone owners had a double whammy on Sunday. Not only did their phones not move forward one hour, they actually moved back an hour. Anyone unknowingly relying on the iPhone’s time display was two hours late for appointments. Apple has now issued a fix.

Enjoy this annual jump forward. You can look forward to reversing the change a few months from now.