Can't disable user right to change time

Discussions around the setup, operation, replacement, and disposal of clerk computers, not to include using MLS
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gregwanderson
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Re: Can't disable user right to change time

#11

Post by gregwanderson »

Our BIOS battery was low so our computer paused during startup, making it easy to go to the setup screen (before Windows starts) and set the date and time there. I realize this circumvents the restriction that happens through Windows but I was glad I could set the date and time correctly before getting into MLS. And anyone who knows just a little about the BIOS setting already knows how to do this... unless someone created a password for the BIOS setting functions.

If the time/date settings are disabled in Windows does that also stop the user from initiating a time check where the computer refers to an online server to automatically set the time and date?
aclawson
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Re: Can't disable user right to change time

#12

Post by aclawson »

There is always a way to change the date/time if somebody really wants to - disabling the changing of date/time is just a way to prevent accidental/unthinking changes by people who mean well and who aren't going to push beyond the first minor technical hurdle.

The issue with the BIOS battery is a big deal though and one that should be addressed with FM. Me personally, as STS I would just replace the battery and be done with it because the hassle to go through "proper channels" for such a minuscule issue really just isn't worth it. But do it my way or go through FM, you want to get this issue resolved immediately or life can become a bit more complicated.
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Re: Can't disable user right to change time

#13

Post by russellhltn »

While FM is reponsable for repair/replacement of computers out of warranty, I'd hope the STS would be capable of replacing a CMOS battery. $2 at the local drug store. (CR2032 IIRC).
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aclawson
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Re: Can't disable user right to change time

#14

Post by aclawson »

russellhltn wrote:While FM is reponsable for repair/replacement of computers out of warranty, I'd hope the STS would be capable of replacing a CMOS battery. $2 at the local drug store. (CR2032 IIRC).
I have seen the occasional motherboard with the battery soldered into place which made it impossible to change, but aside from that you're right. But on the other hand, I'm not going to say that it is the de facto responsibility of somebody to do this on their own. I would personally, but I'm not going to tell somebody else that they have to do it.
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gregwanderson
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Re: Can't disable user right to change time

#15

Post by gregwanderson »

aclawson wrote:There is always a way to change the date/time if somebody really wants to - disabling the changing of date/time is just a way to prevent accidental/unthinking changes by people who mean well and who aren't going to push beyond the first minor technical hurdle.
Agreed. So I hope that if any STS gets the nifty idea of putting passwords on computer BIOS setups then he'll also leave his 24-hour on-call phone number on a sticker on the side of the computer too... and expect to be contacted at any time.
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Mikerowaved
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Re: Can't disable user right to change time

#16

Post by Mikerowaved »

aclawson wrote:But on the other hand, I'm not going to say that it is the de facto responsibility of somebody to do this on their own. I would personally, but I'm not going to tell somebody else that they have to do it.
Personally, if I found ANY stake PC with a failed battery, I would replace them in every PC from that same vintage. If an STS is intimidated by opening a PC case, I'm sure they can find a myriad of YouTube how-to videos available for any specific make/model. (Or just have any Aaronic Priesthood youth assist him. :) ) If they have a problem with the out-of-pocket expense, I'm certain any SP would gladly authorize a reimbursement request for the batteries.
mrrad wrote:So I hope that if any STS gets the nifty idea of putting passwords on computer BIOS setups then he'll also leave his 24-hour on-call phone number on a sticker on the side of the computer too... and expect to be contacted at any time.
Fortunately, when the CMOS time is reset because of a failed battery, CMOS passwords will often get cleared at the same time.

BTW, my name and cell number IS stuck to every PC in the stake with the invitation to call anytime. :cool:
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ZundelMJ
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Re: Can't disable user right to change time

#17

Post by ZundelMJ »

Yes, the bios battery is an easy and cheap fix. I don't bother the FM with such a small matter.

What I was hoping to see here is an announcement that I missed from HQ about the lock down of user rights. It seems hard for me to fulfill my calling when I am not given information to support the computers. I am thankful the computers I support are just a few miles away from each other.
lajackson
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Re: Can't disable user right to change time

#18

Post by lajackson »

zundelmj wrote:What I was hoping to see here is an announcement that I missed from HQ about the lock down of user rights.
I think the GSD quietly pushed it out about a year or so ago, but I do not remember for sure, and I do not remember an announcement. It was around the time that there were a number of MLS issues because the date was being changed on computers and Support was busy helping folks fix them.
bfromm
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Re: Can't disable user right to change time

#19

Post by bfromm »

A newsletter went out to all Stake/District Technology Specialists before we pushed out the Date and Time policy via TEM. The information was also added to the RKATS site (clerksupport.lds.org). Here is a direct link to the information:

https://www.lds.org/callings/melchizede ... p?lang=eng

As outlined in the article, you can call the GSC and they can temporarily remove the restriction so that you can change the date and/or time settings. You could also do this on your own if you know how (google) as suggested in earlier posts, and TEM will eventually re-apply the policy.

If you have a failed battery and the machine is under warranty, call the manufacturer and they should come out and replace it. If the machine is no longer under warranty, just replace the battery and ask your stake to reimburse you. You can also call the FM Group for guidance if you aren't comfortable doing this. If the machine is out of warranty and the battery is soldered to the motherboard, call the FM Group to see what they want to do. They will evaluate the situation and decide if it's worth paying to fix the computer or if they need to buy a new one.
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aebrown
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Re: Can't disable user right to change time

#20

Post by aebrown »

bfromm wrote:A newsletter went out to all Stake/District Technology Specialists before we pushed out the Date and Time policy via TEM.
Yes, that was the September 2012 Technology Specialist Newsletter, which I received on 6 September 2012.
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