What Happens When Unix Time Overflows?
Contents

Is the 2038 problem real?

The simple answer is no, not if the computer systems are upgraded in time. The problem is likely to rear its head before the year 2038 for any system that counts years in to the future. … However, almost all modern processors in desktop computers are now made and sold as 64-bit systems running 64-bit software.

What happens when Unix 32-bit time overflows?

Cause. The latest time since 1 January 1970 that can be stored using a signed 32-bit integer is 03:14:07 on Tuesday, 19 January 2038 (231−1 = 2,147,483,647 seconds after 1 January 1970). … This is caused by integer overflow, during which the counter runs out of usable binary digits or bits, and flips the sign bit instead …

Robert Thorne

Robert Thorne

Automotive & Future Transportation Editor

Robert Thorne covers electric vehicle innovations, autonomous driving systems, global mobility trends, and automotive engineering developments.

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