Calaveras County Clerk-Recorder Computer System Failure

An outside computer technician, hired to replace a malfunction in one of the computer system’s memory drives, shut down the system in error causing a system failure in February 2006. Data on the operating system was not accessible while system repairs were being made. Eleven records stored on the tape drive backup system were also lost. Most of the data was restored, and all requests for information were honored. The remaining records were to be restored by April 14, 2006. There is no departmental procedure to notify the Board of Supervisors.

The Clerk-Recorder’s Office computer system is specific to that office and not shared by other departments. All data is backed up at the end of each day on a tape drive system. All recordings are further scanned and copied into a microfiche system. Original documents are kept until the procedure is completed. There appears to be adequate backup systems and procedures to assure there is no permanent loss of data. CONCLUSION Computer system failures are a fact of life. The Calaveras County Clerk- Recorder’s Office system failure record is one of the lowest in the state. Redundant systems and procedures are adequate and effective.