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RAM memory testing

• Problems with RAM are one of the most frequent HW problems. This article will introduce the types of potential behavior of failing memories and testing options.
• Memories are usually tested upon assembling a PC using specialized SW tools, however, many manufacturers skip the tests to save time. In this article, we will introduce some SW testing products. Apart from SW tools, there also exist special HW devices for testing memory modules. A simple memory test is executed by the motherboard upon starting the computer (POST test). In the BIOS system, you can enable a more thorough test, however, SW tools provide more accuracy.

Problems with RAM can show in many ways, e.g.

• Computer does not turn on
• Computer often/occasionally restarts, and programs or the whole system freeze (instability)
• Problems with running multiple programs at one time
• Operating system does not install.
• In consequence of a faulty memory, data can be lost or damaged.
• (Above listed aspects may be an indication of other HW or SW problems)

Before making the final decision to return the memory, it is recommended that you test it. Most frequent errors and solutions:

• 1. Memory is incompatible with a certain motherboard; it may work in a different computer without any problems
• 2. Memory fails when combined with a different memory. Memories manufactured by different companies or having different parameters are not recommended for pairing,
• however, in numerous cases it is not a problem and memories of various speeds work without problems, but thanks to the compatibility feature they may be slower.
• 3. Memory may fail in a certain memory slot.
• 4. Memory fails in Dual Channel mode - the most secure option is to buy paired memories (kit).
• 5. Memory fails because of incorrect BIOS setup or overclocking (increasing the frequency, the operating frequency of memories increases, too - the frequency your memory was intended for is exceeded). Sometimes it is suitable to execute the test on an underclocked computer.
• 6. Incorrect detection of memory size - the problem is usually in the motherboard that cannot work with modules (this used to happen in older motherboards with SDR SDRAM memories). Those modules were marked in pricelists as "for older MBs".
• 7. SW error. This problem can be caused by a certain application, driver, virus, or a combination of SW products that do not work with each other well. Some problems with the operating system can be solved by installing latest updates.

Testing Software

• Testing programs can be downloaded from the Internet. The file usually contains an image of a boot CD or installer for creating a floppy disk. In order to start testing, you only have to specify the medium, from which you start the test, in the BIOS system.
• Time, features and reliability of the test differ according to used programs and their settings. Thorough test may take up to several hours.

Gold Memory screen with an error list (one of the modules was returned to the vendor)

• GoldMemory - www.goldmemory.cz - The following components and their co-operation are tested: processor (CPU), motherboard + chipset, RAM operating memory (memory modules) + cache or L1,L2,L3), stability of feeding circuits. This program is a Shareware and some features are limited.

Memtest screen with an error list (the same module as in Gold memory)

• Memtest - www.memtest86.com - similar to Gold memory. I prefer Goldmemory, but I also know users who prefer Memtest. (other version: Memtest86+ - www.memtest.org)
• Windows Memory Diagnostic - http://oca.microsoft.com/en/windiag.asp. - Program by Microsoft. The memory test is implemented in repair tools in the new Windows (e.g. When starting from the Windows Vista DVD, you can choose Repair your computer instead of Install Now - unfortunately, this requires restart and starts from the hard disk.).

Negative test results

• Negative test results do not necessarily mean faulty memory. It is advisable to test the memory in different computers, or repeat the test with a different memory. Sometimes it is suitable to update BIOS on the motherboard.

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