Computer memory problems can be frustrating!

  They can also be very difficult to troubleshoot for the   "average computer user", but fear not there's hope!   

 Many times, a PC user will mistake the symptoms associated with a computer memory problem (RAM) as being something else such as: a computer virus or spyware, the Windows operating system needing to be reinstalled, or other possibilities that aren't actually the real culprit. 

To avoid spending unnecessary money, time or frustration in fixing a computer that refuses to operate properly, it is important to know the various signs that a computer has a memory problem. Let's take at 10 signs of a problem with the RAM in your PC, and how to use free software to confirm exactly what - is causing the memory problems!

 

Blue screens for "no reason"

Many times bad memory shows itself by the BSOD or Blue Screen Of Death. In many of the error messages, you will notice a reference to "address" or "addresses", whichrefers to memory addresses.

 

When a computer has constant blue screens, it is always advisable to recall the last action that was performed on the computer such as a program installation, Windows update, recent virus infection; to name a few. Once it is confirmed that there are no "logical" reasons for the blue screen (no virus, no updates, no software was installation, no hardware installed), you can check the memory for errors.

 

  A computer that won't boot (possible beeping during booting)

Computer memory problems can cause a machine not to boot at all; instead hanging on a black screen, or gray screen, or the logo screen (P.O.S.T). In many cases, computers that aren't booting due to memory problems will beep several times immediately after or during boot-up.

 

These beeps can mean different things, but when dealing with memory, the a memory stick could be bad or failing, or a memory slot can be going bad. Also, the installed memory could have been loosened and needs to be inserted tightly. In any of these instance using your PC manual or motherboard manual will help in determining the meaning of the beep codes.

 

Once you have confirmed the beeping is due to a memory related problem, you can begin testing the RAM for errors.

 

A computer that boots but hangs

A computer that boots successfully but "hangs" either immediately after booting, or between the time that the Windows desktop appears (if it appears at all)could have a RAM issue. Other issues can cause a computer to hang such as motherboard problems, viruses, failing hard drive (or corrupted partition tables/MBR), power supply problems and other hardware issues.

 

Testing the memory definitely helps to narrow down the culprit and identify what ISN'T causing the problem; which helps with identifying what IS.

 

   Random crashes of video games, video editing programs &     other memory intensive applications

Certain computer tasks consume a great deal of RAM, thus it is easier to troubleshoot for memory problems when experiencing crashes that aren't caused by bad hardware drivers or overheating. When video games and photo/video editing programs crashes back to the desktop (no computer restarting or shutting off, just closing of the program) that can spell a computer memory problem.

 

When using the same types of software and the computer reboots at random, or crashes to a blue screen, it is always good tocheck the memory; especially if regular tasks aren't causing the crashes (such as internet browsing, typing emails, viewing pictures etc).

 Files that are saved become corrupted (or corrupt while saving)

Although not common, it is possible for files to become corrupt during the process of saving (such as Word documents, spreadsheets, pictures etc). This type of data corruption can be experienced when copying and pasting files that afterward - either don't open, open in the incorrect format, or possibly disappear altogether.

 

You may also notice software that won't run/open after installation, or software that opens successfully, but with various problems.Testing the computer memory for problems is absolutely necessary when experiencing any of these problems.

Unexplained stuttering in audio/video

Experiencing stuttering or "jittery" audio or video while playing songs, watching movies, etc; can be a sign of bad memory. There are other problems that can cause these symptoms, such as low bandwidth while streaming audio/video, bad drivers, failing hardware, etc. It is always helpful to test the memory in this situation to rule out the memoryas the culprit.

Inability to install Windows

(blue screen during install or other error messages)

If you experience problems when trying to install Windows that aren't related to: a bad or improperly connected or configured hard drive, a scratched or bad disc, a bad CD or DVD Rom, or a bad copy (counterfeit) of Windows; bad RAM could be the culprit.

 

If you are installing Windows from a flash drive, a CD or DVD won't apply to you and you can automatically rule out those media types as the culprit, and start testing the memory. Whenever Windows fails to install and you aren't sure of the reason, testing the memory is the best thing to do.

  "IRQ_Less_or_Not_Equal"

 

This message can spell computer memory problems, in  many of the instances that it occurs. This error message could also spell other problems, such as two devices sharing the same "IRQ" which is pretty rare in Windows versions after Windows 98. When a computer crashes and this message appears, always test the memory as the first troubleshooting step.

 

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Now that you know WHEN to test your memory, let's discuss HOW to test your memory. (CD or DVD burner needed)

 

1.) Download memtest  in ISO format and unzip the file for use.

 

 

2.) Burn memtest to a CD (you will need Winzip to decompress the file)

 

3.) You will need to change your booting options upon booting, to "CD/DVD booting", or whatever the option is that allows you to boot from your disc drive. (see example below)

 

 

 

4.) Insert the burned disc into the drive and restart your computer, after changing the drive options.

 

* Many computers allow you to change boot options without going into the BIOS, by pressing the appropriate buttons (such as F2, F10, etc). *

 

5.) Memtest will run and check the RAM for errors

 

6.) Allow memtest to run for at least 12-24 hours if possible (no less than 4 hours)

 

7.) Look to see if memtest has discovered any errors:

 

 

8.) If errors were discovered, it is time to contact your local tech or consultant, or address the problem on your own if you are experienced enough to do so.

 

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I hope these tips prove to be helpful to you in solving computer memory problems, since RAM is a common component that can fail without
warning. Keep in mind that most memory chips have at LEAST one year warranty, and many have lifetime warranties.

 

 If the memory is bad, it will be replaced at no cost to you so keep your receipts!  Feel free to comment or email me with any questions or concerns.

Happy Computing!

Jarvis Edwards