Troubleshooting Memory Problems
by systrough.com
January 15, 2008
Defective computer memory can cause a multitude of problems with your computer. It can cause your computer to randomly freeze or even prevent it from completely booting. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, then your computer’s memory may be faulty:
- Random lockups or freezes
- Blue screen of death error messages
- Program crashes
- General instability
Luckily, you can effortlessly determine if your memory is faulty by running a program named memtest86. This utility is a free program used to diagnose memory problems; it will let you know in a very clear manner if your memory is defective.
Testing Your Memory - Windows
- Download the .zip version of memtest86.
- Unzip the files.
- Go to the directory where you unzipped the file and double click on install.bat
- Insert a formatted floppy disk.
- Type in the drive letter for your floppy drive (the drive letter is usually “A:\”) and press the enter key.
- After it finishes writing to the floppy disk, reboot your computer with the floppy disk in the floppy drive. Upon booting, the program should load and begin running. Let the program run for a few hours.
- If no failures are displayed, then congratulations, your memory is fine. If you have any failures, there is something wrong with your memory or its settings. If you overclocked your computer, then back off on your timings and test again. Otherwise, try RMAing your memory if it is still under warranty.