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Now open computer case to check following.
Step 6: Is RAM installed correctly? Some MOBOs must have their slots filled in a special sequence. Sometimes DIMMs must be in a specific sequence.
Step 7: Remove memory modules from their slots. Take opportunity to clean slots on motherboards and memory module connectors. Use compressed air to blow dust away and clean contacts with a soft cloth. Don't use a vacuum cleaner if it touches any component it may create a short and cause damage to motherboard or other components. Don't use solvent that may attract dust and never poke things like cotton buds in to slots. Check memory module and memory slot contacts. They are either tin or gold. The color will tell you which they are. Mixing tin and gold can result in corrosion that prevents proper contact. Look for any sign of physical damage to memory module, memory slots or motherboard. With last two you are looking at replacing motherboard.
Step 8. Reseat memory modules. You should hear an audible click when they are in place. Do not use too much force to reseat memory module in to slot this can cause damage to module, slot or motherboard.
If you are still experiencing trouble try following.
Step 9. Swap modules in to different slots. If you have more than one memory module try different combinations or one at a time. This might identify a faulty component.
Step 10: If you have changed or upgraded memory modules try taking your system back to its original configuration. Does it still work? If yes then suspect a fault or compatibility problem. If no!! Sorry but you may have damaged motherboard.
Step 11: If your compute isn't recognizing all of your RAM it might be a problem with BIOS. Check with motherboard or PC manufacturers web site for possible BIOS upgrades. Word of WARNING - BIOS upgrades can seriously damage your wealth. Make double sure that you have correct BIOS update for your motherboard. Flash wrong upgrade can result in needing a new motherboard.
Step 12:Check for viruses with an up to date virus checker. Some viruses cause problems that look like memory errors.
Step 13: Try removing recently installed hardware or software. Sometimes operating systems misinterpret problems as memory related.
Step 14: If you have tried everything a still suspect a faulty RAM module there are several good programs that will test your computer. Typically you must create a boot disk to use when restarting your computer. This helps eliminate possibility that it's operating system or other software problems. Three options are -
* Gold memory (www.goldmemory.cz). * Memtest86 (www.memtest86.com) * PCTechnician (www.windsortech.com).
If you have a Dell computer they have their own troubleshooting software that is worth using.
Step 15: If finally you need to use a computer technician or phone a technical support line make sure you have written down everything you did and result. It can save you time and money.
You can read more articles like this by visiting www.no-bull-computers.com.
Copyright (c) Robert Cox (2005).
Robert teaches science and math at a community college in Ontario,Canada. But only when he's not messing with his sons computer or working in the garden. You can reach him at robert911ca.yahoo.ca.