I was having problems with one of my computers. I thought that it might be a problem with some used RAM that i purchased. Dealing with all of the different testing methods is what prompted me to write this little guide. It is by no means exhaustive and some processes aren’t for the beginner. It is assumed that you know enough to replace your own RAM and burn boot-able CDs. If your having problems such as random system restarts or general system instability you may need to check your systems RAM for errors.

Check to see whether or not your RAM is being recognized correctly. Right-click My Computer then select Properties. The first window that pops up should be already set to the General tab. This screen will allow you to see how much RAM is being seen by Windows. If this number is incorrect the memory modules may have become unseated. To correct this you should open up your computer case locate the RAM, ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface or by using an ESD wrist strap, and then take the RAM modules out and reinstall them.

If that doesn’t work the next step is to download some software to test your computer’s RAM. Download and burn memtest86+ to a CD. Reboot your computer with the CD in your CD drive and it will boot to the memtest86+ program. Let the software run for at least one complete pass. The time it takes for the process to complete will depend on how much RAM you have in your system. It is important to test the RAM for as long as possible because some problems only appear during certain conditions (ie heat or possibly specific operations)

Memtest86+ is based on memtest86 so you may want to try that if there are any problems with memtest86+.

Microsoft Corp. also has a product that is freeware for testing the RAM in a computer system (Windows Memory Diagnostic). If you are having problems with the other pieces of software or just want to get a second or third opinion you should check that program out.

When testing your RAM you may want to take out all of the RAM modules and test each pair (as in dual channel memory) or possibly even one module module at a time. RAM that is working will not have any errors. If any of the RAM modules produce errors then they need to be replaced.