-Having a memory problem can be really confusing. Don't let it get to you first off. One thing to consider about memory is what the errors are when a chip goes bad. This can be mistaken for another application or components going bad. There are some typical symptoms to look at with memory trouble and some ideas of solving which SIMM or DIMM is causing it. The good news in memory is, if it is bad it usually occurs when you first get the system. This means that it is under warranty and can be replaced or shipped to manufacturer.
-For more information on memory take a look at |Guides|.
-Symptoms Of Memory Failure-
A constant amount of corrupted files including executables.
-The part of all this that is a real bummer is that the errors can pop up anywhere. You have to consider how much system information is in memory. Another thing to consider is memory error don't always occur till you make use of high memory areas. If you are using a high end application that uses extreme amounts of memory this may be a consideration.
-If you have parity memory this can be of great help. When you get a parity error it will usually give a memory address that you can pinpoint where the problem is. On non-parity which many of us have the problem is wider.
Non-Parity Isolation
-Some of these steps should be taken regardless if you use parity on non-parity memory.
1. Shut system down
2. Try and reseat memory modules if they seem loose.
3. If this does not help simply take one module out that you suspect.
4. Run system and see if errors occur. If no error occurs the problem may be with the SIMM or DIMM you took out. Try taking the other memory slot out and replacing in the now open slot of the suspected bad SIMM. Boot up and see if you run with no errors.
5. If you did get an error this may be with the slot and not the memory.
-This is simply just a process of elimination. If all fails, take memory back if under warranty and replace. If your are still having trouble double check and make sure you have the right memory. If that is okay maybe a new motherboard is necessary.
Cache Memory
-Well system cache is much like system memory. If you run into problems with it, it is hard to diagnose. But the good news is that a software tweak can help. If you need a better background on cache go to |Guides|.
-Troubleshoot-
Check Heat, this can be a nasty problem. As with any component in a computer you don't want it really hot. Keep the case cooled. If your cache is really hot while system is running this can be because of poor ventilation. Get some more fans!
Reseat, pushing the module back in it hole can help. Chips have a tendency of getting chip creep. Chip Creep can occur when the system heats up and cools down to much. This makes the chip slowly over months or years creep out of the socket its in.
BIOS, make sure BIOS is set correctly. The BIOS may be trying to conduct write-through operations when it is set for write-back only.
Replace Cache
-Sometimes you cant replace the chip and must simply buy another motherboard. Motherboards vary in price and can be purchase for as little as 50.00 and up to the thousands.
