How to Scan My System for the PC Memory

Scanning PC memory becomes more important as the PC ages.

Regular memory scans are an important part of computer maintenance, particularly as the computer ages. Problematic memory can result in failure to boot, computer crashes, random reboots and inability to install software. A common online scam is to advertise memory scanning software on a website. Therefore, it is important to vet memory scan software before use. Windows Vista includes memory scan software with every installation. This eliminates the need to download independent memory scan software when running Windows Vista.

Things You'll Need

• Blank CD-R

Instructions

Scanning PC memory with Windows Vista

1. Start the computer.

2. Click the Windows Vista orb. Type "memory" in the run line. Press "Enter." Click "Restart Immediately."

3. Monitor the memory scan. The computer will restart and display a progress bar as it scans the memory. If an error is found in the memory, seek professional assistance in replacing the memory.

Scanning PC memory with Windows XP or earlier

1. Download the free Memtest86 software (see Resources).

2. Right-click the file name and select "Open containing folder." Windows Explorer will open the folder. Right-click the file and select "Extract here."

3. Insert a blank CD-R into the computer's CD-R drive. Right-click the ISO file and select "Burn image to a blank disk." Click "OK" when the process is complete.

4. Restart the computer with the CD still in the drive. Watch the bottom of the screen. The message "Press F2 to enter setup" will appear. In some cases the key will be "F1," "F10," "ESC" or DEL. Press the button specified.

5. When the BIOS screen appears, use the arrow keys to select "Drives," then press "Enter." Follow the instructions on the screen to move the CD-R drive (usually D:/) to the top of the list.

6. Boot from the Memtest86 CD. Follow the instructions on the screen to exit setup and save changes. Memtest86 will display a progress bar. Follow instructions given by Memtest 86. If errors are found, seek professional assistance in replacing the affected memory.

Tips & Warnings

• After running Memtest86 it is a good idea to enter the BIOS and place the hard drive on the top of the boot list. This will protect the computer from possible boot disk attacks.

Resources

• Memtest86