How to Test Faulty RAM

Faulty RAM poses a serious threat to your computer.

Random access memory (RAM) is used for temporary storage when processing software and browsing the Internet. Faulty RAM may affect the operation of a computer. In worst case scenarios, faulty RAM may contribute to the loss of important data and files and cause system corruptions. It's important to detect faulty RAM to protect your computer.

Instructions

1. Turn on your computer. The computer will usually make a brief beep during startup of the BIOS (basic input/output system) if it is functioning normally. But if it makes a long beep, that means there is something wrong with your RAM. It could be due to the hardware itself, or that the wiring or connections to the CPU are loosely plugged.

2. Check for unusual signs during startup. When you turn on the computer and all you see is a blue background on the screen with a lot of words and codes that you can't understand, your computer has the "blue screen of death." That confirms that your RAM is faulty. You have to contact a computer technician to have it fixed. If the blue screen doesn't appear, proceed to Step 3.

3. Wait for your computer to boot. If the long beep is heard during the startup, monitor your computer closely. If your RAM is faulty the computer will keep on restarting and will make beeping noises. The beeping noises are codes for the BIOS. If you hear several beeping sounds, it means that something is wrong with the hardware. Normally the computer will get past the startup with a short beep, will boot and open to the computer desktop. If the computer keeps on restarting while it is still at the BIOS startup, you will not be able to assess your programs and files and you will need to replace the RAM. If this does not happen and the computer started normally, continue to Step 4.

4. Open any program in your computer that will make the computer do some processing, such as a desktop publishing software or a computer game. If it will not open or automatically restarts every time you try to open a program, it is a sign that you have faulty RAM. Sometimes even opening the Internet browser will make the computer restart itself.

Tips & Warnings

• If one or more of these signs are present in your computer, it's best to have it checked by a certified computer technician. The best thing that can be done is to replace the RAM hardware, although if the problem is detected right away there is a chance that the hardware can be repaired.

References

• PC Stats: Beginner's Guides-Diagnosing Bad Memory
• Tech Guide: How to Diagnose Faulty RAM