How to Tell If Your RAM Is Fried?

A personal computer performs a power-on self-test (POST) each time it boots, performing a diagnostic test on the hardware installed to the PC. If the POST fails to detect the random access memory (RAM), or discovers an error in the first 64 KB of RAM, it will produce an error message or beep indicating a hardware issue. If the POST produces a memory-related error after booting, and reseating the RAM doesn't resolve the issue, then the RAM may be fried. Troubleshoot the RAM to determine whether or not the hardware is defective.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips-head screwdriver
• Headphones or PC speakers

Instructions

1. Plug the monitor into a power outlet, and connect the video cable securely to the screen and to the back of the PC.

2. Connect a set of speakers to the line-out port on the back or front of the computer. Most speaker ports are color-coded lime green.

3. Turn on the computer. Listen for a series of beeps and check the screen for an error code, either of which can indicate a problem with the RAM.

4. Log on to another computer and navigate to the motherboard or computer manufacturer's website.

5. Look up your product model and review the manual for information about the BIOS or POST, to determine what the beep codes or error codes mean. If the error indicates a problem with the RAM, re-install the RAM before assuming the hardware is defective.

6. Turn off the computer. Disconnect the power cable. Unscrew and remove the case cover.

7. Touch the chassis to ground yourself, and then set the computer case on its side. Locate the RAM, which consists of long, thin modules installed into slots on the motherboard.

8. Shine a flashlight into the computer and check the base of the modules to confirm that the copper contacts are not visible. Check that the tabs found on either side of the memory slot are holding the RAM in place.

9. Depress the tabs and pull the RAM straight out if the memory is not properly installed. Hold the RAM by its edges, align the copper contacts with the notches in the memory slot, and then push the RAM into the slot until the tabs pop into place.

10. Re-assemble the PC, and then power on the computer. If the computer still gives an error or beep code, the RAM may be fried and should be replaced.

Tips & Warnings

• Some computers will emit a beep code without the speakers connected.

• Never touch the copper contacts on the edge of the memory module. Always handle the RAM by its right and left edges.

References

• Microsoft at Home: How to Get More RAM: Add More Memory to Your Computer
• The PC Guide: BIOS Power-On Self Test (POST)