How To Test Memory
Your PC's CPU and RAM comprise the core processing power of your computer. While CPUs can also falter, those RAM memory modules have a higher statistical chance of failure. And when they do, you can get all sorts of PC problems that can include any of the following:
- Your PC fails to boot up and you get beep codes of varying duration and frequency depending on the manufacturer of your motherboard or BIOS supplier. You can check what those beep codes mean in relevant sites with a Google search but one thing is for sure, you have a PC hardware component problem and memory is a common fault.
- You suffer sudden PC reboots, blue screen of death, general protection fault error message, fatal exceptions, etc. You can suspect a memory module problem but you still need to do some troubleshooting for other possible causes.
- Installing Windows or subsequent programs can't proceed or fails.
- Mouse and keyboard freezes requiring you to hard reboot the PC, though the motherboard can also be a problem.
Swapping Memory Modules
It would be helpful if you have a spare memory module that is in good condition, maybe an older one with a smaller RAM, or a computer with the same or nearly the same hardware specifications allowing you to swap memory modules. This is often resorted to if the PC reboot can't proceed at all. Having a known serviceable and compatible memory module is always a practical, fast and easy way to confirm if your memory modules are at fault.
Now if your suspect memory module works without a problem in other PCs, it's in good condition and you can now proceed to check your motherboard or power supply.
If everything has been just fine and you recently upgraded your memory module or added one to an empty memory slot, you can suspect your new memory module to be a problem right away. Restore the old memory condition and see if the problem recurs. Get your new memory modules replaced from the computer shop where you bought it before the warranty ends.
Memory Test Diagnostic Tools
Finally, you can download and use some diagnostic freeware like Memtest86 and DocMemory which have been acclaimed as highly recommended among home users. Alternatively, you can purchase retail PC and memory diagnostic utilities such as PC-Doctor, PC-Diagnostics and Memorytesters. And if you are running Windows Vista or Windows 7, you can use their excellent tools for testing memory each time the computer boots up. Just type "memory" on the command line on the Start button.