How to test RAM modules for errors and compatibility using Memtest86+ on bootable USB flash disk
Contents
RAM errors can cause serious issues with your computer: spontaneous reboots, BSODs, app freezings or even everything mentioned together.
When troubleshooting hardware related issues you will need to check your RAM modules for errors and mutual compatibility.
We strongly recommend to test RAM using famous Memtest86+ utility that supports testing of DDR, DDR2 and DDR3 memory. In this guide we will teach you how to:
download Memtest86+ utility;
create a bootable USB stick with Memtest86+;
test your RAM modules for errors and compatibility using the prerared USB stick.
connect your USB stick and create bootable usb with Memtest86+ utility:
you finished creating your USB disk. Click Next:
How to Test RAM Using the USB Stick with Memtest86+ Testing Utility
reboot your PC with USB stick plugged in.
call the boot menu (F12, F9 or another key depending on your motherboard vendor) and select to boot from flash:
the test process will start automatically – you are only to wait and watch the results:
If Memtest+ detects an error in your RAM you will see a red line. Please, red our recommendation below.
Our recommendations related to Memtest86+ and RAM
Let the utility make at least 10 passes. The more testing loops – the higher probability that your RAM modules are really okay. Some memory errors occur when modules work for a long time. We have encountered cases when an error was detected on the 30th pass of Memtest86+ work process.
Once Memtest86+ detected an error you can stop the test by hitting the Esc button. a) If you have several memory modules, now test them one by one. There are two possible causes of RAM errors: either at least one module is damaged and needs to be replaced or all modules are okay but they are incompatible with each other. b) If you have the single memory module try replacing it and running a test again.
The golden rule: try to use RAM modules of the same brand and model inside one computer!
Adam Swift
Adam is a real tech maniac. He likes to spend time testing phones, tablets, laptops, as well as any other technical devices, and write practical manuals on their functions. He often sleeps all day, but always works at night. Adam bought his first computer in 1999, being an absolute beginner who never held a computer mouse in his hands. He began to study Windows, constantly experimented and often crashed the operating system. But six months later, he was able to reinstall Windows 98 from a scratch on his own, fix almost any software problem on a PC, he also did hardware upgrades and realized that computers, operating systems and programs are now his biggest passion. In addition, Adam has always been a big lover of phones. With the advent of smartphones with Android OS, he began to pick at them much more than in computers. Now Adam loves to study privacy issues in instant messengers, blocking unwanted calls and other nuances related to privacy and security on the network. You can follow him on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tunecomp