8 replies to this topic

[DoGgs]

Maybe some tech heads here can help.. I have 8GB ram in my rig ( 2 x sticks of 4GB ) i bought an 8GB stick of identical ram to push it to 16.   All was good for a few hours then suddenly my rig is blue screening, i take out the new stick and its fine again.  I'm gonna rule out faulty ram because its fine for a while, maybe i'm wrong to do so, i just don't know...ideas anyone?

[Ian]

You used to have to pair the ram equally, so if you wanted 16 GB, you'd have to use 2 x 8 GB. But, I haven't built a PC for a long time so things may have changed?

If you take out the 2 x 4 GB sticks, does it run OK with 1 x 8 GB? 

To launch the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool, open the Start menu, type “Windows Memory Diagnostic”, and press Enter.

You can also press Windows Key + R, type “mdsched.exe” into the Run dialog that appears, and press Enter.

[SebGOLO]

you might be able to get it running after changing some settings in your bios manually. Unmatched capacity will prevent you from running in dual channel mode afaik, but I dont think it is impossible to use your extra 8, just might have to compromise with timings and speed. Maybe your mainboard manufacturer manual can help you out on this.

[SebGOLO]

This varies btw from motherboard to motherboard, some have no problem running full speed of different sized modules ( same `model`though of course) while others restrict you to single channel mode using the extra capacity. As I said, your mainboard`s manual will know more

[jspirate]

As I said, your mainboard`s manual will know more

 

 

^This.  Memory can be a bear and its usually best to run pairs as mentioned earlier, but the mother board info can help sort out your options.

[Abe]

Maybe some tech heads here can help.. I have 8GB ram in my rig ( 2 x sticks of 4GB ) i bought an 8GB stick of identical ram to push it to 16.   All was good for a few hours then suddenly my rig is blue screening, i take out the new stick and its fine again.  I'm gonna rule out faulty ram because its fine for a while, maybe i'm wrong to do so, i just don't know...ideas anyone?

 

Just post the make and model of your Motherboard and any of us can go to the OEM site and get the link to the specs; then post it here for you to peruse.

[DoGgs]

Thanks guys will take a look when i get a chance, would exchanging the 8 GB stick for 2 x 4's work without issue?  i'm not a BIOS kinda guy, i'll end up screwing it lol.

[Joe Habiger]

2x4 memory sticks would be best yes because running in pairs (you would have (4) 4 gig sticks then. I agree with others that think your having a problem because you have (2) 4 gig sticks and (1) 8 gig stick. That or buy another 8 gig stick just like your first one and sell your original other pair.

[jspirate]

Gah, yesterday I had a Unity freeze and then I could not get my computer post.  After 3 hours of dicking around it turned out to be 2 bad sticks of ram.  Grrrr, computer has been running fine and then I lose 2 sticks!

 

I feel your pain DoGgs...