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Thread ID: 79424 2007-05-19 21:24:00 Mismatched RAM Strommer (42) Press F1
Post ID Timestamp Content User
551222 2007-05-19 21:24:00 What is the worst problem that can happen if a stick of RAM is added which turns out to be mismatched? Would it be necessary to reinstall the OS? If the newly installed RAM is removed will everything return to normal?

We often hear about adding more RAM to improve performance.
ASFAIK, the best way would be to remove all of the old RAM (e.g. two sticks of 128 Mb) and replace it with one stick (e.g. 512 Mb or 1 Gb). But a cheaper option would be simply to add another stick to what is already there.
Strommer (42)
551223 2007-05-19 21:40:00 You will be able to take out the extra stick with no adverse effects.

Best option is to grab Memtest 86 or similar and boot off that to test the new RAM before using Windows.
Sweep (90)
551224 2007-05-19 22:13:00 Memtest is excellent but I prefer this.

I was having intermittant crashes. Memtest passed it ok but this (even though it is a Microsoft Product - SHOCK/HORROR) identified one stuck bit. Replacing the module cured the crashes. It makes an ISO file that can be used to create a Bootable CD.


Windows Memory Diagnostic

The Windows Memory Diagnostic tests the Random Access Memory (RAM) on your computer for errors. The diagnostic includes a comprehensive set of memory tests. If you are experiencing problems while running Windows, you can use the diagnostic to determine whether the problems are caused by failing hardware, such as RAM or the memory system of your motherboard. Windows Memory Diagnostic is designed to be easy and fast.

oca.microsoft.com
Tony.br (4018)
551225 2007-05-19 22:41:00 What is the worst problem that can happen if a stick of RAM is added which turns out to be mismatched?

BSOD

Would it be necessary to reinstall the OS?

NO

If the newly installed RAM is removed will everything return to normal?

YES
drcspy (146)
551226 2007-05-19 23:22:00 The worst I have had is with my Compaq MediaBox and I added another 128MB to that (all same spec, just different brand/model) and it refused to POST and beeped its speaker off... :badpc: The_End_Of_Reality (334)
551227 2007-05-20 00:44:00 The worst I have had is with my Compaq MediaBox and I added another 128MB to that (all same spec, just different brand/model) and it refused to POST and beeped its speaker off... :badpc:

Isn't that the way a Compaq runs normally?
SurferJoe46 (51)
551228 2007-05-20 03:33:00 Isn't that the way a Compaq runs normally? What the speaker always going nuts? I pulled it out :lol: so it don't beep no more :p

But yes, it is a POC... only reason I got it was that was the better out of the two I was offered... (the other was a Dell (I shudder at the thought))
The_End_Of_Reality (334)
551229 2007-05-20 03:45:00 Memtest is excellent but I prefer this.

I was having intermittant crashes. Memtest passed it ok but this (even though it is a Microsoft Product - SHOCK/HORROR) identified one stuck bit. Replacing the module cured the crashes. It makes an ISO file that can be used to create a Bootable CD.


Windows Memory Diagnostic

The Windows Memory Diagnostic tests the Random Access Memory (RAM) on your computer for errors. The diagnostic includes a comprehensive set of memory tests. If you are experiencing problems while running Windows, you can use the diagnostic to determine whether the problems are caused by failing hardware, such as RAM or the memory system of your motherboard. Windows Memory Diagnostic is designed to be easy and fast.

oca.microsoft.com

And I said or similar.
Sweep (90)
551230 2007-05-20 03:47:00 And Steve_L has left the room. Sweep (90)
551231 2007-05-20 06:32:00 And Steve_L has left the room.

Only for awhile... was working outside today.

I sometimes tell people to add more RAM if they have less than 512 on WinXP, and now I know when they ask if it can be added to their old RAM.

drcspy - thanks for answering my specific questions - not usual for this forum.

Sweep and Tony - thanks for the programs.
Strommer (42)
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