Morning Josef
This is a list of things that you have eliminated via component swapping:
- PSU (new BeQuiet along with an old Hiper)
- Memory (2 new sets tested comprehensively in relevant slots – resulting in apparent dead DIMM slot)
- CPU (…more or less ruled out by another e-tailer)
- Cables (swapped and examined where possible)
- Gfx card (tested in another rig)
So, if we accept, for now, that OC’s CPU test was adequate the only component you’re left with that could plausibly be at fault is the motherboard – as you have ruled all other, non essential, components out by testing the rig via a skeleton setup! (Plus, you had the rather definitive dead DIMM slot for a while)
So, we’ll carry on working on the assumption that it has to be the motherboard but apply the theory that the ‘dead DIMM slot’ is actually, a flaky DIMM slot and is still in the process of dying which is why it hasn’t flagged up in their initial testing. (it’s Lazarus like qualities are perhaps due to the way that they’ve inserted the memory i.e. better connection or it's an intermittent fault which will hopefully end up showing up with continued testing.)
You seemed very confident about the slot’s lack of integrity so I would pursue this line of attack for now and force the e-tailor to stress the memory rather than just prime 95. Impress on them that you suspect that the slot is flaky, rather than dead, and as such they need to test it rigorously as, obviously, the problem is intermittent and can be easily missed with a singular test.
If you still don't get any success, stress that if you are forced to pay for the return of your MB only to suspect that it is still at fault - you will get it independently tested and, if found faulty, will not only charge them for all your p&p and testing to date but also include all your own, personal, testing time, after, the board was returned as fault free - insert your hourly rate accordingly. (I’ve charged a few companies like this - the last being the Abbey when I had to calculate and prove the correct figure of my mortgage repayment – that cost them nearly £1000)
The above paragraph is really only to be used as a last resort as it's best to keep them on side and keep things polite and professional – but it usually has the desired effect as long as your confident in your position and argument.
Obviously, the one draw back to all this is that the DIMM slot appears to have an intermittent fault – you need to persuade them that this is the case so that they carry on testing it until, in theory, it buckles.
It's a pity you aren't allowed to name other PC hardware e-tailers on these forums, as I would like to warn people away from buying any hardware from them because of their poor RMA service...
A subtle hint is
sometimes ignored - especially when slagging off another e-tailer.
Rick suggested not plugging my pc in through a belkin gangway but instead plug straight into the wall. Didnt work tho 