memtest86

Merlin5 · 20 Sep 2009 at 13:25

I ran this last night for 6 hours with no errors. This was the standard test, I know there's other options. Just wanted to know if from what you see here, if this is sufficient to say there is no problem with my ram? I've had occassional computer freeze ups and am trying to eliminate reasons.

Also, would having my ram on EPP @ 4-4-4-12 with higher voltage affect freezing up, even if memtest says ram is fine?

Big.Wayne · 20 Sep 2009 at 21:18

Hi Merlin5,

that looks ok to me although I think you are using old software?

I use Memtest86 which you can download here:

http://www.memtest.org/

linktoinsanity · 20 Sep 2009 at 21:24

Don't use the current version of memtest86. This is 3.5 and has been known to have issues with 2 sticks of memory or more if if you have greater than 4GB memory. It is a known issue, but the creators haven't released an updated version for months. It will just restart your computer. Download the latest version of memtest86+ instead.

http://www.memtest.org/

Which as it happens is the same version as Big Wayne has recommended anyway. The warning is still worth having however...

Merlin5 · 21 Sep 2009 at 01:31

Thanks guys, is there any particular test I should do, or just the default/standard one like I did? I read something about memtest doing more accurate tests if less ram is selected or something.

linktoinsanity · 21 Sep 2009 at 09:51

Merlin5 said:
Thanks guys, is there any particular test I should do, or just the default/standard one like I did? I read something about memtest doing more accurate tests if less ram is selected or something.

Just boot your computer up with the CD in the drive and let it run the default test. Leave it going for a few hours and see what it reports back. It's as simple as that.

Merlin5 · 21 Sep 2009 at 13:05

Alrighty then, I'll do that.

SMAndy · 22 Sep 2009 at 09:50

For this one, you could also try running Prime95 for a bit. If there is a fault in the memory or CPU, it'll come back with an error very quickly. It won't damage your system unless you have inadequate cooling, as it pumps your system so full of commands that it'll highlight problems.

Make sure you get the right Prime95 version, there's a separate one for x86 and x64. It's a standalone exe. Once you open it, say "just stress testing" and click ok on blend... Leave it for a few hours. If it lasts 4 hours without failing, then you can pretty much rule out a fault, as they should be highlighted before this.