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Question

RAM (socket) problems

Apr 24, 2015 11:46PM PDT

Hey!

There are two RAM sockets on my motherboard (ASUS M5A78L-M LE) I use 2 RAM modules, like 2+4GB, both on 1333Mhz.

It has worked me fine for years, till a month ago, when I installed a new CPU (AMD fx-6300). Since that, I had to realize my computer just uses the left ram module. If I put the 4GB to the left, than I have 4, if I put the 2GB in the left, than 2.

If I only install memory to the right socket the computer can't even boot.

The tricky thing is, programs still can detect my second RAM module. HWinfo for example sees them perfectly. And even the Windows (win7 service pack1 64 bit) says: Installed memory (ram): 6GB (4GB useable).

The Memory Diagnostics Tool can't find a problem.

Any ideas? It's the memory? Or the board? Or software?

Screenshot (sry for the Hungarian windows Happy ):
<span id="INSERTION_MARKER">http://s24.postimg.org/y66b1qsyt/ram_***.jpg

Thanks!

Discussion is locked

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Answer
clarification
Apr 24, 2015 11:56PM PDT

full build:

DDR3 Kingmax 2+4 GB 1333
amd R7260x
AMD fx-6300
ASUS M5A78L-M LE
FSP Raider 550
<span style="font-size: 14.4799995422363px;">HDD: SAMSUNG HD502HJ

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Using Windows 64 bit ? Most here including me
Apr 25, 2015 1:07AM PDT

recommend the matching RAM by same MFG, same series, same DIMM capacity, same timing etc.,. Installing additional RAM to older system is often where you begin to see RAM problems.

You can mix and have it work. Other times it doesn't work and that's where you go back to basics giving yourself the best chance to have it work all the time without any hiccups.

Here's where I'd go if adding RAM or replacing all the RAM on your system.

http://www.crucial.com/usa/en/compatible-upgrade-for/ASUS/m5a78l-m-le

Let us know how it works out.

VAPCMD

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Answer
Bios update(s)
Apr 25, 2015 3:15AM PDT

You may need a bios update that accepts any new cpu and/or ram issues that got resolved. If you do this then please follow the exact instructions to do this. Then install all ram. However, prior to any of this use the 1 ram slot only that works during that procedure.

As already stated to you, your setup is always best with "matched ram" either in pairs or same maker, etc. for best results. Yours is 2 and 4gb thus not a matched setup. Once, you changed your setup, the bios sees that maybe too much and errors or acts wonky for a best explanation.

I found if you use PCWizard 2015, install it and then allow it to run. It provides some info on your ram. Thus you see the difference the ram specs once displayed as well as other aspects of your PC.

tada -----Willy Happy

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Thx
Apr 26, 2015 12:38AM PDT

Thanks for the answer!

I know, that I should use pared memory modules, but hey, if I have a 2GB stick for extra I have to try it! Happy

The only thing I can't understand: this setup worked for years... what happened?

I'll try the bios update

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BIOS updated
Apr 26, 2015 6:46PM PDT

I installed the latest BIOS version, but there is no real difference.

I noticed that my windows says now "Installed memory (ram): 6GB (3,98GB useable)."

That didn't quite hit the mark...

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restart
Apr 26, 2015 10:15PM PDT

After a reboot my system is 6GB (4GB) again.

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Late reply
May 1, 2015 12:38AM PDT

Sorry, it took so long to answer back.

What worries me is that you have 2gb already at work during your boot-up as you report. That suggest some heavy backgrd. tasks or pgms. running already before you even get to use the system for whatever. I suggest you review or make another acct. in order to sort that out. That way, you could reduce the backgrd. load at some point or remove/delete any unrequired tasks. As for the 6Gb being reported, that's alright to me, it's just that you lose 2gb before you even begin. Review your status from the boot-up or startup routine.

tada -----Willy Happy

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Latee reply :)
May 31, 2015 3:41AM PDT
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Answer
About the trick thing comment.
Apr 26, 2015 12:46AM PDT

There are serial presence ID lines that can work without the RAM being functional. So without duplicating web content it's not unexpected to read the SPID but the RAM fail to register.

As to the worked for years, hardware can fail in many ways such as a crack in some solder joint, changes to CPUs that include memory controllers on the CPU and blammo you are in a new world of this but that may not work.

The 6/4GB usable can be due to a memory check Windows does at startup to avoid non operational RAM but is also caused by use using Windows limit RAM feature (again I skip duplication of the web on that.)

As you see more old machines, the more you hear it worked for years.
Bob

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what to do?
Apr 27, 2015 8:08PM PDT

Thanks for the info, it was useful!

BIOS update is done, no change.

Any further idea?

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Just one.
Apr 28, 2015 12:37AM PDT

Canned air. I always open up the case and do my canned air cleaning. Then I let the dust settle and get ready to unplug the ram and give the slots a short blast. I clean the edges of the memory sticks (be gentle) and then reinstall the sticks. Hopefully it comes back.

If not we chalk it up to old age and get a price on a new board or system. Whichever is cheaper. Too many deals out there with 99 buck Windows 7 older Dells to http://moofi.woot.com/offers/lenovo-t420-14-1-intel-i5-2-5ghz-laptop-17 or other laptops.
Bob