Ram problem and how to fix it

                     Fix Your Computer

        Computer Repair Manual and Business                                      Guide

 

Stop Paying $300-400 for Computer Repair!

Symptoms of a RAM Problem

• When you first turn on your computer it runs fine, but as you go about your business you notice that its performance diminishes. By lunch time, websites take minutes to load and local programs run at a snail's pace. This type of gradual deterioration of PC performance, especially with memory-intensive programs, may be caused by a RAM problem.
• Your computer randomly restarts while you are in the middle of something or freeze sporadically. It may also reboot almost immediately upon opening the desktop. This could be a sign of faulty RAM.
• A blue screen with white text flashes before restarting. Blue-screen errors are annoying because you don't even have a chance to read the error message. Bad RAM is one thing that cause them.
• Files—particularly ones you frequently access and save—seem to be inexplicably corrupted. RAM issues can lead to this problem, which can worsen over time. The file structure of your hard drive may slowly degenerate and you will no longer be able to boot your machine.
• Your attempts to install a new program repeatedly fail for unknown reasons. You try to reinstall the operating system, but keep getting odd error messages.

There are certainly a variety of problems that could cause the issues above, but faulty RAM is an often-overlooked root cause of inexplicable issues. If you have one or a combination of the above problems you are likely facing a memory issue.

What Causes Memory Damage?

• Power surges can damage most computer components, including RAM. You should plug your computer and other expensive electronics into a surge protector. Make sure you know the difference between a surge protector and a power strip.
• Before you handle any parts in your computer, make sure you ground yourself by touching a piece of grounded metal to discharge static electricity. Electrostatic discharge can damage your computer.
• Excessive heat can cause RAM and other parts to wear out over time. Individual components can overheat, or heat from one component can cause damage to adjacent parts.
• If you have overclocked any part of your computer incorrectly, it may cause damage in the form of excess heat.
• Your memory module may have some fault that passed through quality control and worsened over time. This is the most likely cause behind a damaged RAM.

It is also possible that the memory module is fine, but one or more memory slots on your motherboard are defective, hindering the RAM's performance. The defect may even be so bad that it damages the memory stick.

Card Recovery Professional

Recover Lost Or Deleted Files In 3 Steps. 100% Risk Free! Support All Camera Memory Card, Such As Sd Card, Xd Card, Cf Card, Etc. Support All Camera Brands And Almost All Raw File Formats.

Diagnosing the Problem

• If the symptoms started after you recently added more memory, the new module could be faulty. This seems obvious, but any time a problem begins after making a change, first check to see if the change caused the problem.
• Your computer may produce multiple beeps or a continuous beep when you turn it on. These beeps can indicate many different problems, including being a symptom of bad RAM. Beep codes vary depending on the manufacturer of your BIOS. You can look up the beep codes for your specific computer to figure out its specific problem.
• If you are not comfortable fixing your computer yourself, I recommend taking your computer to a local repair store rather than a big retail store. Big stores are in the business of selling additional parts, not fixing problems.
• If you are an advanced user, there are diagnostic programs that can help you figure out if you have a memory problem. Your computer may have one pre-installed by the manufacturer or you can download a third-party program. The Windows Memory Diagnostic by Microsoft is also good if you suspect memory problems on a Windows PC.
• If the above programs indicate your memory sticks are functioning, but you still suspect a RAM problem or if you need to find which memory module is the problem, you can try removing the modules and placing them in different slots.

Fixing the Problem by Removing Memory

• To remove a RAM module you need to press the tiny levers on each end to release it.
• Test each of your memory modules one at a time to find which ones are bad. When you find the sticks that are bad you can order replacements. It is possible all the memory modules are damaged if your computer experienced a serious power surge.
• If all the memory modules appear bad, then the problem is likely with the memory slot itself. Try testing each memory module in each of the memory slots to find if one of the slots is faulty. To fix a faulty slot you would need to replace your motherboard.
• When replacing a module, make sure the indention on the bottom is lined up correctly with the slot and then press it in until you hear the levers snap. Note that some levers do not make a snapping sound.

Other Possible Problems

RAM problems often go undiagnosed, but they also can be misdiagnosed. Some common problems that have nothing to do with memory can cause the symptoms listed above:

• Many of the symptoms listed above can actually be caused by a hard drive problem. You can run a utility called CHKDSK by pressing the Windows button and R at the same time, typing CHKDSK into the dialog box, and pressing enter. Alternatively, you can click on Computer, right-click the drive you intend to scan, click Properties, then the Tools tab, and click Check now. Note you will need to restart your computer. Also, be aware this process may take an extended amount of time to finish running. If you hear your hard drive making lots of noise during normal operation, it may be the cause of your problems. Defragmenting your drive every few months is a good idea as well.
• If the performance problems occur during graphic-intensive programs such as games or rendering, your graphics driver could be outdated. Be sure to always keep your drivers up to date.
• Excessive heat in your machine can cause a variety of problems.
• Random reboots can be cause by a failing power supply.
• Dirt and dust can also cause issues that look like memory problems. It is a good idea to clean dust out of your computer at least once a year, more often if you have furry pets.
• Your computer can also have a virus. Note that many people automatically assume any problem with their computer is caused by a virus and many large retail repair stores frequently misdiagnose hardware problems as viruses. Make sure you have a good anti-virus program and run scans on a regular basis.

Fix Your Computer

      Computer Repair Manual and Business                                      Guide

Stop Paying $300-400 for Computer Repair!

How to install memory in your computer

How to Install RAM

Has your computer started to feel a little sluggish? Maybe it’s not performing like it used to, or can’t keep up with the latest software? Upgrading your RAM (Random Access Memory) is one of the simplest and cheapest ways to quickly improve your computer’s performance. RAM can be upgraded on virtually any computer, and only takes a screwdriver and a few minutes. Read on after the jump to learn how.

Find out what type of RAM is required for your desktop computer. RAM comes in a variety of models and speeds. The type of RAM you can get is dependent on your computer’s motherboard. Check your motherboard or computer’s documentation, or check the manufacturer’s website for the RAM specifications that are compatible with your hardware.

• RAM is available as DDR (double data rate), DDR2, and DDR3. Most newer computers use DDR2 or 3. You must get the type that matches what your motherboard supports
• RAM is identified by two different speed numbers: the PC/PC2/PC3 number and the MHz speed. Make sure that both match your motherboard’s specifications.
• The PC number (ex. PC3 12800) refers to the maximum bandwidth (ex. 12800 = 12.8 GB maximum bandwidth).
• The speed of the RAM is signified by the number after the DDR specification (ex. DDR3 1600 = 1600 MHz).

Check how many sockets you have for RAM. Your motherboard has a limit to the number of RAM sticks you can install. Some motherboards support only two, while others support four, six, or even more.

• Most motherboards have a limit to the amount of memory that they support, regardless of the number of slots.
• iMacs use notebook memory, so refer to the next section for instructions on how to install it.

Make your purchase. Once you’ve decided on a manufacturer, you can pick your RAM. When buying desktop RAM, be sure to buy SDRAM. RAM is best installed in matching pairs, so you may need to buy two or four sticks to get the amount of RAM that you want.

• For example, to get 8 GB or RAM you might install two 4 GB sticks or four 2 GB sticks. Make sure that what you get can fit in your motherboard. Try to install RAM in pairs such a if you want 4 GB, then install 2 GB and 2GB. Never install them in different pairs such as one is 2 GB and the other one is 1 GB etc., it might decrease your RAM performance.
• All of the RAM you have installed should have matching speed and bandwidth. If they don’t match, your system will be clocked down to the slowest stick, reducing performance.
• Double check what your motherboard supports before committing to the purchase.

Shut down the computer. Unplug the computer and any peripherals connected to the computer, such monitors, keyboards, and mice.

Open your computer case. Lay your computer tower on its side, so that you can access the motherboard when the side panel is removed. You may need a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the panel, or you may be able to unscrew it by hand.

Discharge any static. Ensure that you do not have static build-up on your body. Static can damage computer parts, and can be imperceptible to a human. Ground yourself before starting, or use an antistatic wrist strap.

• You can ground yourself by touching a metal part on your computer case while it is plugged in but turned off.
• You can ground yourself by touching any plugged in appliance that has a grounded wire, or by touching a water tap.
• Don’t stand on carpet while working on the interior of the computer.

Locate your RAM sockets. Most motherboards have 2 or 4 RAM slots. RAM sockets are typically located near the CPU, though their location may vary depending on the manufacturer or model. Refer to your motherboard’s layout diagram in your documentation if you are having difficulty locating he sockets.

Remove old RAM (if upgrading). If you are replacing old RAM, remove it by releasing the clamps on each side of the socket. The RAM will be released from the socket, and you’ll be able to lift it straight out of the motherboard with little to no effort.

 Insert the RAM into the RAM slot. Line up the notch in the stick of RAM to the break in the slot. Set the stick into the slot and then apply equal pressure onto the stick until the clamps on the side click and lock the RAM in. You may have to apply a fair amount of pressure, but never force it in.

• Make sure matching pairs are inserted into their matching sockets. Most are labeled on the board or by color, though you may need to refer to your motherboard layout diagram. Make sure that they are facing the same way.
• Repeat the process for each stick of RAM you want to install.

1. Close up the computer. Once you’ve finished inserting your RAM sticks, you can put the panel back on and screw it back in. Avoid running your computer while the panel is off, as this will actually reduce the cooling power of your fans. Plug your peripherals and monitor back in.
2. 
   
   Power on the computer. Your computer should start normally. If your computer displays the self-test during the startup, then you can verify that the RAM has been installed correctly. If not, you can verify that the RAM was installed once Windows starts.
3. Check the RAM in Windows. Press The Windows key + Pause/Break to open the System Properties. You can also click the Start menu, right click on Computer/My Computer and click Properties. Your RAM will be listed in the System section or at the bottom of the window.
   

   • Operating systems calculate memory differently and some computers dedicate a certain amount of RAM to specific functions (e.g., video), decreasing the amount available. For example, you may have purchased 1 gigabyte of RAM. The operating system may only display 0.99 gigabytes.

DDR4 memory

To see and buy click on links below:

             4GB                8GB            16GB              


In September of 2012 JEDEC released preliminary standards for DDR4. DDR4 has significant increases in performance as well as improved reliability and reduced power compared to the last generation of DRAM technology. DDR4 will have double the speed and memory density, and will use 20% less power representing significant achievement relative to past DRAM technologies. DDR4 is able to achieve lower power consumption by dropping voltages from 1.5V as in DDR3 to 1.2V while increasing the performance factor to 2,133 MT/sec to start with future goals of 3,200 MT/sec.
One of the most significant changes is the proposed requirement to establish the reference voltage or V center used for compliance testing using a variable approach. For DDR3, this value was fixed at 750 mV. The new approach involves making multiple acquisitions of the DQ and a DQS Write burst. The largest to smallest voltage value for each is then measured and an average created using a simple formula. This then becomes the DQ voltage reference for centering and making reference measurements using an eye diagram.
Following the lead of many serial standards, DDR4 will now incorporate a statistical jitter measurement approach for speeds greater than 2,133. For speeds under 2,133, all jitter will be assumed to be deterministic jitter or DJ. For 2,133 and above, tests will look at both DJ and random jitter or RJ. To date, many of the timing parameters for jitter have not been published, but designers should be aware that jitter testing will be a requirement. One benefit of expanded jitter testing in DDR4 is that should devices fail to meet jitter requirements, the test and measurement vendor community offers robust jitter decomposition tools that can help isolate the source of problems.
 
                                               DDR4  SLOTS

     

SDRAM                               Data Rate                             Memory Clock

DDR4-1600                       1600 Mb/s/pin                            800 MHz
DDR4-1866                       1866 Mb/s/pin                            933 MHZ
DDR4-2133                       2133 Mb/s/pin                          1066 MHz
DDR4-2400                       2400 Mb/s/pin                          1200 MHz
DDR4-2667                       2667 Mb/s/pin                          1333 MHz
DDR4-3200                       3200 Mb/s/pin                          1600 MHz

To see and buy click on links below:

             4GB                8GB            16GB      

DDR sdram memory

To see and buy click on links below:

 256mb               512MB                 1GB                    
DDR (Double Data Rate) SDRAMs increased the memory data rate performance by increasing clock rates, bursting of data and transferring two data bits per clock cycle (See Table 1). DDR SDRAMs burst multiple memory locations in a single read or single write command. A read memory operation entails sending an Activate command followed by a Read command. The memory responds after its latency with a burst of two, four, or eight memory locations at a data rate of two memory locations per clock cycle. Therefore, four memory locations are read from or written to in two consecutive clock cycles.
DDR SDRAMs have multiple banks to provide multiple interleaved memory access, which increases memory bandwidth. A bank is one array of memory, two banks are two arrays of memory, four banks are four arrays of memory, etc (See Figure 3). Four banks require two bits for bank address (BA0 & BA1).
Note that the power required by the DDR SDRAM is related to the number of banks with open rows. More open rows require more power and larger row sizes require more power. Therefore, for low power applications one should open only one row at a time in each bank and not have multiple banks each with open rows.

Chip sizes:  128mb ,256mb ,512mn ,1gb

                                                 DDR   SLOTS

DDR SDRAM                      Data Rate                   Memory Clock

DDR-266                          266 Mb/s/pin                      133 MHz
DDR-333                          333 Mb/s/pin                      166 MHz
DDR-400                          400 Mb/s/pin                      200 MHz

DDR2 memory

To see and buy click on links below:

512MB                 1GB                 2GB     

DDR2 SDRAM has several improvements over DDR SDRAM. DDR2 SDRAM clock rates are higher, thus increasing the memory data rates (See Table 2). Signal integrity becomes more important for reliable memory operation as the clock rates increase. As clock rates increase, signal traces on the circuit boards become transmission lines and proper layout and termination at the end of the signal traces becomes more important.
DDR2 SDRAM reduces memory system power by operating at 1.8 volts, which is 72% of DDR SDRAM’s 2.5 volts. In some implementations, the number of columns in a row has been reduced, resulting in lower power when a row is activated for read or writes.
A new feature introduced with DDR2 SDRAM is additive latency, which provides the memory controller hub the flexibility to send the Read and Write commands sooner after the Activate command. This optimizes memory throughput and is configured by programming the additional latency using the DDR2 SDRAM extended mode register.
DDR2 SDRAM improves data bandwidth of 1Gb and 2Gb DDR2 SDRAMs by using eight banks. The eight banks increase the flexibility of accessing large memory DDR2 SDRAMs by interleaving different memory bank operations. Also, for large memories, DDR2 SDRAM supports a burst length up to eight.
DDR2 SDRAM data sheets are over 100 pages and the above DDR2 SDRAM features are highlights of its key features. Refer to DDR2 SDRAM data sheets for their complete features and details of operation.


                                                  DDR2   SLOTS

DDR2 SDRAM               Data Rate                       Memory Clock

DDR2-400                   400 Mb/s/pin                         200 MHz
DDR2-533                   533 Mb/s/pin                         266 MHz
DDR2-667                   667 Mb/s/pin                         333 MHz
DDR2-800                   800 Mb/s/pin                         400 MHz
DDR2-1066               1066 Mb/s/pin                         533 MHz

To see and buy click on links below:

512MB                 1GB                 2GB                   

DDR3 Memory

To see and buy click on links below:

1GB                2GB               4GB                8GB

DDR3 SDRAM is a performance evolution and enhancement of SDRAM technology starting at 800 Mb/s, which is the highest data rate supported by most DDR2 SDRAMs. DDR3 SDRAMs support six levels of data rates and clock speeds (See Table 3). DDR3-800/1066/1333 SDRAMs became available in 2007, while DDR3 -1600/1866 SDRAMs are expected in 2008 and DDR3 -2133 SDRAMs in 2009.

DDR3 -1066 SDRAM uses less power than DDR2-800 SDRAM because the DDR3 SDRAM operating voltage is 1.5 volts, which is 83% of DDR2 SDRAM’s 1.8 volts. Also, the DDR3 SDRAM data DQ drivers are at higher 34 ohms impedance than DDR2 SDRAM’s lower 18 ohms impedance.

DDR3 SDRAM will start with 512 Mb of memory and will grow to 8 Gb memory in the future. Just like DDR2 SDRAM, DDR3 SDRAM data output configurations include x4, x8 and x16. DDR3 SDRAM has eight banks where as DDR2 SDRAM has four or eight depending upon the memory size.

                            

                                              DDR3 SLOTS

DDR3 SDRAM                 Data Rate                      Memory Clock

DDR3-800                      800 Mb/s/pin                         400 MHz

DDR3-1066                  1066Mb/s/pin                          533 MHz

DDR3-1333                  1333Mb/s/pin                          667 MHz

DDR3-1600                  1600 Mb/s/pin                         800 MHz

DDR3-1866                  1866Mb/s/pin                          933 MHz

DDR3-2133                  2133Mb/s/pin                        1066 MHz

To see and buy click on links below:

1GB                2GB               4GB                8GB

SDRAM memory

SDRAM MEMORY 

• 168-pin DIMM, used for SDR SDRAM (less frequently for FPM/EDO DRAM in workstations/servers, may be 3.3 or 5 V)
• 

168-pin SDRAM

On the bottom edge of 168-pin DIMMs there are two notches, and the location of each notch determines a particular feature of the module. The first notch is the DRAM key position, which represents RFU (reserved future use), registered, and unbuffered DIMM types (left, middle and right position, respectively). The second notch is the voltage key position, which represents 5.0 V, 3.3 V, and RFU DIMM types

Three SDRAM DIMM slots on a computer motherboard

SDRAM Capcacity - see and buy,click on :

16mb,32mb,64mb,    128mb      ,256mb,       512mb,    1gb

SDR SDRAM   SPEEDS

 Chip               Module             Effective Clock           Voltage    

SDR-66             PC-66                       66 MHz                         3.3 V

SDR-100          PC-100                   100 MHz                         3.3 V

SDR-133          PC-133                    133 MHz                          3.3 V

Synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM) is dynamic random access memory (DRAM) that is synchronized with the system bus. Classic DRAM has an asynchronous interface, which means that it responds as quickly as possible to changes in control inputs. SDRAM has a synchronous interface, meaning that it waits for a clock signal before responding to control inputs and is therefore synchronized with the computer’s system bus. The clock is used to drive an internal finite state machine that pipelines incoming commands. The data storage area is divided into several banks, allowing the chip to work on several memory access commands at a time, interleaved among the separate banks. This allows higher data access rates than an asynchronous DRAM.

Pipelining means that the chip can accept a new command before it has finished processing the previous one. In a pipelined write, the write command can be immediately followed by another command, without waiting for the data to be written to the memory array. In a pipelined read, the requested data appears after a fixed number of clock cycles after the read command (latency), clock cycles during which additional commands can be sent. (This delay is called the latency and is an important performance parameter to consider when purchasing SDRAM for a computer.)

SDRAM is widely used in computers; after the original SDRAM, further generations of double data rate RAM have entered the mass market – DDR (also known as DDR1), DDR2, DDR3 and DDR4, with the latest generation (DDR4) released in second half of 2014.

Originally simply known as SDRAM, single data rate SDRAM can accept one command and transfer one word of data per clock cycle. Typical clock frequencies are 100 and 133 MHz. Chips are made with a variety of data bus sizes (most commonly 4, 8 or 16 bits), but chips are generally assembled into 168-pin DIMMs that read or write 64 (non-ECC) or 72 (ECC) bits at a time.

Use of the data bus is intricate and thus requires a complex DRAM controller circuit. This is because data written to the DRAM must be presented in the same cycle as the write command, but reads produce output 2 or 3 cycles after the read command. The DRAM controller must ensure that the data bus is never required for a read and a write at the same time.

Typical SDR SDRAM clock rates are 66, 100, and 133 MHz (periods of 15, 10, and 7.5 ns). Clock rates up to 150 MHz were available for performance enthusiasts.

Types of ram memory

Memory Terminology: This is a simplified overview of RAM terms and definitions

100 pin memory
Used primarily in laser printers, 100 pin SIMM memory is not compatible with other formats.

CAS Latency:
To oversimplify a complex discussion, the main timing of a RAM module is described by a CAS (Column Address Strobe) Latency value. This is the length of time that a RAM module needs between serving one request and when it is “recharged” and able to take the next request. All else being equal, and if the motherboard can make use of faster latencies, the lower the CAS Latency value the faster the RAM can respond.

Typical DDR CAS values are CL3, CL2.5 and CL2 . There are other latency measurements but CAS Latency is the most important.

In older SDRAM (PC66, PC100, PC133) , a CL2 module is not always faster than a CL3 module – the effective speed is determined by the memory controller on the motherboard of the computer, and in some cases a CL3 module matches an older motherboard’s timing better and performs faster than a CL2 module.

Non-Synchronus memory isn’t measured the same way – it has a memory response speed in nanoseconds, and the computer waits for the RAM chip to be ready. Synchronous RAM, in contrast, synchronizes its operations to the computer’s memory buss clock.

SDRAM can be CAS 2 or CAS 3

DDR RAM is normally CAS Latency 2.5 for PC2700 modules and CL3 for PC3200 modules. Premium modules are available with CL2.5 or CL2.0 on higher-capacity PC3200 modules. (DDR make two operations per clock cycle, which is why it can have “half” of a tick)

DDR-2 RAM is normally CAS Latency 4 (DDR2-533), CAS Latency 5 (DDR2-667) and CAS Latency 5 0r 6 (DDR2-800). Lower latency RAM is available at higher prices.

DDR-3 RAM has CAS latencies in the range of 7 to 9. This means that the latency penalty versus DDR-2 RAM negates some of the advantage of DDR-3 running at higher clock speeds. This is expected to improve over time.

DDR – Dual Data Rate RAM
Can be packaged in both DIMM (184-pin for Desktops) and SO-DIMM (200-pin for laptops) forms. Speeds are PC2100 (266 MHz) PC2700 (333 MHz) and PC3200 (400 MHz) DDR . The standards for speeds higher than PC3200 are not finalized, although some manufacturers offer “PC3700″ “PC4000″ and up DDR modules as a marketing designation.

DDR-2 A format that is faster than DDR. DDR and DDR-2 are not compatible with each other. Designations are PC2-5300 (DDR2-667 MHz), PC2-4200 (DDR2-533 MHz, also called by some manufacturers PC4300), and PC2-6400 (DDR2-800). Available in both DIMM and SODIMM packages. Faster speed RAM is available at higher prices.

DDR-3
DDR-3 is now the primary RAM type for new desktop and laptop machines and motherboards. DDR, DDR-2 and DDR-3 are not compatible with each other. Some early DDR3 motherboards have sockets for both DDR-2 and DDR-3 memory, however the two formats cannot be combined at the same time.

DDR-4
New type of memory.There are a lot of deeply technical aspects to DDR4, but we won’t dive that far. The two key improvements in DDR4 are power consumption and data transfer speed, thanks to the development of an all-new bus.

DDR4 memory will deliver significant benefits in terms of performance and power consumption. 

DDR3 generally requires 1.5 volts of electrical power to operate. DDR4 needs 20 percent less—just 1.2 volts. DDR4 also supports a new, deep power-down mode that will allow the host device to go into standby without needing to refresh its memory. Deep power-down mode is expected to reduce standby power consumption by 40- to 50 percent.