• Checking Windows XP RAM using MemTest86. RAM test: checking RAM for errors

    Malfunction RAM is common cause appearance . If your computer starts to regularly show this blue screen, that is, it makes sense to check the RAM for performance. Fortunately, this is done very simply. In this material we will look at two ways to test memory, using the built-in mdsched utility and using the third-party program Memtest86+.

    Checking the health of RAM using mdsched

    The simplest option for checking RAM functionality is to check it using the mdsched utility. This utility is built into the Windows operating system and is present in all of its modern versions, including Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10.

    In order to check RAM using mdsched, you must first. To do this, press the Windows + R key combination. Next you need to enter the command “mdsched” and press the Enter key.

    This will launch the mdsched utility. This utility will offer you two options for checking RAM. If you select the first option, the computer will restart and the scan will begin immediately, and if you select the second, the scan will be scheduled the next time you turn on the computer. You can choose any of these options, there is not much difference between them.

    One way or another, after the next boot of the computer, the Diagnostic Tool will launch. Windows memory" By default, memory will be checked in Basic mode.

    If you want to conduct a more detailed check of the performance of the RAM, then you can interrupt the current test using the F1 key and select a different test mode. In total, the “Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool” offers three modes for checking RAM performance, these are:

    • Basic mode - the simplest and fastest test, includes checking MATS+, INVC, SCHCKR;
    • Normal mode - a more detailed check, including checks for LRAND, Stride6, SCHCKR3, WMATS+ and WINVC;
    • Wide mode - maximum detailed check RAM, which includes MATS+, Stride38, WSCHCKR, CHCKR4, WSride-6, ERAND, WCHCKR3, Stride6 and CHCKR8 checks.

    In addition, while running the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool, you can disable or enable the memory cache check. To do this, you must first press the F1 key, then the Tab key, and then select from three options:

    • Included;
    • Off;
    • Default;

    It must be taken into account that the more detailed method checks you choose, the longer it will take.

    Checking the performance of RAM using Memtest86+

    You can also check the performance of the RAM using third party programs. One of the most famous programs This kind of program is Memtest86+. The Memtest86+ program runs exclusively with boot disk, so it can be used even when the operating system is not installed or is not running.

    Download ISO image A boot disk with this program can be found on the website. You can also download Hiren’s boot CD (), which includes Memtest86+. About how to record bootable iso The image on the disk can be read.

    Memtest86+ is very easy to use. Boot from the boot disk and run Memtest86+. Immediately after launch, the program begins to check your RAM for functionality.

    If any errors or malfunctions are found, red messages will appear on the screen. If there are no errors, the message “Pass complete, no error” will appear.

    To access the Memtest86+ program settings, you need to press the “C” key on your keyboard. To complete the test, press the “Esc” key.

    Random access memory or RAM is one of the essential components personal computer. Malfunction of modules can lead to critical errors in system operation and cause BSODs (blue screens of death).

    In this article, we will look at several programs that can analyze RAM and identify faulty modules.

    GoldMemory is a program supplied in the form boot image with the distribution. Works without participation operating system when booting from a disk or other media.

    The software includes several memory test modes, can test performance, and saves test data in special file on your hard drive.

    MemTest86

    Another utility that is distributed already written into an image and works without loading the OS. Allows you to select test options and displays information about the size of the processor cache and memory. The main difference from GoldMemory is that there is no way to save test history for later analysis.

    MemTest86+

    MemTest86+ is a revised edition of the previous program, created by enthusiasts. Differs more high speed testing and support for the latest hardware.

    Windows Memory Diagnostic Utility

    Another representative of console utilities that work without the participation of the operating system. Developed by Microsoft Corporation, Windows Memory Diagnostic Utility is one of the most effective solutions to identify errors in RAM and is guaranteed compatible with Windows 7, as well as newer and older systems from MS.

    RightMark Memory Analyzer

    This software already has its own GUI and runs under Windows. The main distinguishing feature of RightMark Memory Analyzer is the priority setting, which makes it possible to check RAM without loading the system.

    MEMTEST

    A very small program. IN free version can only check the specified amount of memory. In paid editions, it has advanced functions for displaying information, as well as the ability to create bootable media.

    MemTach

    MemTach is professional-level memory testing software. Conducts many tests of RAM performance in various operations. Due to some features, it is not suitable for the average user, since the purpose of some tests is known only to specialists or advanced users.

    SuperRam

    This program is multifunctional. It includes a RAM performance testing module and a resource monitor. The main function of SuperRam is RAM optimization. The software scans memory in real time and frees up space that is not being used. at the moment processor. In the settings you can set the limits at which this option will be enabled.

    Errors in RAM can and should cause problems with the operating system and the computer as a whole. If you suspect that the cause of the failure is the RAM, then you need to test using one of the programs given above. If errors are detected, sadly, you will have to replace the faulty modules.

    The Windows 10 64-bit RAM test is carried out at the POST stage. That is, even when the PC starts. Checking the RAM shows that the system can load its processes there. Otherwise, various failures are possible, and no self-respecting manufacturer will allow this to happen. Therefore, Windows 10 also has its own tools to perform the same actions. The only exceptions to this rule are virtual machines, for which there is no point in running POST tests. The logic is simple: if someone launched a copy of the system, then the PC is, of course, operational.

    Third-party sites, one of the most famous is memtest.org, distribute third-party utilities. This comes in handy from time to time. Usually a programmer tries traditional methods, sees what exactly he doesn’t like, and then creates his own software and sometimes even tries to sell it. There are hundreds and even thousands of examples of this. What is good about memory testing? third party utilities? You can't tell unless you try.

    POST test

    By default, the POST test starts every time you start your PC. But many people don’t like that it takes time and disable checking through the BIOS. As a result, the system boots faster and the RAM is less loaded. Consistent adherence to this policy may result in blue screens. When one of the RAM lines fails. Make sure it is not in the BIOS of the virtual machines.

    There is no choice on most laptops either. Many modern PCs do not have it either (the ability to turn off the scan). If required:

    1. Go to the Advanced BIOS section.
    2. Look for a setting with a name like Quick Power on Self Test.
    3. Setting this option to Enable disables the boot check.

    In modern boards you can operate with fast loading. For the most part, this option overrides the POST test, and with it the memory check.

    Built-in tools

    Then the OS will boot. Based on the results of the inspection, actions are taken to replace the rulers. It’s not difficult to select the one you need, so we won’t dwell on this (go through it one by one if you don’t know any other way). After loading, you will receive another message (in case the master went out for coffee).

    This will finally show what exactly needs to be done.

    Note! The same snap-in opens when you search for “memory checker” or through the Run tool (Win + R) by typing mdsched.

    Third party utilities

    Download the image from memtest86.com and go!


    How does the utility work? She writes down the pattern according to specified address, and then tries to read it. IN in this case this is ffffdfff, and on the second pass it is a different number.

    There are many options for how to reliably check every bit of RAM. Please note that the utility is aware of processor caches. She indicated their sizes and speed of circulation:

    1. L1 Cache size 64 K.
    2. L2 Cache size 256 K.
    3. L3 Cache size 6 MB.

    The authors always believed that the speed should consistently drop, but the screenshot shows something different. Live forever and learn. Meanwhile, the software went on to write the 00000000 pattern to check for any stuck bits. The software can work indefinitely, but at some point it will write what exactly needs to be done next.

    In our case, there is no need to do anything, since the RAM is fine. Press Esc to exit the utility interface. The only downside is that the bootloader does not have a skip option, so you need to go to the BIOS again and disable booting from DVD there, or remove the USB flash drive. It depends on what medium the work is coming from.

    View result

    If for some reason the program has completed testing, but the result could not be verified (colleagues/family/laziness interfered), use system messages.


    What to check

    Since the tests are free, it makes no difference which one tests RAM. Under DOS there is little difference whether 32-bit or 64-bit commands are used. Therefore, even the system checks the memory for errors during the boot period.

    First, let's figure out what random access memory (RAM) is - this is the temporary memory of a personal computer (PC), which works when the device is turned on. She is responsible for the function of stable and full work all installed programs.

    As we found out, RAM is a kind of temporary data storage buffer located between disk drive and processor.

    Therefore, the data on it is stored only until the PC is turned off, which means that before that you need to worry about saving all the materials. The operating speed of the entire PC system, in particular installed applications, depends on the OP.

    To summarize, RAM affects:

    • to stable, fast work PC;
    • the ability to use several programs (applications) simultaneously;
    • on the speed of completing assigned tasks.

    In order to find out how much on a PC, you need to follow several steps.



    Now we know how much OP is provided on the PC, and how much is available. Now you need to understand whether everything is okay with the RAM or whether you need to take some action.

    Identifying RAM problems

    Problems with RAM occur nowadays innovative technologies quite often. There are several most common signs of complications in the work of an OP.

    1. Slow operation of the computer, requested files take a long time to open, specified functions are not performed, and freeze.
    2. Messages about low memory appear on the monitor when downloading files, opening applications, etc.
    3. Some programs stopped working.

    Slow computer performance is a sign of problems with RAM

    There are quite a few reasons for the malfunction of the OP.

    1. The detail itself is defective. This is rare, but still. In this case, the solution is simple: contact the store or market where you purchased the PC and use the warranty card to make an exchange or repair.
    2. Mechanical damage. It mainly occurs when the OP itself is installed manually by a PC or connector user.
    3. Wear. Any equipment has its own wear rate, which depends on the degree of use, location, and PC load.
    4. Overheat. Occurs mainly due to untimely cleaning of dust from systems. Of course, overheating is possible due to high temperature indoors, but usually in rooms with equipment there is a cooling system.

    Video - How to check RAM for errors?

    Testing: step-by-step instructions

    To understand what is the reason unstable work computer's RAM, you need to test it.

    Note! Microsoft once approached the problem of testing quite seriously. In the operating room Windows system There are built-in utilities for checking the status of many components. IN Windows versions 7 and higher provide memory testing by default, but the results are displayed only if a critical situation occurs. But in order to understand the state of RAM at any time, you can check it manually.

    Step by step instructions.

    Option 1

    Press the Win + R keys, a window appears, in the “open” line we enter: mdsched, click “ok”. Figure 4 below shows all the steps.

    A window with a verification request appears on the screen; all you have to do is make a choice and wait for the result.

    Option 2

    1. Go to the Start menu. On the screen, this sign is located in the far left corner.
    2. In the search bar we write the word “operative”.
    3. Now in top line Find “diagnostics of computer RAM problems”, click.

    A window will appear on the screen asking you to check it, taking into account the reboot at the moment or the next time you turn it on.

    You can also check using specialized programs, for example, such as Mem Test 6.0 is a kind of utility for testing the reliability of the operating system.

    Having tested the PC's RAM and identified errors, it is necessary to urgently begin to correct them.

    Hello Friends! Faulty RAM can cause unstable operation of the computer and, as a result, loss of data. Symptoms include unexpected reboots or a “blue screen of death.” When diagnosing a desktop computer or laptop, the first thing to do is check the RAM. You don't need to open your computer to do this. It is enough to boot from a disk or from a flash drive (from a memory card at worst)) and perform RAM test. Windows 7 and Windows 8 include a built-in memory test utility. You just need to run it and schedule the test to run either immediately or at the next boot.

    In this article we will look in detail at how to test RAM.

    As mentioned above, the Windows 7 and Windows 8 operating systems have a built-in memory check utility. This is convenient because it is always at hand and there is no need for third-party programs.

    To start, you need to go to Control Panel > System and Security > Administration. Choose

    It is also convenient to use the search from the Start menu

    A window will open with information - What memory problems can lead to

    You have 3 options to choose from: reboot and scan, scan the next time you turn on the computer, or click Cancel.

    When you select the first item, the system will immediately reboot and execute RAM test. Before selecting, you must close all open applications.

    If you select the second option, the scan will run the next time you turn on the computer. You can try to finish the unfinished work and reboot.

    You can also run a RAM test when booting Windows 7/8 key press F8 and selecting Troubleshooting your computer

    Select the user and click OK

    Choose

    The same window opens as under Windows. Click on the recommended first item

    The system will reboot and begin testing RAM

    To select testing parameters, click F1

    We can choose a test suite:

    • Base
    • Ordinary
    • Wide

    Basic includes 3 tests used for quick check. Normal includes additional tests and runs by default. The extended one includes all possible tests prepared by Microsoft and is naturally the longest in terms of time.

    To identify problems, a regular RAM test is quite enough.

    When you press a key Tab You will be taken to the next control option - Memory Cache. Disabling which will result in accessing RAM directly, which will allow for more accurate testing.

    When you press the key again Tab there will be a switch to last option selecting the number of repetitions of the RAM test. Used for a more thorough check and allows you to set from 1 to 0 (infinity) passes.

    To apply the settings and continue the test, you must press the key F10

    If you are just going to install Windows 7 from a disk image, then you can also test the RAM. For this it is necessary.

    Press any key

    Use the Tab key to select Windows Memory Diagnostic

    The RAM test will start but in English

    The Status field displays an inspiring inscription - “No errors found yet”)

    If any are found, it will be written about it immediately. The results will also be displayed again when loading the operating system if the test was launched from Windows.

    Memtest86+ the most popular RAM test

    The second, but no less effective, tool for checking RAM is the Memtest86+ program. At the time of writing current version 4.20

    Download this utility you can from the official website. The archive is downloaded in *.zip format and is intended for installation on a flash drive

    You can also download the image for burning to disk from the official website. You can read how to burn an image to disk in this article.

    Let's write the program to a flash drive. To do this, unpack the downloaded archive. If anyone has difficulty with this, please see the article How to open a rar file. We connect the flash drive to the computer and run the unpacked program Memtest86+ USB Installer.exe

    Click I agree(I agree to the license agreement)

    Select connected USB flash drive and set the recommended “birdie”

    Copy all important data from the USB drive and click Create(Create)

    Then click Next

    AND Finish

    Bootable USB drive ready.

    You can also go into the BIOS and select Boot Menu(F8). Or press F8 immediately upon loading, which will take you to the menu for selecting boot options. You need to choose our flash drive

    When booting from a prepared flash drive, the RAM test will begin immediately

    In addition to watching the test pass, you can watch:

    • information about the processor and processor cache
    • maximum amount of RAM and its speed
    • information about the chipset and memory parameters
    • settings of the RAM itself (frequency, latency and whether dual-channel mode works)

    There is also a table where in the first column you can track the duration of testing. If all tests are successfully passed, 1 will appear in the Pass column instead of 0 and the inscription will be displayed at the bottom

    *****Pass complete, no errors, press Esc to exit*****

    Click ESC and produce normal download operating system.

    If errors are detected during the memory test, a red table will appear with the addresses of the detected problems, and the test will continue.

    What to do if problems are detected?

    Turn off the computer, take out the RAM and wipe the contacts with a regular eraser. The one we used at school. It is also recommended to blow out the memory connectors on the motherboard.

    Carefully! If you have memory modules without heatsinks, do not hold on to the memory chips! You can deform the contact between the chip and the PCB. (Memory chips are black squares or rectangles on colored PCB)

    Blow off any remaining rubber on the memory modules and install them into the motherboard.

    Repeat the test

    If errors appear again, take the modules to service center under warranty.

    If there is no warranty, check each module individually to determine the faulty strip and replace it. (Don't forget that the memory module connector may be faulty. If the memory stick test fails in one slot, check it in another)

    If you have a set of 2 or 4 memory sticks, it is recommended to change the entire set.

    For more information about memory, see the article How to increase computer RAM?

    Conclusion

    In this article we figured out how to carry out RAM test.

    It is convenient to diagnose memory modules using both the built-in Windows Memory Checker utility and special program Memtest86+. We learned how to prepare a USB flash drive and burn an image with the program to disk.

    And most importantly! Provided measures to take when memory problems are detected.

    Video - RAM Test

    I will be glad to see questions and suggestions in the comments. I wish you serviceable and reliable memory modules.

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