A computer’s RAM (Random Access Memory) is a very important component as it is responsible for the computer’s capacity to perform multiple tasks at one point in time. An erratic RAM may affect your PC in a lot of ways. Some of the possible effects are:
- Error messages stating memory problems
- Often lock-ups
- System crashes
- Computer reboots on its own
- Failure of booting up
These signs, however, are not limited to memory problems as it may be caused by other components as well (e.g. motherboard, power supply, hard disk drive, etc.). If you suspect that the problem is indeed caused by your memory, then you may want to use programs that check memory performance. Using these programs detect errors and enable you to fix it up if the need arises.
One program for the job is Memtest86+. This is a diagnostic program programmed particularly for memory. It is a standalone memory check test, meaning you can operate it even without an operating system that you have to boot. This is very useful especially during times when your RAM hinders you from passing through boot-up.
Here are some steps on how you will be able to use Memtest86+:
- Visit http://www.memtest.org.
- Choose the best version appropriate for your system and download it (You can choose either you would download an .iso file or a pre-compiled floppy drive).
- Pick .iso if you plan to use a CD.
- Pick the pre-compiled floppy drive if you would use a floppy disk.
Let’s elaborate the “floppy drive” process
- Unzip the .zip files to a certain folder and double-click install.bat.
- When prompted to “enter target diskette drive”, type A, press Enter. It will ask for a formatted floppy disk and it will write data on it.
- Reboot computer and modify BIOS menu by putting the floppy drive as the first boot priority. The program will run by itself from there.
