How to Troubleshoot Memory Problems in a Dell E521 PCI

Memory problems can cause a Dell E521 PCI computer to lock up, crash or shut down unexpectedly and often appear as an intermittent failure. Troubleshooting memory problems can solve a variety of seemingly unrelated issues because the memory is essential for nearly every operation that the computer performs. With a systematic approach to testing system memory, the cause can often be linked to a single faulty module or a mismatch of different speed modules. Solving the problem eliminates the hangs, freezes and restarts and can speed up most computer operations.

Preparing the Computer and Diagnosing the Problem

• 1

  Back up any important files and settings to an external device such as a USB hard drive or flash drive, or a blank optical disc, prior to beginning the troubleshooting process. Click "Start" (Windows Orb), "Control Panel," and then "Backup and Restore" to begin the process. Choose "Set up Backup" and follow the prompts to create a backup.

• 2

  Update Windows by clicking "Start" (Windows Orb) and "All Programs" and then "Windows Update." Search for available updates and install any that are found. Restart the computer and check for additional updates until none are found, which may take several attempts because a number of Windows updates do not become available until other prerequisite updates have been installed.

• 3

  Launch the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool by clicking "Start" (Windows Orb), "Control Panel," and "Administrative Tools." Double-click on "Windows Memory Diagnostics" and choose "Restart Now and Check for Memory Problems."

• 4

  Press the "F1" key to select options once the memory test begins, and choose between the basic, standard and extended memory test procedures. Press the "Tab" key to move to the Cache selection and choose between default, on and off. Press the "Tab" key again to move to the number of passes to perform the selected tests. For best results, choose the extended test and default cache testing with at least five passes, which will take a significant amount of time depending upon the speed and amount of RAM installed in the system. Allow the memory testing to complete and review the results after Windows restarts.

• 5

  Swap out the RAM modules one at a time if errors are found during the memory testing or as another phase of the diagnostic process. Replace RAM modules with known good or brand new modules of the same speed and type, and by the same manufacturer if possible.

Swapping RAM Modules

• 1

  Power down the computer and disconnect the power cable. Open the case and attach the anti-static wrist strap to a bare metal part of the case.

• 2

  Remove one RAM module by pressing outward on the two plastic tabs that hold the module in place, allowing the module to rise straight up out of the socket. Hold the RAM module by the edges, being careful not to touch the contacts.

• 3

  Start the computer and run the memory test again with at least one RAM module in place.

• 4

  Swap out the other module(s) one at a time until the problem is narrowed down and the memory test is able to run without detecting any errors.

• 5

  Perform additional testing with a hardware testing software package if desired (see Resources).