When the computer starts to fail, and cleaning the OS and its optimization does not produce results, it is necessary to proceed with the diagnosis of iron components. It is entirely possible that errors are caused by RAM. But it’s impossible to verify this without specialized programs that run the Windows 7 64-bit RAM test. In Russian, the interface of utilities preinstalled in the system is implemented, which is very convenient. Third-party software is equipped only with English localization, but is most effective.
The main reasons for the failure of RAM
The RAM design includes several integrated circuits soldered on the board and installed in the connector of the motherboard. This component is considered the most reliable among all the main PC devices. The chance to buy a marriage, although minimal, is possible. Besides him, other factors often come into play. Causes of memory failures:
- static electricity ;
- voltage drops in the network;
- faulty or poor quality PSU;
- high level of humidity in the room;
- failure to perform regular maintenance (dusting);
- work at critical temperatures;
- physical impact (blows to the PC case, laptop fall).
Signs of Dead Memory
Damage to the RAM module leads to a variety of troubles. It is difficult to list them all, but to list the main ones is quite realistic.
- BSOD is the surest and most frequent symptom of failures in RAM chips.
- Periodic shutdowns of the computer, failures when loading the operating system, freezes during initialization of devices by the BIOS.
- Errors during the operation of applications that require a lot of RAM. These include graphic editors, 3D games, office suites, compilers.
- If artifacts appear on the display, you also need to test the Windows 7 64-bit RAM. Although most often in this case, the video card is to blame.
- The computer refuses to turn on. Nothing appears on the monitor. At this time, error signals may be output from the PC speaker. To understand what kind of malfunction the notification system reports, read the documentation on the motherboard developer website.
- Each attempt to reinstall Windows is completed due to errors that occur in its process.
Built-in utility
All operating systems, starting with Vista, are equipped with a built-in tool that, upon user request, performs a Windows 7 64-bit RAM test. In this case, you do not need to install additional components on the computer. This is most convenient, but sometimes ineffective, for example, when the utility itself refuses to start due to RAM problems.
- Complete all running programs.
- Save important files and documents to an external drive.
- If possible, backup the entire system.
- Click on "Start", in the search area, type mdsched and open the application found.
- In the launched program, the user will be offered a choice: test the RAM of Windows 7 64-bit without rebooting or check after the next computer turn on. Selecting the first mode is not recommended.
Background mode
Testing without shutting down the OS does not require a long wait. During the test, the display can see a window in which there is no information other than a filling indicator. It is intended to report an approximate percentage of the operation. If the RAM is ok, the utility will display a “no errors” warning. In the case when the RAM slots are malfunctioning, the application will display a list with trouble codes.
As mentioned earlier, background checking is not recommended, it does not give a complete picture. The fact is that in RAM during the execution of the program functions the data used by the operating system for its work is constantly stored.
The Windows 7 64-bit RAM test, which runs after the machine reboots, starts automatically. Its appearance resembles programs written for DOS. The whole process will take several tens of minutes. After finding the error, red lines will appear at the bottom of the screen with a description of the failure. In principle, if even one error occurs, the verification procedure can be completed and the computer turned off, it definitely needs repair.
Third Party Utilities
There are many RAM testing applications on the Internet. Both large companies and enthusiasts take part in their development. The popularity of such programs allows them to mask worms and trojans. Remember that when downloading any executable file to your computer, you should check it with antivirus. If the site offers to run the Windows 7 64-bit RAM test online, you should know that this is a hoax. The browser will not be able to get low-level access to physical devices and drivers.
Memtest86 + is a universal tool whose algorithms are constantly being improved. The application is distributed under the GPL license, which means that anyone can not only download it for free, but also take part in the development. The utility is optimized to check RAM of any generation up to DDR3. The program starts in DOS mode. This approach allows you to work with all memory cells. The verification tool requires an empty flash drive. Subsequently, it will become bootable.
Bootable Flash Drive Tutorial
- Download memtest86 +. It is important to download the USB installer, not the ISO image. In order not to be mistaken, carefully study the information on the official website.
- Unzip the archive into an empty directory and run the installer.
- Select the drive to which the program files are copied.
- Check the box for the only possible item. Be sure to save all documents located on the USB flash drive, as it will be formatted.
- Click Create.
- After completing all operations, click Next. Now a utility is installed on the USB flash drive that will perform a test of the Windows 7 64-bit RAM. The laptop must be restarted.
- Go into BIOS settings and set USB as the first boot device.
- Exit saving by pressing F10.
After turning on the PC, memtest86 + will start. It will automatically start checking. There are nine tests in total. They are all in a loop. After the first lap at the bottom of the screen, you will be able to observe informational messages that will tell you whether there were errors and whether the RAM bars are working. Pressing the Escape key will turn off the utility and reboot the machine.
Memory fails, what should I do?
All further tips are for users who have minimal home appliance repair skills.
Disconnect the system unit and all peripheral devices from the network. Remove the computer cover and remove the RAM module. Inspect the chips. If they do not have chips or any other defects, take an eraser and wipe the contacts of the bar. Sweep the trash with a soft watercolor brush, and then treat the gilding with alcohol. Set the bar in place and run the Windows 7 64-bit RAM test again.
If the failures did not stop, it makes sense to rearrange the module in the neighboring slot. If there are several modules, try swapping them.
A faulty RAM module cannot be repaired at home, and in specialized workshops hardly anyone will undertake this matter. Therefore, when choosing a RAM strip, do not chase low cost, you should choose a device from among the products of well-known manufacturers. Particular attention must be paid to the warranty period.