One of the most frustrating things you can encounter with a computer are memory problems. Everything can seem to be running perfect on your computer but every once in a while there is that little glitch or crash for no apparent reason. Sometimes files get corrupted or a program that worked well before crashes when you load a large file. Those little annoying problems that you can't seem to put your finger on. Well it may be a problem with your memory!

Common Memory Problems

There are several reasons memory will not function correctly or fail outright. But before you handle any component in your computer you have to be Static Safe

Incorrectly Installed Memory
First check and see if the Memory Modules are correctly installed. This is the simplest fix and the most common error. Especially if you have installed the memory yourself. A poorly seated memory module may sometimes function but will create errors, but more likely than not it will not function at all. If you have instructions read them again and re-seat the memory module according to those instructions. In most cases there is a definitive snap or click when the module is correctly seated.

1. Re-Seat Memory Module
   Sometimes a memory module can fail by just sitting where it is. Humidity and other climate changes can create corrosion on the pins however slight that will affect the memory module. Remove the memory modules and clean the pins with a soft cloth. You can also use a soft eraser as found on a pencil to "brighten" the pins, just be gentle. When you re-install the memory modules re-seat them several times, by doing this you also clean the pins on the motherboard. NOTE: If there is a great deal of corrosion on the pins (such as you would find on a bad battery) you have a greater problem and need to identify the cause.
2. Swap Memory Modules
   Another quick fix is to move the memory modules to another socket or if you have more then one memory module swap them into each others socket. This can help identify a problem memory module if you have a known good memory module.
3. Overheating
   Overheating is easily overlooked because unless you touch the memory module right after shutdown you would never know. Check the computer case's ventilation and cooling fans, use compressed air to clean any dust that has accumulated and make sure all the cooling fans are working correctly. Be sure to check that the fans are running up to speed. On some of the cheaper fans they use a bushing rather than ball bearings and the bushing will not fail completely. Instead it slows the fan down enough that it appears to still be working correctly but is not moving enough air to cool all the components.
4. Memory Configured Correctly
   Some computers need to have the same type memory module in each socket. They may also require that certain size memory modules are placed in a particular order in the sockets. You need to follow the motherboards manufacturers directions when installing memory.
5. BIOS Upgrade
   Check with the manufacturer of your motherboard to make sure you have the most recent BIOS. A BIOS update can correct a lot of problems and add features to your motherboard.
6. Defective Memory Module
   Of course there is always the chance that the memory module is defective. You can swap the memory modules to try and identify the bad memory module. If the system boots with the memory module installed you can also try a memory diagnostic program such as Memtest86. You can download a copy HERE. Follow the instructions to create a boot disk with then run the program.
7. Correct Memory for your System
   Do you have the right memory for your system?  This is a common mistake and easily remedied by searching for and purchasing the right memory for your system.

Specific Memory Problems

A computer can is some instances help you identify the problem with a self diagnostic test it performs called POST (Power-On Self Test) when first turned on [See BIOS & Beep Codes]

• Computer does not boot just beeps
  This is the computer identifying a problem with the hardware and you can consult your motherboard users manual to identify the specific beep code result
• Only partial memory shows on boot
  The computer does not recognize all the memory and reports less than actually installed. This is usually due to the wrong memory being installed. For specific memory modules for your computer system you need to be sure to choose compatible memory modules
• Registry errors
  Because a lot of the registry is written to the memory defective memory can cause registry errors. This is most notable when Windows reports a registry error and requires you to restore the registry and restart the system.
• Blank screen on boot
  Make sure all the cards in your computer system are fully seated. A loose or poorly seated card will allow a computer system to boot but will fail with a blank screen. Also double check the memory module that it is the correct one for your computer system.
• Computer displays a memory error on boot
  Some computers will display an error message when new or more memory is added to the motherboard. Some systems require that you grant permission to allow it to continue. You can also get specific messages from a motherboard such as "Memory Address Error at" and "Memory Error at". The system will also show a memory address where that failure occurred. This can be caused by a defective motherboard or incompatibility between the motherboard and memory.
• Page Faults, Exception Errors General, Protection Faults
  This is normally a software error where a misbehaving program has failed to release the memory it was using and another program tries to use the same memory address. You can solve this by re-booting the system. If these errors occur right after you install new memory then that memory may be suspect and you should check that it is compatible with your system.

But the most important thing to do is to make sure you have the right memory for your system. You need to identify your system or motherboard and then identify the memory module that is the best for your system. Find the right memory for your system by purchasing from a reputable company.