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How to test your RAM to check for hardware issuesUpdated a month ago

Unexplained system crashes, application freezes, blue screens (BSOD), or data corruption can often point to faulty or unstable memory (RAM). Diagnosing memory-related issues is critical in determining system stability and identifying defective hardware.

To verify the health and performance of your RAM, we recommend using OCCT, a trusted diagnostic tool that stress-tests hardware components under load and monitors for errors.

 STEP 1: DOWNLOAD OCCT

  • Head here.

  • Check the I understand and then press Download


  • Once downloaded, run the .exe file

  • Open OCCT and prepare to run each test

Before starting the test:

  • Close all open applications (including web browsers, games, and background software)

  • Avoid using the PC during testing to prevent interference or inaccurate results

  • Ensure your PC is connected to a stable power source to avoid interruptions during extended testing

STEP 2: CONFIGURE AND RUN THE MEMORY TEST

  • Click the “Memory” tab (RAM icon) on the left-hand side

  • Adjust the test settings as follows:

  • Memory Usage: 100%

  • Instruction Set: AVX2

  • Duration: 1 hour 3 times

  • Click Start to begin the test

During the test, your system may experience reduced responsiveness. This is normal due to high memory utilization.

STEP 3: REVIEW AND SAVE RESULTS

Once the test is complete:

  • OCCT will display a green result if no errors are detected

  • Any errors or failures will be flagged in red and logged in the report

Please take a screenshot of the final results screen and save it for your records or share it with support personnel for further review.

IF ERRORS ARE DETECTED

Memory errors can be caused by:

  • Faulty or failing RAM modules

  • Incorrect XMP/DOCP profiles in BIOS

  • Incompatibility between the memory and the motherboard

  • Improper seating of RAM sticks in the motherboard slots

  • Test one RAM stick at a time to isolate the faulty module

  • Re-seat each stick and ensure proper alignment in the DIMM slots

  • Disable XMP in BIOS and retest with default settings

If you have any questions about interpreting the results or require assistance with next steps, please don’t hesitate to contact our support team. We're here to help ensure your system is running reliably and efficiently.

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Still need help?

If you have any questions we didn’t cover in this guide, or you’re running into something that’s a bit more stubborn, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our Customer Support team. Our friendly support staff is always happy to help.

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