Test Your RAM

The Windows Diagnostic Memory Tool

We've all relied on popular memory diagnostic tools such as memtest86 to troubleshoot PC problems. Now Windows Vista can check the memory for you using its built-in Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool. Hardware issues with RAM can cause your system to become unstable, lose data and fail randomly. Checking the memory should be the first step in the diagnostic process-if only to eliminate it as being the problem.

To access the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool, you can go to desktop search box and type memory. You can also get there by accessing the Admin Tools area of the control panel. If you're not logged in as admin, you will be asked to submit your password before continuing.

You will be presented with the option to restart your computer to begin the test or begin the test the next time you boot your PC. When your PC restarts, the diagnostic tool will begin and present you with a few test options: Basic, Standard and Extended. The Standard test is selected by default. Choose the type of test and how many times you want it to run and the diagnostic tool will begin.

Since these tests can take a while, you may want to begin them before going out or going to bed. The computer will restart and show the results the next time you login. If you have bad memory, you should replace or remove the module immediately, as problems with memory can impact your Windows installation and cause you to lose important data.

Resolution Summary:

Type memory in the Windows search.
Select to run the test or wait for the nest time you boot reboot.
Test may take a while.